Places to Camp near Malibu, CA

Camping near Malibu, California

Malibu, California, is a dream destination for campers looking to enjoy the stunning Pacific coastline, scenic canyons, and beautiful state parks. Whether you're an RV enthusiast, a tent camper, or someone looking for a glamping experience, Malibu offers a variety of campgrounds to suit your needs. From beachfront sites to canyon escapes, there's something for everyone.

Camping near Malibu provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Southern California. With campgrounds offering amenities like electric hookups, drinking water, and even WiFi, you can enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. However, it's essential to know what to expect, what to do, and what other campers have experienced to make the most of your trip.

What to do

Malibu is not just about the beach; it's a hub for outdoor activities. From hiking and mountain biking to exploring local attractions, there's plenty to keep you busy.

One popular spot is Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground, where you can enjoy a mix of canyon and beach experiences. "Beautiful campgrounds in a canyon next to the beach. Clean restrooms & showers," says T&A Adventures in their review.

For those who love beach camping, Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park offers a unique experience. "Awesome spot for boondocking! Can't beat camping on the beach," shares Devon L. in their review.

If you're into hiking, Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park is a great choice. "There are great hikes just off the campsite with amazing views over the state park and the Pacific Ocean," notes Susanne J. in her review.

What campers like

Campers appreciate the variety of experiences and amenities available at Malibu campgrounds. From stunning views to clean facilities, there's a lot to love.

At Malibu Beach RV Park, the views are a significant highlight. "Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff!" says Tim Z. in his review.

The cleanliness and maintenance of the campgrounds are also frequently praised. "This campground is clean and quiet and the gate is open late," shares Andrea A. about Malibu Creek State Park Campground in her review.

Campers also enjoy the accessibility to various activities. "Great location. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach, hiking and MTB/gravel trails accessible from the campground," says Michael K. about Sycamore Canyon Campground in his review.

What you should know

While camping near Malibu offers many perks, there are some things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth experience.

One common issue is the lack of cell service in some areas. "There is no reception for T-Mobile users. However, I used my WeBoost and got two bars," mentions Mike G. about Sycamore Canyon Campground in his review.

Another point to consider is the size of the campsites. "The sites are small. It is very difficult to back into a spot when you have campers across from your campsite," notes Claudia H. about Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground in her review.

Some campgrounds have specific rules and restrictions. "They refused us entry because they didn’t approve of her breed," shares Mollie L. about Malibu Beach RV Park in her review.

Tips for camping with families

Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially in a place as beautiful as Malibu. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip enjoyable.

Choose a campground with family-friendly amenities. Tapo Canyon Park is a great option. "The kids enjoyed the playground and fields," says April Y. in her review.

Look for campgrounds with easy access to activities. "We brought our infant for her first camping trip and from 103 you couldn't really see anyone else's campsite," shares Corey B. about Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground in his review.

Consider the safety of the location. "Pet friendly but be careful at night. Mountain lions were spotted while there," warns April Y. about Tapo Canyon Park in her review.

Tips from RVers

RVers have specific needs and preferences when it comes to camping. Here are some tips from experienced RVers who have camped near Malibu.

Check the size of the campsites. "The spaces are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs," notes Mike G. about Sycamore Canyon Campground in his review.

Look for campgrounds with full hookups. Malibu Beach RV Park offers a great experience. "The park was clean and comfortably, and so were the toilets and showers," shares Luc M. in his review.

Be prepared for noise. "You will hear each and every one of the planes taking off from LAX," mentions Ignasi M. about Dockweiler Beach RV Park in his review.

Camping near Malibu, California, offers a diverse range of experiences, from beachfront sites to canyon escapes. By knowing what to expect and hearing from other campers, you can make the most of your trip and enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning region.

Best Camping Sites Near Malibu, CA (131)

    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

    1.

    Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

    50 Reviews
    160 Photos
    1085 Saves
    Lake Sherwood, California

    Leo Carrillo State Park's Campground is fully opened. Vehicular access to North Beach remains closed at this time.

