How much does camping cost at Mcgrath State Beach Campground?

Camping fees at Mcgrath State Beach Campground are $10 - $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mcgrath State Beach Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Mcgrath State Beach Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Mcgrath State Beach Campground before I book?

Yes! Mcgrath State Beach Campground has 11 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Mcgrath State Beach Campground?

Mcgrath State Beach Campground is open null. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Mcgrath State Beach Campground?

Yes, Mcgrath State Beach Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Mcgrath State Beach Campground have?

Mcgrath State Beach Campground has 174 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Mcgrath State Beach Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Mcgrath State Beach Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Mcgrath State Beach Campground?

Mcgrath State Beach Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Mcgrath State Beach Campground?

Popular activities at Mcgrath State Beach Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Mcgrath State Beach Campground?

Fire policies at Mcgrath State Beach Campground: Fires are allowed only in established fire rings or camp stoves, and are prohibited on the beach.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.95

53 reviews

2211 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035

Featured in:Camping Near Channel Islands National Park

Quick Facts

20 ft

Price

$10 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

174 campsites

Season

null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

20 ft

Price

$10 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

174 campsites

Season

null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Mcgrath State Beach Campground

$10.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Park fees are due upon entry, covering one vehicle. Additional fees apply for extra vehicles.

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

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Provider

805-654-4744null

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

2211 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035

Mcgrath State Beach Campground

2211 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035

Nearby places

Ventura (5 miles), Oxnard (7 miles)

Nearby supplies

Grocery store nearby

specifics not provided.

Weather at Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Current alert: McGrath State Beach is currently closed due to flooding as of 12/13/2024.

Best Time to Camp at Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Summer delivers the most reliable beach weather: daytime highs around 70-80°F with cool ocean breezes, nights in the mid-50s to mid-60s. It's peak season for swimming, shoreline fishing, and biking the coast. Migratory bird activity stays strong into early summer. Reserve ahead for weekends and holidays. Winter brings Southern California's rainy season and dramatic change. Storms roll in off the Pacific, and the Santa Clara River occasionally overflows its banks, flooding low-lying campsites and reshaping the river mouth. Spring and fall offer sunny skies, lighter crowds, and active wildlife without the summer heat.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Shoulder season likely good for birding and fewer crowds; less flooding than winter.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: null

About Mcgrath State Beach Campground

McGrath State Beach Campground sits where the Santa Clara River empties into the Pacific, 174 sites spread across nine converging habitats at 20 feet elevation. Sites run $10-35 per night and fill quickly summer weekends. You can hear the ocean from your tent, though winter storms occasionally flood portions of the campground when the river swells.

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 Significance

The campground opened in 1964, shortly after McGrath State Beach was established. For six decades it's served as a gateway to one of California's most biodiverse coastal stretches, drawing families and birders to the protected wetlands and river estuary.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the most reliable beach weather: daytime highs around 70-80°F with cool ocean breezes, nights in the mid-50s to mid-60s. It's peak season for swimming, shoreline fishing, and biking the coast. Migratory bird activity stays strong into early summer. Reserve ahead for weekends and holidays. Winter brings Southern California's rainy season and dramatic change. Storms roll in off the Pacific, and the Santa Clara River occasionally overflows its banks, flooding low-lying campsites and reshaping the river mouth. Spring and fall offer sunny skies, lighter crowds, and active wildlife without the summer heat.

Elevationnull

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a rare ecological crossroads: sandy beaches meet coastal dunes, the Santa Clara River winds through riparian woodlands thick with native trees, and freshwater marshes transition to brackish wetlands where salt and fresh waters mix. This convergence creates habitat for endangered species and draws birders tracking migrations through the protected wetlands. Windswept dunes separate the campsites from the shoreline. The landscape shifts with the seasons. Winter storms reshape the river mouth and dunes. Summer reveals stable sandbars and calm estuary waters teeming with life.

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.

