Camping at Leo Carrillo State Park: Beach Meets Mountains

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We honestly couldn’t decide what to do for spring break this year. I booked a big summer trip for us, so we didn’t want to do a huge trip. But we wanted to do something. So, we decided to hit up a few different spots along the California coast, and our first stop at Leo Carrillo campground set the bar high for the rest of the trip.

If you’re looking for that perfect Southern California camping experience—where you can fall asleep under shady trees and wake up to the sound of crashing waves—Leo Carrillo State Park Campground absolutely delivers. Tucked just off the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, this spot feels like a little hidden oasis where beach days and canyon hikes go hand in hand.

I’ve had this campground on my radar for awhile now and have been itching to get a long weekend in here. We spent a night here while hopping along California’s scenic coastline, and it quickly became one of those places we wish we had booked for longer. There’s something special about having ocean views on one side and a peaceful, mountain-like setting on the other.

Check out these other campgrounds in Malibu as well!

What Leo Carrillo Campground Is Like

The campground sits just inland from the beach in a grove of giant sycamore trees, giving it a shaded, almost forest-like feel that’s surprisingly cool and relaxing—even on warmer days.

There are about 135 campsites total, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs (up to around 31 feet). The layout feels spacious for a state park, and many sites are tucked into little nooks that give you a bit of privacy.

Types of Campsites at the Leo Carrillo Campground

• Standard sites for tents and RVs
• Electrical hookup sites (limited, so book early)
• Hike-and-bike sites (first-come, first-served)
• A large group campsite (great for bigger gatherings). It fits up to 50 people and 12 vehicles, but is tent only.

Each site typically includes a picnic table and fire pit, making it easy to settle in for classic camp dinners and s’mores nights.

Leo Carrillo Campground Amenities

One of the reasons this campground is such a favorite—especially for families—is how well-equipped it is. You get that “nature” experience without totally roughing it.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Flush toilets (always a win while camping)
• Coin-operated hot showers
• Drinking water throughout the campground
• Outdoor rinse-off showers (perfect after the beach)
• Camp store with essentials, firewood, and snacks
• RV dump station
• Trash and recycling areas

There’s even a small camp store, which comes in clutch if you forget anything—or just want to grab a treat or souvenir. We went there for coffee each morning and even bought some souvenir tees.

The Best Things to Do at Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

This is where Leo Carrillo really shines. You’re not just camping—you’re stepping into one of the most beautiful and diverse coastal parks in California.

1. Explore the Beach, Caves & Tide Pools

The park features about 1.5 miles of beach, and it’s not your typical flat stretch of sand.

You’ll find:

• Rocky tide pools filled with marine life
• Coastal caves and sea arches to explore
• Great spots for beachcombing and photography

At low tide, it feels like a natural playground for kids and adults alike.

2. Go Surfing or Just Watch the Waves

The Leo Carrillo campground is known for consistent surf, especially in the summer.

Even if you’re not a surfer, it’s a fun place to hang out, watch the waves roll in, and soak up that classic SoCal beach vibe. There were lots of surfers there while we visited, and it was fun watching them do their thing.

3. Take a Scenic Hike

If you wander beyond the beach of the Leo Carrillo camground, you’ll find trails that lead into the Santa Monica Mountains with sweeping ocean views.

One standout area is the Nicholas Flat Natural Preserve, where you can hike through open landscapes and even spot wildlife. I noticed many hikes that started right in the campground. It’s an easy place to just take a trail and see where it takes you.

The campground side of the road is the perfect contrast to the beach—quiet, scenic, and a little more off the radar.

4. Enjoy Family-Friendly Programs (Seasonal)

During the summer, the park offers ranger-led programs, campfire talks, and Junior Ranger activities.

These are great if you’re camping with kids and want to add a little educational fun to your trip.

5. Relax, Unplug & Soak It All In

One of the underrated perks here? You can truly unplug. Cell service can be spotty in the campground, which honestly adds to the experience.

It’s the kind of place where:

• Kids ride bikes around the campground
• Evenings are spent around the fire
• And mornings start slow with coffee under the trees

Good to Know Before You Go

• The campground is across the highway from the beach, but there are safe access points to walk over.
• Dogs are allowed in certain areas (including the campground and parts of the beach), but not everywhere.
• Reservations are highly recommended—this place fills up fast, especially on weekends and in summer.

How to Book a Campsite at Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

If you’re planning a stay at Leo Carrillo State Park, the biggest tip is this: book early. This is one of the most popular beach campgrounds in Southern California, and sites go fast—especially for weekends and summer trips.

How to Book

All reservations for the Leo Carrillo campground are handled through California State Parks’ reservation system, ReserveCalifornia.

You can:

• Book online through their website
• Call their reservation line at 1-800-444-7275

When to Book

Reservations at the Leo Carrillo campground open up to 6 months in advance. The most desirable dates (summer, holidays, weekends) often get scooped up right when they’re released.

If you have specific dates in mind, it’s worth setting a reminder and booking as soon as your window opens.

Can You Book Last Minute?

Sometimes! California State Parks does allow:

• Same-day reservations, depending on availability
• Last-minute bookings within a couple days of arrival

That said, for a place like Leo Carrillo, last-minute availability is hit or miss—so flexibility is key. I recommend using this app to search for cancellations if there is a date you’re hoping to snag.

Tips for Actually Getting a Site at Leo Carrillo Campground

Booking a site at the Leo Carrillo campground can feel a little competitive, so a few insider tips can make a big difference:

• Be flexible with your dates (midweek is much easier to snag)
• Check often for cancellations—spots do pop up unexpectedly
• Have an account ready to go on ReserveCalifornia to book quickly
• Consider off-season trips (fall and spring are amazing here and less crowded)

Good to Know

• The campground is open year-round, so you’re not limited to summer trips
• Reservations typically include one vehicle; extra cars may require an additional fee
• Maximum stay limits and campground rules apply, so double-check details when booking

Final Thoughts on the Leo Carrillo Campground

Leo Carrillo State Park Campground is one of those rare places that checks all the boxes: beach access, shaded campsites, great amenities, and plenty to do for all ages.

Whether you’re planning a quick overnight stop on a California road trip or a full weekend getaway, it’s an easy, memorable escape that feels both adventurous and relaxing at the same time.

It’s the kind of campground that makes you start planning your next visit before you’ve even packed up your gear.

Looking for more camping recommendations? Check out these popular posts:

• Best Fall Camping Spots in SoCal
• Top Summer Campgrounds in California
• San Clemente State Beach Campground
• Hurkey Creek Campground
• Ultimate Guide to Beach Camping in SoCal
• How to Save Money While Beach Camping

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