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Facilities

Established Camping

Doheny State Beach Campground

Warning 7 Alerts are In Effect

There are 7 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

If you are interested in having a RV delivered and set up on your campsite at Bolsa Chica, Crystal Cove Moro Campground, Doheny, San Clemente or San Onofre State Beach Campgrounds, the following Concessionaires are the approved contract providers: Luv 2 Camp (888) 898-2267 and The Holidays Delivered (833) 268-8956. No business or private party may conduct business on State Park property without an approved contract.

 

California State Parks wants to thank our park visitors for helping us keep our parks and environment clean. In 2018, State Parks installed new RV dump station collection systems at ten state park units as part of a pilot program to help us protect the environment and are added amenities for our visitors. 

Following the success of the initial pilot program in 2018, an additional eleven park units have been added to the program.  The service is available for campers, day-use or transient visitors for $10-$20 per use, depending on the location. Please note that visitors with current reservations arriving on or after April 13, 2021, who are interested in using the RV dump stations may be required to pay the use fee. The price per campsite for these state parks does not include the use of a dump station.  View the following link:  Camping Information

Tent dimensions in the Doheny campground is defined as follows:  Very small tent is 2-person; small tent is 3-4 person; and large tent is roughly 10' x 15'.

There is a night-time closure in effect; the security gate closes at 10:00 p.m. and opens daily at 6:00 a.m.  NO late-night arrivals are permitted.

NO SHOW POLICY:  A campsite will be held for you until 12:00 NOON the day after your arrival date.  If you have not called the park (949-670-8276) before that time, you will be considered a “no show,” and the park will cancel your reservation.  Customer will forfeit their $7.99 reservation fee, $7.99 cancellation fee, and first night use fee.  If you miss your first day but plan to arrive later, you must call the park each day to hold the remainder of your reservation.  This rule will be strictly enforced.

Using a Campsite, Group Camp, or any portion of the Campground , for any type of event or for any activity outside the “normal scope” of camping activity/ purpose is strictly prohibited at any time. This is a violation of park rules and will be enforced.  Any violations will result in eviction and termination of the reservation without refund.

Group Camp Vehicle Restriction:  No recreational vehicles like trailers, campers, motorhomes, or RVs are allowed in the group camp or registered to group camp. Vehicles only are permitted, and the vehicles may not be occupied; it is for parking only. 

Doheny State Beach Campground, near Dana Point, California, is a popular spot for those looking to enjoy the sun and surf. With sites that are just a short walk from the beach, it’s perfect for beach lovers who want to soak up the sun or catch some waves.

The campground offers essential amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors. Many visitors appreciate the clean restrooms and showers, although keep in mind that showers require tokens. As one camper noted, “The bathrooms were clean and showers were clean,” which is always a plus after a day of activities.

For those who like to stay active, there are plenty of options nearby. You can paddleboard in the harbor, bike along the shoreline, or take a leisurely run with scenic views. Plus, the surrounding area has shops and restaurants within walking distance, so you can grab a bite without having to cook if you don’t feel like it.

While some campers mentioned that the sites can feel a bit cramped, especially in the middle sections, the overall vibe is friendly and welcoming. If you’re looking for a beachside camping experience with easy access to outdoor activities, Doheny State Beach Campground is a solid choice.

Description

North Loop (sites 1-59, 120, 122)

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Location

Doheny State Beach Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Address

25300 Dana Point Harbor Dr.
Dana Point, CA 92629

Coordinates

33.463252 N
117.681792 W

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Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups

Contact

Reservations


Reviews

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34 Reviews

Reviewed May. 2, 2024

Location is great, but packed like Sardines

I frequently stay at this site since it's close to my house and on the beach. 

THE SITES:

The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy. You will be right next to your neighbor. The outside sites along the edge of the campground are much more spacious.

TIP: The wind usually blows to the ocean in the evening/early morning. If you don't like campfire smoke blowing through your site from other sites, then stay on the more inland sites. 

SURROUNDING AREA:

It's located next to shops and restaurants, so you don't need to cook anything if you don't want to. A few are within walking distance, but you'd have to drive to most of them unless you bring a bike. The shoreline village is a good place to visit. The downtown area has many restaurants, but you must go up a steep hill. I don't mind riding up there, but most would prefer to drive. Project Social is a neat place to go. 

