Camping in Malibu: A Guide to Coastal Adventures

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Because we have a big summer vacation planned for this year, we wanted a bit more low-key of a spring break trip. We decided to visit some of the popular campgrounds along California’s coast and we were blown away by some of the campgrounds in Malibu, California.

I knew Malibu was home to some of the best beaches in Los Angeles, but I didn’t realize how much wide-open space there is there. Just up the coast from Los Angeles, this stretch of shoreline offers a surprisingly diverse mix of campgrounds—from rugged, oceanfront sites to shaded canyon escapes that feel worlds away from the city. We were able to do a little bit of both settings and I’m so glad we did. Each campground felt so different from the previous one.

Here’s a guide to the best campgrounds in Malibu, written with real-life planning (and a little wanderlust) in mind.

Pro Tip: I was able to book two side-by-side spots at Leo Carrillo thanks to this app that scanned for cancellations for me. I usually book a full 6 months out, but because this was a somewhat last minute trip, we relied heavily on scoring cancellations. And we were so happy it worked out!

Leo Carrillo State Park – One of the most popular campgrounds in Malibu, California

Best for: The classic Malibu camping experience

Of all the campgrounds in Malibu, California, Leo Carrillo is the one that has been on my radar for awhile now. We have friends who camp there regularly, and they always tell us how great the campground is, especially if you love tide pools. And my kids definitely do.

The campground sits just across Pacific Coast Highway from the beach, tucked into a canyon filled with sycamore trees. That means you get the best of both worlds: shade and privacy at your campsite, plus easy access to the ocean. It really did feel like the perfect blend of beach camping and a mountain retreat. Our campsite was great, with plenty of shade and a great climbing tree.

What you’ll love:

• A short walk to tide pools, sea caves, and sandy beaches
• Spacious campsites (great for families and groups)
• Fire pits and picnic tables at each site
• The option to have hookups on some campsites
• A camp store stocked with essentials (and fun souvenirs). I might have spent way too much on some tees and hoodies, but they had such cute options!

Good to know:
You’ll need to cross under the highway through a tunnel to reach the beach—super easy and safe, even with kids. Also, dogs aren’t allowed on the beach directly across from the campground, but they can go on the North Beach. Oh, and there is not good cell service in the campground, but you can get some near the entrance and at the beach.

Read more about our experience the Leo Carrillo campground here.

Malibu Creek State Park

Best for: Mountain vibes near the coast

The next Malibu campground we stopped at on this mini California road trip was Malibu Creek State Park. If you want more of a hiking-and-nature feel, Malibu Creek State Park delivers. This spot is inland a bit, but still just a short drive from the ocean.

The landscape here is dramatic—think rolling hills, rocky peaks, and wide-open spaces. It’s also famously known as a filming location for MASH* and Planet of the Apes, which is a fun bonus if you’re into TV history.

The campground isn’t anything amazing. There are picnic tables and fire rings, plus some beautiful mountain views. But the real beauty comes from all the trails to explore. The creek had plenty of water flowing while we visited (even with no recent rain), and the kids even jumped into the rock pool.

What you’ll love:

• Incredible hiking and biking trails
• Fairly large, open campsites with room to spread out
• Great stargazing (less coastal fog than beach spots)
• A quieter, more peaceful atmosphere
• There’s good cell service here, and there was even wi-fi in the park!

Good to know:
There’s no direct beach access here, so plan to drive if you want sand and surf. We had already gotten our beach fix, so we enjoyed just exploring the trails here.

Point Mugu State Park (Sycamore Canyon Campground)

Best for: Beach + canyon combo

Technically just north of Malibu, this campground feels like an extension of the Malibu coastline—and it’s absolutely worth including.

Sycamore Canyon Campground sits steps from the beach, backed by steep canyon walls. You can spend your morning surfing or beachcombing, then head straight into the hills for a hike in the afternoon.

What you’ll love:

• Campsites right across from the beach
• Access to miles of hiking trails
• A laid-back, less crowded feel than central Malibu
• Popular with surfers and outdoor enthusiasts

Good to know:
Sites closer to the road can have some traffic noise, so aim for spots deeper into the campground if possible.

Malibu Beach RV Park – One of the less traditional campgrounds in Malibu, California

Best for: Ocean views with a few more comforts

If you love the idea of camping but aren’t quite ready to go full rustic, Malibu Beach RV Park is a great middle ground.

Perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, this privately owned campground offers some of the best views in Malibu—especially at sunset.

What you’ll love:

• Panoramic ocean views from many sites
• Full hookups for RVs
• Tent sites available (though more limited)
• Clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities

Good to know:
This is a more developed campground, so it doesn’t have the same secluded feel as the state parks—but the views more than make up for it.

Tips for Camping in Malibu, California

Book early:
Malibu campgrounds fill up fast—especially in summer and on weekends. Reservations for California state parks can open up months in advance, so plan ahead. I have a guide to beach camping in SoCal complete with reservation tips and campground information. Be sure to check it out.

Pack layers:
Even if it’s hot during the day, coastal nights can get chilly thanks to ocean breezes.

Be mindful of wildlife:
You may encounter raccoons, squirrels, and even deer. Store food properly and keep campsites clean. Even though you’re near the beach, keep in mind that you’re still in mountain lion territory. We saw multiple signs about mountain lion activity near the campgrounds.

Plan for traffic:
Driving along the Pacific Coast Highway is part of the experience—but it can get busy, especially on weekends.

Final Thoughts

Camping in Malibu is one of those experiences that feels both adventurous and incredibly relaxing. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows under the stars, exploring tide pools, or just soaking in those endless ocean views, it’s easy to see why this stretch of coastline is so special.

If you’re planning a California road trip—or just looking for a quick escape from everyday life—Malibu’s campgrounds are the kind of place that turn a simple overnight stay into a memory your family will talk about for years. They’re some of the best summer camping destinations in the state. And California’s mild climate makes this campground a great one to visit in the fall as well. You’ll have smaller crowds and less competition if you visit in the off season.

Looking for more camping resources? Check out:

• The Best Family Campgrounds in Southern California
• Fun Camping Activities
• Camping Desserts That Are Better Than S’mores
• 8 Family Camping Essentials
• Quick and Easy Camping Meals
• San Clemente State Beach

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