Bells HardingstoneRV camping on the beach in California is one of the best ways to experience the state’s stunning coastline, from the sunny shores of Southern California to the rugged beauty of the north. These campgrounds allow travelers to enjoy oceanfront views, sandy beaches, and access to nearby attractions. Whether you want a family-friendly setting, a peaceful escape, or a lively beachside town, California offers a wide range of options for RV campers who want the ultimate coastal adventure.
Top 50 RV Camping on the Beach in California
1. Dockweiler Beach RV Park – Playa del Rey
Dockweiler Beach RV Park offers one of the most iconic spots for RV camping on the beach in California. Located in Los Angeles, it sits directly on the sand with full and partial hookups, restrooms, and showers. Campers enjoy direct beach access, bike trails, and stunning sunsets. Its proximity to Venice, Santa Monica, and Marina del Rey makes it ideal for travelers who want both oceanfront relaxation and city attractions within a short drive.
2. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort – Pismo Beach
Pismo Coast Village RV Resort is a highly rated destination for RV camping on the beach in California. This full-service resort is situated directly on the beach and provides easy access to Oceano Dunes and downtown Pismo Beach. With spacious paved sites, full hookups, a pool, playgrounds, and activities for families, it’s designed for convenience and fun. The combination of a sandy shoreline and close dining and entertainment options makes it a favorite for both families and road trippers.
3. Campland on the Bay – San Diego
Campland on the Bay in Mission Bay is a classic destination for RV camping on the beach in California. It features waterfront RV sites and a resort-like atmosphere with amenities such as swimming pools, sports courts, and a busy activity schedule. Campers can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and safe swimming directly from the campground. Its location also makes it easy to access SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and other attractions, making it one of the most family-friendly beach RV parks in the state.
4. Lighthouse Cove RV Park – Crescent City
Lighthouse Cove RV Park offers a quiet coastal retreat for RV camping on the beach in California’s far north. Located in Crescent City, the park sits near sandy beaches and rocky headlands with beautiful ocean views. Campers enjoy tide pooling, beach walks, and fishing in a rugged, less crowded environment. Its close proximity to redwood forests adds to its appeal, making it perfect for those seeking both seaside relaxation and outdoor adventures in northern California’s wild landscapes.
5. Oceanside RV Resort – Oceanside
Oceanside RV Resort provides an excellent combination of modern amenities and beachside access, making it one of the most popular places for RV camping on the beach in California. Situated near Oceanside Pier and downtown attractions, the park features full hookups, clean facilities, and easy access to sandy shores. Families enjoy the proximity to dining, surfing, and coastal walking paths. The balance of seaside relaxation and city convenience makes Oceanside RV Resort an ideal choice for coastal vacations.
6. Golden Shore RV Resort – Long Beach
Golden Shore RV Resort is a prime spot for RV camping on the beach in California with city conveniences nearby. Located in Long Beach, it sits close to the harbor, boardwalk, and attractions such as the Queen Mary and Aquarium of the Pacific. Campers enjoy water views, paved sites, and access to restaurants and entertainment. It’s ideal for those who want both beach access and an urban experience, offering the best of coastal relaxation and city excitement in one place.
7. Malibu Beach RV Park – Malibu
Malibu Beach RV Park is the only RV park within Malibu city limits and is highly sought after for RV camping on the beach in California. With ocean and mountain views, it provides a scenic experience just steps from famous surf spots and tide pools. The park’s location along the Pacific Coast Highway offers easy access to dining, shopping, and hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains. Campers enjoy peaceful sunsets and the relaxed Malibu atmosphere at this intimate coastal campground.
8. Pillar Point RV Park – Half Moon Bay
Pillar Point RV Park in Half Moon Bay is known for its stunning coastal setting and convenient location. This popular destination for RV camping on the beach in California sits near Mavericks, a world-famous surf break, and provides access to beaches and coastal trails. The park’s simple layout appeals to campers who value scenic views and a relaxed environment. Its proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley makes it a perfect getaway for both locals and travelers along the coast.
