Best Campgrounds near Malibu, CA

Camping near Malibu, California, offers a fantastic mix of beachside relaxation and outdoor adventure. With stunning views and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

What to do:

• Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park, let you camp right on the beach. One camper mentioned, “Not crowded and a place you can rarely camp beachfront in Southern California.”
• Hiking Trails: Explore the trails at Malibu Creek State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “Great campground, great spots but unfortunately a bit expensive. I left from the campground after the sunset.”
• Water Activities: At Lake Casitas Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One review highlighted, “The sites are clean and the pads are very flat. Makes leveling a breeze.”

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Malibu Beach RV Park said, “Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff!”
• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Bonelli Bluffs, are praised for their cleanliness. One camper remarked, “Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen.”
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Newport Dunes RV Resort are great for families. A review noted, “Wonderful spot for families looking for a place with lots to do.”

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground, have limited amenities. A camper mentioned, “The sites are small. It is very difficult to back in to a spot when you have campers across from your campsite.”
• Noise Levels: Campgrounds near highways, such as Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park, can be noisy. One visitor said, “The sound of waves and occasional traffic all night. Loud white noise doesn't bother me, but others may have difficulty sleeping.”
• Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds fill up quickly on weekends. A review for Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach noted, “Spots are very snug. You can get stuck waiting for a while if your neighbors don’t know how to park their unit.”

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lake Casitas Recreation Area, which offers activities for kids. One review said, “This is a huge place, with lots to do.”
• Plan for Limited Internet: Many campgrounds have poor cell service. A camper at Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground mentioned, “The only negative was no wifi or data.”
• Bring Entertainment: Since some campgrounds can be busy, it’s good to have games or activities on hand. A visitor at Wheeler Gorge Campground said, “Great campground for kids, we always have a good time.”

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, “The sites are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs.”
• Be Prepared for Crowds: Many RV parks can get busy. A camper at Newport Dunes RV Resort noted, “It’s a huge campground. Short term and long term sites. Sites are very tight.”
• Bring Your Own Wi-Fi: If you need internet, consider a mobile hotspot. A visitor at Point Mugu State Park said, “There is no reception for T-Mobile users. However, I used my WeBoost and got two bars.”

Camping near Malibu, California, has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for beach fun, hiking, or just a peaceful getaway.