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Best Campgrounds near El Nido, CA

908 Reviews

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with numerous established campgrounds providing amenities for both tent and RV campers. The region includes developed sites like Homer Spit Campground along the coastline and Eklutna Lake Campground in Chugach State Park near Anchorage. Campground options vary from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks with hookups, while some locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park remain open year-round. Many areas feature cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping, providing options for visitors seeking different levels of comfort in Alaska's remote settings.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping requires specialized equipment and preparation, though some facilities like Seward City Campgrounds offer limited winter services. Permits and reservations are recommended for popular destinations, especially during the peak summer months when tourism surges. Many campgrounds provide basic amenities like drinking water, toilets, and fire rings, while others offer full hookups for RVs. Road conditions can vary significantly, particularly in remote areas. A visitor noted, "This is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers. For some reason, this spot is not as in demand as the Russian River campground, despite having many of the same amenities."

Waterfront camping locations receive consistently high ratings from visitors, with lakeside and oceanfront sites being particularly sought after. Mendenhall Lake Campground offers views of the famous Mendenhall Glacier, while Seward City Campgrounds provides oceanfront access with proximity to boat excursions. Several visitors mentioned wildlife viewing opportunities as a highlight of their camping experience. According to one camper, "Bears frequent this area and sometimes wolves too. If you are looking for that wild Alaska experience you can have it here." Campgrounds in Chugach State Park provide easy access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation while remaining relatively close to Anchorage. Many developed campgrounds feature picnic tables, fire pits, and access to fishing opportunities, making them popular bases for exploring Alaska's natural attractions.

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Best Camping Sites Near El Nido, California (139)

    1. Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    37 Reviews
    El Nido, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 880-0367

    $45 - $225 / night

    "It is prime location for some great hiking and at night it is super quiet. There are restrooms and showers as well."

    "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."

    2. Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $45 - $60 / night

    "It was a quick drive up the coast and onto this hidden gem. You get access to a private beach with gorgeous California hill views of PCH behind you. Perfect place for families or even RVs."

    "The campground is tucked away in a beautiful canyon setting with lots of shade trees, which was really nice for keeping cool."

    3. Malibu Beach RV Park

    28 Reviews
    El Nido, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (800) 622-6052

    $80 - $300 / night

    "I absolutely love this campground, it’s perfectly situated in between the Malibu pier area (to your left) Dume, Zuma, and more beaches (to the right), + a lovely small beach across the street… oh let’s"

    "This is a great little campground just north of Malibu, California, and right off of the 101. So yes, the freeway is RIGHT. THERE."

    4. Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park

    34 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $45 / night

    "Fantastic body surfing, some good surf waves up the highway a bit. There is a backpacking access site as well up the canyon about 3 miles."

    "If you love Fall and trees and the California golden sun... this place is the place to be! It has it all in one."

    5. Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park

    36 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $35 / night

    "Not crowded and a place you can rarely camp beachfront in souther California. I have to note the bathrooms are absolutely terrible."

    "You are so close to the water and there is plenty of space between you and your neighbor. When we were there many people had RVs so there were only a few tents."

    6. Hollywood RV Park

    17 Reviews
    San Fernando, CA
    18 miles
    Website

    "This location is conveniently situated near the heart of Los Angeles, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the city’s many attractions."

    "Trees lovely gardens to walk the dogs. Commerce walking distance. I’m staying 8 more days.✌️"

    7. Dockweiler Beach RV Park

    19 Reviews
    El Segundo, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (310) 322-4951

    $55 - $80 / night

    "The most fantastic thing about this RV spot is the location - directly facing a large, beautiful, clean beach with built in fire rings, a very long bike bath and bike rental kiosk."

    "One of the only in Southern California/Los Angeles area where you can have a fire on the beach."

    8. Musch Trail Camp — Topanga State Park

    5 Reviews
    Topanga, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (310) 455-2465

    $7 / night

    "If you want a longer hike you can hike up the East Topanga Fire Road and then drop down into Musch Camp on the Backbone Trail from Eagle Junction."

    "Although it’s not the most scenic campground itself, the state park has plenty of beauty to offer on its hiking trails. Not a single other party at the campsite on a Tuesday in September."

    9. Tapo Canyon Park

    11 Reviews
    Simi Valley, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    "This is a very nice campground near everything but still away from it all. No issues parking our 42' 5th wheel here. Clean and quiet despite the peacocks. They can be rather loud when startled."

    "This campground happens to be very close to home so we went here to try out our brand new pull behind camper trailer for the very first time.
    The campground is small, quiet and very well-kept."

    10. Point Mugu Recreation Facility

    13 Reviews
    Port Hueneme, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 989-8407

    "The tent sites are very basic and very close together, but the surroundings are worth it!"

    "This is a wonderful campground right next to the beach however it is only available to the military and their families."

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Recent Camping Photos near El Nido, CA

279 Photos of 139 El Nido Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near El Nido, CA

908 Reviews of 139 El Nido Campgrounds

Guide to El Nido

Camping near El Nido, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're into beach camping or prefer a more secluded spot in the woods, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are close to the beach. For instance, at Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park, campers enjoy the beachfront experience. One reviewer said, "Really a special spot. Not crowded and a place you can rarely camp beachfront in Southern California."
  • Hiking Trails: If you love hiking, Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park is a great choice. A visitor mentioned, "Great location. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach, hiking and MTB/gravel trails accessible from the campground."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, fishing is a popular activity. One camper noted, "Fishing was fantastic, hiking was breathtaking. Loved every minute."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Malibu Creek State Park Campground highlights, "It was green and lush in the campground and the hillsides after a lot of rain."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Lake Piru Recreation Area, are praised for their cleanliness. A visitor shared, "This place has a great vibe, it's beautifully maintained and very clean."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Ventura Ranch KOA offer fun activities for kids. One parent said, "Our kids love all the extra activities like the playground and jumping pillow."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Thornhill Broome Beach, have minimal facilities. A camper mentioned, "No water, no dump station, only portable bathrooms on site from what we can see."
  • Crowded During Peak Times: Popular spots can get busy. A review for Dockweiler Beach RV Park noted, "You’re packed like sardines but it's beachfront."
  • Noise Levels: Campers should be prepared for some noise, especially near busy areas. One visitor at Dockweiler Beach RV Park said, "You will hear each and every one of the planes taking off from LAX."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Ventura Ranch KOA. A review mentions, "They are too short for the high ropes course but would love to do it when tall enough."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. One camper at Lake Piru Recreation Area appreciated the picnic tables available, saying, "Campsite was established, picnic table, fireplace, and electricity."
  • Pack for Comfort: Make sure to bring extra blankets and pillows for a cozy night. A visitor at Malibu Creek State Park Campground noted, "The sites are nicely spaced out."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A review for Sycamore Canyon Campground mentioned, "The spaces are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs."
  • Look for Hookups: If you need electricity, check if the campground offers it. For example, Castaic Lake State Recreation Area has electric hookups available.
  • Be Prepared for Wind: Campers at Thornhill Broome Beach noted that it can get windy, so securing your setup is essential. One reviewer said, "Had the wind been any more vigorous, this may have been more challenging."

Camping near El Nido, California, has something for everyone, from beach lovers to hiking enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near El Nido, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, El Nido, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near El Nido, CA and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near El Nido, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near El Nido, CA is Malibu Creek State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 37 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near El Nido, CA?

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

What parks are near El Nido, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near El Nido, CA that allow camping, notably Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Angeles National Forest.

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