Moro Campground
4.65110 reviewsCrystal Cove State Park, Pacific Coast Highway, Orange County, CA
Moro Campground
$75.00 - $75.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$75.00
Hookup Site Fee$75.00
Premium Site Fee$75.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campsite fees are $75 per night for sites with hookups. An additional reservation fee of $8.25 applies.
About this campground
Perched dramatically on coastal bluffs above the sparkling Pacific, Moro Campground offers an extraordinary camping experience where every sunrise paints the ocean in brilliant hues. This sought-after destination within Crystal Cove State Park features 60 thoughtfully designed sites—including 27 with full hookups, 30 tent-only spaces, and 3 fully accessible ADA sites. The campground's innovative tiered layout ensures that whether you're in an RV or pitched in a tent, nothing stands between you and the endless ocean horizon.
Moro Campground offers a variety of camping experiences, including hookup RV sites, non-hookup tent sites, and primitive hike-in camping. "The sites are terraced so no view is blocked," said Marc Pickett.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore Crystal Cove's remarkable Historic District, where weathered coastal cottages from the 1930s and 40s tell stories of simpler times along this pristine coastline. The park also honors a lesser-known chapter of California history through thoughtful exhibits commemorating the Japanese American farming families who cultivated these lands from 1927 to 1942, leaving an indelible mark on the area's agricultural heritage before their forced relocation during World War II.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with Southern California's enviable climate, Moro Campground welcomes visitors with gentle conditions throughout the year. Summer days bring perfect beach weather with temperatures hovering in the comfortable 70s°F under crystalline skies. Winter months offer their own charm—cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers create dramatic seascapes, while the famous marine layer rolls in like a soft blanket, bringing mysterious mornings and refreshingly cool evenings that make for perfect sleeping weather.
ElevationYour camping adventure unfolds high above the waves on spectacular coastal bluffs, where the land meets the sea in dramatic fashion. From this elevated vantage point, campers enjoy a bird's-eye view of the Pacific's endless expanse, with the added benefit of cooling ocean breezes that flow up the cliffsides, creating the perfect natural air conditioning for comfortable camping.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to panoramic ocean vistas framed by native chaparral that blooms with seasonal wildflowers and releases aromatic scents in the warm sun. The rugged blufftop setting provides front-row seats to nature's greatest shows—pods of dolphins playing in the surf, migrating gray whales breaching offshore, and spectacular sunsets that transform the sky into a canvas of orange and pink. Trails wind down to pristine beaches below, while the backcountry wilderness beckons inland adventurers. Keep watch for the local residents: playful ground squirrels scampering between sites and the occasional coyote silhouetted against the evening sky.
Geological RegionMoro Campground showcases the dramatic meeting of land and sea along Southern California's iconic coastline. The camping area sits atop ancient marine terraces carved by millennia of waves, now covered in hardy chaparral vegetation perfectly adapted to salt spray and ocean winds. Below the bluffs, sandy beaches reveal tide pools at low tide, while inland, the landscape transitions to protected backcountry wilderness areas, creating a diverse ecosystem that spans from ocean to mountains in this remarkable geological setting.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes 3 ADA-accessible sites within both the hookup RV and non-hookup tent areas. Accessibility reviews were mixed, as one user highlighted a camp host mimicking their disability, describing it as "unacceptable behavior." However, other users appreciated the overall accessibility of the campground and facilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and accommodating, with some suitable for RVs up to 38 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is enhanced by shrubs between campsites, providing a sense of seclusion. "Spaces have shrubbery in between each space, so you feel isolated from your neighbors," said user Yvonne Matute.
Total Campsites57 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in Dolphin Circle for best ocean views. Tent campers should prefer upper-tier sites for privacy.
Best CampsitesBest RV spots: #13, #21. Best tent spots: #51-60, with whitewater views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
03:00 PM
Check-out
01:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 3 nights allowed per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests allowed per single campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTiered layout with six rows ascending from the beach. Shrubs between campsites provide some privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability is limited. Reservations strongly recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must adhere to park policies on ReserveCalifornia. Fees may apply.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Camping at Moro Campground includes access to hiking trails, beach activities, and wildlife viewing. "Great ocean views," said user Obe Arellano, noting hiking options from 1 mile to 11 miles with vistas of mountains and the ocean. Biking trails are also present, though challenging due to hills. Wildlife spotting opportunities include dolphins and whales, as stated by Robert Prescott.
