Sycamore Campground
4.57117 reviews9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Sycamore Campground
$45.00 - $45.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$45.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$50.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees are $45 per night, applicable to standard sites. Additional reservation fee of $8.25 applies. Senior discounts and disability discounts may reduce the fee.
About this campground
Tucked away in a breathtaking coastal canyon where ancient sycamores create a natural cathedral, Sycamore Canyon Campground offers the perfect blend of mountain serenity and ocean adventure. This hidden gem invites you to explore winding hiking trails through dense, verdant foliage by day and fall asleep to the distant rhythm of Pacific waves by night. A convenient underpass beneath Highway One connects your mountain retreat to pristine beaches, making it easy to transition from forest shade to sun-soaked sand in minutes.
Sycamore Canyon Campground provides options for tent camping, small trailer camping, and RV camping, though reviews indicate it is better suited for tent campers ('If you are a tent Camper this campground is probably great. For anyone in an RV I would suggest looking elsewhere').
Historical SignificanceSet within the majestic Santa Monica Mountains, this campground serves as a gateway to one of California's most ecologically diverse regions. The area preserves critical habitat for native plant communities and wildlife that have thrived here for thousands of years, offering visitors a chance to connect with the natural heritage of coastal Southern California. The surrounding landscape tells the story of ancient geological forces and the delicate balance between mountain and sea ecosystems.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle embrace of Southern California's coveted coastal climate, where mild temperatures create year-round camping comfort. Summer days bring reliable sunshine and dry conditions perfect for beach activities and hiking, while winter transforms the landscape with refreshing rains that awaken the canyon's vibrant greenery. Morning fog often rolls in from the ocean, creating an ethereal atmosphere that burns away to reveal brilliant afternoons. Be prepared for occasional gusty winds that carry the fresh scent of sea salt through the canyon.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic sycamore trees arch overhead, their distinctive mottled bark and broad leaves creating a living canopy that filters golden California sunlight. The campground sits cradled between rugged hillsides carpeted in coastal sage and chaparral, while gentle valleys painted with native grasses stretch toward the horizon. Keep your camera ready for frequent wildlife encounters – curious ground squirrels dart between campsites while graceful deer emerge at dawn and dusk. Just across Highway One, the landscape transforms dramatically into expansive sandy beaches where the endless Pacific Ocean meets the shore, offering tide pooling, surfing, and spectacular sunset viewing.
Geological RegionPositioned in the far western reaches of the Santa Monica Mountains, the campground showcases the dramatic meeting point of mountain and sea. This unique geological setting features weathered peaks and rolling hills carved by centuries of wind and water, creating a landscape of rugged beauty. Ancient valleys dotted with mature sycamores and coastal oaks flow toward the ocean, while the nearby shoreline reveals the constant dialogue between land and sea through its sculpted cliffs and sandy coves.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA accessible features include shower stalls and bathrooms, though the extent of accessibility beyond these facilities is unclear.
Sites SizeVaries by site. Tent pad sizes range from 5x5 feet up to 15x15 feet. RV pad lengths generally accommodate up to 31 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited as campsites are described as small and close together. Reviews describe varying experiences ('Sites are close together, and you don't get much privacy.')
Total Campsites56 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 41 and over provide easier access for larger trailers. Sites closer to hosts are recommended for quieter stays.
Best CampsitesSites 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 29, 30, and 45 are praised for shade and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is dependent on park rules, typically limited to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group campsite availability is confirmed, but specific capacity and vehicle limits are not detailed in authoritative sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne-way drive paths with campsites situated closely together. Some sections are better suited for tents.
Open and Closed SeasonSycamore Canyon Campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve California online or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available for walk-up reservations; checking early in the morning is advised.
Cancellation PolicyCancelations must comply with Reserve California policies. Refunds may have restrictions.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Point Mugu State Park and Sycamore Canyon Campground offer diverse recreational activities for campers. Hiking is a major draw with over 70 miles of trails, including nearby hikes like Mugu Peak Trail (moderate) and Scenic and Overlook Trails Loop (easy). Additional activities include biking, beach access, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking. Swimming is possible at the beach, though conditions vary ('Waves were small, but water was rough, picking up a lot of sand in the waves'). Wildlife viewing features species such as deer and marine life ('Listened closely at night and you can hear the waves crashing!'). Cultural and educational programs are not explicitly available.
