Description

The lovely thing about all of the campgrounds in El Capitan is that they all have easy access to the beach. In addition to the 123 tent/rv/trailer/van sites, there are also 5 group sites (Portola, Ortego, Cabrillo, Drake and De Anza), one of which is handicap accessible. Nine of the tent/rv/trailer sites are specifically set aside as RV sites. The sites are clustered fairly close together, but lots of shade and close proximity to the beach call for a great camping area. Word on the street is that 85 is the best, but 82-84 are also good, as are 101, 103, 105 and 107.
Campsite area
Tent or RV sites
133 sites
Up to 8 guests per site
Up to 6 vehicles
No wheelchair access
Essentials
Campfires allowed
Toilet available
Pets allowed
Amenities
Potable water available
Showers available
Picnic table available

Activities

Offered near the campground.

Biking

We think that a cruise down one of California’s most beautiful (and most popular) beaches sounds like a pretty great way to spe...Read more

Boating

That endless horizon calls sailors of all kinds, and while you may not be able to launch motorized boats here, those under the ...Read more

Fishing

These sparkingly blue Pacific waters are known for some seriously good fishing, and, honestly, who could resist wading along th...Read more

Hiking

So, maybe you don’t want to spend ALL day soaking up the sun and playing in the surf on the beach. Actually, that’s crazy; scra...Read more

Paddling

If awesome paddling adventures down the Pacific Coast sounds like your idea of a weekend getaway, look no farther than El Capit...Read more

Surfing

Surfers keep a weather eye on those waters, because some of the best to be had can be found here at El Capitan. On a good day, ...Read more

Swimming

The ocean water can be a little bit chilly, but dedicated marine lovers will have no problem plunging into the protected waters...Read more

Wildlife watching

The lush forests that surround the shoreline make for some truly excellent wildlife watching, as the observant will see band-ta...Read more

Terrain

Natural features you'll find at El Capitán Campground.

Beach
Forest
River, stream, or...
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15 Reviews

750
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Drop some El Capitán Campground knowledge on us.
Hipcamper Mike
Mike S.
didn't provide a recommendation.
May 13th, 2020

We stayed at El Capitan and loved it there. We enjoyed the campsite which sits high above the ocean with some magnificent views of the Pacific. Our campsite was large and full of chipmunks!
The beach was rocky and full of driftwood which we used to build an awesome campfire. You can hike along the beach and enjoy all of the wildlife along the shore.

Hipcamper Bea
Bea L.
recommends this listing.
January 22nd, 2019

We’ve been here several times. This is a fantastic escape from LA. 2hrs away. You can bring the clothes on your back or go all out. Cabins, yurts, canvas tents. We’ve done it all. Each has a unique charm. The tents are fun for a couple nights just hanging out and having fun. I’ve used the cabins to really unwind, soak in the giant tub, and self care the hell out of yourself! We even escaped here after putting our beloved cat down to cry for two days straight. This place is like a warm hug. A fantastic place for kids but also perfect for a single or couple. Everything is so spread out that you all kinda find your spot. Lots of wildlife and farm animals a short hike away. Deer, raccoons, skunk ;) have all visited us.

Hipcamper gina
Gina G.
recommends this listing.
November 12th, 2017

hardly camping, but easy with kids

Hipcamper Henry
Henry C.
didn't provide a recommendation.
September 16th, 2017

I am trying to figure out if the tent/cabins shown in the first photo are really at the SB? I cant find any mention of them on the reservation site? Does anyone know?

Hipcamper Marthine
Marthine S.
doesn't recommend this listing.
July 21st, 2017

Don't stay in a site near the freeway

Hipcamper Kelley
Kelley C.
recommends this listing.
July 12th, 2017

It is incredible! From the tents to the yurts to the cabins you can't go wrong with any. Love this place 😊

Hipcamper Alexandra
Alexandra K.
recommends this listing.
June 21st, 2017

Great spot, close to beach. Crowded.

Hipcamper Nancy
Nancy S.
doesn't recommend this listing.
May 30th, 2017

The group campsite is right off the highway. Train tracks also run along the site. This means that trains come all times of the day and night.

Hipcamper Elsa
Elsa E.
recommends this listing.
March 29th, 2017

no comment

Park
El Capitán State Beach
State
California
Country
United States
Phone Number
(805) 968-1033
Directions
View on Google Maps
Official Website
View Website
Coordinates
34.462° N, 120.03° W
Unknown price
RV / Trailer: 9 Sites
(Up to 8 people per site)
Unknown price
Tent Only - Group: 3 Sites
(Up to 50 people per site)
Unknown price
Tent / RV / Trailer - Group: 2 Sites
(Up to 40 people per site)
Unknown price
Tent / RV / Trailer: 119 Sites
(Up to 8 people per site)