HikingHiking opportunities range from easy walks along the coastline to strenuous backcountry trails. "There are hiking trails nearby, not just along the beach but also into the wilderness area of the park," noted Rick Simper. One review highlighted options for 1-mile, 3-mile, 5-mile, and 11-mile hikes.
BikingBiking is allowed, with trails varying in difficulty. "Lots of hills so be aware biking is a good challenge," said user M.O. E-bikes are allowed on paved paths, but users are advised to avoid dirt trails.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight, with dolphins and whales often visible from the campground. Robert Prescott recommended bringing binoculars for better viewing.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include bodyboarding and relaxing by the ocean. Users noted the scenic tunnel under PCH for beach access, though it is frequently flooded.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park conducts interpretive programs, such as guided hikes and bird walks, throughout the year. "Dates for these events can be found on our calendar," states the official source.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No open fires are allowed. Propane fire pits are permitted.
- Quiet hours: 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHighway noise from PCH is notable. Wildlife such as squirrels may attempt to steal food if left unattended.
Active alertsTunnel to beach access may flood during certain times. Reservations require six-month advance booking.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 100%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Foggy
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
Nearest hospital: Hoag Hospital Newport Beach (~10 miles). Police: Laguna Beach Police Department (~3 miles). Ranger station: onsite.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months (May through September) are peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described in the source materials.
Proximity to water features1/4-mile access to Crystal Cove Beach through a tunnel under PCH. Hiking trails lead to Moro Canyon.
Common complaintsSome campers report grumpy rangers and issues with privacy due to close site spacing. Noise from PCH is also noted.
HostHosts available onsite but mixed reviews on friendliness. Some campers cited rude behavior.
Campground Map
Crystal Cove State Park, Pacific Coast Highway, Orange County, CA
Driving directionsCrystal Cove State Park is located off Pacific Coast Highway between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach. The park has four entrances: Pelican Point, Reef Point, Los Trancos, and School/State Park. Follow the signs to Moro Campground, which is on the bluff top.
The campground is accessible via Pacific Coast Highway, with paved roads leading directly to the park. RVs over 38 feet are not permitted, and some reviews note road noise from the highway.Nearby places
Laguna Beach (3 miles, approximately 5-10 minutes drive), Newport Beach (10 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive), Irvine (15 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores: Pavilions in Laguna Beach (~3 miles), camping supplies in Newport Beach (~10 miles). Fuel stations nearby on Pacific Coast Highway.
Camper Reviews
4.7
110 reviews
Moro Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Moro Campground are generally positive, highlighting clean facilities, breathtaking ocean views, and spacious sites. However, some campers have complained about grumpy staff or the loud proximity to Pacific Coast Highway. Accessibility and booking challenges were also noted.
Review Summaries
Positive aspects include clean facilities, ocean views from every site, and proximity to hiking trails and the beach. "Every site has a view of the ocean," said John Garrett.
Complaints include occasional rude staff, difficulty in accessing the beach due to steep paths, frequent flooding in the PCH tunnel, and road noise from the highway.
Bring a propane fire pit, as wood fires are prohibited. Pack your own drinking water, as the city water taste is poor, according to Shirley Chien. "Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing," suggested...
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Winter months are cooler but still enjoyable for camping. Summer is popular, though reservations are difficult to secure. "We stayed at campsite #55 & the view was amazing," said Araceli M.,...
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"Bathrooms were nice and clean and plentiful," said Robert Rael. "Expansive ocean views. Very clean restrooms," said Stewart Ramsey. "Great ocean views. Sunsets are amazing here," said Obe Arellano.
Best RV sites: #13 and #21. Best tent sites: #51-60. "We stayed at campsite #55 & the view was amazing," said Araceli M. "Site #21 is definitely the best site of entire campground," added Shirley...
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Accessibility features include ADA sites, but one user raised concerns about disrespectful behavior from staff toward disabled campers.
Pets are allowed but restricted from certain areas like the beach and backcountry trails. "Dogs are allowed here but they're not allowed on the beach or backcountry trails," noted Araceli M.
Last updated July 20, 2025