Camping at El Capitan State Beach
El Capitan State Beach Campground has 119 standard campsites which can accommodate RVs, trailers, and tents. The campsites are located in clusters, all close enough to walk to the beach. Nine other campsites are limited to RVs or trailers only. Each campsite is for up to 8 people, 1 vehicle, and 1 towed vehicle such as a trailer up to 42 feet in length. Sites can be reserved year-round up to 6 months in advance of arrival date.
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. Dogs must be on leash and are not permitted on trails or on the beach. At night they must be confined to a tent or vehicle and always attended.
El Capitan State Beach Campsites
Campsites are equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. There are no hook-ups. In the campground are restrooms with flush toilets and showers which require quarters. Nearby is a camp store and laundry facility.
Campground Fees and Reservations
Standard Campsite:
$45 per night
Primitive Site
(self-contained RV or trailer only, no amenities): $35
Hike & Bike: $10
Group Campsites
de Anza Group Site: $235
Portola Group Site: $285
Drake Group Site: $320
Cabrillo Group Site: $320
Ortega Group Site: $225
Online Reservations at ReserveCalifornia:
El Capitan State Beach Campground Reservations
or call (800) 444-PARK (7275) between 8 AM and 6 PM
Suggestions and Comments from Previous Campers at El Capitan State Beach
- Cross the highway and have a meal at El Capitan Canyon, a private resort and campground.
- Watch out for poison oak.
- Passing trains are not really a problem.
- Watch out for tar on the beach.
- Most campsites have some shade, #59 has lots of shade.
- Watch out for skunks and raccoons. Store your food in a secure place.
- Don't accidentally book an accessible site unless you have a disabled placard to display
- Great ocean view sites are #84, 85, 105, 107, and 108.
- Bring quarters for the showers.
- Supplies are somewhat more expensive at the campground store than in town.
