Best Campgrounds near Sunset Beach, CA

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Sunset Beach, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Sunset Beach, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Sunset Beach, California (134)

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Recent Reviews near Sunset Beach, CA

950 Reviews of 134 Sunset Beach Campgrounds



Guide to Sunset Beach

Camping near Sunset Beach, California, offers a fantastic mix of ocean views, outdoor activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are just a short walk from the beach. For instance, at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground, you can enjoy direct beach access and watch dolphins and seals playing in the waves.
  • Biking and Running: The area has great bike lanes along PCH. A reviewer mentioned, "Great if you want to ride along PCH. This stretch has good bike lanes that take you into Oceanside or Encinitas."
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the trails at Point Mugu State Park, where you can find amazing views over the state park and the Pacific Ocean. One camper noted, "Great location. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach, hiking and MTB/gravel trails accessible from the campground."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views. A visitor at Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park said, "Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Dogwood Campground, are well-maintained. One camper mentioned, "The place is clean and quiet. Our camp site was very spacious."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like San Mateo Campground — San Onofre State Beach offer a welcoming environment for families. A reviewer shared, "The campground is setup as a bunch of loops with a large common area between the rear of every campsite."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Conditions: Some campgrounds can get packed, especially on weekends. A camper at Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park noted, "It can get very crowded and packed."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park has no water or dump station, just portable bathrooms. A visitor mentioned, "No water, no dump station, only portable bathrooms on site."
  • Noise Levels: Some sites are near busy roads or train tracks. A camper at Doheny State Beach Campground said, "There is a rise in thefts...the loud cargo train...to cover up them cutting locks and stealing."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room. A family at San Mateo Campground appreciated the "mature trees between every campsite that provide privacy."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or scooters for kids to enjoy. One reviewer at Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, "The campground itself was well-maintained, and the surrounding natural beauty made for a peaceful retreat."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. A camper at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground enjoyed the "great little restaurant serving pizza and snacks overlooking the ocean."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Canyon Campground said, "The sites are small. It is very difficult to back in to a spot when you have campers across from your campsite."
  • Bring Dollar Bills for Showers: Some campgrounds have coin-operated showers. A camper at San Mateo Campground advised, "BRING DOLLAR BILLS to change them into tokens for the shower."
  • Plan for Limited Connectivity: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A visitor at Point Mugu State Park noted, "No reception for T-Mobile users."

Camping near Sunset Beach, California, has something for everyone, from beach lovers to families looking for a fun getaway. Just be prepared for the crowds and plan accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Sunset Beach, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Sunset Beach, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 134 campgrounds and RV parks near Sunset Beach, CA and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Sunset Beach, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sunset Beach, CA is Moro Campground — Crystal Cove State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 34 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Sunset Beach, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Sunset Beach, CA.

  • What parks are near Sunset Beach, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Sunset Beach, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.