Backpackers access Crystal Cove Backcountry through a challenging 3-mile hike with steep grades, reaching primitive tent sites that overlook the Pacific Ocean from elevated bluffs. The campground operates within Crystal Cove State Park along the Orange County coast, requiring advance reservations and prohibiting pets entirely.
Two distinct camping areas serve different preferences. Lower Morro supports 13 sites with an outhouse and typically draws multiple groups on weekends, while Upper Morro sits another 20 minutes up the trail with 20-plus spots that often remain empty since most hikers stop at the lower area. Neither location provides water, electricity, or lighting, making thorough preparation essential for overnight stays.
The park's compact 10-mile perimeter loop accommodates mountain biking, though the strict no-animals policy extends throughout all areas. Staff enforce regulations precisely, including exact check-in times. Kim N. notes "very strict on rules" alongside clean facilities, while cell service remains spotty for T-Mobile users.
Hawks hunt actively across the hilltops, and mosquitoes can be aggressive enough to bite through clothing during certain seasons. The trail features giant sunflowers along lower sections, while sunset views from the wooden table at camp extend directly over the ocean. For easier access camping, Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park offers developed sites without the demanding hike.
Description
Camping in the Lower Moro, Upper Moro, and Deer Canyon Campsites
This is not beach camping. All Crystal Cove Primitive tent sites are accessible only by foot, and require at least a 3 mile hike inland from the parking lot.
No drinking water is available, all belongings and trash must be packed in and packed out with you.
There are no wood or charcoal fires permitted in the park. Only backpack stoves are permitted.
No pets are allowed
Fees include entry for 1 vehicle. Any additional vehicle will be $15 per night.
Park is open year-round.
All reservations are made through Reserve California, you can visit them at www.reservecalifornia.com or call 1-800-444-7275. Reservations can be made 48 hours to 7 months in advance. Check-in/Check-out is at 9am Daily.
Fee Info
One car is allowed entry to the park with the fee paid to camp.
Reservation Info
Minimum of 48 hours in advance for reservations.
There are no wood or charcoal fires permitted in the park. Only backpack stoves are permitted. No pets are allowed
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCrystal Cove Backcountry — Crystal Cove State Park is located in California
Coordinates
33.56335871 N
117.82058855 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 3/15/26
Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 20 usersLast on 3/15/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 3/15/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 3/15/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 20 usersLast on 3/15/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 3/15/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 49 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 1 hr 18 min from San Diego, CA
- 1 hr 45 min from Oxnard, CA
- 2 hrs 19 min from Bakersfield, CA
