Point Mugu-la Jolla Walk-in Campground
4.6324 reviews9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Point Mugu-la Jolla Walk-in Campground
$6.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$45.00
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
Standard parking fees range from $3/hour to $12/day. Camping fees range up to $45 per site for overnight stays. Firewood is available for $9 per bundle.
About this campground
Perched along the legendary Pacific Coast Highway, Point Mugu-La Jolla Walk-in Campground beckons adventurers with its spectacular coastal vistas and dual personality as both a beachcomber's paradise and a hiker's haven. This intimate walk-in camping experience places you at the crossroads of surf and summit, where morning fog gives way to golden afternoons and the sound of crashing waves serves as nature's soundtrack. Whether you're drawn to the sandy shores below or the winding hillside trails above, this campground serves as your basecamp for exploring one of California's most dramatic coastlines.
Point Mugu-la Jolla Walk-in Campground specializes in walk-in camping and is best suited for tent camping. Other camping types like RV or glamping facilities are not referenced.
Historical SignificanceYour tent sits on storied ground within Point Mugu State Park, where echoes of California's ranching heritage blend with even older tales. These lands once rang with the sounds of cattle and vaqueros, transforming from working ranch to protected paradise. Historical landmarks dot the landscape, each one a chapter in the region's rich narrative—from Native American settlements to Spanish land grants to the golden age of California ranching. Today, these preserved acres tell the story of conservation triumphing over development.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature paints each season with a different brush at Point Mugu. Cool, dry days define much of the year, with winter occasionally bringing refreshing Pacific storms that wash the landscape clean and fill the air with the scent of sage and sea salt. Spring and fall emerge as the crown jewels of camping season, offering crystalline skies and temperatures that feel custom-made for outdoor adventures. Summer brings its own charm, wrapping visitors in warm embraces tinged with coastal humidity that reminds you the ocean is never far away.
ElevationThe campground's position offers a unique vantage point where land meets sea, creating an ever-changing perspective as you explore the varied terrain from beach level to hilltop vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryNature showcases her full artistic repertoire at Point Mugu-La Jolla, where dramatic rocky bluffs plunge toward pristine beaches and hidden river canyons carve secrets into the landscape. Grassy valleys roll like green carpets between the hills, punctuated by the gnarled beauty of ancient sycamores and the steadfast presence of coastal oaks. This diverse ecosystem pulses with life—coveys of quail burst from the chaparral, foxes trot through twilight shadows, while owls and hawks patrol the skies. Ground squirrels chatter their gossip as cottontail rabbits bound through the undergrowth, creating a living tableau that changes with each passing hour.
Geological RegionNestled within the western reaches of the Santa Monica Mountains, this campground occupies a geological wonderland where tectonic forces and oceanic sculpting have created a masterpiece of contrasts. Ancient rocky bluffs stand sentinel over sandy beaches and pristine dunes, while behind them, rugged hills hide intimate river canyons. This meeting place of mountain and sea creates a unique microclimate where grassy valleys flourish, nurtured by coastal fog and protected by ridgelines crowned with sycamores and oaks—a testament to millions of years of geological artistry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are provided at the park level, including accessible restrooms. Specific details for the campground are not available.
Sites SizeUser reviews describe campsites as offering good sizes, with some reportedly accommodating up to 4 cars.
Sites PrivacyReviews indicate that privacy between sites is limited, with neighbors' conversations often audible.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose oceanfront sites for scenic views and proximity to the beach. Be cautious of wildlife activity.
Best CampsitesCampsites along the oceanfront are most favored for views and ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
Sunset
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is based on park rules.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutWalk-in sites located near the beach and hillsides.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round. Parking lots open at 8AM and close at sunset.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Reserve California online or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityVisitors may make same-day reservations subject to availability. Details about first-come-first-served sites are unspecified.
Cancellation PolicySame-day reservations are allowed. Cancellation policies are subject to Reserve California rules.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Point Mugu-la Jolla Walk-in Campground offers a rich array of outdoor activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, and beach-related activities. Campers can explore hills on one side and the beach on the other, making it ideal for varied recreational pursuits. Visitors have reported encounters with local wildlife such as foxes, hawks, squirrels, raccoons, and even rattlesnakes.
Hiking
The campground provides access to hiking trails leading to the surrounding hills and valleys. User reviews highlight trails with varied difficulty levels and scenic views, although some trails may require maintenance.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.Fishing
Fishing is permitted along the beaches of Point Mugu State Park, offering opportunities for surf fishing.Swimming
Swimming is available at the beaches within the park area. Safety measures specific to the swimming areas are not elaborated upon.Biking
Mountain biking is popular within Point Mugu State Park, with user reviews mentioning opportunities for extensive exploration.Wildlife viewing
Visitors have reported spotting quail, foxes, hawks, lizards, squirrels, and rabbits. The campground's natural setting offers abundant opportunities for wildlife observation.Beach activities
The beach is reported to be clean and offers panoramic views. Activities include sunbathing, beachcombing, and observing sea life.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are highlighted for Point Mugu-La Jolla Walk-in Campground.Water Sports
Surfing and windsurfing are popular activities within Point Mugu State Park. Specific water sports facilities at this campground are not described.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings based on daily fire levels.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include rattlesnakes and raccoons. Raccoons are known to steal food. Tidal surges and flooding may occur.
Active alertsRenovation of bathrooms at nearby Sycamore Campground. Visitors should check fire levels upon arrival.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.2 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 located in Malibu, including medical facilities and police services. Ranger stations are available within the state park.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingUser reviews and official sources do not specify trash and recycling arrangements at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Pacific Ocean with direct beach access.
Common complaintsLack of privacy between campsites. Noise disturbances from neighbors' conversations.
HostManagement is noted as friendly. Rangers patrol often and sell firewood when needed.
Campground Map
9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Driving directionsFrom Oxnard, drive 15 miles south on Highway One. The beach is located directly off the highway.
Accessible directly from Highway One, a paved and well-maintained road. No seasonal closures reported. Roads are suitable for passenger vehicles.Nearby places
Oxnard (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Ventura (28 miles, approximately 35 minutes), Los Angeles (48 miles, approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and supplies are available in nearby Malibu and Oxnard. No specific supply store mentioned on-site.
Camper Reviews
4.6
24 reviews
Point Mugu-la Jolla Walk-in Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and diverse outdoor activities. Common themes in reviews include the soothing sounds of waves, wildlife encounters, and proximity to both hills and the beach. A mix of positive and critical remarks about privacy, mobile service, and wildlife adds depth to the user feedback.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic ocean views, clean facilities, and a diverse range of activities including hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Users have described the experience as peaceful and rejuvenating.
Based on 24 reviewsCommon Concerns
Limited privacy between campsites, inconsistent cellular service, and the presence of rattlesnakes and aggressive raccoons seeking food.
Based on 24 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring shower tokens and dollar bills for token-operated showers, secure food carefully to avoid raccoon theft, and exercise caution on trails to avoid rattlesnakes.
Based on 24 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the beach's cleanliness and vibrant activities, while winter feedback mentions the tranquility and fewer crowds. Wildlife encounters are consistent across seasons.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Spent my 33 birthday weekend here. Bathrooms are being renovated at the Sycamore Campground. Very clean and rangers patrol often!' - Julio Luciano Patiño. 2. 'One of the best beach camping trips...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site numbers are not specified, but users praise the overall size and cleanliness of campsites, noting some can accommodate up to 4 cars. Limited privacy is a recurring theme.
Based on 24 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user reviews address accessibility features at the campground.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but are restricted from backcountry trails, consistent with broader park policies.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025