9. Refugio State Beach Campground – Goleta
Refugio State Beach offers a scenic and family-friendly option for RV camping on the beach in California. Known for its palm-lined shoreline and calm surf, it’s a favorite for beachcombing, tide pooling, and picnics. The campground offers RV sites with direct beach access and is close to Santa Barbara’s restaurants and wineries. Visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, and kayaking, along with spectacular sunsets over the Channel Islands. Its natural beauty and convenient location make it a beloved stop on the central coast.
10. Leo Carrillo State Park – Malibu
Leo Carrillo State Park is a top destination for RV camping on the beach in California, offering coastal beauty combined with outdoor adventure. Located along the Malibu coast, the park features tide pools, sea caves, and hiking trails alongside RV-accessible campsites. Families enjoy ranger programs and the chance to explore both beach and mountain environments in one location. Its natural charm, along with proximity to Los Angeles, makes it a popular choice for campers looking to escape the city and connect with nature.
11. Silver Strand State Beach Campground – Coronado
Silver Strand State Beach offers oceanfront RV camping on the beach in California between Imperial Beach and Coronado. The campground provides sites that sit directly on the sand, offering spectacular sunrise and sunset views. Campers can enjoy swimming, surfing, fishing, and biking along the coast. The location also provides easy access to downtown Coronado and San Diego’s attractions. With the bay on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, it’s a unique and versatile beach camping experience.
12. San Elijo State Beach Campground – Cardiff-by-the-Sea
San Elijo State Beach Campground is a favorite among surfers and families looking for RV camping on the beach in California. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it provides direct beach access and striking views. Visitors enjoy surfing, swimming, and exploring tide pools, while the nearby town of Encinitas offers shops and restaurants. The campground combines natural beauty with convenient amenities, making it a popular stop for RV travelers exploring San Diego County’s scenic coastline.
13. Carpinteria State Beach Campground – Carpinteria
Carpinteria State Beach is known for its calm waters and family-friendly shoreline, making it a great spot for RV camping on the beach in California. The campground offers sites within walking distance of the sand and is located near the charming town of Carpinteria. Activities include tide pooling, fishing, and bird watching, with seals often spotted nearby. Its safe surf, combined with a small-town atmosphere, makes this an excellent choice for families seeking a relaxed coastal experience.
14. Gaviota State Park Campground – Gaviota
Gaviota State Park provides a rugged coastal setting perfect for RV camping on the beach in California. Located west of Santa Barbara, the park offers oceanfront campsites and trails leading to nearby bluffs and hills. Visitors enjoy fishing from the pier, hiking, and beachcombing along the wild coastline. Its more remote location makes it less crowded than other coastal parks, giving campers a chance to experience California’s natural beauty in a peaceful, unspoiled environment with spectacular ocean views.
15. Morro Strand State Beach – Morro Bay
Morro Strand State Beach offers one of the most picturesque locations for RV camping on the beach in California. With Morro Rock in view, campers enjoy long sandy walks, tide pooling, and surfing. The campground offers easy access to both the beach and the nearby town of Morro Bay, known for its harbor, kayaking, and seafood restaurants. The combination of beach recreation and a charming coastal community makes it an ideal central coast destination for RV travelers.
16. Oceano Campground – Oceano Dunes
Oceano Campground, located near the Oceano Dunes, is a unique place for RV camping on the beach in California. This area is famous for its off-road opportunities, allowing vehicles to drive directly onto the dunes and sandy shoreline. Campers enjoy sand sports, bonfires, and beach strolls, along with easy access to Pismo Beach. It’s one of the few places in the state where RVers can combine beachfront camping with dune adventures, creating an unforgettable coastal experience.
17. Huntington Beach RV Campground – Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach RV Campground offers seasonal beachfront camping in one of California’s most iconic surf cities. RV camping on the beach in California here means direct access to sandy shores, the famous Huntington Beach Pier, and lively surf culture. Visitors enjoy biking along the beach path, dining at nearby restaurants, and attending events like surf competitions. The combination of seaside fun and a vibrant community atmosphere makes Huntington Beach RV Campground an excellent choice for travelers seeking classic Southern California beach life.
