With over 1,100 miles of coastline to explore, California is a joy for camping enthusiasts. Whether you are powering down Highway 1 in a big rig or taking a beach diversion from hiking a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail with little more than a tent strapped to your back, you will find a campground around every bend. From Santa Cruz to San Diego, the giant trees of Redwood National Park to the dramatic volcanic peaks of Morro Rock, this is camping nirvana.
Regions
California's coastline extends from the rugged forests of the North Coast to San Diego's eternally sunny beach scene where surf dudes are a permanent fixture. Along the way you will pass through rustic Marin County, arty Big Sur, vibrant San Francisco and glitzy Laguna Beach. You'll find a multitude of campgrounds, some offering uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean and soft sand at your doorstep.
Private Campgrounds
Of the private campgrounds in California with direct beach access, Manchester Beach KOA on the Mendocino Coast is a popular fixture. Winner of the 2009 Presidents & Founders Award, it features tent sites, RV hookups and RVs to rent. Take part in a bocce ball tournament, send the kids on a hayride, or--if the night turns chilly--hang out in the hot tub. Many coastal campgrounds are a couple of minutes walk to the beach, such as the tiny Beach RV Park in Santa Cruz, offering 16 full hook-up sites. There are no campground activities, but great surfing at the adjacent beach and cliff top walks above Monterey Bay.
Tent Camping
If you fancy rustic camping under canvas there are numerous opportunities throughout the state. Jalama State Beach north of Santa Barbara and San Onofre Bluffs provides peace and solitude. More facilities are available to tent campers at Gualala River Redwood Park in Mendocino. The campground sits on the river as it drains into the ocean and is open from May to December. At Morro Strand you can find primitive campsites and semi-developed sites that attract smaller RVs. Tent camping is available at Malibu Beach RV Park, its beach-side setting providing opportunities for beachcombing, body surfing and whale watching.
State Parks
California's extensive network of state parks provide good opportunities for beach camping. Prairie Creek Redwood State Park north of Eureka offers beachcombing and nature hikes through old growth redwood. Get away from it all at Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County where the beach is popular with surfers and scuba diving is available among rocky reefs. Small RVs and tents can camp opposite Sponner's Cove beach in the volcanic Montaña de Oro State Park, where you will also find a primitive and an equestrian campground.
Local Activities
Beach camping in California provides access to a range of outdoor activities on your doorstep. Pack your skateboard for Skater's Point skateboard, on the beach in Santa Barbara. Spot migrating blue whales in summer and gray whales from December to March. Catch a free concert on Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk or bust some moves on the beach volleyball court. Ride part of the South Bay Bicycle Trail or rip the surf on dozens of California beaches, including Newport Beach and San Luis Obispo.
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