RV campgrounds in the Malibu and Ventura region offer varying degrees of beach access, with some requiring short walks and others positioned on coastal bluffs overlooking the Pacific. The region typically maintains moderate temperatures year-round, with daytime highs averaging 65-75°F, though inland locations can reach 90-100°F during summer months. Most camping areas implement noise restrictions from 10pm-7am, though enforcement varies by facility.
What to do
Beach access from Malibu Beach RV Park: Located on a bluff overlooking the ocean with beach access across the street. "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 not forget Malibu Seafood is right next door!" says Andrea G.
Cycling opportunities at Dockweiler Beach: A 20+ mile bike path runs along the coastline. "Right off a very nice coastal 20+? mile walking/biking path. Went to a concert last minute at SoFi just 15 min away," notes PJ M. Bike rental kiosks are available seasonally, typically charging $10-15 per hour.
Wildlife viewing at Point Mugu: The adjacent estuary contains diverse species. "We watch seals, ducks and more swimming around the beach. We practically had it all to ourselves. It was quiet and well maintained," shares Danielle P. Morning hours (6-9am) typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Ocean views at Malibu Beach RV Park: The elevated position provides panoramic vistas. "I have been on a 3 month trip and stayed at 22 different campgrounds. Malibu RV Resort has the best views for the price, hands down," says Michael M. Most premium ocean-view sites cost $25-40 more than standard sites.
Quieter weekday stays at Dockweiler Beach RV Park: Experience varies significantly between weekends and weekdays. "Amazing beach front sites, expected noise from road and airport but you can still hear the ocean, super lively/loud beach on weekend, very chill weekdays," reports PJ M. Sites 125-128 in the dry camping section provide the most separation from neighboring campers.
Themed decorations at Hollywood RV Park: The facility features artistic touches throughout. "Every street is themed with murals and art everywhere! The site size depends on where you are in the park. Most of it is an affordable community for locals to live," writes Clean Slate D. The park occasionally hosts performances by local artists in their entertainment space.
What you should know
Aircraft noise at beachfront locations: Proximity to airports affects some campsites. At Dockweiler Beach RV Park, "You will hear each and every of the planes taking off from LAX, but at one point you don't hear them anymore. It was not really annoying, but that flight at 5a was..." mentions Ignasi M.
Railroad noise at Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon: Train activity continues throughout night hours. "It's very very close to railroad tracks and at night the loud train kept waking us up. The sites are dirt so be prepared to get lots of fine dessert dirt in the camper," warns Elizabeth C.
Urban camping challenges: Finding suitable parking for larger vehicles requires planning. At Hollywood RV Park, "It takes some planning to visit LA when you are traveling with an RV. This seems to be one of the best places to stay with an RV to visit LA, since driving and parking and RV in LA can be challenging and parking an RV in west LA is not allowed," advises Manon S.
Tips for camping with families
Beach camping with children: Point Mugu offers protected swimming areas. "This is probably my favorite beach campground yet! Being on the Military base reduces the number of people trying to get to it. The beach is on the base, and has a protected wetland and then shooting range on one side then on the other is the base itself," notes Danielle P.
Pool availability at Ventura Beach RV Resort: Facilities may have seasonal operating schedules. "We went here in March '21 and half the resort was still closed to covid restrictions. No pool, jacuzzi, playground, transport vehicle to and from town, and game room. Odd, because most of the state was already open," reports Rob L.
Children's activities at Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon: Programming has age limitations. "The only good thing was the Saturday activities. However if you have older kids forget it! The activities are for ages 5-7 maybe! They did have a movie night the last night we were there," writes one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Terrain varies significantly between facilities. At Malibu Beach RV Park, "I stayed in the site V2 overlooking the ocean in a 21 foot van. The spot was a little uneven but easily fixed," shares Michial S.
Size constraints at Castaic Lake RV Park: Navigation difficulty increases with vehicle length. "Judging by the shape of the office, this place was a 60's or 70's KOA back in the day. The trees and bushes are fantastic. However just as our population has gotten larger over the years, so have the RVs. For a 43 footer this place is TIGHT," warns Michael C.
Bathroom accessibility hours: Facility access varies by location. At Golden Shore RV Resort, "Great place to spend the weekend. Close enough to some good shopping and restaurants! Only downside is they lock the bathrooms from 8pm-730am," notes Derrick.
