The best big rig friendly campgrounds near Santa Monica, California

Ah, big, beautiful, beachfront Santa Monica. West of downtown Los Angeles and 18 miles south of Malibu, this coastal city is home to the iconic pier. It also boasts the equally legendary Muscle Beach. RV campers can explore the coastline of Santa Monica Bay at Dockweiler State Beach RV Park.

For prime tent camping, head north on Pacific Coast Highway to Leo Carrillo State Park in Malibu. The large canyon campground has 140 spots for tents and RVs. The beaches are brimming with tidepools and caves begging to be explored. Hit the moderate 5.9-mile Yellow Hill Fire Trail for wildflower and Channel Island viewing.

If you’re headed to Malibu Creek State Park, make sure the campground has reopened. As of May 2019, only the park’s backcountry and day-use areas are open. The Woolsey fire of November 2018 took a tragic toll on parts of this region.

No visit to California’s coast is complete without time spent in the Santa Monica Mountains. Hike, bike, or ride your horse along 500+ miles of public trails crisscrossing the land. Some of the steepest climbs reward with 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean.

Need a challenge? Tackle the 65-mile (one way) Backbone Trail, LA’s premier long-distance trek. You can’t camp on the trail, but it makes a great day hike. The best ocean views are found on the Ray Miller Trail at Point Mugu State Park. Head to Inspiration Point at Will Rogers State Historic Park for easy access and some Hollywood history.

96% (352) • 60 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Monica

Malibu RV Park

1. Malibu RV Park

93%

(574)

15mi from Santa Monica · 301 sites · Tents, RVs

Malibu RV is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California. Founded in the 1970s, Malibu RV offers RV Sites, Van Sites and Tent Camping, a communal ambiance, and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your travels along the California Coast. Whether you are a digital nomad, a surfer looking to shack up for the night, or an adventurer looking for an extended stay, we would love to have you. Guests must be a minimum of 21 years of age to book and check-in.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$95

/ night

Acton Oasis

2. Acton Oasis

100%

(44)

36mi from Santa Monica · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ friendly location. Our family home is conveniently located just off of Highway 14, along Sierra Highway, in Acton, CA. We offer parking in our large driveway with hookups for electricity and well water. You can save money by boondocking if you don't need to plug in or use well water -- just add it as an extra. Please fill your tanks with potable water and/or bring drinking water. Our well water is very hard so we filter. No black water disposal. There are no toilets, laundry, or other amenities. We currently do not have garbage disposal, but will again soon. No smoking or fires allowed. No exceptions. This is a high risk fire area.   No leaking vehicles. A $400 fee to cleanup any vehicle leaks. No working on vehicles on the property.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$15

/ night

Action Camp LA RV Resort

3. Action Camp LA RV Resort

31mi from Santa Monica · 244 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

✨ Stay, Explore & Unwind at Action Camp ✨ Adventure meets comfort in a one-of-a-kind outdoor destination Located right along the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), Action Camp is the perfect home base for hikers, travelers, families, and outdoor lovers looking for both adventure and relaxation. 🏕 RV Sites Spacious, comfortable RV sites designed for easy access and longer stays surrounded by open skies and peaceful nature. 🏡 Cabin Rentals Fully equipped cabins offering multiple beds, private bathrooms, personal showers, WiFi, TVs, and kitchen appliances. (Select cabins include stoves.) Enjoy the comforts of home while immersed in the outdoors. ⛺ Tent Sites Traditional camping with plenty of room to relax and reconnect ideal for individuals, families, and group campers seeking a true outdoor experience. 🛖 Teepee Rentals A unique and unforgettable stay. Our teepees blend adventure with comfort for a magical night under the stars. 🌲 Woody Rustic Lodge Rentals Perfect for group stays, retreats, or special gatherings. The Woody Rustic Lodge delivers spacious accommodations with authentic camp charm. 🌟 Camp Experiences & Activities (available on selected nights) 🎬 Movies Under the Stars – Family-friendly outdoor movie nights 🎲 Family Game Tournaments Fun for all ages 🚜 Hayrides A classic camp experience everyone loves ✨ Why Guests Love Action Camp • Direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) • Unique lodging options for every type of guest • Family-friendly activities and special event nights • Rustic charm with modern comforts • Perfect for getaways, long stays, and group experiences 📍 Book your stay at Action Camp and experience a destination where adventure, community, and comfort come together.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$70

/ night

Ah, big, beautiful, beachfront Santa Monica. West of downtown Los Angeles and 18 miles south of Malibu, this coastal city is home to the iconic pier. It also boasts the equally legendary Muscle Beach. RV campers can explore the coastline of Santa Monica Bay at Dockweiler State Beach RV Park.

