Camping spots near Lake Sherwood, California range from coastal sites with Pacific Ocean views to inland locations tucked within mountain canyons. The region sits at elevations between 800-2,500 feet with a Mediterranean climate pattern averaging 15-18 inches of rainfall annually. Winter overnight temperatures in campgrounds can drop to the low 40s while summer highs regularly exceed 85°F in inland camping locations.
What to do
Explore tide pools: At Point Mugu State Park, the marine ecosystems become accessible during low tide. "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access—you can explore some amazing tide pools and caves once you get there. The kids loved searching for hermit crabs and sea anemones," notes Alfred from Canyon Campground at Leo Carrillo State Park.
Hike mountain trails: The Santa Monica Mountains trail network connects many campgrounds. "The campground is beautiful!! Spacious campsites with fire pits, and clean bathrooms. Be aware of the limited hours for entering with a vehicle (8am-10pm)," advises Lizzie C. who camped at Malibu Creek State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. Ryan W. reports from Malibu Creek: "The wildlife is abundant. 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."
What campers like
Ocean proximity: Beachfront camping provides constant ocean views and sounds. "We stayed in site 59 which had a really nice shade tree and great views of a meadow and the cliffs out the back of the site," shares Ryan W. about Malibu Creek State Park.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites despite their popularity. Sam & Amy note that Tapo Canyon Park is "a small park right in my own home town. Lots of trees, and tucked away in a canyon. There is archery with lessons for kids on the weekends."
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards receive consistent praise. "The campground is small, quiet and very well-kept. In fact, every subsequent campground toilet facility I now compared to this one because it was so clean!!" reports Bower about Tapo Canyon Park.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Coastal fog affects visibility and temperature. "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," warns Chanel C. about Malibu Creek State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance planning. According to Bower, at Tapo Canyon, "Only 12 sites - all have full hook ups, picnic table and fire pit. Make note! There is no Wi-Fi here and as best we could tell, no cellular signal for any provider."
Site limitations: Surface conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. "The first thing you should know about Tapo Canyon Park is that for actual tent camping, you will be in either decomposed granite or concrete," advises robherr, adding "I would give the park 4 stars for camping in an RV, 2 stars for tent camping."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas. "Perfect weekend getaway for the family! Loved the store and how close to the beach this place was," says Britney F. about Malibu Beach RV Park.
Beach equipment: Pack wagons for gear transport. Alfred recommends: "Bring a wagon if you're hauling beach gear though, as the walk can feel long with all your stuff."
Wildlife education: Create opportunities for nature learning. "We just spent 4 days at Leo Carrillo. Our site was spacious enough for our two tents and had a good fire pit and picnic table setup," shares Alfred, noting "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access- it's about a 10-minute walk from most sites."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric availability differs widely between locations. According to Patrick M., Tapo Canyon Park offers "Full hook ups. 15, 30, 50 amp electrical, water, sewer, but no phone or internet. That's the best part. Good place to disconnect and listen to nature."
Site positioning: Ocean views come with exposure considerations. "Location, location location! Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff! General store is well stocked and there's a park to lounge or play games on the cliffs edge!" reports Tim Z. about Malibu Beach RV Park.
Access limitations: Size restrictions affect beach access at some locations. "Attention pour avoir accès à la mer, le véhicule doit faire moins de 8 feet!" warns martins A. about Canyon Campground at Leo Carrillo State Park.