18. El Capitan State Beach Campground – Santa Barbara
El Capitan State Beach offers oceanfront sites that make it a popular choice for RV camping on the beach in California. Located just outside Santa Barbara, it provides scenic bluffs, tide pools, and wide sandy stretches. Campers enjoy hiking trails, beachcombing, and family picnics, while its proximity to Santa Barbara allows for easy trips into town. Its mix of coastal nature and nearby amenities make El Capitan a well-loved stop for road trippers exploring California’s central coast.
19. Sunset State Beach – Watsonville
Sunset State Beach provides a peaceful coastal environment for RV camping on the beach in California. Situated near Watsonville, it features campsites surrounded by coastal dunes with direct access to a wide sandy shoreline. The area is known for bird watching, fishing, and quiet beach walks. Its more secluded location makes it less crowded than other beaches, offering campers a chance to enjoy natural beauty and serene sunsets along California’s central coastline.
20. Seacliff State Beach Campground – Aptos
Seacliff State Beach Campground is famous for its beachfront location and the historic concrete ship visible from the pier. It is a top choice for RV camping on the beach in California, offering sites directly adjacent to the sand. Campers enjoy fishing, beach walks, and exploring nearby Santa Cruz and Capitola. The unique scenery, easy access to local attractions, and family-friendly atmosphere make Seacliff a beloved camping destination along the central coast.
21. Morro Bay State Park – Morro Bay
Morro Bay State Park offers a scenic coastal environment for RV camping on the beach in California. Located along the bay with views of Morro Rock, the campground provides access to kayaking, hiking, and bird watching. Campers enjoy the combination of shoreline recreation and access to the nearby harbor town with restaurants and shops. Its balance of natural beauty and small-town charm makes it a popular stop for travelers along California’s central coast.
22. Hearst San Simeon State Park – San Simeon
Hearst San Simeon State Park provides a peaceful setting for RV camping on the beach in California. Situated near Hearst Castle and the charming town of Cambria, the campground features coastal bluffs, ocean views, and nearby elephant seal viewing areas. Visitors enjoy exploring tide pools, hiking, and touring the castle. The park’s location along Highway 1 makes it a convenient stop for road trippers looking to experience the dramatic beauty of the central coast.
23. Big Sur Coastal RV Parks – Big Sur
Big Sur is one of the most scenic stretches of California’s coastline, and nearby RV parks provide access to dramatic cliffs and rugged beaches. While direct beachfront RV sites are limited, campgrounds close to the shoreline allow campers to experience the natural beauty of the region. RV camping on the beach in California here offers opportunities for hiking, photography, and whale watching. The breathtaking landscapes and unique coastal setting make Big Sur a top camping destination.
24. Veterans Memorial Park / Marina RV Sites – Monterey Bay
Around Monterey Bay, several RV-friendly campgrounds offer access to beaches and marinas. This area is highly regarded for RV camping on the beach in California because of its family-friendly attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Campers enjoy fishing, kayaking, and whale watching, along with easy access to shops and restaurants. The balance of seaside recreation and town amenities makes this coastal area a popular stop for travelers.
25. Sunset State Beach Area – Watsonville
The Sunset State Beach area offers wide sandy shores and dune landscapes, making it an excellent choice for RV camping on the beach in California. The campground’s natural setting appeals to bird watchers and families who want a more relaxed atmosphere. Located conveniently off Highway 1, it’s also a good road trip stop for those traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. With peaceful surroundings and easy beach access, it remains a favorite among central coast campers.
26. Seacliff State Beach – Aptos
Seacliff State Beach is a well-known location for RV camping on the beach in California due to its pier, sandy shoreline, and famous concrete shipwreck. The campground provides sites directly on the beach, making it a unique experience. Families enjoy fishing, picnicking, and beach walks, while nearby Santa Cruz and Capitola offer additional entertainment. Its distinctive setting and easy access to both natural and urban attractions make it a top choice for coastal campers.
