California’s 1,100 miles of Pacific coastline hide dozens of campgrounds where you can fall asleep to crashing waves. From the warm, family-friendly beaches of San Diego to the rugged, mist-shrouded shores of Sonoma, there’s a beachfront campsite for every type of camper.
After years of camping up and down this coast, I’ve learned that the best sites disappear fast—and that “beachfront” means different things at different parks. Some put you directly on the sand. Others perch you on bluffs with million-dollar views. This guide covers both, with current 2026 pricing and the reservation strategies you’ll actually need.
Quick Summary: Which Beach Campground Is Right for You?
California offers over 40 state and federal beachfront campgrounds, but not all are created equal. Here’s what you need to know before diving into the details:
- Budget range: $35-$140/night depending on location and site type
- Booking window: 6 months in advance via ReserveCalifornia (state parks) or Recreation.gov (federal sites)
- Easiest reservations: Doran Regional Park, Bodega Dunes (midweek)
- Best for families: South Carlsbad State Beach, San Elijo State Beach
- Best views: Kirk Creek (Big Sur), Wright’s Beach (Sonoma)
| If You Want… | Head To… |
|---|---|
| Warm water swimming | Southern California (San Diego, Ventura) |
| Dramatic coastal scenery | Big Sur or Sonoma Coast |
| Easier reservations | Doran Regional Park, midweek dates |
| Family amenities | South Carlsbad, San Elijo |
| Budget camping | Kirk Creek ($45), Thornhill Broome ($35) |
| Dog-friendly beaches | Wright’s Beach, Doran Regional Park |
What Makes California Beach Camping Unique
There’s nowhere else in the continental United States where you can camp with redwood trees towering behind you and Pacific waves crashing in front. California’s coast runs the full spectrum—from Mediterranean-warm waters in the south to subarctic conditions up north.
Before planning your trip, understand one crucial distinction: this guide focuses exclusively on Pacific Ocean beachfront camping. California also has excellent lakefront camping at places like Lake Tahoe and Lake Almanor, but that’s a different experience entirely. Ocean camping means salt air, tidal rhythms, and weather that can shift dramatically from morning fog to afternoon sun.
Choosing the right camping gear matters even more at the beach, where sand, salt, and wind create unique challenges.
The state park system operates most beachfront campgrounds, though several excellent sites fall under the National Forest Service (like Kirk Creek) or county parks (like Doran Regional). Each system has its own reservation platform and policies, which I’ll cover in the booking section.
Southern California Beachfront Campgrounds
If you want the classic California beach camping experience—warm water, sunshine, and the ability to actually swim—Southern California delivers. These campgrounds fill up months in advance for summer weekends, but the trade-off is genuine beach weather.
San Diego County
South Carlsbad State Beach sits on coastal bluffs overlooking a three-mile stretch of sandy beach. With over 200 campsites, it’s one of the largest beachfront campgrounds in the state. Rates run $50/night for basic inland sites up to $140/night for premium oceanfront spots with hookups. The on-site Camp Store sells essentials, and the nearby surf breaks draw surfers from San Clemente to Oceanside.
One important note: dogs are prohibited at South Carlsbad. If you’re traveling with pets, look elsewhere.
For family camping on the coast, few places beat San Diego County’s options.
San Elijo State Beach offers a more affordable alternative just a few miles south. Standard inland sites start at $35/night, with premium oceanfront hookup sites reaching $75/night. The hike/bike campsite here costs just $10/person per night and operates first-come, first-served—a rare opportunity for spontaneous beach camping. Surf lessons are available through the Eli Howard Surf School, and dogs are welcome at nearby Cardiff State Beach.
Los Angeles and Ventura Counties
Point Mugu State Park might be Southern California’s best-kept beach camping secret. Located on PCH just north of Malibu, the park runs two campgrounds. Sycamore Canyon sits inland among sycamore groves ($45/night), but the real prize is Thornhill Broome—primitive beach camping directly on the sand for just $35/night.
Here’s something few competitors mention: Thornhill Broome is one of the only places in Southern California where you can legally have a fire on the beach in designated areas. That alone makes it worth the trip.
