Circle X Ranch Group Campground
12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, CA, 90265, USA
Circle X Ranch Group Campground
$35.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation Use Fees: $35 per night for 10-30 people; $75 per night for 31-50 people; $125 per night for 51-75 people.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$125.00
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider805-370-2301samo_interpretation@nps.gov
About this campground
Hidden within the rolling peaks of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, Circle X Ranch Group Campground beckons adventurers seeking a secluded mountain escape. This intimate group camping destination sits beneath sweeping Mediterranean coastal landscapes, where morning mists reveal stunning vistas and nearby trails lead to iconic landmarks like the towering Sandstone Peak and the mystical Grotto. Though currently closed indefinitely, this cherished campground remains a testament to the wild beauty of Southern California's coastal mountains.
Circle X Ranch Group Campground exclusively offers group tent camping, suitable for large groups of up to 75 people, and does not support RVs or individual tent sites.
Historical SignificanceLong before hikers discovered its trails, Circle X Ranch served as a formative wilderness retreat for generations of Boy Scouts who learned outdoor skills beneath its ancient oaks. The land's rich history traces back to its days as St. Vincent DePaul's Circle J Ranch, where the echoes of campfire songs and stories still seem to linger in the canyon breeze, adding layers of nostalgia to this mountain sanctuary.
Weather and SeasonsThe Santa Monica Mountains cast their Mediterranean spell over Circle X Ranch throughout the year, offering sun-drenched summers perfect for stargazing and mild winters when gentle rains transform the hillsides into verdant wonderlands. Cool mountain breezes provide natural air conditioning even during warmer months, while winter brings refreshing temperatures accompanied by moderate winds and occasional rainfall that awakens the dormant chaparral.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable elevation within the Santa Monica Mountains, the campground offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere without extreme altitude challenges.
Natural Features and SceneryCradled in the shadow of majestic Boney Mountain, Circle X Ranch unfolds across a tapestry of coastal sage scrub and aromatic chaparral that perfumes the air with wild herbs. On clear days, the Pacific stretches endlessly westward, punctuated by the mysterious Channel Islands floating on the horizon like ancient sentinels. Hidden treasures await discovery, from the enchanting Grotto's moss-covered rocks to peaceful creekside picnic spots where sycamores provide natural shade umbrellas.
Geological RegionThe campground rests within the spectacular Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, where ancient geological forces sculpted a unique coastal Mediterranean ecosystem. Here, weathered sandstone formations tell stories millions of years old, while resilient coastal sage scrub and mixed chaparral communities paint the mountainsides in ever-changing hues of green, gold, and purple, creating one of California's most biodiverse landscapes.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility features was provided.
Sites SizeGroup campsite suitable for 10-75 people, depending on group size and the fee tier.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as secluded, offering privacy and a remote mountain retreat.
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNull
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at Ranger Station before heading to campsite.
Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay: 14 nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
The group site accommodates 10-75 people, with fees tiered by group size: $35 per night for 10-30 people, $75 per night for 31-50 people, and $125 per night for 51-75 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutGroup tent camping area.
Open and Closed SeasonCircle X Ranch Group Campground is closed until further notice. No estimated reopening date.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are now allowed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled ahead of check-in with a $10 fee. Late cancellations for group campsites (within 14 days before check-in) will incur an additional penalty of forfeiting the recreation use fee for the first night.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Circle X Ranch Group Campground offers a range of recreational opportunities in a Mediterranean coastal ecosystem. Activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, climbing, and picnicking, with access to trails like the Grotto Trail and views of Sandstone Peak.
Hiking
Numerous trails are available, including the Grotto Trail, a 3.5-mile round trip with moderate to strenuous terrain. The trail goes downhill to the West Fork of the Arroyo Sequit and requires an uphill return. 'The Grotto area is rugged terrain; be careful and wear appropriate hiking attire.'Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides opportunities for wildlife viewing in its unique Mediterranean coastal ecosystem. Specific species are not detailed, but the environment includes sage scrub and chaparral.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No wood fires. Charcoal fires are allowed in designated areas, but restrictions may apply during high fire danger.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include poison oak, ticks, rattlesnakes, and bees. Always carry sufficient water as stream water is unsafe for drinking.
Active alertsCircle X Ranch Group Campground is closed indefinitely.
Weather forecast
73
Β°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 16.6 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to use disposal facilities on-site or pack out their trash. Wood gathering or collecting is prohibited.
Proximity to water featuresAccess to creekside picnic locations and the Grotto, featuring an unimproved streambed.
Common complaintsThe indefinite closure of the campground is a notable concern, as it is unavailable for public use.
HostNull
Campground Map
12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, CA, 90265, USA
Driving directionsPacific Coast Highway to Yerba Buena Road. Turn inland; go 5.4 miles to Circle X Ranch contact station.
Located 5.4 miles inland from Pacific Coast Highway via Yerba Buena Road. Road conditions were not discussed.Nearby places
Malibu (short drive away), Los Angeles (less than two hours by car)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Circle X Ranch Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Circle X Ranch Group Campground is noted for its secluded setting and scenic beauty, with an average campground-specific sentiment rating of 5.0. However, due to the indefinite closure, reviews primarily focus on past experiences.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate its privacy, scenic hiking trails, and proximity to natural landmarks such as Sandstone Peak and the Grotto. 'Listen to coyote songs at night' was highlighted as a memorable...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The campground is currently closed indefinitely, leading to visitor disappointment. Wood fires are prohibited, and the terrain is rugged, which may pose challenges for some.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing plenty of food and water and preparing for variable weather conditions. Hiking attire is advised due to the rugged terrain, especially on trails like the Grotto Trail.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The Mediterranean ecosystem offers hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, which influences the best times to visit. Summer hiking might be more challenging due to heat, while winter could bring...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'In the 70βs this was the location of the St Vincent DePaul ranch camp (Circle J Ranch). Fond memories to this day.' - John Sampson.
2. 'Listen to coyote songs at night' - Official Description.
3....
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground features only one group site, making specific site reviews irrelevant.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews or data specifically addressing accessibility features are provided.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed on leashes of 6 feet maximum, although they are not permitted on the Grotto Trail.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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