Mcgrath State Beach Campground
4.336 reviews2211 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035
Mcgrath State Beach Campground
$10.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Park fees are due upon entry, covering one vehicle. Additional fees apply for extra vehicles.
About this campground
Where the Santa Clara River meets the Pacific Ocean, McGrath State Beach Campground beckons nature enthusiasts with beachfront campsites and some of California's most spectacular bird-watching opportunities. This coastal haven draws birders from around the world to witness incredible migrations and rare species, though Mother Nature occasionally reminds visitors of her power when winter storms cause the Santa Clara River to swell, temporarily transforming portions of this beloved campground.
McGrath State Beach Campground offers various camping options, including tent camping, RV-friendly sites, and group camping. However, flooding has impacted the availability of some sites.
Historical SignificanceSince opening its gates to campers in 1964, just after McGrath State Beach was officially established, this campground has welcomed generations of families, bird enthusiasts, and beach lovers. For nearly six decades, it has served as a gateway to one of California's most ecologically diverse coastal areas, creating countless memories under canvas and stars.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with Southern California's signature sunny skies and gentle ocean breezes, McGrath State Beach enjoys warm, comfortable conditions that make camping a pleasure most of the year. The Pacific's cooling influence creates perfect beach weather, though winter's rainy season brings dramatic changes when storms roll in, occasionally causing the Santa Clara River to overflow its banks and reshape the landscape.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of ecosystems unfolds around every campsite, where verdant riverbanks give way to windswept sand dunes and mysterious coastal woodlands merge with shimmering marshes. This remarkable convergence of habitats creates a sanctuary for an astonishing array of wildlife, including several endangered species that find refuge in the protected wetlands and pristine beaches that define this extraordinary landscape.
Geological RegionNestled at a rare ecological crossroads where nine distinct habitats converge, McGrath State Beach represents one of California's most biodiverse coastal environments. From pristine sandy beaches and sculpted coastal dunes to the meandering Santa Clara River and its life-giving estuary, the landscape encompasses riparian woodlands thick with native trees, tranquil freshwater marshes teeming with life, and mysterious brackish wetlands where salt and fresh waters mingle in nature's perfect balance.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility is a significant concern at McGrath State Beach Campground. Restroom stalls are too small for wheelchairs, showers are not accessible, and assistance may be required for water spigots and trash disposal. A .2-mile nature trail leading to the Santa Clara River overlook is generally accessible, featuring hardened earth and boardwalk surfaces.
Sites SizeThe campsite configuration is described as either pitching tents in sandy areas or grassy spots. Campsites are noted to be dry and well spread out in a circular pattern with trees or shrubs providing privacy.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer privacy through natural barriers such as trees or shrubs, as noted in user reviews.
Total Campsites174 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites are dry and well spread out in a circular pattern with trees or shrubs providing privacy.
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite may have up to eight people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are arranged in a circular pattern with trees or shrubs providing privacy.
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by phone at (800) 444-7275 or online at www.parks.ca.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampers without reservations can contact the entrance station before 9 a.m.; site availability is not assured.
Cancellation PolicyCampers without reservations who wish to re-register for another night must contact the entrance station before 9 a.m. on the morning they are due out.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
McGrath State Beach Campground is recognized for its beach-related activities, bird-watching opportunities, and proximity to nature trails. It offers a range of outdoor recreational options, but flooding issues have restricted access to certain areas.
Hiking
The campground features a .2-mile nature trail leading to the Santa Clara River overlook. The trail is generally accessible and composed of hardened earth and boardwalk surfaces.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available along two miles of beach, though strong currents and riptides may pose hazards, as swimmers are cautioned.Swimming
Swimming is an option, but swimmers are urged to use caution due to strong currents and riptides.Biking
Bicycles are permitted only on roadways within the park. Specific details about biking trails are not provided.Wildlife viewing
McGrath State Beach is one of California’s best bird-watching areas, with over 200 bird species recorded. The Santa Clara Estuary Natural Preserve provides habitats for both resident and migratory wildlife.Beach activities
Beach-oriented activities include surfing and geocaching. The beach is described as deserted even on weekends, providing a serene environment for visitors.Cultural and Educational Programs
Family programs and guided tours are available, offering educational and cultural experiences. Free descriptive brochures are provided at the entrance station.Winter Activities
Winter recreation opportunities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Specific water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in established fire rings or camp stoves, and are prohibited on the beach.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding is a recurring issue, particularly during the rainy season. Reports of ants, ground squirrels, and seagulls getting into food.
Active alertsMcGrath State Beach is currently closed due to flooding as of 12/13/2024.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 91%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is described as accessible, but assistance may be required for some individuals. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Santa Clara River Estuary and approximately 1/3 mile from the ocean.
Common complaintsFlooding has been noted multiple times. One review mentions rude campground hosts.
HostMixed reviews about campground hosts. One user stated, 'Need to have Debbie and Ralph leave for good before the park closes..Very rude camphost.'
Campground Map
2211 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035
Driving directionsMcGrath State Beach is located five miles south of Ventura off Highway 101 via Harbor Boulevard.
Access is via Harbor Boulevard, which is paved and connects directly to Highway 101. Portions of the park are subject to flooding from the nearby Santa Clara River, which may affect road conditions and accessibility.Nearby places
Ventura (5 miles), Oxnard (7 miles)
Nearby supplies
Grocery store nearby
specifics not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.3
6 reviews
Mcgrath State Beach Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the campground's natural beauty, quiet environment, and proximity to the beach. Complaints mainly relate to accessibility issues, flooding, and rude staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include beautiful sunsets, a quiet and clean environment, proximity to the ocean, and privacy due to well-spread campsites. A user remarked, 'I could hear the ocean from my tent,'...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include flooding that renders portions of the park unusable, accessibility problems with facilities, and reports of rude behavior from camp hosts. One camper noted, 'Need to have Debbie...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations from users include securing food against ants and ground squirrels, avoiding feeding wildlife, and taking advantage of the grocery store nearby for supplies.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Flooding is a recurring issue during the rainy season, restricting access to certain facilities for months. Users describe the winter-spring period as particularly problematic due to soggy grounds.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Pitch a tent right in the sand with a view of the ocean.' - Conspiracy Truth OrMassDelusions. 2. 'Sunny, warm and a bit breezy. Campground mostly empty.' - D.k. K. 3. 'Love camping here!' - Patti...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Available campsites are described as dry and well spread out with natural privacy barriers like shrubs and trees. The dump station is noted to be closed, and one-third of the campground is...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility issues are a recurring theme in user reviews and official descriptions, particularly regarding restroom sizes and showers not being wheelchair accessible.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the campground and day-use areas but are prohibited from the beach. Compliance with leash and control requirements is mandatory.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025