Scenic ViewsBeautiful sunsets and ocean views are mentioned in user reviews. Some campsites allow hearing the waves from tents.

Lodging & AccommodationsDetails about hotel-style lodging are not mentioned.

Programs & ActivitiesFamily programs and guided tours are available, offering educational and cultural experiences. Free descriptive brochures are provided at the entrance station.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites circle in loops, well spaced, with trees and shrubs between them. You'll pitch on sand or grass depending on which site you draw. The layout stays dry most of the year but floods during heavy winter rains.

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.

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.

Site 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.

PrivacyCampsites offer privacy through natural barriers such as trees or shrubs, as noted in user reviews.

Total Campsites174 campsites

Recommended SitesCampsites are dry and well spread out in a circular pattern with trees or shrubs providing privacy.

Best Campsitesnull

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

McGrath State Beach Campground offers a variety of essential amenities, though it has had issues with flooding and limited access to some facilities. User reviews frequently highlight available services such as showers, restrooms, and potable water, but these facilities have varying degrees of accessibility and functionality. Official sources confirm that portions of the campground are subject to periodic flooding, which has adversely affected some amenities.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Firewood available

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Mcgrath State Beach Campground

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.

Wildlife viewing5.0/5Top 1% in California

One of California's best bird-watching areas; 200+ bird species in estuary/marsh.

Beach activities4.0/5Top 24% in California

Sandy beaches with surfing, deserted stretches, ocean views and noted sunsets.

Hiking3.0/5

Contains a 0.2-mile nature trail to a Santa Clara River overlook; generally accessible.

Fishing3.0/5

Fishing along two miles of beach, but strong currents and riptides pose hazards.

Biking3.0/5

Bicycles allowed only on park roadways; no dedicated biking trails mentioned.

Swimming2.0/5

Swimming possible but users are cautioned due to strong currents and riptides.

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Sunsets, ocean views, varied habitats and abundant birdlife provide strong photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFlooding is a recurring issue, particularly during the rainy season. Reports of ants, ground squirrels, and seagulls getting into food.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed only in established fire rings or camp stoves, and are prohibited on the beach.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal is described as accessible, but assistance may be required for some individuals. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesLocated near the Santa Clara River Estuary and approximately 1/3 mile from the ocean.

Camp HostMixed reviews about campground hosts. One user stated, 'Need to have Debbie and Ralph leave for good before the park closes..Very rude camphost.'

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

53 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Mcgrath State Beach Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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 53 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 53 reviews

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 53 reviews

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 53 reviews

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 53 reviews

Seasonal 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 53 reviews

Camper 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 53 reviews

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 53 reviews

Pet-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 53 reviews

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Mcgrath State Beach Campground

$10.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Park fees are due upon entry, covering one vehicle. Additional fees apply for extra vehicles.

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve California

Provider

805-654-4744null

Go if

Birders and beach campers who visit in summer get the best version of this place: 70s weather, 200+ bird species in the Santa Clara Estuary, two miles of uncrowded shoreline, and sites with real shrub privacy for $35 or less.

Skip if

Wheelchair users will find the restrooms and showers inaccessible, the dump station has been closed, one specific host pair drew repeated complaints about rudeness, and winter flooding has shut down a third or more of the sites, including a full closure right now.

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Emma Wood State Beach Group Campground

Emma Wood State Beach Group Campground, Highway 101, Ventura, CA 93001

Emma Wood State Beach Group Campground sits right on the Pacific coast at the Ventura River mouth, 90 sites spread between group tent areas and RV spaces. Groups up to 30 people can reserve sites with fire rings, picnic tables, flush toilets, and showers. Fees run $130-360 per night. The beach is a three-minute walk from most campsites. Highway 101 runs close enough that traffic noise is constant.

Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Ask Camp Sage about Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Best Time to Camp at Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Planning Tips

About Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Mcgrath State Beach Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

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Best Time to Camp at Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Mcgrath State Beach Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Mcgrath State Beach Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews