Doheny State Beach Campground
4.2582 reviews25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629
Doheny State Beach Campground
$40.00 - $65.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$65.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $40 for standard tent sites to $65 for premium beachfront sites. A booking fee of $7.95 is applied to all reservations.
About this campground
Where the golden California coastline meets the Pacific's endless blue, Doheny State Beach Campground offers 113 campsites that bring you as close to ocean living as camping allows. Among these, 33 premium beachfront sites let you fall asleep to the rhythm of waves just steps from your tent. This southern Orange County gem has earned its reputation as a family favorite, where warm waters invite swimmers of all ages and sandy beaches stretch as far as the eye can see.
Doheny State Beach Campground offers various camping options catering to families, groups, RVs, and tent campers. Beachfront sites are particularly sought after.
Historical SignificanceLong before it became California's pioneering state beach in 1931, this coastal paradise was home to the Acjachemen people, who thrived along these shores for thousands of years. The land's modern story began when oil magnate Edward L. Doheny gifted this precious stretch of coastline to California, creating the state's very first state beach and setting a precedent for coastal preservation that continues today.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with Southern California's enviable year-round coastal climate, Doheny offers camping comfort in every season. Summer days bask in the high 70s with gentle ocean breezes, perfect for beach activities from dawn to dusk. Winter brings a different charm, with temperatures settling into the comfortable mid-60s and morning fog creating mystical beachscapes that burn off to reveal crystalline afternoons.
ElevationPerched right at sea level where land meets sea, the campground offers the quintessential coastal camping experience with all the sensory delights of oceanfront living—salt-tinged air, cooling marine breezes, and the ever-present soundtrack of Pacific waves.
Natural Features and SceneryBeyond the obvious allure of its pristine beaches, Doheny harbors a surprising diversity of coastal habitats. Brackish marshes create nurseries for marine life, while riparian woodlands of southern willow and sycamore provide shady retreats and vital corridors for wildlife. Keep your eyes on the horizon for pods of playful dolphins year-round, and during winter months, you might witness the majestic migration of gray whales passing just offshore.
Geological RegionNestled along Orange County's dramatic Pacific coastline, Doheny showcases a remarkable tapestry of ecosystems rarely found in such close proximity. From coastal brackish marshes that filter and clean water naturally, to southern willow scrub providing sanctuary for native birds, to mature sycamore groves offering welcome shade, the campground sits at the intersection of multiple thriving habitats, each supporting its own community of plants and wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityFour accessible campsites (#16, #27, #91, #117) are available, each equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Accessible restroom/shower buildings and van-accessible parking are provided. Routes to picnic areas and bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, and beach wheelchairs are available upon request.
Sites SizeSites are limited in size, with user complaints about cramped conditions. For example, "The sites are good sized and hold a trailer plus two cars."
Sites PrivacySites offer minimal privacy; campers frequently note being tightly packed and exposed to noise from neighboring sites. "Typical beach campground - close spaces with little privacy."
Total Campsites113 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for premium oceanfront sites for the best views; avoid sites near the railroad for a quieter experience.
Best CampsitesPremium sites #36, #37, #38, #40, #41, #43, #45, #47, #57, #59, #64, #73, #75, #78, #87, #92 are highly rated for ocean views and proximity.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per campsite.
Groups
The group campsite can accommodate up to 40 people. "We would sleep 30+ people and have great beach access and food preparation areas."
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into premium beachfront sites and standard tent sites, with some sites located near the railroad tracks.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; potential temporary closures during construction projects (e.g., January-March 2024 for drilling).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia, online or by phone at (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited, and most sites must be reserved in advance, particularly beachfront and premium sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are subject to ReserveCalifornia rules, and refunds may depend on the timing of cancellation.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Doheny State Beach Campground are beach-oriented and family-friendly, including surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. There are tide pools to explore during low tide and volleyball courts for sports enthusiasts. The visitor center and aquarium offer educational exhibits.
HikingThe Beach Promenade Trail is a 0.34-mile paved accessible trail. It offers flat terrain with scenic views and access to various day-use activities.
FishingSurf fishing is popular among visitors, as is angling in rocky areas during low tide. Licensed anglers can fish within the park.
SwimmingSwimming is available and popular at Doheny State Beach, particularly in the designated areas near the campground.
BikingBike trails are available but restricted to paved roads. Riders under 18 are required to wear helmets.
BoatingKayaking and paddleboarding are popular water sports at Doheny State Beach, especially near the campground.
Wildlife viewingBird species such as black-crowned night herons and snowy egrets are commonly spotted. During seasonal migrations, gray whales and monarch butterflies can be seen.
Beach activitiesActivities include sunbathing, beachcombing, volleyball, and exploring tide pools. Some campers recommend water shoes for rocky areas near the beach.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe remodeled visitor center/aquarium showcases the natural and cultural history of Doheny State Beach. Junior Ranger programs and campfire activities are offered during summer months.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Collection of deadwood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsNoise pollution from trains and nearby roads; theft has been reported in campsites near the train tracks. Seasonal drilling activities may cause vibrations and dust.
Active alertsActive drilling expected from January-March 2024, potentially causing noise and disruption. Check California State Parks websites for updates.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 3
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
Closest hospital: Saddleback Memorial Medical Center in Laguna Hills (approximately 10 miles); Dana Point Police Station is nearby; lifeguard services are available year-round on the beach.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season varies but generally spans summer months, Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available throughout the campground. Multiple user reviews criticize the outdated trash cans that create noise when opened or closed.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Pacific Ocean; tide pools at the northern end of the state beach.
Common complaintsNoise from trains and nearby roads; bathroom cleanliness; cramped campsite layouts; theft incidents, particularly of bicycles.
HostHosts are present but reportedly overwhelmed during busy seasons. Reviewers note inconsistency in enforcing campground rules.
Campground Map
25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629
Driving directionsThe campground is located approximately one mile north of Interstate 5 and about three miles from the San Juan Capistrano Mission, off Del Obispo Street and Dana Harbor Drive.
Access is straightforward from Interstate 5, with well-maintained paved roads leading directly to the park entrance; however, it is recommended to check for seasonal road closures or active construction projects in the vicinity.Nearby places
San Juan Capistrano (3 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Laguna Beach (12 miles, approximately 25 minutes)
Irvine (20 miles, approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available within Dana Point city limits (approximately 2 miles away). Specialized services like RV supply stores may require further travel toward San Juan Capistrano or Laguna Hills.
Camper Reviews
4.3
82 reviews
Doheny State Beach Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews vary widely, highlighting the campground's proximity to the beach and amenities, but also pointing out noise pollution, cramped sites, and lack of privacy. "Camping by the beach, what more can you ask for." Meanwhile, complaints often focus on train noise and inadequate enforcement of quiet hours.
Review Summaries
Guests appreciate the beachfront location and clean facilities. "Clean bathrooms and trash is picked up frequently," "directly near the beach."
Noise pollution from trains and neighboring campers, lack of privacy, cramped sites, and outdated trash cans are common complaints. Theft and safety concerns near train tracks are also noted.
Campers recommend booking premium beachfront sites, bringing earplugs to mitigate noise, and using water shoes for rocky beach areas. "Bring water shoes if you plan to play in the waves near the...
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Winter stays tend to be quieter, though fog and cooler temperatures are common. Summer experiences are lively but may include significant noise from trains and crowded conditions.
"Showers $1 for 15 mins clean and hot water. Restrooms clean." "Some spots next to the beach are unbelievable." "Beach camping is much different with all the sand. Very fun with family and extended...
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Sites #36, #37, #38, #40, #41, #43, #45, #47, #57, #59, #64, #73, #75, #78, #87, and #92 are listed as favorites.
Accessible campsites (#16, #27, #91, #117) receive positive reviews for their proximity to bathrooms and beach. Accessible parking and routes are appreciated.
Pets are allowed but restricted from the beach. "Large enough you can take your dog for a good walk within the campground."
Last updated July 31, 2025