Canyon Group Campground
4.5463 reviews35000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Canyon Group Campground
$10.00 - $62.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$62.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $10 for hike/bike sites to $62 for RV sites with hookups. Additional costs include parking fees and token-operated showers.
About this campground
Discover your perfect group getaway at Canyon Group Campground, where towering sycamores create a natural cathedral in the heart of Leo Carrillo State Park. This hidden gem combines the best of California's coast and canyons, offering spacious group facilities sheltered by ancient trees that whisper stories of the Pacific breeze. Just moments from pristine beaches, you'll find modern amenities including restrooms with token-operated hot showers, all while being enveloped in the tranquil beauty of a shaded canyon sanctuary.
The Canyon Group Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent, RV, and group camping, making it versatile for families, adventurers, and large gatherings.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where Hollywood history meets ancient heritage. This treasured parkland bears the name of Leo Carrillo, the beloved actor and passionate conservationist whose vision helped preserve these magnificent Malibu coastlands for future generations. Long before the silver screen, the Chumash people called this region home, leaving behind a legacy of exquisite basketry and mysterious rock art that speaks to thousands of years of connection to this sacred land. Today, their spirit lives on in the whisper of waves and the rustle of sycamore leaves.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the golden promise of Southern California's Mediterranean climate, where endless summer days bring crystal-clear skies and temperatures hovering in the comfortable mid-70s°F. Winter transforms the landscape with refreshing rains that awaken the canyon's vibrant greenery, while temperatures remain mild in the 50s°F. This year-round paradise means every season offers its own magic – from sun-soaked beach days to cozy evenings under star-filled skies, with gentle ocean breezes moderating temperatures throughout the year.
ElevationThe campground rests at a gentle elevation where canyon meets coast, creating the perfect microclimate for both mountain and beach adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape that reads like a love letter to coastal California. The campground sits at the intersection of diverse ecosystems – from aromatic coastal sage scrub that perfumes the air to dense chaparral climbing the canyon walls. Ancient riparian woodlands follow hidden streams, creating ribbons of green through golden hills. A short walk reveals nature's aquarium in pristine tide pools, while mysterious sea caves carved by centuries of waves invite exploration. Offshore reefs create a marine sanctuary where sea lions play and dolphins dance through kelp forests.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic Santa Monica Mountains, this campground showcases millions of years of geological artistry where ancient seafloor has been thrust skyward to meet the Pacific. The unique position creates a botanical crossroads where Mediterranean-climate vegetation thrives – from drought-adapted chaparral clinging to sun-baked slopes to lush riparian corridors following seasonal streams. The nearby coastline reveals nature's sculpture gallery with tide pools carved into ancient rock, mysterious sea caves hollowed by patient waves, and offshore reefs that serve as underwater gardens teeming with marine life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes seven accessible campsites with adjacent parking and accessible routes to restroom and shower facilities. Beach wheelchairs can also be requested.
Sites SizeLarge sites accommodating multiple tents are available, as noted by users.
Sites PrivacySites are shaded by sycamore trees, providing a reasonable level of privacy; sites closer to the riverbeds tend to be rockier.
Total Campsites135 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in the middle of the campground are less rocky and provide better terrain for tents.
Best CampsitesAccessible campsites (#2, #4, #33, #47, #57, #79, #119) are highlighted for their proximity to restrooms and parking.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is typically 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 8 people per site.
Groups
Group campsites accommodate up to 50 people and include picnic tables, BBQ pits, and restrooms with token-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 arranged in loops with accessible sites dispersed throughout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; some closures due to extreme events like flooding are noted.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Reserve California or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability likely exists but specifics are not provided.
Cancellation PolicyDetails on cancellation policy are not specified but reservations can be made through Reserve California.
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
WiFi
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Leo Carrillo State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The Canyon Group Campground provides easy access to trails and the beach, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking trails like Yellow Hill Trail and Nicholas Flat Trail range from easy to hard difficulty levels and offer scenic views of the coastline and backcountry. The Nicholas Flat Trail leads to a seasonal pond and is steeper, while Yellow Hill Trail provides panoramic beach views.Fishing
Fishing is permitted at the beach and requires a California fishing license for anglers over 16. Common catches include surf perch and California sheephead.Swimming
Swimming is available at the beach; lifeguards recommend swimmers avoid rip currents by swimming parallel to the shore before returning.Biking
Biking is allowed only on paved roads; users under 18 must wear helmets, and bikes ridden after dark require lights.Boating
Although boating is listed as an activity, further details like boat rental options or docking facilities are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The park features diverse wildlife, including bobcats, mule deer, and various bird species like horned owls and red-tailed hawks. Coastal and riparian plant communities enhance the wildlife viewing experience.Beach activities
Activities include sunbathing, surfing, and exploring tide pools. The beach features unique elements like coastal caves and reefs.Cultural and Educational Programs
Campfire programs and Junior Ranger activities are offered from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Programs educate visitors about the park's natural and cultural history.Winter Activities
Winter camping is popular due to mild temperatures (50s to 70s Fahrenheit) and fewer bugs. No specific winter sports are listed.Water Sports
Surfing, kayaking, and snorkeling are popular water sports at the park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in designated fire rings or camp stoves, and firewood can be purchased from camp hosts.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rattlesnakes, ticks, poison oak, and high surf conditions.
Active alertsSections of the campground may close due to flooding or wildfire damage.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest emergency services include hospitals in Malibu and police stations nearby. Rangers patrol the park regularly.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season includes Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to the Pacific Ocean with tide pools and reefs. Beach access is through an underpass under CA-1.
Common complaintsComplaints include unserviced porta-potties and disruptive noise levels at some campsites.
HostHosts are available to assist campers, sell firewood, and provide site maintenance.
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 park is easily accessible via the Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1), with clear signage and paved roads. Seasonal closures and flooding events may impact road access during extreme weather conditions.Nearby places
Santa Monica (28 miles, ~40 minutes), Thousand Oaks (20 miles, ~30 minutes), Oxnard (15 miles, ~25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, firewood, and snacks available at the camp store within the park. Grocery stores and fuel stations located in Malibu (~15 minutes drive).
Camper Reviews
4.5
63 reviews
Canyon Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Canyon Group Campground often highlight its cleanliness, spacious sites, proximity to the beach, and family-friendly atmosphere. Some complaints include poor internet connectivity and noise from neighboring campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 63 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean bathrooms and showers, shaded campsites, proximity to the beach, accessibility features, and helpful staff.
Based on 63 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include poor cell reception, occasional noise disturbances from other campers, and rocky terrain at certain campsites.
Based on 63 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cash for shower tokens, pack wet suits for surfing, and book reservations well in advance due to high demand. Sites in the middle are less rocky compared to those near riverbeds.
Based on 63 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to beach activities and educational programs. Winter camping is praised for mild temperatures and fewer bugs.
Based on 63 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms are clean, the rangers make rounds to make sure the spaces are clean before the next campers arrive." "We camped at site 88; it was shaded but rocky like most sites next to the riverbeds."...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #88 is shaded but rocky; sites in the middle are less rocky. Hike-and-bike campsites are noted for their proximity to the ocean.
Based on 63 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes accessible routes to bathrooms and showers. Beach wheelchairs are available, enhancing accessibility.
Based on 63 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed in campsites and day-use areas, but not on South Beach or trails. Users appreciate leash requirements and cleanup policies.
Based on 63 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025