Camping in Malibu Creek State Park

Lake Casitas Recreation Area stands out as a unique destination, nestled within stunning wilderness areas that offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. To ensure a memorable and safe experience during your visit, consider the following tips. When setting up your tent and equipment, be mindful of your surroundings. The ongoing historic drought has left many trees stressed, which may lead to falling limbs at any moment. Even if a tree appears healthy, it could still be compromised. To minimize risk, choose a location for your tent that is well away from trees and their branches. In addition, it's essential to bring insect repellent and securely store your food. The Recreation Area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, mountain lions, skunks, bobcats, raccoons, opossums, and numerous bird species, such as nesting bald eagles. Bears have also been spotted in the area on occasion. With a variety of insects and arachnids, including ticks, insect repellent is a must-have for your trip. By following these guidelines, you can fully enjoy the natural wonders and recreational opportunities that Lake Casitas has to offer.

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Lake Casitas Recreation Area

420 sitesVentura, CA

Steckel Park offers a unique camping experience nestled alongside the serene Santa Paula Creek, surrounded by breathtaking rolling hills and majestic mountain peaks. This picturesque park is a haven for nature lovers, featuring lush citrus and avocado groves that enhance its natural beauty. The park's large, mature shade trees provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities, making it a favored spot for picnics, creekside camping, hiking, biking, and wilderness exploration. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian population, which includes woodpeckers, raptors, warblers, kinglets, and vireos. Additionally, a large aviary within the park showcases a variety of common birds and peafowl, adding to the park's charm. The private campground located north of Santa Paula Creek is leased to the Ventura Ranch KOA, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in nature. For those planning a visit, please be aware that during peak season, the Ventura County Parks Department may close the park due to capacity limits. Weekends are particularly popular, and both Foster Park and Steckel Park often reach full capacity.

Steckel Park County Campground

21 sitesSanta Paula, CA

100 sites1 acre · Castaic, CA

Castaic Lake RV Park

Nestled just 1/2 mile from the stunning Castaic Lake Recreation Area in sunny California, Castaic Lake RV Park stands out as a serene and welcoming destination for families and retirees seeking a peaceful retreat. This RV park offers a unique blend of urban convenience and tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal spot to enjoy California's premier recreation lake. Located north of Los Angeles, guests can bask in the warm weather while indulging in a variety of exciting water sports. Castaic Lake boasts an impressive 2,500 surface acres of water and miles of picturesque shoreline, providing endless opportunities for year-round outdoor activities suitable for all ages and skill levels. Visitors can partake in sailing, water skiing, power boating, swimming, and fishing. The park also features family-friendly picnic areas, hiking trails, biking paths, and equestrian routes. For those looking to paddle, the Lower Lagoon is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and float tubing, while the Upper Reservoir accommodates trolling motors and power boats. Anglers will find a diverse range of fish, including largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and rainbow trout, which are stocked bi-weekly from October through May. When it's time to unwind, guests can relax at the

Discover the unique charm of Lake Piru, where the beauty of nature meets endless recreational opportunities. Nestled within the stunning Los Padres National Forest, this picturesque lake serves as a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. At Lake Piru, adventure and relaxation coexist harmoniously. Enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, and thrilling water sports. For those looking to unwind, our tree-shaded campground provides a serene environment to reconnect with nature. Families can take advantage of our lakeside picnic area, which features a playground, horseshoes, and a disc golf course, ensuring fun for all ages. With all these amenities and attractions just under an hour's drive from Los Angeles, Lake Piru is the ideal destination for your next outdoor escape.

Lake Piru Recreation Area

1 sitePiru, CA

Hobson Beach Park stands out as a unique destination due to its stunning location nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, providing visitors with breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Situated just north of Faria Beach Park and the Rincon Parkway along Highway 1, this park offers an exceptional vantage point for viewing the Channel Islands, especially during the enchanting dusk hours. The park features an oceanside campground with 31 sites, making it an ideal spot for families and groups seeking a memorable outdoor experience. Campers can enjoy amenities such as fire pits, hot showers, and flush toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay. For those looking to stay connected, Wi-Fi is available, and a concession stand offers convenient snacks and supplies. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the beautiful sandy shoreline perfect for surfing and surf fishing, as well as one of the best reefs for exploration during low tides. Additionally, the campground includes 10 sites with full hookups for water, sewer, and electric, catering to various camping needs. With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and a wealth of recreational activities, Hobson Beach Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Hobson Beach Park

176 sitesVentura, CA

Discover a hidden gem along the Pacific coastline, where breathtaking views of the ocean and the Channel Islands create a unique camping experience. This scenic stretch of roadway, known as the Parkway, is conveniently situated between Faria Beach Park and Hobson Beach Park along Highway 1, just off the Ventura Freeway. The campground features 127 designated parking spaces for Recreational Vehicle (RV) use, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing comfort. However, please note that tent camping is prohibited in accordance with the County of Ventura Ordinance. For RV enthusiasts, it’s essential to comply with California Health Code Section 18010, as the site does not offer electrical hookups, dump stations, or shower and bathroom facilities. Additionally, there is no water available on-site. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, picturesque landscapes, or simply a peaceful retreat, this location provides an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions, including stunning beaches and local dining options. Enjoy the beauty of the California coast while creating lasting memories in this remarkable setting.

