The best beach RV camping in California combines wild beauty with modern comfort — and there’s nothing quite like waking up with the Pacific Ocean at your doorstep. From the misty cliffs of the north to the sun-drenched coves of the south, California’s coastline offers an unforgettable blend of scenery, serenity, and adventure.
Whether you crave quiet mornings by the surf or lively evenings with beachfront amenities, there’s a coastal RV spot that fits your travel style. In this guide, we’re revealing the top 10 scenic destinations for beach RV camping in California — curated for families, couples, and every kind of camper in between.
Criteria For Selecting The Best Beach RV Camping In California
Not all beach RV campgrounds are created equal — and for this list, only the most exceptional made the cut. Each destination was selected based on a combination of key criteria to ensure a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and coastal charm.
Location Diversity
California’s coast stretches over 800 miles, and this list reflects that breadth. From the rugged cliffs of Northern California to the relaxed vibes of Central California and the vibrant, sun-soaked beaches of the south, we’ve included top RV spots from every corner of the coastline. That way, no matter where you’re headed, there’s a scenic beach destination within reach.
Amenities
Comfort matters when you’re on the road. These campgrounds offer essential amenities like full or partial RV hookups, clean restrooms, hot showers, dump stations, and in many cases, extras like camp stores, pools, or laundry facilities. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a weekend warrior, convenience counts.
Scenic Beauty
Every site on this list offers more than just a parking spot — you’re getting front-row access to the Pacific. We prioritized locations with direct beach access, panoramic ocean views, or unique natural settings like cliffs, coves, or coastal trails.
Accessibility
These destinations accommodate a variety of RV sizes and skill levels. We looked for well-maintained roads, smooth reservation systems, and easy-to-navigate sites to keep your arrival — and departure — stress-free.
Activities
From tidepooling and fishing to surfing, biking, or sunset walks, these campgrounds offer more than just a pretty view. They’re launchpads for memory-making experiences, right outside your door.
Top 10 Scenic Beach RV Camping Spots in California
California’s coastline is dotted with spectacular RV-friendly campgrounds, each offering its own distinct mix of views, amenities, and atmosphere. Whether you want family-friendly fun, rugged beauty, or laid-back luxury, here are 10 of the best beach RV camping destinations in California — each handpicked for its scenery, access, and unforgettable experience.
1. Mission Bay RV Resort – San Diego, CA
Tucked along De Anza Cove in Mission Bay, Mission Bay RV Resort is quieter and more low-key than its neighbor Campland, but every bit as scenic. It offers direct access to bayfront paths and beaches, and it’s especially popular among snowbirds, long-term guests, and travelers with pets.
Why It’s Special:
- Full hookup sites with modern utilities
- Clean, well-kept grounds and updated facilities
- Pet-friendly with walking paths and grassy areas
- Close to Mission Bay Park’s trails, beaches, and water sports
- Peaceful atmosphere with 24/7 gated access
This is the spot for RVers who want to enjoy the San Diego coast at their own pace — close to the city, but with a calm and relaxed campground feel.
2. Campland on the Bay – San Diego, CA
If you’re after a vibrant, activity-packed stay right on the water, Campland on the Bay is a standout. Located along the shores of Mission Bay, this family-friendly RV resort offers the kind of energy you’d expect from a classic California beach getaway — with the comforts of home thrown in.
Why It’s Special:
- Waterfront RV sites with full hookups
- Onsite marina with kayak, paddleboard, and jet ski rentals
- Heated swimming pools and hot tubs
- Live entertainment through the Campland Rocks concert series
- Activities for kids, including crafts, scavenger hunts, and outdoor games
- Pet-friendly spaces
Whether you’re traveling with kids, grandkids, or just a group of friends, Campland delivers a resort-style experience where boredom isn’t an option. Plus, it’s close to San Diego’s best attractions — from SeaWorld to downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter.
3. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina – Newport Beach, CA
For RVers who love the coast but don’t want to rough it, Newport Dunes offers a luxurious stay with a front-row seat to the calm waters of Newport’s Back Bay. This upscale resort is known for its manicured grounds, marina access, and easy-going SoCal style.
Why It’s Special:
- Spacious RV sites with full hookups and bayfront views
- Cabana rentals and beachfront fire pits
- Inflatable water park open seasonally — perfect for families
- Moe B’s Munchies beach grill and full-service marina
- Live entertainment on summer weekends
- Easy access to nearby shopping, dining, and the famous Balboa Peninsula
Newport Dunes blends comfort, beauty, and convenience — ideal for couples, families, or anyone who wants beachy vibes without sacrificing amenities.
4. Malibu Beach RV Park – Malibu, CA
If ocean views are non-negotiable, this is your spot. Nestled in the hills overlooking the Pacific, Malibu Beach RV Park offers panoramic coastal scenery in one of California’s most iconic seaside towns.
Why It’s Special:
- Unmatched views of the ocean and coastline
- Premium ocean-view sites available
- Just minutes from Malibu Pier and top-notch dining spots
- Quiet, clean, and well-managed facilities
- Laundry and general store on-site
It’s not a large resort, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in serenity and scenery. A perfect stop for couples or solo travelers seeking peace and beauty.
5. Dockweiler RV Park – El Segundo, CA
This is the only RV campground in Los Angeles County that puts you directly on the beach. Dockweiler RV Park offers something that’s hard to find in SoCal — beachfront RV sites with nothing but sand between you and the ocean.
Why It’s Special:
- Steps from the sand — true beachfront access
- Full hookups at every site
- Close to LAX, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica
- Fire pits on the beach and amazing sunsets
- Bike path access along the Strand
Despite its urban location, Dockweiler feels like a coastal escape. Great for weekenders or road-trippers wanting to dip their toes in the Pacific without leaving the city behind.
