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Best Campgrounds near Malibu, CA

887 Reviews

Several campgrounds dot the Malibu coastline and nearby areas for those looking to camp in this part of Southern California. Malibu Creek State Park Campground has trails that lead to spots where famous movies and TV shows were filmed. Leo Carrillo State Park Campground sits right by the beach, giving campers easy walks to shoreline and tide pools. Point Mugu State Park contains two camping areas - Thornhill Broome Beach with sites facing the ocean and Sycamore Canyon with spots under large trees. Lake Casitas Recreation Area works well for campers who want to fish or take boats out on the water. Watch out for local wildlife like raccoons and coyotes when camping near Malibu, and store food properly. Fire rules can be strict, particularly when conditions are dry. Book ahead for most Malibu area campgrounds since they fill quickly, especially in summer months. Roads to these camping areas are generally good, though some get narrow and twisty. Most campsites come with basic tables and fire rings, but some have more privacy than others. Trees provide good shade in many areas, particularly at Sycamore Canyon. Most places limit stays to 14 days maximum. Malibu has camping that works for both beach lovers and those who prefer wooded settings.

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Best Camping Sites Near Malibu, California (138)

    1. Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

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

    $45 - $60 / night

    "Close by in northern Malibu, it’s perfect for a weekend getaway, close to beach / surf. Hot tip, bring bikes to get to the beach."

    "Various campsites with easy access to one of the best beaches in Malibu. Close to everything fun in So Cal- Close to The Pier, Malibu, Hollywood, LA and more."

    2. Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    El Nido, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 880-0367

    $45 - $225 / night

    "Who does NOT like Malibu. We had an Environmental campsites they are located in relatively undisturbed natural settings."

    "Very close to Malibu Canyon Road and houses"

    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
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $45 / night

    "The park is right off the highway, but there isn't much PCH traffic in that area at night so it was very quiet. I would highly recommend staying here."

    "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."

    5. Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park

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

    $35 / night

    "We went for a day after having camped at Malibu creek state park for the weekend and this was the best part of our trip!! It was so nice !"

    "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. Musch Trail Camp — Topanga State Park

    6 Reviews
    Topanga, CA
    11 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."

    7. Hollywood RV Park

    17 Reviews
    San Fernando, CA
    19 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.✌️"

    8. Dockweiler Beach RV Park

    20 Reviews
    El Segundo, CA
    20 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."

    9. 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."

    10. Tapo Canyon Park

    12 Reviews
    Simi Valley, CA
    20 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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 138 campgrounds

Recent Camping Photos near Malibu, CA

280 Photos of 138 Malibu Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Malibu, CA

887 Reviews of 138 Malibu Campgrounds

Guide to Malibu

Camping near Malibu, California, offers a fantastic mix of beachside relaxation and outdoor adventure. With stunning views and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park, let you camp right on the beach. One camper mentioned, “Not crowded and a place you can rarely camp beachfront in Southern California.”
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the trails at Malibu Creek State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “Great campground, great spots but unfortunately a bit expensive. I left from the campground after the sunset.”
  • Water Activities: At Lake Casitas Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One review highlighted, “The sites are clean and the pads are very flat. Makes leveling a breeze.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Malibu Beach RV Park said, “Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff!”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Bonelli Bluffs, are praised for their cleanliness. One camper remarked, “Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Newport Dunes RV Resort are great for families. A review noted, “Wonderful spot for families looking for a place with lots to do.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground, have limited amenities. A camper mentioned, “The sites are small. It is very difficult to back in to a spot when you have campers across from your campsite.”
  • Noise Levels: Campgrounds near highways, such as Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park, can be noisy. One visitor said, “The sound of waves and occasional traffic all night. Loud white noise doesn't bother me, but others may have difficulty sleeping.”
  • Crowded on Weekends: Many campgrounds fill up quickly on weekends. A review for Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach noted, “Spots are very snug. You can get stuck waiting for a while if your neighbors don’t know how to park their unit.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lake Casitas Recreation Area, which offers activities for kids. One review said, “This is a huge place, with lots to do.”
  • Plan for Limited Internet: Many campgrounds have poor cell service. A camper at Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground mentioned, “The only negative was no wifi or data.”
  • Bring Entertainment: Since some campgrounds can be busy, it’s good to have games or activities on hand. A visitor at Wheeler Gorge Campground said, “Great campground for kids, we always have a good time.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, “The sites are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs.”
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Many RV parks can get busy. A camper at Newport Dunes RV Resort noted, “It’s a huge campground. Short term and long term sites. Sites are very tight.”
  • Bring Your Own Wi-Fi: If you need internet, consider a mobile hotspot. A visitor at Point Mugu State Park said, “There is no reception for T-Mobile users. However, I used my WeBoost and got two bars.”

Camping near Malibu, California, has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for beach fun, hiking, or just a peaceful getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp on Malibu beaches or near the ocean?

Yes, there are excellent options for camping near Malibu's beaches. Malibu Beach RV Park offers prime ocean-proximity camping with spectacular views. It's strategically located between the Malibu pier area and several beaches including Dume and Zuma, with a small beach directly across the street. Though primarily an RV park, they do accommodate tent campers as well. For beachfront camping slightly further south, Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground provides concrete/asphalt sites with water and electric hookups just steps from great sand beaches. While direct camping on Malibu beaches themselves isn't permitted, these nearby options provide easy beach access while maintaining proper facilities and amenities.

What camping options are available at Malibu Creek State Park?

Malibu Creek State Park Campground offers diverse camping experiences in a beautiful natural setting. The park features environmental campsites located in relatively undisturbed natural areas, each equipped with a table and tent clearing. Nearby primitive toilets are available for these sites. The main campground provides more developed facilities with clean bathrooms and shower facilities (showers cost $1 for 4 minutes, but require token conversion first). Multiple trash receptacles are available throughout the grounds. The campground is conveniently located close to Malibu Canyon Road, making it accessible while still providing a peaceful retreat. For hikers seeking more seclusion, Musch Trail Camp — Topanga State Park offers a hike-in option nearby with basic amenities including water and toilets.

Where are the best camping sites in Malibu, CA?

Malibu offers several excellent camping options. Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground is a favorite spot located on the Malibu-Ventura border with easy beach access, great surf breaks, and tide pools. The campground features sites under oak trees in a small canyon, with a convenient store for forgotten supplies. Another top choice is Malibu Creek State Park Campground, which offers environmental campsites in natural settings with tables and tent clearings. The park provides clean bathrooms and showers ($1 for 4 minutes), though tokens must be purchased first. Both locations provide the quintessential Malibu camping experience with proximity to beaches, hiking trails, and local attractions.

Are there any glamping or luxury camping options in Malibu?

While traditional glamping (glamorous camping) sites with furnished tents or yurts aren't prominent in Malibu itself, luxury camping options do exist. Malibu Beach RV Park offers an upscale camping experience with stunning ocean views and convenient beach access. Though pricier than standard campgrounds, the premium location and amenities justify the cost for those seeking comfort while enjoying Malibu's natural beauty. The upper section of the park provides particularly impressive vistas. For those willing to venture slightly beyond Malibu, Point Mugu Recreation Facility offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Additionally, several private properties in the Malibu hills occasionally list luxury tent stays and unique accommodations on popular vacation rental platforms, providing custom glamping experiences with ocean views.

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