27. Monterey and Carmel RV Parks – Monterey County
The Monterey and Carmel coastlines provide several RV-friendly campgrounds close to beaches and ocean viewpoints. RV camping on the beach in California here offers opportunities to enjoy world-famous attractions such as 17-Mile Drive and Carmel Beach. Visitors can explore tide pools, dine on fresh seafood, and enjoy coastal walks. These parks are often chosen for their mix of natural scenery and cultural attractions, making them popular with travelers seeking both beauty and convenience.
28. Moss Landing RV Parks – Moss Landing
Moss Landing offers quiet and scenic options for RV camping on the beach in California. Located along the central coast, the area is known for its fishing harbor, kayaking in Elkhorn Slough, and wildlife viewing. Campers often spot sea otters, seals, and a variety of birds. The combination of peaceful beaches and access to nearby coastal towns makes Moss Landing a relaxing stop for RV travelers looking to enjoy nature in a tranquil environment.
29. Bodega Dunes Campground – Bodega Bay
Bodega Dunes Campground near Bodega Bay is a beautiful location for RV camping on the beach in California. Surrounded by rolling dunes and sandy shoreline, it provides easy beach access and opportunities for fishing, clamming, and bird watching. The area is also known for its fresh seafood and nearby hiking trails. Campers enjoy cooler coastal weather and fewer crowds compared to southern beaches. Its natural beauty and coastal charm make it a favorite stop in northern California.
30. Manchester Beach State Park – Mendocino County
Manchester Beach State Park offers a rugged and less crowded location for RV camping on the beach in California. With long stretches of sandy coastline, it is popular for beachcombing, fishing, and quiet walks. Its proximity to Mendocino adds cultural and dining opportunities, while the park itself provides a peaceful natural setting. Campers choose Manchester Beach for its scenic coastal landscapes and relaxed environment, making it an excellent choice for travelers heading north along Highway 1.
31. Van Damme State Park – Little River
Van Damme State Park combines coastal access with forested beauty, making it unique for RV camping on the beach in California. Located near Mendocino, it offers nearby beaches, hiking trails, and fern-filled canyons. Campers enjoy both redwood forests and rocky shoreline walks, creating a diverse outdoor experience. The mix of ecosystems and its proximity to the artsy town of Mendocino make Van Damme a top choice for RV travelers seeking both natural and cultural attractions.
32. MacKerricher State Park – Fort Bragg
MacKerricher State Park provides one of the best locations in northern California for RV camping on the beach in California. With oceanfront campsites, visitors can enjoy tide pools, seal watching, and long beach walks. The nearby Glass Beach, famous for its colorful sea glass, adds to the appeal. Campers appreciate the combination of rugged coastal scenery and convenient access to the town of Fort Bragg. Its mix of natural wonder and small-town charm makes it a must-visit.
33. Humboldt Bay RV Parks – Eureka
Humboldt Bay near Eureka offers peaceful options for RV camping on the beach in California. These campgrounds provide access to coastal beaches, harbor views, and the chance to explore redwood forests nearby. Visitors enjoy fishing, kayaking, and scenic drives, as well as Victorian architecture in downtown Eureka. The region’s natural and cultural attractions make it a top destination for travelers looking to combine seaside camping with historic and forest experiences on the north coast.
34. Trinidad State Beach Area – Trinidad
Trinidad State Beach and nearby campgrounds provide a picturesque location for RV camping on the beach in California. Known for dramatic headlands and sheltered coves, the area is perfect for hiking, whale watching, and tide pooling. Campers enjoy the small coastal town atmosphere, with local shops and seafood restaurants adding to the experience. The natural beauty of the coastline and its quiet setting make Trinidad a highly recommended stop for northern California RV adventures.