RIDING, RUNNING, SUP

I like coming here because I can do all three of these. You can SUP in the harbor; it's a great place for it and just a few minutes drive over. There are a ton of places to run and bike. You can go south along the shoreline, where there is a protected path that will take you to San Clemente Pier. You can run to the harbor and over the bridge on the Peninsula. 

Everything about this site is a plus, except the tightness of the sites. If you don't mind being right next to your neighbors, then it's a great site to stay at.

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Mike G., May 2, 2024
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Mike G., May 2, 2024
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Mike G., May 2, 2024
  • (5) View All
Reviewed May. 23, 2023

Ocean view kinda

I was excited when I first arrived, then it went downhill after that. They have signs up saying that there is a rise in thefts. Supposedly the thieves use the guise of the loud cargo train that runs just around the grounds to cover up them cutting locks and stealing. No free showers , half of the showers aren’t operating. People up till 2 am with car lights on and speakers going. Caught a few people walking through my site and around my van. Didn’t feel like the host or rangers are doing what they’re paid to do.

Site58
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Tyson A., May 23, 2023
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Tyson A., May 23, 2023
Reviewed Mar. 18, 2023

Great premium spots, mediocre otherwise.

I've camped here a few times, in both normal and premium spots. If you are in an rv, you will be fine. As a tent camper, the spots are tiny, with zero privacy, and room for one large tent, or squeezing in two medium tents. The last time I was here, I was boxed in by RVs, with one running his generator all day and past the allowed 8:00 p.m. time limit. The saving grace is that the ocean, though not visible unless you get a premium spot, is a one minute walk away.

Nice, clean bathrooms with flush toilets, showers, and plentiful water spigots.

If you just need a place to crash and plan to spend the whole day in the water, go for it. Otherwise, head a little further south and check out San Onofre. Or, spend a little extra and grab a premium spot--closer to the ocean, and only two neighbors.

The train is loud, but passes seldom.

Site63
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Brian H., March 18, 2023
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Brian H., March 18, 2023
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Brian H., March 18, 2023
Reviewed Jan. 21, 2023

Better when not raining : )

This stay would have been our 2nd cancellation due to storms we have been having. We where determined not let that happen this time. In the rain we embarked to Doheny SB and we stayed on spot 6. As soon as we arrived to our spot it was flooded see pictures. We where fortunate that It did not rain all week. Eventually after many calls and attempting on website and talking to park ranger several times they moved out spot to 3 which wasn’t flooded. This took a-lot of effort , shouldn’t be that way. I did note which campsites to avoid if theres a chance of rain, also see pics. **Avoid these spots in case of rain ** 12-17 , 75 - 45 beach side. Odd numbers only.

Beach walking is all ways great here must 100% more amazing when its not raining.

Dump site: When we first arrive it was out of order with a “clogged signed”. It was fixed the following day. There is a $10 fee, they have a convenient credit card machine. Theres a hose there to use for clean up or flushing tank. Dump site is narrow so watch your sides.

Water Fill for RV: Something maybe this app should distinguish is “Drinking Water”. What sort of Water access ? for RV tank filling or for simple hand held vessels for carrying. At this park they have both. Hand carrying potable water is available by bathrooms. And RV tank filling also available at the same location of dump site only a few feet away as you drive out. You can screw in your own hose and your good to go. As this was my first time here at Doheny SB I wasn’t sure about the water situation and app was not clear ( Please add “RV tank fill” as a feature “Drinking Water” is to vague ) I will make it my mission to let you guys know on any info relating to Dump and RV tank fill. In my case I didn’t have to cary 200lbs of water. Next time I know. ”

Site6 and 4
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Manuel P., January 21, 2023
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Manuel P., January 21, 2023
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Manuel P., January 21, 2023
  • (20) View All
Reviewed Jan. 19, 2023

Typical State Beach RV Camping

Nothing really stands out about this campsite. It provides the basic fire pit ring, picnic bench, and parking spot for your RV and one vehicle that you have to pay an additional fee per day to park on your site. The rangers patrol very early in the morning and will issue you a citation for any violation. No soap provided in the restrooms. Restrooms were cleaned and maintained every morning. The city is very nearby to grab any necessities or food if you don’t want to cook.

Site82
Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by GotelRV , January 19, 2023
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by GotelRV , January 19, 2023
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by GotelRV , January 19, 2023
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Oct. 15, 2022

Overall great beach campsite for the price

Sites are close to other sites but are pretty large for what you get. All site locations are in walking distance to the beach which is so great. Bathrooms are decent but note your have to pay for showers. Bring quarters. We’d camp here again for sure.

