Coastal Camping: Southern California

You may not think of tent camping when you think of enjoying the beaches of southern California. But in addition to the many public beaches to sunbathe, surf and swim on there are campsites available to tent camp for just a few dollars. With so many tourist attractions available to visit in southern California, many forget that the coastline can be just as exciting and memorable.

Sycamore Cove Beach

Sycamore Cove Beach is located in Oxnard California in Ventura County along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). This area is well-known for the hiking trails and nature center. The campsites are opposite the sandy beach area at the Point Mugu State Park, and facilities include toilets and showers. Activities, in addition to hiking the nature trails, include enjoying the sandy beach area. The park provides BBQs, picnic tables and a lifeguard on duty. You, your family and friends may have fun exploring the tide pools and discovering the plethora of exotic sea creatures living in the cove. Reservations to the Sycamore Cove Beach campsites are highly recommended.

Crystal Cove State Park, Moro Campground

Moro Campgrounds, found in Orange County California along the PCH between Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach, are a great addition to any tent camper’s list of exceptional places to visit. This park boasts 3.2 miles of sandy beaches, rocky bluffs and 2,400 acres of wild back-country. There are 30 tent camping sites along the bluffs, and all have bathroom facilities available. If you are willing to hike three to four miles inland, there are three additional areas for rustic tent camping. There are 32 total campsites in the back-country with pit toilets. However, there is no water and you must pack out what you pack in. This park has plenty of water-related activities, including surfing and swimming. Due to its proximity to the city, hikers can enjoy the trails and submerge themselves fully into nature without having to go too far.

Mission Bay, San Diego

This is a resort-type location that is in the heart of the San Diego beaches. Reservations are required due to this region's popularity. There are eighteen tent sites or what the resort calls dry sites. You will find full bathroom and laundry facilities at Campland on the Bay. Another great location near the bustling city of San Diego, you and your loved ones will be able to enjoy more than just the campfires and water games. There are attractions such as Legoland and San Diego Zoo, live entertainment and a multitude of restaurants to enjoy with your friends and family. While Mission Bay may be more of a tourist attraction than the others, it is still a site well worth the visit.

Next time you visit Southern California, try a night or two tent camping along these beaches and visiting other attractions. You’ll be glad you did!