35. Crescent City RV Parks – Crescent City
Crescent City offers multiple campgrounds for RV camping on the beach in California, including Pebble Beach and other coastal sites. These parks provide ocean views, storm-watching opportunities, and access to redwood forests. Campers enjoy the rugged coastal scenery, tide pools, and the chance to explore the historic Battery Point Lighthouse. Its northern location makes it a quieter and more nature-focused destination, ideal for travelers seeking peace and dramatic landscapes.
36. Stinson Beach RV Options – Marin County
Stinson Beach in Marin County offers nearby RV-friendly campgrounds with access to sandy shores and scenic trails. RV camping on the beach in California here allows visitors to enjoy swimming, surfing, and hiking in the Marin Headlands. Campers appreciate the peaceful setting just north of San Francisco, with opportunities to explore Mount Tamalpais and coastal villages. Its combination of natural beauty and close proximity to the Bay Area makes Stinson Beach a popular choice.
37. Kirby Cove Area – Marin Headlands
Kirby Cove and nearby campgrounds in the Marin Headlands provide excellent coastal access for RV camping on the beach in California. Although direct beachfront RV sites are limited, the area is highly valued for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay. Campers enjoy hiking trails, dramatic cliffs, and quiet evenings overlooking the ocean. The area’s unique scenery and proximity to San Francisco make it a favorite among adventurous RV travelers.
38. Half Moon Bay RV Parks – Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is a well-loved location for RV camping on the beach in California, offering ocean-view campgrounds and small private parks. Visitors enjoy fishing, surfing, horseback riding, and strolling along the beaches. The area also features local farmers markets and charming shops, adding to its coastal charm. Its convenient location near San Francisco makes Half Moon Bay a popular destination for both weekend campers and long-term road trippers.
39. Capitola and Santa Cruz RV Parks – Santa Cruz County
Capitola and Santa Cruz provide lively coastal destinations for RV camping on the beach in California. Campers enjoy easy access to beaches, boardwalk rides, and surf culture. These parks offer a balance of beach fun and town amenities, with restaurants, entertainment, and family activities nearby. The combination of natural beauty and vibrant coastal communities makes Santa Cruz County one of the top spots for beachside RV camping along the central coast.
40. Point Mugu State Park – Ventura County
Point Mugu State Park offers Thornhill Broome Beach, a unique spot for RV camping on the beach in California. Campers can park directly on the sand and enjoy oceanfront views and the sound of crashing waves. The park also provides access to hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. This combination of coastal camping and mountain exploration makes Point Mugu a favorite for those who want a true beachside experience with additional outdoor adventures nearby.
41. Carlsbad State Beach – Carlsbad
Carlsbad State Beach features oceanfront campsites that are popular for RV camping on the beach in California. Located in North San Diego County, it offers easy access to sandy shores, surfing, and swimming. Families appreciate the campground’s facilities and proximity to attractions like Legoland and local shops. The blend of beach recreation and family-friendly entertainment makes Carlsbad a highly recommended stop for RV travelers seeking a Southern California coastal experience.
42. Del Mar Beach RV Campground – Oceanside
Del Mar Beach RV Campground, located on Camp Pendleton, is a highly regarded destination for RV camping on the beach in California. With oceanfront sites and a wide sandy beach, it provides a relaxed atmosphere for swimming, surfing, and beach walks. Its location between Oceanside and San Diego offers both convenience and natural beauty. The combination of military history, coastal views, and outdoor recreation makes it a unique and enjoyable RV camping experience.
43. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort – Newport Beach
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort is a luxury option for RV camping on the beach in California. Located along the calm waters of Newport Bay, it provides full-service amenities such as pools, restaurants, and marina access. Families enjoy water sports, paddleboarding, and kid-friendly beaches without strong surf. Its resort atmosphere and proximity to Newport Beach’s dining and shopping make it an ideal choice for those seeking both comfort and coastal fun in Southern California.
