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Best Campgrounds near Santa Monica, CA

922 Reviews

Camping options near Santa Monica, California range from beachfront RV parks to canyon campgrounds in the nearby Santa Monica Mountains. Malibu Beach RV Park offers ocean views with tent and RV sites just minutes from Santa Monica, while Leo Carrillo State Park provides a more natural setting with canyon camping approximately 20 miles northwest along the Pacific Coast Highway. Dockweiler Beach RV Park in Playa Del Rey offers direct beach access with full hookups for RVs. The region includes both developed campgrounds with amenities and more rustic options in the surrounding mountains, with most sites requiring reservations well in advance due to their popularity and proximity to Los Angeles.

Many campgrounds in the Santa Monica area require reservations months ahead, particularly during summer and holiday weekends when sites fill quickly. The coastal location provides mild temperatures year-round, though morning fog is common during summer months. "There's really not a bad spot in this campground. It's a little pricey to camp here but it's Malibu so it's expected. Easy access to Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica and Venice Beach," noted one visitor about Malibu Beach RV Park. Highway noise can be an issue at some coastal sites, particularly those directly adjacent to Pacific Coast Highway. Cell service varies significantly, with better coverage at beach locations and limited or no service in canyon campgrounds.

Beachfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors despite the premium prices. Several campgrounds offer direct beach access or are within walking distance to the shore, making them popular for swimming, surfing, and sunset viewing. A recent review highlighted that "Dockweiler is an awesome camping experience if you love the beach and airplanes. The bike path is in front of the campground and it will take you all the way to Redondo Beach or Santa Monica." Canyon campgrounds like Malibu Creek State Park provide more shade and hiking opportunities but tend to be dustier and more crowded during peak seasons. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with some sites affected by highway traffic or, in the case of Dockweiler, airplane noise from the nearby LAX airport.

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Best Camping Sites Near Santa Monica, California (140)

    1. Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    El Nido, CA
    14 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. Dockweiler Beach RV Park

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

    $55 - $80 / night

    "It’s also near Santa Monica and Venice beach. Space is big enough for a bigger RV. The only negative thing is - it is very noise because of the airport right next to it."

    "The bike path is in front of the campground and it will take you all the way to Redondo Beach or Santa Monica.

    Check out the local town of El Segundo."

    3. Malibu Beach RV Park

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

    $80 - $300 / night

    "Get a spot away from the HWY.
    Short walk to the beach and a short drive to Santa Monica Pier."

    "Easy access to Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Staff is super friendly and accommodating."

    4. Hollywood RV Park

    17 Reviews
    San Fernando, CA
    13 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.✌️"

    5. Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    26 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."

    6. Musch Trail Camp — Topanga State Park

    5 Reviews
    Topanga, CA
    8 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. Dockweiler

    1 Review
    Marina del Rey, CA
    6 miles

    "There are almost always other RVs/campers so you a rarely alone:) there are fire pits on the beach (California is otherwise very strict about fires) that are free to use."

    8. Rafael’s RV park

    3 Reviews
    Universal City, CA
    12 miles
    +1 (213) 321-5522

    $100 - $140 / night

    "We stayed here to be close to the Hollywood Bowl for a concert. Rafael was a friendly host and very helpful and made sure we were set up well."

    9. Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park

    34 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    31 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."

    10. Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park

    36 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    32 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."

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Recent Camping Photos near Santa Monica, CA

296 Photos of 140 Santa Monica Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Santa Monica, CA

922 Reviews of 140 Santa Monica Campgrounds

Guide to Santa Monica

Camping near Santa Monica, California, offers a mix of beautiful beaches and scenic parks. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are just a short walk from the beach. For example, at Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park, campers enjoy the unique experience of beachfront camping. 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, check out Malibu Creek State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Nice, small campground with hiking trails easily accessible."
  • Water Activities: At Lake Casitas Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One camper noted, "The lake itself is beautiful and right in the middle of the entire recreation area."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park. A happy camper shared, "Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Bonelli Bluffs, are praised for their cleanliness. One review stated, "Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment at places like Wheeler Gorge Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Great campground for kids, we always have a good time."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Thornhill Broome Beach, have minimal facilities. A camper warned, "The bathrooms are absolutely terrible. Really detracts from the experience."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Expect busier conditions during weekends at popular spots like Doheny State Beach Campground. One reviewer noted, "The middle sites are small and tight, offering little privacy."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially at Wheeler Gorge Campground. A camper shared, "They let us know there was a bear in the area."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lake Casitas Recreation Area, which has activities for kids. One review mentioned, "Good for families or big groups."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A family camper at Bonelli Bluffs suggested, "We had to get creative in finding ways to occupy their time during downtime."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Malibu Creek State Park Campground noted, "The sites are nicely spaced out."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Santa Monica, California, offers a variety of experiences, from beachside relaxation to hiking adventures. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Santa Monica, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Santa Monica, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 140 campgrounds and RV parks near Santa Monica, CA and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Santa Monica, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Santa Monica, CA is Malibu Creek State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 38 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Santa Monica, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Santa Monica, CA.

What parks are near Santa Monica, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Santa Monica, CA that allow camping, notably Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Angeles National Forest.

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