Site6
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Susan , October 15, 2022
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Susan , October 15, 2022
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Susan , October 15, 2022
Reviewed May. 14, 2022

Clean and Beautiful

FIRST camping trip in rented van.  On premium site - $73 when all done - lucked into a premium ocean front site. Bathrooms were clean and showers were clean.  It was a very cold and windy night - May 10 and we were between a beach access and someone who didn't show up...  Others have said campsites are close to each other - they are - but when we visited was quiet enough.  Did hear the trains and the wind and the ocean - it was a great spot for a very first camping trip.

Site45
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Apr. 12, 2022

A lot of money for just an ok campground

General: 122 sites located between the ocean and a street and railroad tracks. None have hookups. $60 for beachfront sites; $40 for others. 

Site Quality: We reserved two adjacent sites as we were meeting friends. A few weeks later, we received an email canceling half our reservation as one of the sites would be under renovation. We quickly hopped on the computer and the only site available was 22. This backs up to the street with a view of a hotel beyond the chain-link fence. We were dismayed upon arrival to see this site. There is some foliage between some of the sites but basically NO privacy between sites. Sites also include a fire ring and picnic table. 

Restrooms: There are more than sufficient restrooms located throughout the park; some are combos with toilet and sink while others are traditional restrooms. No paper towels or soap; I don’t have a problem bringing my own towel but especially in the time of Covid, soap should be available! Showers are separate and require tokens. I didn’t use them so cannot comment on the quality of the shower. Restrooms were basically clean but lots of toilet paper litter. 

Activities: Good day-use facilities with toy rentals (bikes, tandems, surreys, etc.), beach volleyball and many picnic tables. Walking distance to town with coffee shops, and other shops, however, there is no sidewalk on the road leading out of the park, making the walk on the hazardous side. At low tide, you can walk to town on the beach. We found a local yoga studio that offered sessions in a nearby park. 

Other: We were there about the time new camp hosts were arriving and they took their responsibilities way too seriously! Each morning, we woke to a new pink slip on our vehicles, requiring a walk to the entrance gate (no sidewalk) where the gate attendant would just shake her head and tell us not to worry. After traffic noise dies down and in between the trains that rumble by, you can almost hear the ocean at the sites that back to the street. IMO, the cost of this park is way too much for what is offered. I would only consider returning if I could get a beachfront site but still the cost of one of these would make me think twice.

Site22
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Lee D., April 12, 2022
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Lee D., April 12, 2022
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Lee D., April 12, 2022
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Feb. 5, 2022

Great campground

Great campground right in the beach in area for surfing, paddle boarding or other ocean activities.

Stayed at site #10 and was happy. All sites are different so check them out before booking

Warm state park coin operated shower with coins being sold outside shower.

Was able to see dolphins at high tide.

Site#10
Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Kevin J., February 5, 2022
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Kevin J., February 5, 2022
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Reviewed Dec. 30, 2021

Must book premium site

We stay premium site(Beach front) and it's worth it. The restroom building have only two toilet but have 6 locked shower room, it's really not enough. It's less than 20 minutes walking distance to Starbucks and others shop.

Site78
Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Sook C., December 30, 2021
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Sook C., December 30, 2021
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  • (5) View All
Reviewed Sep. 19, 2021

Nicest beach camping in OC!

We love going to Doheny, but it's hard to get a camping spot here. The campground is right on the beach, where you'll find some of the best longboard surfing in OC. Lots of places to rent kayaks and paddle boards, and the onsite Cafe del Sol has pretty good food and drinks. Keep in mind that this beach can get pretty rocky, so wear water shoes if your feet are sensitive. Great pathways for bikes and skateboarding, and lots of picnic tables if you're here just for the day. We love it here!

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Veronica H., September 19, 2021
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Veronica H., September 19, 2021
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Veronica H., September 19, 2021
  • (13) View All
Reviewed May. 3, 2021

Just went and it’s fun

I loved it I went there for one night and loved it so much I was greeted with love

Site23
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Jan. 3, 2021

RIGHT ON THE SAND!

This was the first campground my family and I visited back in September of 2019 when we started testing out the whole camping thing!

We borrowed a 1985 VW Vanagon from a friend and wanted to pick a spot we knew would be an easy WIN. This campground was exactly that.

We found a campsite online last minute. It was a beach front site for $60 a night, which was more than I wanted to pay but was worth it.

