Best Beach Campgrounds & RV Parks in California

There’s something about California that just draws you in. Maybe it’s the golden light that hits the cliffs just right at sunset, the way the Pacific seems to stretch forever, or the laid-back atmosphere that makes you feel like time moves a little slower. And the California coast, in particular, feels like it was made for exploration, with something new to discover on every turn along Highway 1.

For travelers looking to immerse themselves in this coastal magic, camping by the beach is the perfect way to do it. But with so many different campsites to choose from, how can you tell which is the best for your dream Californian road trip? We’ve made things much easier by doing the hard work for you. Below, you’ll find a collection of the best beach campgrounds and RV parks in California, including Southern California, Northern California, and San Diego.

Are you ready? Let’s find the perfect campsite for your vacation!

Southern California Beach Camping near Los Angeles

Just outside the buzz of Los Angeles, Southern California’s beaches offer the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. From surfing at sunrise to hiking coastal trails or just soaking up the sun, this stretch of coastline has it all, including some fantastic campgrounds.

San Clemente State Beach Campground

San Clemente, California

Located above one of Orange County’s most beautiful beaches, San Clemente State Beach Campground is the place to stay if you’ve been craving breathtaking ocean views and easy access to golden sands. There are 159 sites here split between RVs and tents, and you’ll find electric and water hookups, which is ideal for anyone staying in a campervan.

Along with the hookups, each site here is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, and the campground has flush toilets, coin-operated showers, and a dump station. It’s pet-friendly, too, but just keep in mind that dogs aren’t allowed on the beach itself. Another thing to note is that this campground is incredibly popular, especially during summer, and bookings fill up quickly. So, if you want to snag a spot, make sure you make your reservation well in advance.

What makes this spot truly special is its proximity to some of the best surfing in California, and the consistent waves at San Clemente make it suitable for surfers of all levels. Don’t worry if you’re not keen on surfing, though, as there’s still plenty to do. The beach is perfect for swimming, and the surrounding trails take you to panoramic views of the Pacific. Also, since you’re less than 10 minutes away from the town of San Clemente, you can explore the Spanish-style downtown and treat yourself to some authentic tacos.

Sycamore Canyon Campground

Malibu, California

If you’re looking for a mix of beach and wilderness, head straight to Sycamore Canyon Campground! As its name suggests, this campground is surrounded by sycamore trees, which not only give you a sense of seclusion and privacy but also provide shade during those hot Californian summers. Perfect if you need to beat the heat or are traveling with young children.

There are 58 sites here that cater to tents and RVs up to 31 feet in length, but there aren’t any hookups, so you’ll need to plan for this. The amenities are also pretty basic but enough for a comfortable stay, including restrooms, coin-operated showers, picnic tables, BBQs, and fire rings. There’s also a small store nearby for essentials, and dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.

The beautiful Sycamore Cove Beach is just a 5-minute walk from the campground, where you can explore tide pools or simply kick back and relax. And, when you’re ready for something a little more adventurous, you’ll find plenty of hiking trails that lead directly from the campsite. One of the most popular is the Sycamore Canyon Trail, which takes you through greenery and ends with amazing coastal views. Malibu is just 25 minutes away, too, if you feel like exploring a little further afield.

Moro Campground

Laguna Beach, California

Part of Crystal Cove State Park, Moro Campground is one of those places where you’ll step out of your campervan every morning and feel as though you’re in a postcard! It’s absolutely beautiful here, with sites perched on a hillside overlooking the Pacific, giving you ocean views all day long.

There are 57 sites in total, and most are designed with RV camping in mind (although there are a few tent spots), with full hookups on offer. There are also flush toilets, coin-operated showers, drinking fountains, picnic tables, and a dump station. Pets are welcome at Moro Campground, too, but they aren’t allowed on the backcountry trails or the beach, so just keep this in mind when planning your day’s activities.

You’re just minutes away from the beach at Moro Campground, where you can easily spend an entire day swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing under the sun. There are also loads of hiking trails to explore, including the El Moro Canyon Trail, which takes you over 800 feet in elevation for some of the most spectacular views across the Pacific. And, if you’re feeling like a cultural day out, you’re a short drive from Laguna Beach (6 minutes), where you’ll find art galleries, boutique shops, and some of the best seafood restaurants in the area.

San Miguel Loop

Santa Barbara, California

San Miguel Loop is part of Carpinteria State Beach, and it’s a great choice if you’re looking for more of a secluded camping experience while still being close to the ocean. The sites here are spacious and surrounded by trees, which offers you a decent amount of privacy, and the mix of tent and RV sites means there’s an option for every kind of camper. This also makes it a good choice if you’re traveling with kids who are desperate to spend the night under canvas for a change of scene!

Some of the sites here have electric and water hookups, and these can be booked in advance (just book sites 420 – 446). There are also some other excellent amenities you’re welcome to take advantage of, including restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire pits, and a nearby camp store that sells essentials like firewood and snacks.

There are a couple of things you’ll need to keep in mind when staying here, though. First, the maximum vehicle length is 30 feet. So, if your RV is longer than this, you’ll need to find an alternative site. Secondly, there is an 8-person limit per campsite, so you’ll have to book extra sites if you’re traveling in a large group.

Obviously, the main draw of staying here is how close you are to Carpinteria City Beach, which is the perfect spot for swimming and paddle boarding. It’s also an excellent place to spend an afternoon fishing, so make sure you pack your rod if you fancy catching your own dinner! Or, for something completely different, take a day trip to the Old Mission Santa Barbara, which is just 20 minutes away and gives you a fascinating insight into the area’s past.

Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground

Huntington Beach, California

If you want to camp as close to the beach as possible, Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground should be at the top of your list. You’re literally footsteps away from the sandy shores here, and there are 60 paved sites with full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer. And, while there are no tent sites, the convenience for RV campers is almost unmatched compared to other options in the Huntington Beach area.

The full hookups aren’t the only amenities on offer, either. You’ll also have access to restrooms, outdoor showers, and fire pits. Pets are welcome to stay here, too, which is perfect if you’re traveling with your canine companion – just make sure you keep them on a leash at all times. In terms of restrictions, the only thing you really need to know is that the spaces here are only suitable for RVs up to 40 feet in length, so plan accordingly.

The beach here is ideal for anyone who loves water sports, and whether you’re into surfing, paddle boarding, or snorkeling, there are plenty of opportunities on offer. Or, if you prefer to stay dry, the Huntington Beach Bike Trail runs right past the campground and is the ideal way to enjoy a scenic ride up to Huntington Beach Pier. It’s also a great spot for wildlife lovers, with the Bolsa Chic Ecological Reserve just 5 minutes away, which is home to several bird species.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

Big Sur, California

For something a bit different, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground is a little further out from the coast (around 15 minutes from Pfeiffer Beach), and is a truly one-of-a-kind camping experience.There are 189 sites here (tent and RV) and while there aren’t any hookups, there are some excellent amenities that more than make up for it.

These include flush toilets, coin-operated showers, drinking water, picnic tables, and fire pits. There’s also a dump station, and dogs are welcome here, although some of the hiking trails do not allow dogs on them, so be sure to check before you strap on your boots and head out. Also, it’s important to note that RVs must be under 32 feet long to stay here – any longer than this and you simply won’t fit into the sites.

What makes staying at this campground so special is its location in Big Sur, which is one of California’s most iconic regions. Head out to Pfeiffer Beach and you’ll get the opportunity to explore its purple sand beaches and the famous Keyhole Arch. There are also miles of hiking trails to explore from your campgrounds, from the easy Valley View Trail to more challenging routes like the Buzzard’s Roost Trail. And, when you feel like venturing out of the park, the Henry Miller Memorial Library is less than five miles away and is the place to go for a bit of local history and culture.

Kirk Creek Campground

Big Sur, California

Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Kirk Creek Campground is a beachside escape into nature. There are just 33 campsites here, so you won’t feel overcrowded, and each has a beautiful ocean view that makes is possible to enjoy some of the most amazing sunsets right from your campervan.

There aren’t any hookups or drinking water, and only RVs up to 30 feet can pull up here, but there are vault toilets and each site has its own picnic table and campfire ring with grill. So, while it may not be the best choice if you can’t camp without those creature comforts, it is an opportunity to get back to basics while being surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery.

The campground has direct access to a rocky beach below, where you can spend the day tide pooling or fishing, and if hiking is your thing, you’re also close to the Vicente Flat Trail. This is a moderately challenging hike that takes you through redwood groves and up to views of the coastline that you’ll definitely want to photograph. Also, since you’re along Highway 1, it’s easy to get to Big Sur and explore treasures like the Mcway Falls, which cascades directly into the ocean below.

Doheny State Beach Campground

Orange County, California

Another excellent option for anyone who wants to be as close to the beach as possible, Doheny State Beach Campground has 118 sites in total, with some facing the ocean and others a bit further back from the sand.

Unfortunately, there aren’t any hookups, but there are still some great amenities that you can use, including restrooms, showers, drinking water, and a dump station. It’s also a dog-friendly site, so it’s perfect if you’ve got your furry friend in tow – just keep in mind that dogs aren’t allowed on the beach (except for service animals) and when out and about they must be on a leash at all times.

It’s no surprise that the beach is the main attraction here, and the calm waters are perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, and kayaking, and it’s also a great spot for beginner surfers, as the waves don’t tend to be too ferocious. If fishing is more your style, Dana Point Harbor is only five minutes away, and you can charter a fishing trip or simply enjoy the shops and restaurants. And, if you’re an animal lover or looking for a family-friendly activity, head over to The Ocean Institute, where you can learn more about marine life and go whale watching in the migration season.

Canyon Campground in Leo Carrillo State Park

Santa Monica, California

Based in Leo Carrillo State Park, Canyon Campground combines the beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains with the call of a sandy beach, making it an excellent choice for families and nature lovers alike. There are 135 sites here that can accommodate both tents and RVs up to 31 feet, and it’s also much dog-friendlier than some other sites, with day-use areas and North Beach welcoming your four-legged friends.

While there are no hookups for RVs, the amenities here are fantasti and include flush toilets, coin-operated showers, picnic tables, and fire pits. There is also drinking water available and a camp store, where you can stock up on essentials before hitting the beach or heading out on the nearby hiking trails.

The best thing about staying here is how close you are to Leo Carillo State Beach. It’s just a 20-minute walk from the campgrounds and is perfect for swimming or surfing, while the surrounding caves and rock formations are just begging to be explored and photographed. There are also loads of hiking trails on offer, including the Nicholas Flat Trail, which takes you through chaparral-covered hills and gives you some stunning views of the coastline. Or, if you’re looking for a bit of history, take a 20-minute drive to Adamson House Museum, where you’ll learn more about Malibu’s past.

Beach Camping near San Diego

If you’re looking to venture further south from Los Angeles but still want to soak up Southern California’s coastal beauty, San Diego is the place to go. And, just like Southern California, there are plenty of awesome campground options near the beach that you can call home for a few nights.

San Elijo State Beach Campground

Encinitas, California

Located in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, San Elijo State Beach Campground is one of the best options near San Diego if you’re looking for a beachside location and excellent amenities. RVs and tents are welcome here, but just keep in mind that only certain sites have electrical hookups, and the maximum vehicle length is 35 feet.

Amenities here include flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, and a dump station. There’s also an on-site camp store, which is ideal if you’re running low on supplies or have forgotten something, and a snack bar called Swami’s Cafe Encinitas just 3 minutes away that serves brunch and dinner. Dogs are also welcome here, but they must be kept on a leash and aren’t permitted on certain parts of the beach.

When it comes to exploring the local area, the beach itself should be your first port of call. It’s a hotspot for surfers, and even if you don’t feel like hitting the waves yourself, watching the action from the sandy shore is all part of the fun! You’re also only 10 minutes from the San Diego Botanic Garden, where you can walk through some beautiful gardens and learn more about native plants. And, if you’re traveling with kids (or are just a big kid yourself), LEGOLAND California is only 10 miles away.

Refugio State Beach Campground

Santa Barbara County, California

Just north of Santa Barbara, you’ll find Refugio State Beach Campground, which is the definition of a relaxing coastal getaway. With 67 campsites on offer that accommodate both tents and RVs up to 30 feet in length, you’re offered a good amount of privacy and a chance to escape the crowds at some of the larger campgrounds in the area.

While there are no hookups, you do have access to restrooms, coin-operated showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. You do need to keep in mind that there is an 8-person limit to each site, though, so you’ll need to book more than one if you’re with a large group. Dogs are also welcome, but there are some strict rules in place, including making sure they are confined to your vehicle or tent overnight.

Unsurprisingly, the beach here is the star of the show. The shores are lined by palm trees that create a tropical atmosphere, and the calm waters are perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming, while fishing enthusiasts are given the opportunity to cast a line right from the beach. Once you’re done feeling the sand between your toes, head out on the Refugio Trail to get a look at the beach from a whole new perspective before heading over to Santa Barbara (which is just 25 minutes away) and grabbing a bite to eat on State Street.

South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

Carlsbad, California

A favorite with campers who want a cliffside location overlooking the Pacific, South Carlsbad State Beach Campground is one of the largest spots in the area, with 223 sites on offer, many of which give you spectacular ocean views right from your campervan.

Some of these sites offer full hookups and can be reserved in advance, taking some of the stress out of planning. But even if you aren’t able to grab one of the spaces, you’ll still have some fantastic amenities available to you, including restrooms, coin-operated showers, and drinking water. There’s also a small camp store stocked with firewood and snacks, and since each site has its own picnic table and fire ring, you’ll have everything you need to create a cozy night under the stars.

Along with its size, another great thing about staying at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground is how close you are to the beach below. A set of steps takes you down the bluffs to the shoreline, where you can spend the day swimming, surfing, or kicking back and letting the sound of the waves wash over you. And, when you’re ready to leave the beach behind, a 6-minute drive will take you to the city of Carlsbad, where you can explore shops and restaurants and even visit LEGOLAND California.

Silver Strand State Beach

Coronado, California

If you’d like to stay pretty close to San Diego, Silver Strand State Beach is another great choice. It’s only 18 minutes away from the East Village, but its beachside location still offers you that relaxing coastal break you’ve been longing for.

There are 136 sites here, all of which have full hookups for water, electricity, and sewage. There aren’t any tent camping sites, but the facilities include restrooms, outdoor showers, and a dump station. Pets are also welcome here, but they must be kept on a leash, and you’ll need to make sure you don’t accidentally lead them into restricted areas.

The first thing you’ll want to do once you’re parked up and settled is hit the beach, and there are opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Also, the sunsets from here are famously breathtaking, so make sure you grab your camera and find that perfect spot around dusk.

It’s not just beaches and sunsets on offer here, though. The campground is also adjacent to the Bayshore Bikeway, a 24-mile bike path that circles San Diego Bay and gives you some incredible views of the city skyline and Coronado Bridge. And since you’re so close to San Diego, you can take day trips to some of the most popular attractions in the area, including the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and the Gaslamp Quarter, all of which are less than 20 minutes away.

Northern California Beach Camping near San Francisco

Once you’ve soaked up the sun and surf in San Diego and are ready to explore even more of California’s incredible coastline, heading north toward San Francisco offers you a whole new adventure. Here are some fantastic places to camp for this part of your adventure:

San Francisco RV Resort

San Francisco, California

Some campers prefer luxuries when they’re on vacation, and if you fall into this category, San Francisco RV Resort should be at the top of your list when looking for places to stay. There are 162 paved sites here, all of which have full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer, so you can camp in comfort.

But that’s not all. There are also free flush toilets, hot showers, free WiFi, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, and a clubhouse where you can unwind with fellow travelers at the end of a day of exploring and trade stories. There’s even an on-site dog park, so if you’ve brought your canine companion along for the ride, you’ll have a designated space for them to sniff and explore.

These amenities make this campsite a standout, but its location also adds to its draw. You’ll be treated to views across the Pacific Ocean, and along with direct beach access, you’re only a 7-minute drive from Pacifica State Beach and several other sandy spots. There are some excellent hiking trails nearby, too, including the Devil’s Slide Trail, where you’ll get ocean views from an entirely different viewpoint. Don’t forget, either, that you’re also only 25 minutes from San Francisco, where you can spend the day exploring the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz.

Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park

Santa Cruz, California

Looking for somewhere small and intimate to stay near San Francisco? Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park is the perfect place. There are only 12 RV-only sites here, so you won’t feel crammed in with other campers, and since you’re right along the water, you’re guaranteed a peaceful camping experience.

Each site comes with full hookups, and the park offers basic amenities like restrooms and showers. You can also make reservations up to six months in advance, which is ideal if you’re planning a road trip in advance and want the peace of mind of knowing that your accommodation is sorted! The only thing to keep in mind is that the sites here can only accommodate RVs up to 42 feet in length and that RVs must be completely self-contained, including gray water.

Now, since you’re literally in Santa Cruz Harbor, you’ll be steps away from a variety of water activities. Kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing are all popular pastimes here, and there are several rental shops nearby if you don’t have your own gear. There are also some fantastic restaurants and cafes lining the harbor, so you’re never far from a quick bite to eat. When you’re ready to head a little further out, the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is just a five-minute drive away, where you can enjoy vintage rides and arcade games.

Manchester Beach/Mendocino Coast KOA Journey

Manchester, California

Another great option if you just can’t be without your home comforts, Manchester Beach/Mendocino Coast KOA Journey is suitable for tent camping and RVs, and it even offers cabins should you feel like breaking away from your usual accommodation for a couple of nights. There are full RV hookups here, too, making staying here even easier.

Other amenities include restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, a hot tub, a dog park, and a general store stocked with all of your essentials and souvenirs. There’s even a kids’ playground, making it ideal for family vacations and for children who might still have a little energy left to burn off after a day’s adventuring. And, as if that wasn’t enough, the campground also hosts seasonal activities like ice cream socials and movie nights!

If you can bear to pull yourself away from the amenities at this luxury resort, Manchester Beach is just a 20-minute walk away, where you’ll not only be able to enjoy relaxing on the sand but have the opportunity to spot seals, sea lions, and even whales during migrations season. When you’re ready to do something a little more cultural, Mendocino is less than an hour’s drive away and has art galleries and stores to explore. The Anderson Valley is about the same distance, too, and is a must-visit if you’ve been wanting to sample some delicious local wines.

Note – When you book a campervan with Travellers Autobarn you will receive a 10% discount at any KOA you stay in the US.

Francis Beach – Half Moon Bay State Beach

Half Moon Bay, California

Last, but by no means least, we round off our list of the best beach campgrounds and RV parks in California with Francis Bay in Half Moon State Beach. There are 52 sites here for both tents and campervans up to 40 feet, some of which offer electrical hookups, and it’s quiet, remote atmosphere makes it perfect for anyone who’s been craving a peaceful escape to the coast.

Dogs are welcome here as long as they are kept on leashes, but they aren’t allowed on the beach. And, along with electric hookups, the amenities include flush toilets, coin-operated showers, and a dump station. Each campsite has its own picnic table and fire ring, too, so you’ll continue to get that sense of privacy along with a rustic camping experience.

The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail runs right through the area, leading you to countless walking and biking paths along the bluff. Not to mention, the beach itself is wide and sandy, which is perfect for long walks, fishing, and birdwatching, with plenty of native wildlife to spot. Other nearby attractions include Pillar Point Harbor, where you can buy fresh seafood straight from the boats, and Maverick’s Beach, which is home to some of the most legendary big-wave surfing in the world.

Final Thoughts

California’s beach campgrounds are as exciting as the state itself, and you can stay anywhere from luxurious RV resorts to cliffside retreats. There really is something for every kind of camper, and with so much on offer, it only makes sense to visit as many as possible while you’re on the road.

At Travellers Autobarn, we know how important flexibility is when it comes to your travels. That’s why our campervan rentals come with unlimited miles, so you can explore every winding coastal road and sandy beach that California has to offer. Now, all that’s left to do is pack your sense of adventure and let the Golden State’s incredible campgrounds take you away!