6. Flying Flags Avila Beach – Port San Luis, CA
Located near the picturesque town of Avila Beach, this newly renovated campground delivers a boutique camping experience just steps from the sand. It’s a quieter, more relaxed destination, ideal for those looking to unwind.
Why It’s Special:
- Easy walking distance to the beach and nearby pier
- Full hookups with a mix of pull-through and back-in sites
- Fire pits, picnic tables, and shaded spaces available
- Close to wineries, hiking trails, and downtown Avila Beach
Flying Flags offers that hard-to-find balance between beachy relaxation and creature comforts — perfect for weekend getaways or romantic escapes.
7. Doran Regional Park – Bodega Bay, CA
This Northern California gem offers a more rustic and peaceful camping experience, with miles of sandy beach and gentle ocean breezes. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, kayakers, and anyone who appreciates a quieter pace.
Why It’s Special:
- Over 120 campsites with ocean or harbor views
- Pet-friendly with beach access and trails
- Great for fishing, birding, and paddle sports
- Clean restrooms, coin showers, and basic amenities
Doran is ideal for RVers who want to unplug and experience California’s northern coast in its raw, natural beauty.
8. Jalama Beach County Park – Lompoc, CA
Remote, rugged, and wildly beautiful — Jalama Beach is beloved by campers who don’t mind trading a little convenience for a lot of scenery. It’s off the beaten path but well worth the detour.
Why It’s Special:
- Oceanfront RV sites with unforgettable views
- Famous Jalama Burgers served onsite
- Ideal for surfers, beachcombers, and stargazers
- Full and partial hookups available
- Limited cell service — perfect for a digital detox
This is a destination for those who want to disconnect, dig their toes into the sand, and fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves.
9. New Brighton State Beach – Capitola, CA
Perched above Monterey Bay, this peaceful campground offers forested shade with peekaboo ocean views and access to one of Central California’s most family-friendly beaches.
Why It’s Special:
- Scenic blufftop campsites with beach access
- Nearby hiking trails and wildlife viewing
- Visitor center and junior ranger programs for kids
- Water and electric hookups available at select sites
- Close to Santa Cruz Boardwalk and downtown Capitola
It’s a balanced blend of redwoods and coastline, making it perfect for families or first-time RV campers.
10. El Capitán State Beach – Goleta, CA
Just north of Santa Barbara, El Capitán offers a coastal escape where beach and woodland meet. It’s one of the few campgrounds where you can tidepool in the morning and hike through oak groves in the afternoon.
Why It’s Special:
- Spacious RV sites surrounded by nature
- Tide pools, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks
- Shaded picnic areas and fire rings at most sites
- Water spigots and restrooms available (no hookups)
- A peaceful, eco-friendly alternative to larger resorts
El Capitán is great for nature lovers and campers who want to slow down and truly soak in the environment — no frills, just beauty.
From SoCal luxury to NorCal solitude, California’s beach RV camping scene offers something for everyone. Whether you’re cruising the coast in a luxury rig or rolling in with your trusty trailer, these 10 scenic spots prove that beach camping in the Golden State is more than a place to park — it’s a way to connect with nature, family, and the open road.
Tips for Beach RV Camping in California
Camping by the ocean might seem effortless, but California’s coastal campgrounds are in high demand — and the environment can be surprisingly unpredictable. A little planning goes a long way in turning your beach RV trip from good to unforgettable. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind before you hit the coast.
Reservation Strategies
California beach campgrounds are some of the most popular in the country, especially during summer, weekends, and holidays. Some book out months in advance — even up to six months for state-run parks like El Capitán or New Brighton.
- Set reminders for reservation opening dates.
- Consider traveling midweek or during shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to increase your chances of snagging a spot.
- Have backup choices ready in case your first pick is full.
- Use campground-specific maps to choose the best site for views, hookups, or space.
Packing Essentials
Coastal weather can shift quickly — sunny in the morning, breezy or foggy by afternoon. Be ready for it all.
- Bring layers: lightweight shirts, hoodies, and a packable jacket.
- Don’t forget sun protection: wide-brim hats, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen.
- Beach gear: towels, chairs, coolers, and maybe a pop-up canopy for shade.
- Footwear matters — bring flip-flops for the beach and sturdy shoes for exploring.
RV Preparation
The beach is beautiful, but it can be tough on your gear.
- Leveling blocks are a must for uneven surfaces, especially at blufftop or dune sites.
- Coastal moisture and salt can be harsh on electrical systems — use a surge protector to prevent damage.
- Check that your tanks are empty and batteries are charged; not all sites have full hookups.
- Bring a broom or mat to keep sand out of your rig.
Local Regulations
Each campground has its own rules — ignoring them can lead to fines or even eviction.
- Know the fire regulations before you strike a match.
- Keep pets on a leash and clean up after them.
- Respect quiet hours — sound travels far across open sand and water.
Planning ahead helps you relax once you arrive — and leaves more time for sunsets, surf, and stargazing.
Your Coastal Escape Awaits at Mission Bay
Beach RV camping in California isn’t just a trip — it’s an experience that blends nature, comfort, and a sense of freedom. Whether you’re drawn to cliffside views, quiet coves, or lively waterfronts, the state’s coastline offers something for every kind of traveler.
If you’re seeking a peaceful, pet-friendly base with stunning bayfront scenery and modern amenities, Mission Bay RV Resort is the perfect place to start your coastal adventure. Book your stay, pack your gear, and let the sound of the waves guide your next unforgettable journey by the sea.