    Camping Information: **Max trailer height is 13'6" **

    Visitors will be able to reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance from the current date. Bookings may extend from the arrival date to the desired departure date – based on availability and the park’s maximum stay rules.

    Firewood Policy: Burning firewood, Duraflame, and charcoal briquettes is allowed in the fire rings only when fire level permits. Check the sign near the entrance kiosk for the day's fire level.

    Showers: The park has only token-operated showers. The token machines accept ONLY one-dollar bills. Change for larger bills is not available at this time.

    Dogs allowed in day-use areas, campground and North Beach (north of Lifeguard Tower 3). Dogs not allowed on backcountry trails or South Beach (south of Lifeguard Tower 3).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park

    2.

    Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park

    34 Reviews
    146 Photos
    1127 Saves
    Lake Sherwood, California

    Firewood Policy: Burning firewood, Duraflame, and charcoal briquettes in the fire rings is allowed when fire level permits (determined on a day by day basis). Check the sign near the entrance to the park for the day's fire levels.

    Showers: The park's showers are token-operated. The token machines accept ONLY dollar bills. Change for larger bills is not available at this time.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    3.

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    36 Photos
    794 Saves
    El Nido, California

    One of the best places for Malibu Camping is Malibu Creek State Park, just 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, features hiking, fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, rock climbing and horseback riding opportunities.

    Fourteen-mile Malibu Creek is the principal watercourse of the Santa Monica Mountains that ends at Malibu Lagoon. There are 15 miles of streamside trail through oak and sycamore woodlands on chaparral-covered slopes. Following the trail along Malibu Creek State Park, the visitor will be treated to spectacular vistas, including volcanic rock gorges, scenic pools, and breathtaking views of the Las Virgenes Valley and Malibu Canyon.

    Previous to being opened to the public in 1976, the park was used extensively to film numerous movies and TV shows, such as Planet of the Apes and MAS*H. Most of the park's land holdings were donated by Bob Hope, with later significant acquisitions from Ronald Reagan and 20th Century Fox.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $225 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park

    4.

    Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park

    32 Reviews
    77 Photos
    916 Saves
    Lake Sherwood, California

    Point Mugu State Park, located in the Santa Monica Mountains, features five miles of ocean shoreline with rocky bluffs, sandy beaches, sand dunes, rugged hills and uplands, two major river canyons and wide grassy valleys dotted with sycamores, oaks and a few native walnuts. There are more than 70 miles of hiking trails. The beach also features swimming, body surfing and surf fishing. The park includes the jagged pinnacles of the Boney Mountains State Wilderness Area.

    Point Mugu camping included La Jolla Group, Sycamore Campground and Thornhill Broome Campground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 / night

  1. 5.

    Malibu Beach RV Park

    25 Reviews
    66 Photos
    94 Saves
    El Nido, California

    Malibu RV is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California. Founded in the 1970s, Malibu RV offers RV Sites and Tent Camping, a communal ambience, and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your travels along the California Coast.

    Whether you are a digital nomad, a surfer looking to shack up for the night, or an adventurer looking for an extended stay, we would love to have you.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $80 - $300 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu Recreation Facility
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu Recreation Facility

    6.

    Point Mugu Recreation Facility

    13 Reviews
    41 Photos
    145 Saves
    Port Hueneme, California

    UPDATE as of 10/10/20

    Requires military ID and only open for Active Duty for camping at this current time. People can use the Day Use with proper identification

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Dockweiler Beach RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dockweiler Beach RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dockweiler Beach RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dockweiler Beach RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dockweiler Beach RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dockweiler Beach RV Park

    7.

    Dockweiler Beach RV Park

    12 Reviews
    14 Photos
    395 Saves
    El Segundo, California

    Dockweiler Beach RV Park is a unique spot for RV campers who love the beach and don't mind a bit of airplane noise. Nestled right next to the beach, this place offers stunning ocean views and easy access to the sand. You can step out of your RV and be on the beach in just a minute, which is perfect for morning yoga, long walks, or just soaking up the sun.

