Dog-friendly campgrounds in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area lie 20-25 miles from downtown Los Angeles at elevations ranging from sea level to 3,111 feet at Sandstone Peak. The Mediterranean climate creates mild winters and hot, dry summers with temperatures averaging 70-80°F May through October. Morning coastal fog often blankets lower elevation campsites until midday, providing natural cooling during summer months.
What to do
Tidepooling at low tide: Leo Carrillo State Park's beach access puts you minutes from marine exploration. "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access- it's about a 10-minute walk from most sites, and you can explore some amazing tide pools and caves once you get there. The kids loved searching for hermit crabs and sea anemones," shares Alfred from Leo Carrillo State Park Campground.
Backpacking inland trails: For more advanced hikers, inland campsites offer different experiences. "I came across this group campsite while on a long hike with a friend. I had no idea it existed... You can reserve it for large groups of 10-50 people," notes Les R. about Danielson Group Multi-Use Area, adding, "I recommend visiting in the spring, when things are greenest, and there are beautiful wildflowers."
Beach activities near camp: Proximity to beaches makes water activities convenient. "We spent 3 nights at this campground and had a great time. They have a camp store right in the middle of the campground that has essentials. Bathrooms were nice. Can't wait to go back. Walking distance to the beach. Best part," writes Gina C. about her Leo Carrillo experience.
What campers like
Ocean sounds for sleeping: Many campers appreciate falling asleep to natural soundscapes. One camper at Thornhill Broome Beach notes, "You're right on the sand. The campfire is in a metal barrel, you have a picnic table and you're on the beach. There's rocks to the left and right that are fun to explore. The plots are deep and noise wasn't really an issue."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife. "We watch seals, ducks and more swimming around the beach. We practically had it all to ourselves," reports Danielle P. about Point Mugu Recreation Facility, adding, "It was quiet and well maintained."
Shade coverage in canyon sites: While beach sites offer water views, inland sites provide natural cooling. Tim J. notes about Leo Carrillo: "While the campground was quite busy and loud at times, the hike and bike area was rather quiet. Camp store for basic items. Squirrels are very aggressive and will eat your food if left unattended. Lots of shade trees."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Coastal winds can be challenging for campers. "You have to be ok with wind and making sure your equipment is secured," advises Kelly S. about Thornhill Broome, adding "We were lucky to have a large area to ourselves because no one was camping next to us due to a change in the reservation system and things got messed up. There is no privacy."
Limited amenities at some sites: Facilities vary dramatically between campgrounds. "This is a great campground, though the amenities are sparse," explains Joyce S. about Thornhill Broome. Another camper elaborates: "Price is $35 per night, per allocated slot (ask for one away from the toilets if available) 14 day maximum stay."
Dog-friendly restrictions vary: While dog-friendly campgrounds in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area are available, rules differ. At Malibu Beach RV Park, pets are allowed but with limitations. One reviewer notes: "We stayed in the tent campsites. Beware the tent sites do NOT have electrical hookups. You also have to park and carry your things to your campsite. Luckily, they have wheelbarrows to make that easier."
Tips for camping with families
Bring beach transport: When camping with children, hauling gear becomes important. "Bring a wagon if you're hauling beach gear though, as the walk can feel long with all your stuff," suggests Alfred from Leo Carrillo.
Book well in advance: Family-friendly sites fill quickly, especially in summer months. At Malibu Creek State Park Campground, which offers pet accommodations, one camper reports: "My husband, teenage son, grown son and his girlfriend, and I stayed here over Halloween. 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."
Prepare for potential noise: Many campgrounds near Los Angeles get busy, especially weekends. "Only downsides were some noisy neighbors on the weekend nights (seems pretty common here given the proximity to LA) and the sites can feel a bit close together when it's fully booked," reports Alfred about Leo Carrillo State Park.
Tips from RVers
Height restrictions apply: Some campgrounds have vehicle size limitations. "Attention pour avoir accès à la mer, le véhicule doit faire moins de 8 feet!" warns martins A. about Leo Carrillo State Park, noting height restrictions for accessing certain areas.
Limited hookups available: Most campgrounds offer partial or no hookups. Steve L. notes about Leo Carrillo: "There aren't sewer or water hook ups, electrical only, but for me that's perfectly fine for a long weekend or short week with 2 kids and 2 adults. They do have 3 dump stations, too, so that made it nice!"
Consider propane options: Traditional campfires may be restricted. At Malibu Beach RV Park, one camper notes: "Woodfires are not allowed but propane fires are. There are showers, flush toilets, and water sources in the campground. The bathrooms have a lock and code needed for entry."
