Canyon Campground
4.5640 reviews35000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Canyon Campground
$45.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$45.00
Hookup Site Fee$60.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$225.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $45 to $60 depending on site type, with an additional $8.25 reservation fee. Parking fees are $12 per day for standard vehicles.
About this campground
Nestled where the Santa Monica Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, Leo Carrillo State Park's Canyon Campground invites adventurers to experience the best of Southern California's natural beauty. With 135 thoughtfully positioned sites tucked among towering sycamores and winding canyon trails, this coastal gem serves as your gateway to both mountain adventures and beachside exploration. Whether you're gathering with family at one of the spacious group sites or seeking solitude in a secluded family spot, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where rugged canyons give way to pristine beaches just moments away.
Canyon Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent sites, RV hookups, and group camping. Primitive camping is not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceLong before Hollywood discovered this stunning coastline, the Chumash people called these canyons and beaches home, leaving behind intricate rock art and a legacy of masterful basketry that speaks to their deep connection with the land. The park bears the name of Leo Carrillo, the beloved actor and passionate conservationist whose vision helped transform this private paradise into a public treasure. His dedication ensures that today's visitors can experience the same awe-inspiring vistas and natural wonders that have captivated people for thousands of years.
Weather and SeasonsYear-round sunshine and gentle ocean breezes create an idyllic Mediterranean climate that makes every season camping season. While winter brings refreshing mild temperatures perfect for hiking the canyon trails, summer delivers those quintessential California beach days that dreams are made of. Nature occasionally reminds visitors of its power through seasonal tides and rare canyon flooding, adding an element of raw beauty to this dynamic landscape where mountain streams meet the sea.
ElevationCradled in the gentle foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, the campground rests at an elevation that offers the perfect balance of coastal access and mountain tranquility. This lower elevation setting creates a unique microclimate where cool canyon breezes mingle with warm coastal air, providing comfortable camping conditions throughout the year.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where babbling canyon streams weave through groves of majestic sycamores, creating natural cathedrals of dappled sunlight and shade. Just beyond the campground, ancient tide pools reveal miniature underwater kingdoms at low tide, while overhead, brilliant scrub jays dart between branches as ground squirrels scamper through the underbrush. Lucky campers might catch a glimpse of graceful mule deer emerging from the chaparral at dusk, completing a scene that feels worlds away from nearby Los Angeles.
Geological RegionThe campground showcases the remarkable diversity of the Santa Monica Mountains ecosystem, where Mediterranean climate zones create a tapestry of natural habitats. From the aromatic coastal sage scrub that perfumes the air to the dense chaparral covering the hillsides, each turn of the trail reveals new botanical treasures. Spring transforms the landscape into a painter's palette of wildflowers, while the lush riparian woodlands along the creek provide year-round greenery and vital habitat for the area's abundant wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySeven campsites are generally accessible: #2, #4, #33, #47, #57, #79, and #119. Restrooms and showers are also generally accessible, with adjacent parking. Beach wheelchairs are available at North and South Beaches. Accessible parking is available at trailheads and the campfire center.
Sites SizeSites vary in size but are generally standard dimensions. Some sites have pull-in pads with lengths up to 31 feet.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer partial privacy; some lack shade coverage, while others are shaded by sycamore trees.
Total Campsites135 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with shade or close to the entrance for better accessibility and cell service. Avoid lower elevation sites during wet weather due to flooding.
Best CampsitesAccessible campsites include #2, #4, #33, #47, #57, #79, and #119. Campsites close to the beach or shaded by sycamore trees are often preferred.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits are enforced per reservation period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site.
Groups
The group campground accommodates up to 50 people, featuring picnic tables, barbecue pits, and nearby coin-operated showers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, with hike-and-bike sites near campsite #1 and group sites at the back of the canyon.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but closures may occur due to weather conditions (e.g., flooding).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia online or by phone at 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability is offered. Early arrival is recommended during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled through ReserveCalifornia. Cancellation rules and penalties are subject to platform policy.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Canyon Campground offers a range of activities that appeal to nature enthusiasts. Hiking trails, including the Yellow Hill Trail and Nicholas Flat Trail, provide various difficulty levels. Tide-pooling, wildlife viewing, and beach-related activities such as sunbathing and boogie boarding are popular. Interpretive programs like Junior Ranger activities are available seasonally. User reviews highlight the proximity to the beach and the chance to see falcons and owls.