    One of the standout features here is the bike path that runs right in front of the campground. It stretches for miles, taking you all the way to Redondo Beach or Santa Monica. It's a great way to get some exercise and explore the coastline. The park also has clean restrooms and showers, which is always a plus.

    The RV sites are divided into hookup areas and dry camping spots. The hookup sites are pretty close together, giving it a bit of a parking lot feel, but the dry camping area offers more space if you have a smaller RV. Just be aware that the proximity to LAX means you'll hear planes taking off and landing, but many visitors say they get used to it quickly.

    For those looking to explore beyond the campground, the nearby town of El Segundo offers some great dining options and has a charming, small-town vibe. Overall, Dockweiler Beach RV Park is a fantastic spot if you want to be right on the beach and don't mind a bit of urban noise.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $55 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tapo Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tapo Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tapo Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tapo Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tapo Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tapo Canyon Park

    8.

    Tapo Canyon Park

    11 Reviews
    20 Photos
    84 Saves
    Simi Valley, California

    Tapo Canyon Regional Park is located in the midst of the rolling hills and canyons of the Santa Susana Mountains, north of Simi Valley. Hikers, equestrian riders, and mountain bikers enjoy this rugged and rural park, which features picnic areas, A group use area, playground, an equestrian arena, restroom and shower facility, and an RV campground with 16 full hook ups. Cell service is spotty depending on carrier.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    9.

    Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    37 Reviews
    91 Photos
    426 Saves
    Oak View, California

    Lake Casitas camping offers over 400 sites, so you can choose the camping experience that suits you best. Some sites are lakeside, close enough to hear the lapping water, others are nestled among the trees, and still more are located on hillsides offering splendid views of the sparkling lake.

    We have sites to accommodate tents, tent trailers, campers and RVs, all with picnic tables and fire rings, and some with children's playgrounds close by. Shower houses with bathrooms are located at the front gate and towards the back of the park. We also have a convenient, fenced, dry storage facility for recreational vehicles, boats, canoes & kayaks

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach

    10.

    Emma Wood State Beach

    26 Reviews
    58 Photos
    360 Saves
    Ventura, California

    North Beach is closed until further notice. Due to major damaged to the entrance road, the park will remain fully closed for repairs. All reservations through June 24th, 2024, will be cancelled and affected parties will be contacted accordingly. There is no anticipated date of reopening at this time. Emma Wood State Beach - Group Camp is open.

    Moderate temperatures help make Emma Wood State Beach popular for swimming, surfing and fishing. Catches include perch, bass, cabezon and corbina. The Ventura River estuary is at the mouth of the Ventura River at the southeast end of the park. It attracts a variety of wildlife including raccoons, songbirds and great blue herons. Dolphins are occasionally seen just offshore. The park also features the crumbling ruins of a World War II coastal artillery site. The offshore Channel Islands can be seen from the beach.

    Emma Wood State Beach offers family camping for self-contained vehicles only and group camping is available at Ventura River Group Camp.

    Emma Wood State Beach offers primitive camping for fully self-contained vehicles ONLY. Tents are not permitted. No water, restrooms, electricity, fire rings, or phones or dump station are available. There are 90 campsites, which are not level and may contain a mixture of asphalt, dirt, cobble and ocean debris. Maximum vehicle length is 40 feet, due to small turnaround areas.

    High tides may close the campground at any time. Railroad tracks and Highway 101 are adjacent to the campground which can be noisy. Leashed dogs are permitted in the campground only, and are prohibited on the beach.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Trash

    $40 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 131 campgrounds

Popular Camping Styles near Malibu

Pet-friendly camping near Malibu

Recent Reviews In Malibu

833 Reviews of 131 Malibu Campgrounds


No Reviews Found



Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Malibu, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Malibu, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 131 campgrounds and RV parks near Malibu, CA and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Malibu, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Malibu, CA is Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 50 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Malibu, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Malibu, CA.

What parks are near Malibu, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Malibu, CA that allow camping, notably Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Angeles National Forest.