Beach access within a five-minute walk draws many campers to Canyon Campground, where 135 sites spread across open coastal sage scrub terrain in Leo Carrillo State Park. The campground sits in a dusty valley just off Pacific Coast Highway, with the Santa Monica Mountains rising behind the sites and Leo Carrillo Beach accessible via a short trail.
Sites cluster closely together on paved loops, with RVs and tents often positioned near neighboring campers. About 60% of sites offer shade from mature trees, while others remain exposed to sun throughout the day. John B. recommends checking site photos on the reservation system beforehand, noting "Check the ReserveCalifornia.com site pictures to see what the site looks like before you register." Sites against the mountain provide more privacy with no neighbors behind them.
The adjacent beach offers tide pooling, cave exploration, and fishing opportunities. Dogs can access a designated beach area north of the main Leo Carrillo Beach, requiring a slightly longer walk from the campground. Campers report cold ocean water year-round and recommend bringing wagons to transport beach gear. A small general store operates on-site with limited hours, selling basic supplies and coffee.
Cell service remains minimal to nonexistent within the campground boundaries, while hot showers and clean restrooms serve all sites. Electric hookup sites accommodate RVs up to 31 feet, with a dump station available. Reservations fill quickly during summer months, especially weekends, though weekday visits typically see lighter crowds. Bryan H. found the Monday through Friday period "wasn't overly crowded during the week."
For campers wanting more seclusion, Circle X Ranch Group Campground — Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area provides a mountain alternative four miles inland.
Description
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).
Fee Info
Parking:
All day – $12.00 per car, per day 3 hrs – $9.00 per car 2 hrs – $6.00 per car 1 hr – $3.00 per car
Reservation Info
Reservations available up to 6 months in advance.
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Occupancy by the same persons, equipment, or vehicles of the Angeles District's camping facilities is limited to a total of 30 days in any calendar year.
Camping Adventures concession provides trailer rental service, consisting of various sized trailers, to park visitors within Leo Carrillo and Point Mugu State Parks. Check the website; if you have questions, call 805-797-7460.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCanyon Campground is located in California near Lake Sherwood
Directions
Take the 101 freeway and exit at Kanan Road. Go south onto Kanan Road. Turn right onto Mulholland Highway. Keep left to continue on Encinal Canyon Road. Turn left to stay on Encinal Canyon Road. Turn right onto CA-1 N, Pacific Coast Highway. 2.3 miles down, the park entrance will be on your right.
Coordinates
34.047961 N
118.934126 W
Connectivity
- T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 27 usersLast on 5/25/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 5/25/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 5/25/26
Connectivity
- T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 27 usersLast on 5/25/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 5/25/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 5/25/26
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
Drive Time
- 24 min from Oxnard, CA
- 37 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 1 hr 54 min from Santa Maria, CA
- 1 hr 58 min from Bakersfield, CA





















































