Danielson Campground
04 reviews9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Danielson Campground
$3.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Parking fees range from $3 to $12 depending on duration, but campsite reservation fees for Danielson campground are not specified. Same-day reservations are allowed, extending from arrival to desired departure date based on availability.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Point Mugu State Park, Danielson Campground invites you to experience the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. This hidden gem provides all the essentials—running water, clean restrooms, and refreshing showers—while maintaining the tranquil atmosphere that makes it a favorite among families and groups. Whether you arrive through the scenic Sycamore Canyon trail or via Rancho Sierra Vista, you'll discover spacious sites perfect for stringing up hammocks between ancient trees and spending evenings beneath a canopy of stars that seem close enough to touch.
Danielson Campground is suitable for various camping types, including group and family camping setups. Specific options such as primitive camping and RV accommodations are not explicitly detailed.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds in the storied Santa Monica Mountains, where centuries of natural and human history converge. This remarkable landscape has served as home to indigenous peoples, Spanish ranchers, and diverse wildlife for millennia, creating a living museum of California's heritage. Today, this biodiversity hotspot continues to tell its story through every trail, tree, and sunset.
Weather and SeasonsWhere mountain breezes meet coastal air, Danielson enjoys a unique microclimate that keeps visitors comfortable year-round. During the transitional weeks of autumn, temperatures dance between crisp 20°F mornings and pleasant 31°F afternoons, accompanied by gentle winds that whisper through the canyon. While moderate rain and occasional snow dust the surrounding peaks, the campground basks in clear, brilliant skies more than a third of the time—perfect conditions for those memorable outdoor moments.
ElevationTucked into a protective canyon embrace, Danielson Campground offers a naturally sheltered setting that feels worlds away from the bustle below. The canyon walls create an intimate atmosphere while providing easy access to both mountain peaks and coastal vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the rustle of sycamore leaves and the gentle murmur of seasonal streams winding through your campsite. Majestic oaks spread their branches overhead while native grasses and wildflowers paint the landscape in ever-changing colors. But the true stars of this natural theater are the wild parrots—spectacular flocks of 80 to 100 birds that fill the canyon with their vibrant plumage and raucous calls, reminding visitors that California's wild beauty comes in many unexpected forms.
Geological RegionDanielson sits within the dramatic landscape of the far western Santa Monica Mountains, where nature has sculpted a masterpiece of contrasts. Rugged hills plunge into river-carved canyons, while grassy valleys give way to an ocean shoreline adorned with rocky bluffs and pristine sand dunes. This geological diversity creates endless opportunities for exploration, from canyon hikes to coastal adventures, all within easy reach of your campsite.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground's running water and restrooms suggest basic accessibility.
Sites SizeUser reviews describe the campsite as 'pretty big and flat,' indicating spacious sites suitable for various setups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly described in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest bringing a hammock and ample water for hikes.
Best CampsitesNo specific sites were mentioned as best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
Sunset
Stay Limit
Bookings extend from the arrival date to the desired departure date based on availability and the park's maximum stay rules, though specific limits are not provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No details provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDanielson Campground has a flat layout with picnic tables, running water, and restrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park is currently open; gates at Sycamore Canyon close at 10 PM daily. Seasonal availability of Danielson is not mentioned.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve California online or 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified, but visitors can make same-day reservations.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy is mentioned.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Danielson Campground provides various activities that cater to nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Popular activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, and night hikes for stargazing. The campground's location offers access to Point Mugu State Park's extensive trail network, which includes more than 70 miles of hiking trails.
Hiking
User reviews highlight the campground's proximity to some of the best trails in Los Angeles, including flat, easy hikes such as the 4.5-mile hike from PCH. Popular trails in Point Mugu State Park include the Grotto Trail (easy), Mugu Peak Trail (moderate), and Scenic and Overlook Trails Loop (easy).Fishing
Point Mugu State Park includes opportunities for surf fishing along its ocean shoreline, but specific fishing details for Danielson Campground are not provided.Swimming
Swimming activities are available at beach areas within Point Mugu State Park, though these are not directly connected to Danielson Campground.Biking
The campground provides access to bike trails within the park; however, reviews do not include specific details about these trails.Wildlife viewing
User reviews describe the area as home to native plants, big sycamore and oak trees, streams, and wild parrots, with at least one flock of 80-100 birds. The peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for wildlife observation.Beach activities
The park features beach-related activities such as swimming, body surfing, and sunbathing along its five miles of ocean shoreline, though these are not directly connected to Danielson Campground.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned for Danielson Campground.Water Sports
Water sports such as windsurfing and surfing are available within Point Mugu State Park but are not directly associated with Danielson Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood burning in fire rings is allowed when fire levels permit, determined daily.
- Quiet hours are Not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and barking dogs were noted in user reviews as minor concerns. Fire hazards are managed daily, and tidal surges affect other campgrounds in the park.
Active alertsThere are high tides and flooding concerns affecting Thornhill Broome campground, but no specific alerts for Danielson.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.5 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
Nearest emergency services are likely in Oxnard or Malibu, as specific details are not mentioned for Danielson.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are mentioned in general park information but not specifically for Danielson Campground.
Proximity to water featuresStreams run through the canyon, and the beach is within hiking distance.
Common complaintsMosquitoes and barking dogs disrupting the peaceful ambiance were mentioned in reviews.
HostHosts provide services for the park but no specific details about Danielson are mentioned.
Campground Map
9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Driving directionsThe beach is 15 miles south of Oxnard on Highway One. The campground is accessible via Rancho Sierra Vista or Sycamore Canyon campground, with both routes providing access to Danielson.
Accessible from Highway One, the area includes paved roads leading to nearby facilities. Seasonal closures are not mentioned, but high tides and flooding can affect other campgrounds like Thornhill Broome.Nearby places
Oxnard, 15 miles south
Newbury Park, approximately 10 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be accessed in nearby population centers such as Malibu, 15 miles south, or Oxnard.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Danielson Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Danielson Campground as a peaceful and versatile camping location with essential amenities such as running water, restrooms, and showers. The campground is praised for its spaciousness, proximity to trails, and suitability for stargazing.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include running water and restrooms, spacious and flat campsites, proximity to excellent hiking trails, and opportunities for stargazing. Users also appreciate the presence of picnic...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the presence of mosquitoes during hot weather and occasional barking from a resident dog. Light pollution was noted but did not significantly detract from the stargazing experience.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing water for hikes, preparing for mosquitoes during summer months, and carrying tokens for shower operation.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Hot weather and mosquitoes are noted during summer visits, while weekdays see fewer visitors, enhancing the peacefulness of the area.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Excellent for group or family camping, this site has running water, restrooms and showers.'
2. 'The hike in from PCH is about 4.5 miles and very flat and easy. Just bring water!'
3. 'Kind of a...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite numbers or rankings are not provided in user reviews.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities are provided.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the campground and day-use areas, but not on trails. One user mentioned occasional barking from a resident dog as a minor issue.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025