Campfires

Rincon Parkway Campground

1 siteVentura, CA

Discover the charm of our family-owned park, where we prioritize creating a clean and well-managed community for our guests. Our unique campground features paved drives and full hook-ups, including water, sewer, cable, and 50-amp electric service, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone. Nestled in a tranquil setting, our location provides easy access to a vibrant urban area, allowing guests to enjoy both the excitement of city life and the peace of nature. The owners are frequently on-site, dedicated to upholding the high standards that make our park a welcoming retreat. Our spacious clubhouse is a hub of activity, featuring a cozy fireplace, a pool table, large-screen TVs, a fully equipped kitchen, and a card/game table for your enjoyment. Adjacent to the clubhouse, you’ll find a recently renovated swimming pool and deck area, complete with a covered patio, perfect for relaxation and socializing. For your convenience, we offer two separate laundry rooms equipped with washers and dryers, as well as men’s and women’s shower facilities located near the pool area. Throughout the year, our friendly park management hosts a variety of social gatherings in the clubhouse, celebrating holidays, sporting events, movie nights, bingo, and more, fostering a sense of community among our guests.

Rosewood Mobile Home and RV Park

1 siteBellflower, CA

Emerald Bay Outdoor Academy stands out as a premier destination for outdoor education, blending science, conservation, and research in a unique camp setting alongside Camp Emerald Bay. This exceptional facility offers an immersive experience that fosters a deep appreciation for nature and environmental stewardship. Nestled in a picturesque location, the academy provides ample opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration. Campers can engage in various outdoor activities, from hiking scenic trails to discovering local wildlife. The surrounding natural features, including pristine swimming holes, enhance the educational experience, allowing participants to connect with the environment in meaningful ways. In addition to its educational focus, Emerald Bay Outdoor Academy is conveniently located near local restaurants and shops, making it easy for families to enjoy the area’s amenities. With its commitment to fostering a love for the outdoors and promoting conservation, this camp is an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable and enriching outdoor adventure.

Camp Emerald Bay

1 siteAvalon, CA

Evergreen RV Park stands out as a premier destination for RV enthusiasts, offering a serene environment with 94 spacious full hookup sites that include water, sewer, and electric connections. Our wide paved streets ensure easy navigation for all types of RVs, accommodating lengths of up to 42 feet. Each site features a blend of grass and gravel, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for both short-term and long-term tenants. In addition to our generous RV spaces, Evergreen RV Park boasts a variety of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Enjoy our cozy reading room and lounge, complete with a fireplace and wall-mounted TV, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring. Gather around the patio area with a fire pit and built-in barbecues for memorable evenings under the stars. Our facilities also include a laundry room, a full-service office, clean restrooms, hot showers, and complimentary Wi-Fi. For your entertainment, we offer cable TV and a range of activities at our clubhouse. Whether you're traveling in a motorhome or a travel trailer, Evergreen RV Park provides 50 AMP electrical hookups and convenient water and sewer connections. With a commitment to comfort and community, our park is the ideal base for discovering nearby natural attractions, swimming holes, outdoor activities, and local dining and shopping options.

Evergreen RV Park

1 siteOxnard, CA

Camping in Malibu Creek State Park guide

Overview

About

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.

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

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.

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109 ratings · 19 reviews

May 2023

Malibu State Creek Park is a wonderful little gem near the Greater Los Angeles Area. The park has working toilets and showers. There are several little trails in the area and the beach is less than a 20 minute drive from the site. Plenty of wildlife can be seen in the area.

Reyna C.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2018

Had a great short trip to Malibu Creek campsite. We stayed two nights, and enjoyed a day-hike to the "hidden" waterfall a few miles out. It was a little less hidden than we might have preferred, but enjoyable nonetheless! Would camp here again.

Christine Lee S.

7 years on Hipcamp

May 2018

Pets aren't allowed. Please update the listing!!

Ruth I.

8 reviews

Recommends

· February 2018

This site is expensive, but is a god backup if all of the other Malibu campsites are taken. Not a lot of privacy.

Bex A.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2018

No fires allowed.

Veronica B.

7 years on Hipcamp

October 2017

Dogs aren't even allowed on leash in the parking lot. Camping is reasonably priced but day access is about twenty dollars - ridiculous! Gorgeous park but the over-zealous rangers make it feel a little like you're back in school being yelled at.

Ruth I.

8 reviews

Recommends

· August 2017

If you're a climber... bring a friend! Tons of fantastic sport climbing in the park.

Jake O.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2017

It's dusty

Brian W.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2017

$10 Parking.

Ashley S.

8 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· May 2017

Good starter camp site. Went there from a young age with family.

Ashleigh E.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2017

Nice place for family camping with small kids

Kasey J.

8 years on Hipcamp

February 2017

So good to have a real decent area to get away to without driving too far. Everything around this campsite is beautiful and you cant beat the hikes and ocean a short distance away!

Adam G.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· February 2017

Amanda C.

8 years on Hipcamp

August 2015

This is a family-friendly campground with some nice hiking trails (we went to the MASH site), a rock pool for easy access, and if you like rock climbing, you can also do that here. At night, I could hear cars from the main road from time to time but it wasn't too bothersome. This is a good place for beginner campers or for those who just prefer camping with reliable, clean facilities. They have flush toilets and coin-operated showers. My parents enjoyed it here.

Stepfanie A.

20 reviews

March 2015

In general, fires aren’t allowed at the campground, but give the park a call (818-880-0367) ahead of time to make sure, as sometimes the wildfire threat drops and they are briefly allowed.

Hipcamper L.

10 years on Hipcamp

March 2015

Site 36 is super spacious, and campsites 36-41 all face a lovely, open meadow.

Hipcamper

10 years on Hipcamp

March 2015

Rangers here enforce the rules, so be sure to mind your p’s & q’s (i.e., no dogs, no fires, and obey all traffic laws).

Hipcamper

10 years on Hipcamp

March 2015

You don’t get a map with your entry to the park, but there ARE three places you can buy one (for about $3): At the entrance station (be sure to ask for it), at the Visitor Center (open only on weekends) or at the King Gillette Ranch (across the street).

Hipcamper

10 years on Hipcamp

March 2015