For prime tent camping, head north on Pacific Coast Highway to Leo Carrillo State Park in Malibu. The large canyon campground has 140 spots for tents and RVs. The beaches are brimming with tidepools and caves begging to be explored. Hit the moderate 5.9-mile Yellow Hill Fire Trail for wildflower and Channel Island viewing.

If you’re headed to Malibu Creek State Park, make sure the campground has reopened. As of May 2019, only the park’s backcountry and day-use areas are open. The Woolsey fire of November 2018 took a tragic toll on parts of this region.

No visit to California’s coast is complete without time spent in the Santa Monica Mountains. Hike, bike, or ride your horse along 500+ miles of public trails crisscrossing the land. Some of the steepest climbs reward with 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean.

Need a challenge? Tackle the 65-mile (one way) Backbone Trail, LA’s premier long-distance trek. You can’t camp on the trail, but it makes a great day hike. The best ocean views are found on the Ray Miller Trail at Point Mugu State Park. Head to Inspiration Point at Will Rogers State Historic Park for easy access and some Hollywood history.

96% (352) • 60 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Monica

Malibu RV Park

1. Malibu RV Park

93%

(574)

15mi from Santa Monica · 301 sites · Tents, RVs

Malibu RV is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California. Founded in the 1970s, Malibu RV offers RV Sites, Van Sites and Tent Camping, a communal ambiance, and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your travels along the California Coast. Whether you are a digital nomad, a surfer looking to shack up for the night, or an adventurer looking for an extended stay, we would love to have you. Guests must be a minimum of 21 years of age to book and check-in.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$95

/ night

Acton Oasis

2. Acton Oasis

100%

(44)

36mi from Santa Monica · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ friendly location. Our family home is conveniently located just off of Highway 14, along Sierra Highway, in Acton, CA. We offer parking in our large driveway with hookups for electricity and well water. You can save money by boondocking if you don't need to plug in or use well water -- just add it as an extra. Please fill your tanks with potable water and/or bring drinking water. Our well water is very hard so we filter. No black water disposal. There are no toilets, laundry, or other amenities. We currently do not have garbage disposal, but will again soon. No smoking or fires allowed. No exceptions. This is a high risk fire area.   No leaking vehicles. A $400 fee to cleanup any vehicle leaks. No working on vehicles on the property.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$15

/ night

Action Camp LA RV Resort

3. Action Camp LA RV Resort

31mi from Santa Monica · 244 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

✨ Stay, Explore & Unwind at Action Camp ✨ Adventure meets comfort in a one-of-a-kind outdoor destination Located right along the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), Action Camp is the perfect home base for hikers, travelers, families, and outdoor lovers looking for both adventure and relaxation. 🏕 RV Sites Spacious, comfortable RV sites designed for easy access and longer stays surrounded by open skies and peaceful nature. 🏡 Cabin Rentals Fully equipped cabins offering multiple beds, private bathrooms, personal showers, WiFi, TVs, and kitchen appliances. (Select cabins include stoves.) Enjoy the comforts of home while immersed in the outdoors. ⛺ Tent Sites Traditional camping with plenty of room to relax and reconnect ideal for individuals, families, and group campers seeking a true outdoor experience. 🛖 Teepee Rentals A unique and unforgettable stay. Our teepees blend adventure with comfort for a magical night under the stars. 🌲 Woody Rustic Lodge Rentals Perfect for group stays, retreats, or special gatherings. The Woody Rustic Lodge delivers spacious accommodations with authentic camp charm. 🌟 Camp Experiences & Activities (available on selected nights) 🎬 Movies Under the Stars – Family-friendly outdoor movie nights 🎲 Family Game Tournaments Fun for all ages 🚜 Hayrides A classic camp experience everyone loves ✨ Why Guests Love Action Camp • Direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) • Unique lodging options for every type of guest • Family-friendly activities and special event nights • Rustic charm with modern comforts • Perfect for getaways, long stays, and group experiences 📍 Book your stay at Action Camp and experience a destination where adventure, community, and comfort come together.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$70

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

k

kelly

3 weeks ago

34 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Malibu RV Park

Amazing!!! The place was perfect! Beautiful Well run Accommodating Just wonderful

R

Roland

November 2025

23 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

Great spot, great views. Friendly and helpful staff.

