Malibu Creek State Park offers camping opportunities within the Santa Monica Mountains at an elevation of 700 feet. Located 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, the park features volcanic rock formations and oak woodlands spanning 8,000 acres. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F while summer months can reach over 100°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation gain: Several trails connect from Malibu Creek State Park Campground with varying difficulty levels. "There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. On a hike right out of the park a few hundred yards, I came across a pair of bobcats—mom and cub—making their way to a running creek," reports Ryan W.
Explore movie history: The former MASH TV series set is accessible via a 4.75-mile round-trip hike from the main parking area. "Some interesting movie TV sets in the area. Decent cell coverage. Best for tents, tight for RVs," notes Rick L. about hiking options near the campground.
Beach activities: Thornhill Broome Beach offers direct beach access for swimming and exploring. "The views from the beach are amazing! If you're lucky you'll see pods of dolphins swimming just out from the shore, actually more often than not," shares Sam H. The campground is positioned directly on the sand with the Pacific Ocean just steps away.
What campers like
Direct beach access: At Canyon Campground, campers appreciate the proximity to coastal features. "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access- it's about a 10-minute walk from most sites, and you can explore some amazing tide pools and caves once you get there. The kids loved searching for hermit crabs and sea anemones," writes Alfred.
Clean facilities: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Agoura Hills maintain well-serviced amenities. "The grounds were beautiful and well maintained, the camp host super friendly and helpful, the bathrooms well positioned and clean, and the sites had shade and everything we needed," Jean shares about Malibu Creek State Park.
Convenience to Los Angeles: Many campgrounds offer proximity to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting. "Three miles from a the grocery and only minutes from north LA, you'll find a basic campground with flush toilets, coin showers, and easily accessible hiking trails," notes Ryan W. about Malibu Creek State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Book well in advance for weekends. "This campground is popular in the summer months and spaces get reserved up to 6 months in advanced," Jeremy F. advises about Thornhill Broome Beach.
Temperature variations: Summer heat can be intense at certain campgrounds. "I came here during the summer and it was extremely HOT. Typically during the summer season, I like to find campgrounds that have a lot of lush trees so we can be under the canopies and stay cool," explains Chanel C. about Malibu Creek State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for wildlife interactions at pet friendly campsites near Agoura Hills. Store food properly and maintain awareness. "Coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. If you have a dog with you make sure they don't try join the pack," warns Ryan W.
Tips for camping with families
Pack beach equipment: For coastal camping, bring appropriate gear. "Bring a wagon if you're hauling beach gear though, as the walk can feel long with all your stuff," suggests Alfred about Leo Carrillo State Park.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy depending on location and time of year. "Only downsides were some noisy neighbors on the weekend nights (seems pretty common here given the proximity to LA) and the sites can feel a bit close together when it's fully booked," notes Alfred about Canyon Campground.
Check for playground access: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "Between hiking and biking, we were busy for the time we were there. As a bonus, there is a Ralph's just up the street, so you'll never be far from anything you'd need," shares Jean about Malibu Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
RV size considerations: Many campgrounds have limitations on vehicle length. "Nice campground for a big state park. Good for Hiks and bikes. Best for tents, tight for RVs," advises Rick L. about Malibu Creek State Park.
Full hookup options: For those requiring utilities, some parks offer comprehensive services. "Recent fires and winter storms hit this area hard, and they ate still cleaning up. But the sites have mostly been repaved and are clean. The power was out to part of the park (our bath/showers were still up and running), but we were part dry camping anyways, so all good," notes Steve L. about Leo Carrillo State Park.
Gate closure times: Be aware of access restrictions at certain hours. "There aren't sewer or water hook ups, electrical only, but for me that's perfectly fine for a long weekend or short week with 2 kids and 2 adults. They do have 3 dump stations, too, so that made it nice!" adds Steve L.
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