Southern California is renowned for its stunning coastline, and what better way to experience it than camping right next to the beach?
In this guide, we’ll start with a brief beach camping story and then provide a comprehensive summary of all the reservable beach camping locations in Southern California.
These spots offer the perfect setting to fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves and wake up to a sunrise over the ocean.
Chloe's Story
Our first time taking Chloe, our newly adopted dog, camping at the beach was an adventure we’ll never forget. We chose Silver Strand State Beach in Coronado for its stunning views right on the beach and tranquil waves, hoping for a perfect getaway. Little did we know, Chloe had her own plans.
We had only recently adopted Chloe and were still learning about her personality. She seemed calm and friendly at home, so we assumed she’d be the same at the beach. We set up our campsite and decided to enjoy the sunny day. While I was out playing in the water, my wife relaxed by our camper with Chloe.
Suddenly, a sharp scream pierced the air. “Bob!” my wife yelled, her voice filled with panic. I bolted back to our campsite, heart racing, to find the campground host standing awkwardly beside our camper. His sweatpants were ripped from ankle to knee, flapping in the breeze.
It turned out that the host had come around the corner of our camper, surprising Chloe. In a flash, she switched from calm companion to fierce protector, defending her new territory with gusto. I could only imagine the scene that had unfolded while I was blissfully unaware in the water.
I apologized profusely to the host, feeling a mix of embarrassment and relief that no one was hurt. He seemed more shocked than angry and asked if I would buy him new sweatpants. "Of course," I said, thinking he meant I'd reimburse him. But no, he had other ideas.
The host proceeded to tell me exactly where he bought his sweatpants, the brand, and even his size, expecting me to go to the store and personally replace them. I insisted that $40 should more than cover the cost.
After a moment's hesitation, he accepted the money with a nod. As he walked away, I couldn’t help but chuckle at the absurdity of it all. Chloe, blissfully unaware of the commotion she had caused, sat wagging her tail, proud of her successful defense.
That day, we learned two important lessons: always keep a close eye on your dog in new environments, and never underestimate the potential costs of a camping trip!
We still laugh about the incident, grateful for the unforgettable memories and the reminder that adventures with a dog are never dull.
Leo Carrillo State Park
Location: Malibu
Distance from Los Angeles: 28 miles
Description: Leo Carrillo State Park offers picturesque camping with direct beach access. The park features tide pools, coastal caves, and trails for exploring. Campsites are shaded by giant sycamores and oaks, providing a serene environment.
Dogs allowed in day-use areas, campground and North Beach (north of Lifeguard Tower 3). Dogs not allowed on backcountry trails or South Beach (south of Lifeguard Tower 3).
Booking: Reserve California
Doheny State Beach
Location: Dana Point
Distance from Los Angeles: 61 miles
Description: Doheny State Beach is a favorite for surfers and beach lovers alike. The campground is situated right on the beach, allowing for easy access to the sand and surf. The park also offers picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a visitor center.
Except for service animals, dogs not allowed on beaches. Dogs must be leashed and attended to by an adult at all times.
Booking: Reserve California
San Elijo State Beach
Location: Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Distance from San Diego: 26 miles
Description: Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, San Elijo State Beach offers stunning views and beach access. The campground is popular for surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. Facilities include showers, picnic tables, and a camp store.
Dogs allowed only in campground. Dogs not allowed on beach.
Booking: Reserve California
Crystal Cove State Park
Location: Laguna Beach
Distance from Los Angeles: 50 miles
Description: Crystal Cove State Park features over three miles of pristine coastline. The Moro Campground, located within the park, offers stunning ocean views and quick beach access. It's an ideal spot for hiking, swimming, and exploring tide pools.
Dogs are required to be held on a leash not exceeding six feet in length and can be walked on paved areas only. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or on any unpaved trail, including all back-country hiking trails. Service animals are allowed with certain restrictions.
Booking: Reserve California
Refugio State Beach
Location: Goleta
Distance from Santa Barbara: 20 miles
Description: Refugio State Beach offers palm-lined campsites just steps from the sand. The calm waters are perfect for kayaking and fishing, and the beach itself is great for swimming and picnicking. The campgrounds provide easy access to the Coastal Trail.
Dogs allowed in campground and day-use area. Dogs not allowed on beach.
Booking: Reserve California
Carpinteria State Beach
Location: Carpinteria
Distance from Santa Barbara: 12 miles
Description: Carpinteria State Beach is known for its gentle surf, making it a family-friendly camping destination. The campground is situated right along the beach, offering easy access to the ocean, as well as amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Dogs allowed in campground and day-use area. Dogs not allowed on beach.
Booking: Reserve California
Thornhill Broome Campground
Location: Malibu
Distance from Los Angeles: 40 miles
Description: Part of Point Mugu State Park, Thornhill Broome Campground offers sites right on the sand. The beach is great for body surfing, windsurfing, and surf fishing. The campground is more rustic, providing a true beach camping experience.
Dogs allowed in campground and day-use areas. They list the beach as a day use area, so you may be able to get by on a technicality. Dogs are not allowed on trails.
Booking: Reserve California
Silver Strand State Beach
Location: Coronado
Distance from San Diego: 9 miles
Description: Located on the narrow strip of land that connects Coronado to Imperial Beach, Silver Strand State Beach offers camping with stunning ocean views. The beach is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The campground features restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. No tent camping allowed. Self contained RVs only.
Dogs allowed only in the parking lots and RV campground. Dogs not allowed on beach or bayside.
Booking: Reserve California
Dockweiler State Beach
Location: Playa del Rey
Distance from Los Angeles: 18 miles
Description: Dockweiler State Beach offers beachfront camping with RV hookups. It's a favorite spot for hang gliding and watching planes take off from LAX. The beach provides fire pits, a picnic area, and a bike path that runs along the coast.
Proof of rabies inoculation and a valid license are required for all dogs. Limit two dogs per site.
Booking: LA County
Carlsbad State Beach
Location: Carlsbad
Distance from San Diego: 35 miles
Description: Carlsbad State Beach offers a picturesque setting with bluff-top campsites overlooking the ocean. It's a great spot for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. The campground provides showers, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it a comfortable spot for a family getaway.
Bonus: The Camp Store is located near the entrance of South Carlsbad State Beach and is open for lunch and dinner. It offers a pizza-based restaurant serving beer and wine overlooking the ocean, a general store for basic supplies such as ice and firewood, as well as a beach rental program. Live music is featured with a variety of local artists. Additional information is available at www.thecampstore.com.
Dogs allowed only in campground. Dogs not allowed on beach.
Booking: Reserve California
Gaviota State Park
Location: Goleta
Distance from Santa Barbara: 33 miles
Description: Gaviota State Park offers camping near a scenic beach with views of the Gaviota Coast. The park features hiking trails, and a pier for fishing. Campsites are close to the beach and provide basic amenities.
Dogs allowed in campground and day-use area. Dogs not allowed on beach.
Booking: Reserve California
Faria Beach Park
Location: Ventura
Distance from Santa Barbara: 28 miles
Description: Faria Beach Park offers beachfront camping with ocean views. It's a great spot for surfing, fishing, and tide pooling. The campground provides picnic tables, BBQ grills, and restrooms.
Dogs are permitted in areas designed for overnight camping, when the dog owner is in possession of a valid overnight camping permit. All such dogs must be kept tethered on a leash not exceeding six (6) feet in length. Max of two dogs per site.
Booking: Ventura County Parks
Emma Wood State Beach
Location: Ventura
Distance from Los Angeles: 68 miles
Description: Emma Wood State Beach provides primitive camping right next to the beach. The campground is popular with surfers and offers stunning ocean views. Facilities are minimal, so it's best for self-contained campers.
Dogs allowed in campground and day-use area. Dogs not allowed on beach.
Booking: Reserve California
Pismo State Beach North Beach Campground
Location: Pismo Beach
Distance from Santa Barbara: 85 miles
Description: Pismo State Beach offers camping right on the sand dunes with access to a wide, sandy beach. It's a great spot for clam digging, surfing, and ATV riding on the nearby dunes. The campground provides restrooms and showers.
Dogs are allowed on the beach and park trails but must be kept on a leash, not longer than six (6) feet, at all times. Dogs are not allowed at the Pismo Dune Preserve or at Oso Flaco Lake.
Booking: Reserve California
Gear Recommendations
When it comes to beach camping, having the right gear can make all the difference. Beach camping is similar to regular camping, but expect sand everywhere and slightly more unpredictable weather. Here are our top five gear recommendations to make you the envy of everyone at the campground:
Strap a Hobie Paddleboard to the Roof of Your Car: Enjoy paddleboarding right from your campsite and make the most of the ocean waves.
Keep Your Drinks Cold with the Latest Yeti Cooler: Ensure your beverages stay chilled and refreshing.
Stay Powered Up with a Goal Zero Power Bank: Keep your devices charged and ready for all your beach adventures.
Keep Cool with an Outdoor Research Sun Hat or Shirt: Protect yourself from the sun while staying comfortable.
Sport a Cool Pair of Ombras Sunglasses: Look stylish and protect your eyes from the sun.
Chill out and relax in an ENO Hammock: Sway in the wind and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Final Tips
When planning your beachside camping trip, always check the specific campground rules and regulations, as some sites have restrictions on campfires, camp setup and other activities. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot in these coveted locations. Enjoy your beach camping adventure in sunny Southern California!
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