Upper Moro Campground
4.65110 reviews8471 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Upper Moro Campground
$25.00 - $75.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$75.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard tent site fees range from $25 for hike-in primitive sites to $75 for sites with water and electricity hookups. Additional fees for extra vehicles ($15/day) and amenities like showers (tokens required).
About this campground
Perched high above the Pacific Ocean, Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground invites you to wake up to breathtaking ocean vistas from one of its 58 thoughtfully designed campsites. Each site is nestled into the natural terraced landscape, creating intimate spaces that balance privacy with panoramic views. Whether you choose a primitive site for a back-to-basics experience or opt for the convenience of hookups, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore miles of pristine beaches and scenic hiking trails that wind through coastal canyons and along dramatic bluffs.
Upper Moro Campground offers family campsites, RV sites, tent camping, and primitive hike-in camping. Each site is designed to ensure ocean views and a balance of natural beauty and convenience.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds in the shadow of California's coastal heritage, with the remarkable Crystal Cove Historic District just moments away. This 12.3-acre time capsule preserves 46 charming beach cottages that have weathered Pacific storms since the 1930s and 1940s. Now protected as a National Register of Historic Places site, these vintage structures tell the story of Southern California's early beach culture, when artists, filmmakers, and adventurous souls created a bohemian seaside colony that captured the essence of casual coastal living.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of Southern California's Mediterranean climate, where mornings arrive wrapped in mysterious coastal fog that slowly unveils stunning ocean views as the day progresses. By afternoon, the sun breaks through to warm the landscape into the high 70s and low 80s during summer months, while gentle ocean breezes keep evenings refreshingly cool. This natural air conditioning makes for perfect sleeping weather and comfortable year-round camping conditions.
ElevationThe campground's dramatic terraced design cascades down the coastal bluffs, offering a spectacular vantage point high above the churning Pacific. This elevated perch not only provides cooling ocean breezes and unobstructed sunset views but also creates a natural amphitheater where each campsite enjoys its own unique perspective of the endless blue horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where rugged coastal bluffs meet the endless Pacific, creating a dramatic backdrop for your camping experience. Native chaparral vegetation frames your campsite with aromatic sage and colorful wildflowers, while the rhythmic sound of waves provides nature's soundtrack. Below the bluffs, pristine sandy beaches stretch for miles, dotted with fascinating tidepools that reveal miniature marine worlds during low tide. This unique ecosystem offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Geological RegionCamp within a remarkable coastal ecosystem where Mediterranean influences shape every aspect of the landscape. The marine environment creates a natural phenomenon of cool, moisture-laden mornings that nourish the drought-adapted chaparral vegetation clinging to the coastal bluffs. As Pacific breezes sweep across the terraced camping area, they carry the salt-tinged air that defines this unique geological region where land dramatically meets sea, creating one of California's most distinctive and beautiful camping environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible parking spaces, restrooms, and showers. Six designated accessible campsites are available for people with qualifying disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are reported to be spacious, accommodating RVs up to 38 feet in some areas and 25 feet in others for non-hookup tent sites. Larger sites are available with hookups.
Sites PrivacyNatural chaparral plants and shrubbery provide some privacy between campsites, ensuring a quieter experience.
Total Campsites58 campsites
Recommended CampsitesDolphin Circle offers the best ocean views. Sites in the first row provide unobstructed sunset views. Sites closer to restrooms recommended for families.
Best CampsitesSite numbers 25, 26, 27, 28, and 31 are highlighted as top choices due to their prime views and proximity to facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
1PM
Stay Limit
14 days maximum per 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per standard campsite and 4 guests per primitive hike-in site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTerraced design with six tiers ensuring each campsite has ocean views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability, especially during peak season. Early arrival recommended.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to 48 hours in advance without penalty. Refunds may exclude a small processing fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Upper Moro Campground caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts with options for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and proximity to beaches. It is praised for its hiking trails, which vary in difficulty and offer scenic views of both the ocean and wilderness.
