Beach camping in California is a popular pastime for many outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views, fresh ocean air, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. From the rugged coastline of Big Sur to the sun-drenched beaches of San Diego, California’s beaches offer a unique experience for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While there are many well-known beach camping spots in California, there are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of beach camping in California and highlight some of the state’s hidden gems for a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, these hidden gems offer something for everyone. From scenic hikes to peaceful beach walks, from water sports to bird watching, you’ll find a variety of activities to enjoy. So, let’s get started and discover California’s hidden beach camping gems.
Benefits of Beach Camping in California
Beach camping in California offers numerous benefits for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here are some of the top benefits of beach camping in California:
Exploring natural beauty and wildlife: California’s beaches offer some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world. From towering cliffs and sea stacks to sandy dunes and tide pools, there is no shortage of natural beauty to explore. In addition, beach camping provides an opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife such as dolphins, seals, seabirds, and even whales.
Relaxing in a serene atmosphere: Beach camping in California provides a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere. The soothing sound of ocean waves and the salty ocean breeze offer a natural and calming ambiance that can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Engaging in fun outdoor activities: Beach camping in California provides a range of outdoor activities to engage in, including swimming, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and beach volleyball. These activities provide a great way to get some exercise and fresh air while enjoying the natural beauty of the beach.
Top Hidden Beach Camping Gems in California
MacKerricher State Park in Fort Bragg
Image Credit: Sharon Mollerus
MacKerricher State Park is a stunning beachfront camping destination located in Fort Bragg, California. This park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that are sure to delight campers of all ages. Here’s a closer look at the park’s amenities and unique features, along with tips for camping and activities:
Description of the park’s amenities and unique features:
- MacKerricher State Park spans over 2,000 acres of land along the Mendocino Coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
- The park is home to three miles of sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
- MacKerricher State Park is known for its diverse wildlife, including harbor seals, sea lions, and gray whales, which can often be seen from the beach.
- The park also features Lake Cleone, a freshwater lake that offers fishing and boating opportunities, as well as a scenic walking trail.
- Other amenities at the park include picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
Tips for camping and activities:
- MacKerricher State Park offers over 140 campsites, including both RV and tent camping options. Reservations are recommended, particularly during peak season.
- The campsites are situated among towering pines, offering shade and privacy. Some sites even have ocean views.
- In addition to beach activities, the park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The Ten Mile Coastal Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning ocean views.
- Fishing is a popular activity in the park’s Lake Cleone, with trout and bass being the most common catch.
- The park also offers guided nature walks and interpretive programs, providing a great opportunity to learn about the park’s natural history and wildlife.
MacKerricher State Park is a must-visit destination for beach camping enthusiasts. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and wide range of recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder why this park is considered one of California’s hidden beach camping gems.
San Onofre State Beach in San Clemente
Image Credit: Luke Jones
San Onofre State Beach is a beautiful beachfront camping destination located in San Clemente, California. This beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Here’s a closer look at the beach and its history, along with tips for camping and activities:
Description of the beach and its history:
- San Onofre State Beach is a long, sandy beach that stretches for over three miles along the coast of San Clemente.
- The beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions, with waves that are perfect for surfers of all skill levels.
- San Onofre State Beach is also home to the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, which operated from 1968 until 2013. Today, the site is being decommissioned, and the land is being returned to the state park system.
- The beach has a rich history, having been a popular surfing spot since the 1930s. It was also used as a training ground for Marines during World War II.
Tips for camping and activities:
- San Onofre State Beach offers a range of camping options, including RV and tent camping. The park has over 200 campsites, many of which are located just steps from the beach.
- The campsites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms and showers.
- In addition to surfing, the beach offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including the San Mateo Creek Trail and the Panhe Nature Trail.
- The park offers guided nature walks and interpretive programs, providing a great opportunity to learn about the beach’s natural history and cultural significance.
- San Onofre State Beach is also located near several other popular attractions, including the San Juan Capistrano Mission and the Dana Point Harbor.
San Onofre State Beach is a must-visit destination for beach camping enthusiasts. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and range of recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder why this beach is considered one of California’s hidden beach camping gems.
Carpinteria State Beach in Santa Barbara
Image Credit: Myrna Litt
Carpinteria State Beach is a stunning beachfront camping destination located in Santa Barbara, California. This park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that are sure to delight campers of all ages. Here’s a closer look at the park’s amenities and natural surroundings, along with tips for camping and activities:
Description of the park’s amenities and natural surroundings:
- Carpinteria State Beach spans over 100 acres of land along the coast of Santa Barbara, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the nearby mountains.
- The beach is known for its gentle waves and wide, sandy shoreline, making it a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
- Carpinteria State Beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including harbor seals, sea lions, and shorebirds, which can often be seen from the beach.
- The park features over 200 campsites, including both RV and tent camping options. The campsites are situated among shady sycamore trees and offer easy access to the beach.
- Other amenities at the park include picnic areas, restrooms, showers, a camp store, and a playground.
Tips for camping and activities:
- Reservations are recommended for camping at Carpinteria State Beach, particularly during peak season.
- The park offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Carpinteria Bluffs Trail and the Franklin Trail.
- The park is also located near several other popular attractions, including the Santa Barbara Zoo and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden.
- Carpinteria State Beach is a popular destination for surfing and boogie boarding, particularly in the summer months. There are several surf schools in the area that offer lessons and rentals.
