Circle X Ranch Group Campground

Star0
1 review
12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, CA, 90265, USA

Quick Facts

1,703 ft

Price

$35 - $125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

75 campsites

Season

Circle X Ranch Group...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Circle X Ranch Group Campground
$35.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation Use Fees: $35 per night for 10-30 people; $75 per night for 31-50 people; $125 per night for 51-75 people.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
805-370-2301samo_interpretation@nps.gov
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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 1 reviews

28 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacyhiking

"Circle X Ranch Group Campground is noted for its secluded setting and scenic beauty, with an average campground-specific sentiment rating of 5.0. However, due to the indefinite closure, reviews primarily focus on past experiences."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, CA, 90265, USA

Circle X Ranch Group Campground

12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, CA, 90265, USA

Driving directionsPacific Coast Highway to Yerba Buena Road. Turn inland; go 5.4 miles to Circle X Ranch contact station.
Located 5.4 miles inland from Pacific Coast Highway via Yerba Buena Road. Road conditions were not discussed.
Nearby places
Malibu (short drive away), Los Angeles (less than two hours by car)
Nearby supplies
Null

Best Time to Camp at Circle X Ranch Group Campground

The Santa Monica Mountains cast their Mediterranean spell over Circle X Ranch throughout the year, offering sun-drenched summers perfect for stargazing and mild winters when gentle rains transform the hillsides into verdant wonderlands. Cool mountain breezes provide natural air conditioning even during warmer months, while winter brings refreshing temperatures accompanied by moderate winds and occasional rainfall that awakens the dormant chaparral.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Sun-drenched summers good for stargazing but can be hot; hiking more challenging in heat.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Mild Mediterranean fall weather makes hiking and viewing favorable.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring likely strong for wildflowers and pleasant hiking in Mediterranean ecosystem.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Mild, wet winters can bring muddy trails; still generally mild compared to high mountains.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Circle X Ranch Group Campground is closed until further notice. No estimated reopening date.
  • Current Alerts: Circle X Ranch Group Campground is closed indefinitely.

About Circle X Ranch Group Campground

Hidden within the rolling peaks of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, Circle X Ranch Group Campground beckons adventurers seeking a secluded mountain escape. This intimate group camping destination sits beneath sweeping Mediterranean coastal landscapes, where morning mists reveal stunning vistas and nearby trails lead to iconic landmarks like the towering Sandstone Peak and the mystical Grotto. Though currently closed indefinitely, this cherished campground remains a testament to the wild beauty of Southern California's coastal mountains.
Circle X Ranch Group Campground exclusively offers group tent camping, suitable for large groups of up to 75 people, and does not support RVs or individual tent sites.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in at Ranger Station before heading to campsite.
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Maximum stay: 14 nights

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Water hookups
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Circle X Ranch Group Campground offers a range of recreational opportunities in a Mediterranean coastal ecosystem. Activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, climbing, and picnicking, with access to trails like the Grotto Trail and views of Sandstone Peak.
HikingNumerous trails are available, including the Grotto Trail, a 3.5-mile round trip with moderate to strenuous terrain. The trail goes downhill to the West Fork of the Arroyo Sequit and requires an uphill return. 'The Grotto area is rugged terrain; be careful and wear appropriate hiking attire.'
ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
Wildlife viewingThe campground provides opportunities for wildlife viewing in its unique Mediterranean coastal ecosystem. Specific species are not detailed, but the environment includes sage scrub and chaparral.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include poison oak, ticks, rattlesnakes, and bees. Always carry sufficient water as stream water is unsafe for drinking.
Active Alertsclosed until further notice. | Circle X Ranch Group Campground is closed indefinitely.

Weather at Circle X Ranch Group Campground

Reviews

0.0
1 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Circle X Ranch Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Circle X Ranch Group Campground is noted for its secluded setting and scenic beauty, with an average campground-specific sentiment rating of 5.0. However, due to the indefinite closure, reviews primarily focus on past experiences.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate its privacy, scenic hiking trails, and proximity to natural landmarks such as Sandstone Peak and the Grotto. 'Listen to coyote songs at night' was highlighted as a memorable...
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Based on 1 reviews

Common Concerns

The campground is currently closed indefinitely, leading to visitor disappointment. Wood fires are prohibited, and the terrain is rugged, which may pose challenges for some.
Based on 1 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing plenty of food and water and preparing for variable weather conditions. Hiking attire is advised due to the rugged terrain, especially on trails like the Grotto Trail.
Based on 1 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The Mediterranean ecosystem offers hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, which influences the best times to visit. Summer hiking might be more challenging due to heat, while winter could bring...
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Based on 1 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'In the 70’s this was the location of the St Vincent DePaul ranch camp (Circle J Ranch). Fond memories to this day.' - John Sampson. 2. 'Listen to coyote songs at night' - Official Description. 3....
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Based on 1 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The campground features only one group site, making specific site reviews irrelevant.
Based on 1 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews or data specifically addressing accessibility features are provided.
Based on 1 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed on leashes of 6 feet maximum, although they are not permitted on the Grotto Trail.
Based on 1 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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