El Capitan Beach & Refugio Beach Camping

Campsites are located in clusters, all close enough to walk to the beach. Each site is for up to 8 people, 1 vehicle, and 1 towed vehicle such as a trailer. Sites can be reserved from April 1 through November 30. The rest of the year sites are first come, first served.

Sites along the north side of the campground near the highway pick up noise of passing trucks. There is no longer a dump station at El Capitan Campground.

Dog Regulations

• Dogs must be on leash and are not permitted on trails or beach.
• At night dogs must be in a tent or vehicle.

Suggestions and Comments from Previous Campers at El Capitan State Beach

1. Cross the highway and have a meal at El Capitan Canyon, a private resort and campground.
2. Watch out for poison oak.
3. Passing trains are not really a problem.
4. Watch out for tar on the beach.
5. Most campsites have some shade, #59 has lots of shade.
6. Watch out for skunks and raccoons. Store your food in a secure place.
7. Don't accidentally book an accessible site unless you have a disabled placard to display
8. Great ocean view sites are #84, 85, 105, 107, and 108.
9. Bring quarters for the showers.
10. Supplies are somewhat more expensive at the campground store than in town.

Junior Rangers

El Capitan State Beach offers a Junior Rangers program designed for children ages 7 to 12. Participants receive a logbook which is stamped every day they attend the program, learning about ocean safety, crafts, animals, and the environment.   California Junior Rangers

Campfire Programs

Campfire programs are held at El Capitan State Park during the summer. They are offered by Friends of Channel Coast State Parks.