44. Emma Wood State Beach – Ventura
Emma Wood State Beach offers rustic camping directly on the sand, making it one of the most memorable places for RV camping on the beach in California. The sites provide unobstructed ocean views and the chance to fall asleep to the sound of the waves. While facilities are minimal, the location is perfect for fishing, surfing, and coastal walks. Its simplicity and stunning sunsets make it a favorite for campers who value natural beauty over luxury.
45. Ventura Beach RV Resorts – Ventura
Ventura Beach RV Resorts provide full-service amenities with easy access to sandy shores and Ventura’s historic downtown. RV camping on the beach in California here allows visitors to enjoy both coastal recreation and cultural attractions. Campers can surf, kayak, or take day trips to the Channel Islands National Park. Its combination of comfort, seaside fun, and central coastal location make Ventura Beach a top choice for RV travelers.
46. Port Hueneme RV Parks – Port Hueneme
Port Hueneme offers quiet and family-friendly options for RV camping on the beach in California. These parks provide access to sandy beaches perfect for fishing, sunbathing, and relaxing. The location near Oxnard adds shopping and dining opportunities while maintaining a calm seaside environment. Campers enjoy fewer crowds compared to more famous beaches, making Port Hueneme a great alternative for those seeking a peaceful and affordable coastal camping experience.
47. San Diego Bayfront RV Resorts – San Diego
San Diego Bayfront RV Resorts provide water-view camping close to downtown, making them excellent choices for RV camping on the beach in California. While technically bayside, they offer quick access to ocean beaches along with modern amenities. Campers enjoy biking, kayaking, and exploring the city’s cultural attractions. These resorts combine the convenience of city living with waterfront relaxation, making them perfect for travelers who want both urban energy and coastal leisure.
48. Santa Monica RV Options – Santa Monica
Santa Monica provides limited but valuable RV-friendly options near its world-famous beaches and pier. While true on-sand RV camping is rare, nearby campgrounds provide easy access to the shoreline. RV camping on the beach in California here allows visitors to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica, including shopping, dining, and biking along the coastal trail. Its popularity as a tourist destination makes it an exciting choice for travelers seeking both beach and city experiences.
49. Venice Beach RV Options – Venice
Venice Beach is a lively and artistic destination where nearby RV parks provide access to sandy beaches, boardwalk entertainment, and street art. RV camping on the beach in California in this area is appealing for those who enjoy a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere. Visitors can explore local markets, dine at beachfront cafes, and experience the unique culture of Venice. While campsites are limited, the location’s energy and coastal beauty make it a popular choice.
50. Highway 1 Coastal RV Parks – Various Locations
Highway 1 features numerous small RV parks and county campgrounds scattered along the coast, offering some of the best opportunities for RV camping on the beach in California. These locations provide direct access to beaches, ocean views, and scenic drives. Campers enjoy combining road trips with seaside overnights, creating unforgettable journeys along the Pacific Coast Highway. The mix of natural beauty, convenience, and variety ensures that these parks remain some of the most beloved stops for RV travelers.
Reasons Why You Should Know These RV Camping on the Beach in California
- They provide direct access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States, making them perfect for beach lovers.
- Many locations offer unique natural features such as tide pools, cliffs, dunes, and opportunities for whale or seal watching.
- They combine outdoor recreation with nearby towns, giving campers both nature and modern conveniences.
- RV camping on the beach in California can be enjoyed year-round thanks to the state’s mild coastal climate.
- These sites are great for families, offering safe beaches, hiking trails, and fun activities for all ages.
- They allow travelers to experience iconic attractions like Big Sur, Santa Cruz, and Santa Monica while staying close to the ocean.
- The variety of options, from rustic sites to luxury resorts, means there is something for every kind of camper and budget.
Conclusion
RV camping on the beach in California is more than just a vacation; it is a chance to create unforgettable memories along one of the most famous coastlines in the world. From peaceful, hidden gems to lively beachfront towns, each destination offers its own charm and adventure. Knowing these 50 spots ensures that every traveler can find the perfect location to park, relax, and enjoy the ocean. With so many options, California’s beaches remain among the most rewarding camping destinations.