Refugio State Beach in Santa Barbara County offers 66 intimate campsites ($45-55/night) with kayak tours led by state park lifeguards during summer. It’s small enough to feel personal but developed enough for families seeking amenities.
| Campground | Sites | Price Range (2026) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carlsbad SB | 200+ | $50-140/night | Families, RV campers |
| San Elijo SB | 170+ | $35-75/night | Surfers, budget campers |
| Thornhill Broome | 69 | $35/night | Tent campers, beach fires |
| Refugio SB | 66 | $45-55/night | Kayaking, small groups |
Central Coast and Big Sur Beachfront Campgrounds
Big Sur camping requires a different mindset than Southern California. Sites are extremely limited, competition is fierce, and the experience is raw in ways that pampered SoCal beaches aren’t. But the payoff? Some of the most spectacular scenery on the Pacific Coast.
Big Sur’s Ocean-View Campgrounds
Kirk Creek Campground delivers what might be the best ocean views of any campground in California. Perched on open bluffs above the Pacific, the 33 sites (31 reservable, 2 first-come) offer unobstructed sunset views, star-filled skies, and the dramatic sight of mountains plunging into sea.
The trade-off: Kirk Creek is primitive. No water. No hookups. The rate is $45/night through Recreation.gov, and reservations release at 7am PST exactly 6 months in advance. Set a calendar reminder if you’re serious about scoring a site.
If you’re into backpacking or minimalist camping, Big Sur’s primitive sites deliver authentic experiences.
Limekiln State Park offers something no other California beach campground can match: campsites where coastal redwoods meet the Pacific. Only 12 sites sit near the beach (29 total), making this one of the hardest reservations in the state park system. At $35/night, it’s not about price—it’s about timing. The park also features the Falls Trail leading to a 100-foot waterfall.
Be warned: both Big Sur campgrounds sit beneath or near Highway 1, and the road noise can be noticeable. Most campers find the ocean views worth the trade-off.
Monterey Bay Area
Manresa State Beach on Monterey Bay offers walk-in tent camping only—exactly the kind of experience purists seek. The 60 sites require hauling your gear from the parking area (bring a cart), and showers are coin-operated. But the quiet, tent-only atmosphere feels like beach camping should.
Northern California Beachfront Campgrounds
Northern California beach camping couldn’t be more different from the south. The water is cold—dangerously cold. The scenery is dramatic, wild, and fog-wrapped. And the beaches are emphatically not for swimming.
Sonoma Coast State Park
I keep coming back to Sonoma Coast. It feels like a miniature Big Sur, with dramatic bluffs, rocky headlands, and beaches that actually stay uncrowded because most people can’t handle the weather.
Wright’s Beach puts 27 campsites directly adjacent to the beach. Sites run $35-45/night, and while there are no showers on-site, registered campers can use the token-operated showers at Bodega Dunes (about 5 miles south). Dogs are allowed on leash—a rarity for California beach camping.
Bodega Dunes offers 99 sites at $35-45/night with hot showers, flush toilets, and a potable water filling station. Maximum trailer length is 31 feet. This is the more developed option on the Sonoma Coast, and reservations tend to be slightly easier to get than Wright’s Beach—especially midweek.
Critical Safety Warning: Swimming
I need to be direct about this: Sonoma Coast beaches are NOT FOR SWIMMING. The California State Parks website uses those exact words, in capital letters. Strong rip currents, heavy surf, cold water, and sneaker waves have claimed lives here.
According to the U.S. Lifesaving Association, rip currents account for more than 80% of surf beach lifeguard rescues nationwide. On the Northern California coast, where lifeguards are sparse or absent, that statistic translates directly into danger.
Safe activities at Northern California beaches include beachcombing, tide pooling, fishing, and photography. If you want to swim, head south of Point Conception.
If you’re new to ocean camping, review our camping tips for beginners before heading to the rugged North Coast.
Mendocino and the Redwood Coast
Doran Regional Park offers 120 sites on a peninsula jutting into Bodega Bay. At $35-40/night, it’s one of the more affordable options on the North Coast, and availability tends to be easier than state parks. The park allows dogs and offers good access to Bodega Bay, Salmon Creek, and Sonoma County wine country (less than 30 minutes away).
Gold Bluffs Beach in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park might be the most uniquely California camping experience available. Campsites sit between massive sand dunes, crashing Pacific surf, and towering redwood forest. Roosevelt elk wander through the campground. The catch? It’s 325 miles from San Francisco, accessible only by dirt road, and sites are first-come, first-served outside of summer months.
2026 Pricing Comparison
What does California beach camping actually cost? Here’s the complete breakdown of current rates across the campgrounds covered in this guide.
| Campground | Standard Rate | Premium/Hookup Rate | Extra Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carlsbad SB | $50/night | $95-140/night | $15 |
| San Elijo SB | $35/night | $50-75/night | $15 |
| Thornhill Broome | $35/night | N/A | $10 |
| Refugio SB | $45/night | $55/night | $10 |
| Kirk Creek | $45/night | N/A | $10 |
| Limekiln SP | $35/night | N/A | $10 |
| Wright’s Beach | $35/night | $45/night | $10 |
| Bodega Dunes | $35/night | $45/night | $10 |
| Doran Regional | $35-40/night | N/A | $10 |
Additional fees to budget for:
- Reservation fee: $8.25 (ReserveCalifornia, non-refundable)
- Firewood: $8-12/bundle at camp stores
- Day use parking: $10-15 for non-campers
- Shower tokens: $0.50-1.00 per 3-5 minutes (where applicable)
How to Score Beach Camping Reservations
Picture this: you’ve found the perfect beachfront campsite, you’ve circled the ideal weekend in June, and when you log in to book… everything’s already gone. Welcome to California beach camping.
The competition is real, but it’s also beatable with the right strategy.
Know Your Booking Windows
California State Parks (ReserveCalifornia): Reservations open exactly 6 months in advance at 8am Pacific time. If you want July 15th, you need to be online at 8am on January 15th.
Federal Sites (Recreation.gov): Also 6 months out, but releases happen at 7am PST. Kirk Creek in Big Sur runs on this system.
The $8.25 reservation fee through ReserveCalifornia is non-refundable. Cancellations cost another $8.25 plus forfeiting your first night’s fee if you cancel within 7 days.
Most California beach camping is car camping—you’ll drive right to your site at most campgrounds.
Cancellation Strategy
Didn’t snag your dates 6 months out? Don’t give up. Cancellations happen constantly, and here’s when to check:
- Two weeks before: Many campers realize they can’t make it and cancel to avoid losing their entire fee
- Weekday mornings: Cancellation releases often process overnight
- 48 hours before: ReserveCalifornia closes online reservations 48 hours out—remaining sites go first-come, first-served at the campground
Alternative Strategies
Go midweek. Tuesday through Thursday reservations are dramatically easier to get than Friday-Saturday. If your schedule allows, this is the single best way to guarantee beach camping.
Try shoulder season. April-May and September-October offer excellent weather with a fraction of summer’s competition. Northern California can be spectacular in fall when inland heat drives fog away from the coast.
First-come, first-served sites. Willow Creek and Pomo Canyon at Sonoma Coast operate first-come, first-served (seasonal). Gold Bluffs Beach in the redwoods does the same outside of summer. Arrive early on weekdays for the best shot.
Who Should Camp Where
Not every beachfront campground suits every camper. Here’s how to match your group to the right location.
Best for Families with Kids
South Carlsbad State Beach checks every family box: large campground (room for error on reservations), on-site camp store, lifeguards during summer, warm swimmable water, and plenty of flat beach for sandcastle building. The premium sites with hookups make life easier for families who want some comfort.
San Elijo State Beach adds surf lessons and Cardiff State Beach (dog-friendly) nearby. The hike/bike site at $10/person is perfect for adventurous families cycling the coast.
Choosing the right tents matters—wind resistance is crucial at beach locations.
Best for Couples and Romance
Kirk Creek offers sunset views that rival five-star resorts at a $45/night price point. The primitive conditions (no water, no hookups) keep crowds small and create genuine remoteness. Pack well, and you’ll have bluff-top Pacific sunsets to yourselves.
Limekiln State Park combines beach access with waterfall hiking through redwood groves. At just 12 beach-adjacent sites, it’s intimate in ways larger campgrounds can’t match.
Best for RV Campers
South Carlsbad accommodates trailers up to 35 feet with hookup options. Bodega Dunes allows up to 31 feet with flush toilets and hot showers—just no hookups.
Note: Thornhill Broome and Wright’s Beach have length limits (31′ and 27′ respectively), and Kirk Creek works best for tent camping or small campervans.
Best for Tent Camping Purists
Kirk Creek strips beach camping to essentials: incredible views, fire ring, and nothing else. Manresa State Beach is walk-in tent camping only, forcing you to leave the car behind and commit to the experience.
Dog-Friendly Beach Campgrounds
Traveling with your dog? California’s beach camping policies vary wildly, and getting it wrong means turning around at the gate.
| Campground | Dogs in Campground | Dogs on Beach | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carlsbad SB | No | No | Dogs prohibited entirely |
| San Elijo SB | Yes (leash) | Cardiff nearby | Cardiff State Beach allows dogs |
| Wright’s Beach | Yes (leash) | Yes (leash) | One of few with beach access |
| Bodega Dunes | Yes (leash) | No | Campground only, not dunes/beach |
| Doran Regional | Yes | Yes | Most dog-friendly option |
Many California beaches prohibit dogs to protect snowy plovers—a threatened shorebird species that nests on sandy beaches. Always verify current pet policies before your trip, as restrictions can change seasonally.
Beach Camping Gear Essentials
Beach camping requires gear you might not pack for mountain or forest trips. Sand, salt, wind, and temperature swings create unique challenges.
Having the right camping gear makes the difference between a great beach trip and a frustrating one.
Sand stakes: Regular tent stakes pull right out of sand. Bring sand anchors or stake bags you can fill with sand for actual holding power.
Windscreen or tarp: Coastal wind is relentless. A windscreen for cooking and a well-guyed tarp for shade make beach camping dramatically more comfortable.
Extra layers: Morning fog can drop temperatures 20+ degrees from afternoon highs. Even in summer, pack a warm fleece and beanie.
Water containers: Several campgrounds (Kirk Creek, Manresa, Wright’s Beach) have limited or no water. Bring more than you think you’ll need.
Beach-specific cleanup: A small broom or brush for sand, a bucket for rinsing feet, and waterproof bags for electronics will save you headaches.
Warmer sleeping bag than you’d expect: Coastal California nights are cold. A 30-degree bag isn’t overkill, even in July.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book California beach camping?
For summer weekends at popular campgrounds like South Carlsbad or Wright’s Beach, book exactly 6 months in advance when reservations open. Midweek stays and shoulder season dates (April-May, September-October) are significantly easier to get with less advance planning.
Can I camp directly on the beach in California?
Yes, at select locations. Thornhill Broome at Point Mugu offers primitive camping directly on the sand. Kirk Creek and Wright’s Beach put you adjacent to the beach, though not on the sand itself. True on-sand camping is rare and should be confirmed with each park.
Are dogs allowed at California beach campgrounds?
Policies vary significantly. South Carlsbad prohibits dogs entirely. Wright’s Beach and Doran Regional Park allow leashed dogs both in camp and on the beach. Bodega Dunes allows dogs in the campground only, not on the dunes or beach. Always verify current policies before arrival.
Is it safe to swim at California beach campgrounds?
Southern California beaches (San Diego to Ventura) are generally swimmable with appropriate caution. Northern California beaches—particularly Sonoma Coast—are explicitly marked “NOT FOR SWIMMING” due to dangerous rip currents, cold water, and sneaker waves. Drownings occur regularly on the North Coast.
What’s the cheapest beachfront camping in California?
Thornhill Broome at Point Mugu and several Sonoma Coast campgrounds offer sites at $35/night. Kirk Creek runs $45/night but is primitive (no water). The hike/bike site at San Elijo costs just $10/person per night for those traveling light.
Can I have a campfire on California beaches?
At most campgrounds, fires are restricted to designated fire rings at your campsite. Thornhill Broome at Point Mugu is one of the few locations that permits fires on the beach in designated areas. Always check current fire restrictions, as drought conditions frequently lead to complete fire bans.
What’s the best time for California beach camping?
April-May and September-October offer the best combination of good weather and manageable crowds. Summer (June-August) brings the warmest temperatures but peak competition for reservations. Southern California stays pleasant year-round; Northern California is foggiest in summer but can be spectacular in fall.
What’s the difference between state beach and state park camping?
Both fall under California State Parks management and use the same reservation system (ReserveCalifornia). State beaches focus specifically on beach access and recreation. State parks may include beaches but offer more diverse terrain—forests, trails, historical sites. Pricing and policies are similar for both.
Final Thoughts
California beach camping rewards those who plan ahead and know what they’re looking for. Southern California delivers the warm, swimmable beach experience most people picture. Central Coast and Big Sur trade amenities for world-class scenery. Northern California offers rugged beauty with genuine solitude—if you respect the ocean’s power.
The practical reality: summer weekend sites at popular campgrounds disappear within minutes of the booking window opening. If beach camping is a priority, mark your calendar for that 8am reservation release 6 months out. Or embrace the alternatives—midweek camping, shoulder seasons, and the first-come sites that reward flexibility.
For more coastal camping ideas across the USA, explore our guides at CampingDaily.net.
Whatever approach you take, California’s coast offers something worth the effort. Few experiences match falling asleep to waves and waking to Pacific sunrises with sand between your toes.