K

Kenny

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

Awesome location and clean facilities. Friendly staff and walking distance to trails, the beach, and malibu seafood

J

Jake

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

Clean and great customer service. Bathrooms were clean and great amenities

E

Emily

October 2025

24 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

We had a lovely time. Well maintained, respectful neighbors from lots of countries. The price is all about the location. The camp store was boutique. Staff was great. Ocean breeze was dreamy.

K

Katlyn

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

Awesome site. We got a tent site with no view and could still see the ocean. It was clean. They provide wheelbarrows to haul your stuff to the site as you can’t drive your vehicle to it.

C

Catherine

October 2025

21 ft Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

Fantastic and beautiful site! Loved everything about it! Bathrooms, showers and laundry area were nice and clean. Can’t beat the view - would 100% stay again if in the area!

D

Debbie

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Malibu RV Park

Beautiful views, food within walking distance, very clean bathrooms.

R

Rebecca

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

Very cute and clean! Just lots of campers close by. Easy walk down to the PCH where you can get right to the beach. Will visit again!

H

Hilary

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

The store front was nice. Customer service was very nice. The tent camping is a little crowded but we still enjoyed ourselves. Fun walk across pch to the beach.

C

Chris

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

It’s not a camp site away from the luxury of the city. Across the street from the beach and 10 minutes from a grocery store. But its charm is in the quietness that requires you to take a few minutes in appreciation of the present. Took my kids and had the best time, like exotic camping in the back yard. Gone twice in a month this place is a gem. Nothing fancy, but definitely a good weekend trip with friends family or both.

g

gaoshan

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

The campsite was clean, peaceful, and surrounded by beautiful scenery. The Malibu beach nearby was also very beautiful, which made our stay even more enjoyable. The host was friendly and helpful, and check-in was smooth. This is a great spot for families and kids. We truly appreciated the fresh air and lovely environment. Highly recommend!

g

gaoshan

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

We had a wonderful time here! The campsite was clean, peaceful, and had amazing views of Malibu. The host was friendly and helpful, and it was easy to check in. It’s a perfect spot for families and kids—we enjoyed the fresh air, the beautiful beach, and the lovely scenery. Highly recommend!

T

Tracy

September 2025

43 ft Class A

With pets

7 nights at Malibu RV Park

Beautiful views, clean, friendly! Great location!

M

Michael

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

Had an amazing time and great experience here. Check in and check out was a breeze. Very helpful staff that helped us from start to end with everything. The views and “feeling” was exactly what you expected from a Malibu beach stay. The place was very clean and beautiful. I’d definitely recommend this experience and would come back again for sure.

J

Jessica

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

Enjoyed our stay! Friendly service and clean showers/bathrooms.

Razz

September 2025

21 ft campervan

1 night at Malibu RV Park

Second time visitor to this gem of an RV Park where I camp in spot overlooking the mighty Pacific Ocean there in Malibu. Each time I can’t believe how fortunate I am to be able to take in the epic experience of being there!! Oh… with short walk across PCH, you’re sitting on the beach!! I SHALL RETURN AGAIN.. I’m sure of it!! Razz The Roaming Hillbilly

C

Casey

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Malibu RV Park

We've been here a few times and plan to come back again. Facilities are clean and convenient, the views can't be beat, and the location in general is excellent and close to lots of other activities. The camp sites can be a bit of a walk, but they provide wheel barrows that are pretty giant to help with your stuff so it's not a big deal. We came on a holiday weekend this last trip and they had a DJ on the lawn and $3 tacos, so that was an extra bonus that made things festive. Neighbors at the tent sites have always been kind and considerate so far. Looking forward to our next trip soon!

K

Kimberly

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

The live music was amazing Clean campground and bathrooms with showers Waking up next to the ocean was amazing and great friendly staff and security at night!!

Mikako

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Malibu RV Park

I loved the beautiful ocean views, especially at sunset. Also, it was great to sleep under the stars. Next morning, we had a great hiking on the Coral Canyon Trail, adjacent to the camp site. I wish the campers at the next lot had not been talking loud at late night.