- The park offers guided nature walks and interpretive programs, providing a great opportunity to learn about the park’s natural history and wildlife.
Carpinteria State Beach is a must-visit destination for beach camping enthusiasts. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and range of recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder why this park is considered one of California’s hidden beach camping gems.
Doran Regional Park in Bodega Bay
Image Credit: Bill Williams
Doran Regional Park is a picturesque beachfront camping destination located in Bodega Bay, California. This park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for campers of all ages. Here’s a closer look at the park’s facilities and natural beauty, along with tips for camping and activities:
Description of the park’s facilities and natural beauty:
- Doran Regional Park spans over 120 acres of land along the coast of Bodega Bay, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding hillsides.
- The park is known for its long, sandy beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
- Doran Regional Park offers over 120 campsites, including both RV and tent camping options. The campsites are situated among grassy meadows and offer easy access to the beach.
- Other amenities at the park include picnic areas, restrooms, showers, a boat launch, a fishing pier, and a visitor center.
- The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including shorebirds, seals, and sea lions, which can often be seen from the beach.
Tips for camping and activities:
- Reservations are recommended for camping at Doran Regional Park, particularly during peak season.
- The park offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Bodega Bay Trail and the Pinnacle Gulch Trail.
- The park is also located near several other popular attractions, including the Sonoma Coast State Park and the Bodega Bay Marine Lab.
- Doran Regional Park is a popular destination for birdwatching, particularly during the winter months when migratory birds are in the area.
- The park offers guided nature walks and interpretive programs, providing a great opportunity to learn about the park’s natural history and wildlife.
Doran Regional Park is a must-visit destination for beach camping enthusiasts. With its stunning natural beauty, modern amenities, and range of recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder why this park is considered one of California’s hidden beach camping gems.
Silver Strand State Beach in San Diego
Image Credit: RightCowLeftCoast
Silver Strand State Beach is a beautiful coastal camping destination located in San Diego, California. This park offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and modern facilities, making it a popular destination for campers of all ages. Here’s a closer look at the beach and its facilities, along with tips for camping and activities:
Description of the beach and its facilities:
- Silver Strand State Beach is situated on a narrow strip of land between San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The beach spans over 7 miles, offering plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
- The park offers over 130 campsites, including both RV and tent camping options. The campsites are situated among grassy meadows and offer easy access to the beach.
- Other amenities at the park include picnic areas, restrooms, showers, a camp store, and a playground.
- The beach is known for its gentle waves, making it a popular destination for water sports such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boogie boarding.
- The park also offers a marina with over 120 boat slips, providing easy access to San Diego Bay for boaters and fishermen.
Tips for camping and activities:
- Reservations are recommended for camping at Silver Strand State Beach, particularly during peak season.
- The park offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Silver Strand Bikeway and the Bayshore Bikeway.
- The park is also located near several other popular attractions, including the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and the USS Midway Museum.
- Silver Strand State Beach is a popular destination for wildlife viewing, particularly for birdwatching and seal spotting.
- The park offers guided nature walks and interpretive programs, providing a great opportunity to learn about the park’s natural history and wildlife.
Silver Strand State Beach is a must-visit destination for beach camping enthusiasts. With its stunning natural beauty, modern facilities, and range of recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder why this park is considered one of California’s hidden beach camping gems.
Planning a Beach Camping Trip in California
Planning a beach camping trip in California requires careful consideration to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:
Checklist of essential items to pack:
- Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad
- Cooking supplies, including a stove and fuel, utensils, and a cooler
- Food and water
- Clothing appropriate for the weather and activities
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit
- Camping chairs and a table
- Lighting, such as flashlights or lanterns
- Maps and navigation tools
Tips for making reservations and choosing campsites:
- Reserve your campsite in advance, especially during peak season.
- Research different campsites to find the one that best fits your needs and interests. Consider factors such as proximity to the beach, amenities offered, and cost.
- Consider the size and type of your camping equipment when choosing a campsite. Some sites may be better suited for tents while others are designed for RVs.
- Check for any restrictions or regulations, such as fire bans or quiet hours.
Important safety guidelines:
- Check the weather forecast and be prepared for changing conditions. High winds and tides can quickly turn a peaceful beach into a dangerous one.
- Follow proper food storage and waste disposal practices to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion, especially during hot weather.
- Be aware of any potential hazards in the area, such as strong currents or rocky terrain.
- Always follow fire safety guidelines and regulations to prevent wildfires.
By following these tips and guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable beach camping trip in California. Remember to always respect the environment and other campers, and leave the beach as pristine as you found it.
Conclusion
Beach camping in California offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with its stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or explore the great outdoors, California’s hidden beach camping gems have something for everyone.
From the rugged coastline of Fort Bragg to the sunny shores of San Diego, each beach camping destination in California offers its own unique charm and appeal. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this post, you can plan a safe and enjoyable trip that will create lasting memories.
Remember to always respect the environment and other campers, and leave no trace of your visit. By doing so, we can preserve these beautiful beach camping destinations for future generations to enjoy.
So why wait? Start planning your beach camping trip in California today and discover the hidden gems that await you. With the abundance of resources available online and in guidebooks, you can easily find the perfect beach camping destination for your next adventure.
Main picture credit: Chuck Holland