Hiking
The Yellow Hill Trail offers panoramic views, and Nicholas Flat Trail leads to a seasonal pond. A nature trail loops near the campfire center. Trails vary in difficulty—gentle to strenuous—and feature diverse plant and animal communities.Fishing
Fishing is permitted with a valid California fishing license. Target species include kelp bass and California sheephead. Ocean conditions should be assessed before fishing.Swimming
Swimming is available at designated areas on North Beach. Safety measures, including lifeguards, are in place.Biking
Biking is limited to paved roads within the park. Riders under 18 must wear helmets, and bikes used after dark require lights.Boating
Non-motorized boating such as kayaking and paddleboarding is available. Designated areas should be observed.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife includes scrub jays, deer, and raccoons. Raptors such as falcons and owls are frequently sighted.Beach activities
Beach activities include tide-pooling, exploring sea caves, and sunbathing. Seasonal gray whale migrations offer unique viewing opportunities.Cultural and Educational Programs
Programs such as campfires and Junior Ranger sessions are offered from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Topics include local ecology and park history.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to mild Southern California winters but may include peaceful hikes and wildlife observation.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling are supported in designated areas.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood cannot be gathered from the park but can be purchased from camp hosts.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rattlesnakes, ticks, poison oak, and seasonal flooding. Visitors should exercise caution around tide pools and rocky areas.
Active alertsSeasonal flooding may close certain areas or trails. Fire restrictions vary by day and are posted at the entrance.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 94%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Closest hospital: Malibu Urgent Care (approximately 28 miles) Closest police station: Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station (approximately 26 miles) Ranger station is available on-site.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day and holiday weekends are considered peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, ensuring proper waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresLocated across from the beach, the campground is close to tide pools, coastal caves, and canyon streams.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include restrooms not being clean, lack of Wi-Fi or cell service, and higher fees compared to other state parks.
Campground Map
35000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Driving directionsTake the 101 freeway and exit at Kanan Road. Go south onto Kanan Road. Turn right onto Mulholland Highway. Keep left to continue on Encinal Canyon Road. Turn left to stay on Encinal Canyon Road. Turn right onto CA-1 N, Pacific Coast Highway. 2.3 miles down, the park entrance will be on your right.
The campground is accessible via paved roads; vehicles with less than eight-foot overhead clearance can enter the North Beach parking lot. Seasonal closures may occur due to weather or flooding.Nearby places
Santa Monica (28 miles, approximately 40 minutes) Thousand Oaks (33 miles, approximately 45 minutes) Oxnard (15 miles, approximately 30 minutes) Ventura (37 miles, approximately 50 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The campground has an on-site store with essential items, snacks, and drinks. Vintage Grocers in Malibu is approximately 28 miles away and provides deli and grocery items.
Camper Reviews
4.6
40 reviews
Canyon Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, proximity to the beach, and friendly staff. Some complaints focus on restroom cleanliness and cell phone service issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 40 reviews
What Campers Love
Friendly rangers, clean facilities, proximity to the beach, and shaded campsites are frequently praised.
Based on 40 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include restroom cleanliness, lack of Wi-Fi, and poor cell phone reception in certain areas.
Based on 40 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring an extension cord for electric hookups. Choose shaded sites for comfort during summer. Plan activities like tide-pooling during low tide.
Based on 40 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer sees peak activity, with interpretive programs and family-friendly events like food trucks and live music.
Based on 40 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'One of the best campsites I have been to so far! It is quiet and calm, spent a day relaxing at the Malibu beach.' - Weekend Camper 2. 'The campground is cute and has a little shop that can sell...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #42 received positive feedback for its proximity to a dog-friendly beach. Sites closer to the western entrance are noted for better cell phone reception.
Based on 40 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites (#2, #4, #33, #47, #57, #79, and #119) and trails are appreciated by users with mobility challenges.
Based on 40 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on leashes in the campground and on North Beach. Multiple users praised the pet-friendly amenities of the campground.
Based on 40 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025