HikingHiking trails include options ranging from 1 mile to 11 miles, with difficulties suitable for all skill levels. Trails lead to stunning ocean views and backcountry wilderness areas.
FishingFishing is permitted off the park’s coastline, although specific details about types of fish and fishing quality are not provided.
SwimmingSwimming areas are available at Crystal Cove's beaches, accessible via a steep path or through a tunnel under Pacific Coast Highway.
BikingBiking is allowed on paved roads and backcountry trails. Reviews describe challenging terrain suitable for more advanced riders.
BoatingThere are no explicit boating opportunities listed for Upper Moro Campground.
Wildlife viewingCampers frequently mention sightings of dolphins and whales from the bluffs and the overlook area. Wildlife such as coyotes, gopher snakes, and birds are also commonly observed.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include sunbathing, tidepool exploration, and water sports. The tunnel to the beach can sometimes be flooded but remains a popular access point.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsNature hikes, tidepool walks, and geology talks are conducted year-round by park staff and docents.
Winter ActivitiesWinter activities include docent-led hikes and wildlife observation programs.
Water SportsWater sports such as surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving are popular in the park’s coastal areas.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No wood or charcoal fires allowed. Propane grills and fireplaces permitted.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep walkways and trails may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. Wildlife like squirrels may pose a minor nuisance. Ant infestations noted by campers.
Active alertsTrail closures may occur due to weather or public safety concerns. Tunnel to the beach prone to flooding during high tide.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 20
Wednesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Laguna Beach Fire Department, approximately 3 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months (June through August) typically see the highest demand.
Trash and recyclingRecycling and trash facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews or authoritative sources; campers at hike-in sites are required to follow a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Crystal Cove Beach and Pacific Ocean; access via tunnel under Pacific Coast Highway.
Common complaintsSome campers report rangers and staff being overly strict, while others praise cleanliness. Road noise from Pacific Coast Highway noted.
HostCampground hosts are available, though reviews are mixed regarding friendliness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
8471 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Driving directionsLocated off Pacific Coast Highway between Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach. When driving south on Pacific Coast Highway, the entrance to Crystal Cove State Park is located at the Los Trancos cross street. When driving north, it is at the traffic light after Crystal Heights Drive.
The campground is accessible via Pacific Coast Highway, a well-maintained paved road with clear signage. However, traffic in the area can be heavy, especially during weekends and peak tourism seasons.Nearby places
Corona Del Mar (approximately 5 miles), Laguna Beach (approximately 3 miles), Newport Beach (approximately 10 miles).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel available in nearby Laguna Beach (approximately 3 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.7
110 reviews
Upper Moro Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews often praise the campground’s stunning ocean views, clean facilities, and convenient proximity to hiking trails and the beach. However, complaints about grumpy staff and the lack of fire pits are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 110 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects highlighted by users include breathtaking ocean views, clean restrooms and showers, and well-maintained campsites. 'The tiered setup ensures every campsite has an ocean view,' writes...
Based on 110 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include grumpy staff interaction, high levels of noise from Pacific Coast Highway, and the difficulty of reserving spots due to overwhelming demand.
Based on 110 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing drinking water due to poor taste of provided water, bringing a propane fire pit, and packing a sleeping bag rated for chilly temperatures during colder months.
Based on 110 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During warmer months, visitors enjoy the beach and outdoor activities such as tidepool exploration. Colder months bring more complaints about chilly weather and closed trails.
Based on 110 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The views are stunning, and the campground is impeccably clean,' said one camper. Another wrote, 'Rangers could be more welcoming, but the location makes up for it.'
Based on 110 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 25, 26, 27, 28, and 31 are often named the best due to their views and spaciousness. Sites near the restrooms like #55 receive specific praise for convenience.
Based on 110 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible facilities are broadly appreciated, though one review lamented inappropriate behavior from a camp host towards a disabled camper.
Based on 110 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but restricted from the backcountry trails and beach areas. Owners are reminded to keep dogs on a leash and to clean up after them.
Based on 110 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025