We met great people, took a fun bike ride, and spent lots of time on the beach and in the ocean.

We’d go back for sure.

Reviewed Oct. 30, 2020

Small sites.

Camp sites are pretty tight and will be very crowded during the summer months. Good waves during the right swell though. Convenient spot to beach camp if you live in the OC area.

Reviewed Jan. 22, 2020

Rainy days beware!

When it rains.... most the spots along the beach flood and dont drain so be aware may be wading into your spot

Reviewed May. 24, 2019

One of the few places in Southern California to camp on thebeach

This campground is at the edge of the Dana Point Harbor.  The sites are small, but many of them are right on the beach.  All sites have easy access to the beach.  It is easy to ride your bike to the harbor or up the river trail from this campground.  The harbor is walking distance from the campground.  It is difficult to get a spot here, usually we have been able to grab a spot when there have been a few days of rain and people will tend to cancel their spots.

  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Kelly E., May 24, 2019
Reviewed May. 22, 2019

Beachfront camping

Beautiful beachfront camping steps from the sand. Dry camping with a dump station available. Great sunsets and beautiful sand.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Paul  N., May 22, 2019
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Paul  N., May 22, 2019
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Paul  N., May 22, 2019
Reviewed May. 3, 2019

Wonderful on the beach

Camping is great here if you reserve 6 months in advance. Spaces are small for large groups but completely on the beach

Site77
Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Apr. 29, 2019

Easy and beautiful car camping on the beach

This campground is sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and some active train tracks. But it's quite possibly the most beautiful yet easiest camping you'll do, shy of setting up a tent in your yard.

We love how easy it is to camp so close to the city (in case you forget anything or don't want to do the camo cooking thing) and be right on the sand overlooking and listening to the Pacific.

Sights are sand and close to each other but we've always enjoyed our stays here.

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2019

Close to beach but overcrowded.

Great location on the beach but very crowded and campsites stacked on top of each other. No privacy from neighbors. Freight train passes by often and loudly. Waves break very shallow and limit activities in the water.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Bryan H., April 1, 2019
Reviewed Oct. 16, 2018

Pretty Beach

The beach is very pretty. The campground was quiet enough, though the spaces are very close together with little to no privacy in between campsites. I wouldn’t go out of my way to stay there again, but it is fine for a night when heading to or from somewhere.

Reviewed Aug. 29, 2018

best beach spot

the restrooms were clean and showers hot. great views and great for families. most sites are a good size but only room for two vehicles. No wifi but a good book will do. The staff was nice. Kids will love this place.

  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Javi V., August 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Javi V., August 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Doheny State Beach Campground by Javi V., August 29, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 28, 2018

very close sites

location is great. plenty of ‘beach’ , before you get to the beach. my only real complaInt, Is that the sites are super close to one another, and as someone who likes to get up early, the noise from neighboring camps , was distracting and made it difficult to fall asleep or enjoy my own music.

Reviewed Jul. 10, 2018

Clean and friendly

My grandparents where coming through town to see my husband and me and everyone was amazing and helped them out. The campgrounds where clean and you could smell the bonfires each night

SiteSite 24
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jun. 18, 2018

Excenllent Beach Camping

Excellent beach camping and tent friendly. plenty of shade and nearby restaurants and shops. Definitely recommend this location.

Reviewed Jun. 16, 2018

Great Beachfront Camping

This is a great campground for beachfront camping. But if you want a spot on the beach plan to book 6 months in advance. We were lucky enough to get a spot on the beach last minute, but it was in january and a bit chilly at night. Bathrooms are clean and showers are great-large and a lot of room to move around. Can’t wait to go again!

Site93
Month of VisitJanuary

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Doheny State Beach Campground?

    Camping at Doheny State Beach Campground can cost between $50.00 and $350.00 depending on the site.

  • Does Doheny State Beach Campground have RV hookups?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Doheny State Beach Campground has water hookups and sewer hookups.

  • What is the max vehicle length at Doheny State Beach Campground?

    Doheny State Beach Campground allows vehicles up to 75 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Doheny State Beach Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Doheny State Beach Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Doheny State Beach Campground have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Doheny State Beach Campground does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Doheny State Beach Campground?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is good, and T-Mobile is good.

  • How hard is it to get a campsite at Doheny State Beach Campground?

    Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Doheny State Beach Campground. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Doheny State Beach Campground, try setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts

  • Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Doheny State Beach Campground?

    There are 109 campsites at Doheny State Beach Campground and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts