Notable Campgrounds
- Best for amenities: The Malibu Creek Campground offers 63 sites, with picnic tables, fire rings, flush toilets, hot showers, and drinking water.
- Best for RVs: Some of the sites at the campground are suitable for RVs up to 30 feet. A dump station is available but hookups are not.
- Best for groups: The Group Camp Area offers space for up to 60 people.
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Make your reservation through Reserve California as soon as you know your dates during peak season. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
- If your plans are flexible, try visiting during the week or during non-holiday periods.
- If you don’t have a reservation, arrive at the park first thing in the morning to grab any unreserved spots that might be available.
When to Go
Summer is the most popular time to visit, despite the high temperatures. Fall, winter, and spring offer the most pleasant weather for being active in the park. Wildflowers put on a dazzling display in spring. The visitor center is only open on weekends from noon to 4pm with docent-led tours from time to time. The Sepulveda Adobe is only open to the public on select days.
Know Before You Go
- Paddlers should stay clear of the dam on Century Lake as it’s a steep drop to the other side. Swimming is not recommended in the Rock Pool due to high bacteria levels.
- Fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older. Fishing is not permitted in lower Malibu Creek or Malibu Lagoon.
- Bring one dollar bills to get tokens for hot showers. Cold showers are free.
- Campfires are permitted in fire rings only. During medium fire risk, use charcoal instead of wood. Fires are not permitted during high fire risk.
- Accessible facilities include the visitor center, restrooms, four campsites, picnic areas, and the Ann Skager Trail.
- The parking fee is good the same day at any California state park or beach, including Malibu Beach.
- Pets on leashes are permitted in the campground and day-use areas but not on any trails or dirt roads.
Malibu Creek State Park
Enjoy nature and outdoor recreation at this former set location in the mountains above Malibu.
Located just 25 miles away from downtown Los Angeles, this 8,000-acre park in the Santa Monica Mountains has been in its share of movies and tv shows, including “M*A*S*H” and “Planet of the Apes.” Today, it’s an easy nature getaway in southern California. Visitors come here to explore the rugged terrain and the miles of stream-side trails, including hiking trails also suitable for mountain biking and horseback riding. Fishing, paddling, rock climbing, and bird watching are also popular. A developed campground with campsites, flush toilets, and hot showers offer an easy overnight experience for campers.
Located just 25 miles away from downtown Los Angeles, this 8,000-acre park in the Santa Monica Mountains has been in its share of movies and tv shows, including “M*A*S*H” and “Planet of the Apes.” Today, it’s an easy nature getaway in southern California. Visitors come here to explore the rugged terrain and the miles of stream-side trails, including hiking trails also suitable for mountain biking and horseback riding. Fishing, paddling, rock climbing, and bird watching are also popular. A developed campground with campsites, flush toilets, and hot showers offer an easy overnight experience for campers.
Activities in the park
2 campgrounds in Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park camping is prime time, especially when you stay at the Malibu Creek Campground. With 63 sites, make sure to book a reservation as soon as you can! Being only 26 miles outside of Los Angeles, it’s a highly popular getaway spot. Camping accommodations can be made for small families, groups up to 100 people, or for more primit Read more...
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Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Summer is the most popular time to visit, despite the high temperatures. Fall, winter, and spring offer the most pleasant weather for being active in the park. Wildflowers put on a dazzling display in spring. The visitor center is only open on weekends from noon to 4pm with docent-led tours from time to time. The Sepulveda Adobe is only open to the public on select days.
Know Before You Go
Frequently asked questions
Can you camp at Malibu Creek State Park?
Yes, you can camp at Malibu Creek State Park. The park offers a family campground with 63 campsites, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs. The campground has restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. However, it's important to note that Malibu Creek State Park campground does not offer any beachside camping. To learn more about camping at Malibu Creek State Park, visit Hipcamp.
Are fires allowed at Malibu Creek State Park?
Fires are allowed at Malibu Creek State Park only within the provided fire rings and stoves at established campsites. Campers are not allowed to make their own fire rings or have fires outside of the designated areas. It is important to note that fire restrictions may be in place during certain times of the year due to wildfire risk, so it is always a good idea to check with the park rangers for current fire regulations and restrictions before your visit.
Does Malibu Creek State Park have wifi?
Malibu Creek State Park does not offer wifi access within the park. However, you may find wifi services at nearby businesses or private Hipcamp campgrounds outside the park.
How far is Malibu Creek State Park from the beach?
Malibu Creek State Park is located approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers) inland from the beach. The closest beach to the park is Malibu Lagoon State Beach, which is about a 15-20 minute drive away, depending on traffic.
Public campgrounds (book externally) —