HikingHiking opportunities are abundant, with well-maintained trails leading to scenic views. Popular trails include Mugu Peak Trail and Scenic and Overlook Trails Loop. Reviews highlight accessibility from the campground ('Lots of trails to enjoy the scenery') and diverse terrain with some creek crossings ('Nice hikes thru Sycamore Canyon. During our visit the creek crossing trail at several places, were running, knee-deep and moderate speed').
SwimmingSwimming is available at the nearby beach, though reviews advise caution due to rough water conditions ('Waves were small, but water was rough, picking up a lot of sand in the waves').
BikingBiking opportunities are well-received, with trails catering to various skill levels. Reviews highlight easy access to biking trails from the campground ('Perfect for bikes') and enjoyable terrain ('Great blend of trails, wooded areas and the beach').
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is popular, with species such as deer frequently sighted ('Saw about 10 different deer 🦌'). Marine life sightings include dolphins and whales ('You can see seals and dolphins often').
Beach activitiesBeach activities include swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing. Access to the beach is via a trail that crosses under the highway, though high tide may restrict access ('Beach access was interesting as you have to go under a bridge and you can see the waves crashing').
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire rings, subject to daily fire level restrictions.
- Quiet hours are enforced but inconsistently observed.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and poison oak are prevalent. Flooding can occur during rainstorms. High tides can make beach trails inaccessible.
Active alertsSome restrooms and showers are occasionally out of service; tidal surges may restrict beach access.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 98%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include hospitals in Oxnard and Ventura, as well as local ranger stations. Police and fire services are available within Los Angeles County.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season typically includes summer months (May through September).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available, though reviews mention occasional overflow issues ('The trash bins are overflowing').
Proximity to water featuresCampground is near Sycamore Creek and the Pacific Ocean. Beach access is available via an underpass.
Common complaints“Bathrooms are not maintained consistently, and some showers are broken.” Noise levels can be high due to partying campers.
HostCampground hosts John and Christine are available with basic items for sale and provide assistance with reservations.
Campground Map
9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Driving directionsThe campground is located 15 miles south of Oxnard on Highway One. Visitors should access Sycamore Canyon Campground via Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).
Accessible via paved roads on Highway One. No entry permitted after 10 PM. Access gates open at 8 AM and close at 10 PM.Nearby places
Oxnard (15 miles), Santa Monica (30 miles), Ventura (approximately 25 miles)
Nearby supplies
Nearest locations for supplies include Oxnard and Ventura for groceries, camping equipment, and fuel. No direct camp store available at Sycamore Canyon Campground, although firewood and shower tokens are sold onsite.
Camper Reviews
4.6
117 reviews
Sycamore Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed reviews highlight the campground's pros and cons. Positive aspects include proximity to the beach, scenic views, clean bathrooms (in some cases), and friendly staff. Negative reviews note overcrowding, noise, broken amenities, and limited enforcement of quiet hours. Privacy is limited, and some sites are small and closely packed.
Review Summaries
Guests praise the scenic location, proximity to the beach, clean bathrooms (in some cases), and hot showers. Wildlife sightings and access to hiking trails also receive positive mentions. 'Bathrooms...
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Complaints focus on noise levels, lack of privacy, overcrowding, broken showers, and inconsistent maintenance. 'Tent limits (if there are any) were not enforced.' 'Worst campground imaginable - no...
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Plan visits during off-peak times for quieter experiences. Check weather before tent camping and bring bug spray to avoid mosquito issues ('the insane! number! of! mosquitoes!'). Carefully select...
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Summer months are crowded and noisy, while late fall and early spring offer quieter experiences. Mosquito populations and issues with maintenance are more pronounced during warmer months.
1. 'We love this place because you're secluded in the valley surrounded by Sycamore trees and mountains, but you can literally walk to the beach.' 2. 'Bathrooms cleaned and maintained in mornings...
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Highly recommended sites include 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 29, 30, and 45 for their privacy and proximity to amenities. Site 45 is praised for its shade ('Our site was 45 and it had shade all day')....
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ADA accessible bathrooms and showers are available, but detailed feedback from users with disabilities is not provided.
Pets are allowed on leashes in campgrounds and day-use areas. Dogs are reported to have enjoyed the beach and surrounding nature ('Wonderful place to camp and enjoy the beach with your dogs.')....
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Last updated July 31, 2025