How much does camping cost at New Brighton State Beach Campground?

Camping fees at New Brighton State Beach Campground are $35 - $100/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is New Brighton State Beach Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

New Brighton 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 New Brighton State Beach Campground before I book?

Yes! New Brighton State Beach Campground has 22 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 New Brighton State Beach Campground?

New Brighton State Beach Campground is open Memorial Day to Labor Day.. 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 New Brighton State Beach Campground?

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

How many campsites does New Brighton State Beach Campground have?

New Brighton State Beach Campground has 111 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at New Brighton State Beach Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at New Brighton 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 New Brighton State Beach Campground?

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

What activities can I do at New Brighton State Beach Campground?

Popular activities at New Brighton 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.

New Brighton State Beach Campground

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

Fire policies at New Brighton State Beach Campground: Fires must be contained in state-provided fire rings. Beach fires are seasonally permitted in designated rings.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.52

137 reviews

1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010

Top 15% in CASummer

Scenic Views

Quick Facts

138 ft

Price

$35 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

111 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

138 ft

Price

$35 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

111 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

New Brighton State Beach Campground

$35.00 - $100.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees include $35 for standard campsites, $50 for bus parking (10-24 passengers), $100 for bus parking (25+ passengers), and $10 for vehicle day-use....

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup Site Fee$35.00

Get Notified When Available

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Reserve California

Provider

(831) 464-6329SCD.specialevents@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010

New Brighton State Beach Campground

1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010

Nearby places

Capitola (1 mile, 5 minutes), Santa Cruz (6.5 miles, 15 minutes), Watsonville (15 miles, 25 minutes)

Nearby supplies

AJ's Market (0.5 miles, 3 minutes), Safeway (1 mile, 5 minutes), and several stores in Capitola Village.

Weather at New Brighton State Beach Campground

Current alert: Accessibility may be restricted during fall/winter due to weather-related closures.

Best Time to Camp at New Brighton State Beach Campground

Summer brings the most reliable beach weather, with daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F and cool evenings in the 50s. Morning coastal fog (especially the "June Gloom" of early summer) usually burns off by midday. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 41°F, keeping the beach walkable year-round. Expect higher weekend crowds and longer daylight for ocean activities during summer months.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in CA

Most reliable beach weather, ranger programs and peak season (Memorial Day–Labor Day).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, but the fall/winter season may cause closures due to inclement weather.

About New Brighton State Beach Campground

New Brighton State Beach Campground sits on forested bluffs above Monterey Bay, with 111 campsites including 11 full-hookup RV sites. Wooden stairs descend from the clifftop to sandy beaches below. Fees range from $35 to $100 per night. The campground includes a visitor center, communal campfire area, and accessible facilities throughout.

New Brighton State Beach Campground provides diverse camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and premium oceanfront locations. Group camping is available for larger parties.

Historical Significance

The Ohlone people inhabited this coastline for thousands of years before European contact. In the 19th century, Chinese fishing families established a village here, giving the area its historical name "China Beach." Their boats harvested the bay's marine resources until the community eventually dispersed. Interpretive signs throughout the campground mark these cultural legacies.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable beach weather, with daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F and cool evenings in the 50s. Morning coastal fog (especially the "June Gloom" of early summer) usually burns off by midday. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 41°F, keeping the beach walkable year-round. Expect higher weekend crowds and longer daylight for ocean activities during summer months.

ElevationYour camping adventure unfolds at the perfect intersection of land and sea, where sea-level camping means you're never more than a few steps from sand between your toes. The campground's unique position atop coastal bluffs provides the best of both worlds—elevated vistas for breathtaking ocean panoramas while maintaining easy access to the beach below for those spontaneous midnight strolls or early morning surf sessions.

Natural Features and SceneryMonterey pines and cypress trees shade the campground's bluff at 138 feet elevation, while sandstone cliffs reveal millions of years of coastal geology in their layered faces. Below, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary protects one of the world's most diverse marine ecosystems. Dolphins surface offshore, sea lions haul out on nearby rocks, and pelicans and cormorants move through in seasonal migrations. The cliffs provide some shelter from coastal winds while framing views across the bay.

Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, New Brighton showcases California's stunning coastal geology at its finest. The campground's forested bluffs reveal millions of years of Earth's history in their sandstone layers, while below, the sanctuary's protected waters teem with marine life in one of the world's most diverse underwater ecosystems. These ancient cliffs, carved by countless tides and storms, create a dramatic backdrop for your camping experience while providing shelter from coastal winds and framing unforgettable views of one of California's most pristine stretches of coastline.

Scenic ViewsSweeping views of Monterey Bay are available from many premium campsites. Bluff-top locations offer particularly stunning ocean vistas.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available; accommodations are limited to campsites and RV spaces.

Programs & ActivitiesThe visitor center offers educational exhibits on Pacific wildlife migrations and Chinese immigrant contributions to the area. Ranger-led programs and Junior Ranger activities are available during summer.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy per campsite is eight people.

Groups

Group sites accommodate larger parties, but specific details on capacity or amenities are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground spreads across multiple loops with pad lengths from 24 to 27 feet. Reviewers mention steep and uneven terrain in some areas. Privacy between sites is limited except for the premium oceanfront locations, which have more space and separation.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited. Sites are often fully booked online, especially during peak season.

Cancellation PolicyRefunds for unused days are possible for early checkout, but must be coordinated at the entrance station.

AccessibilityAccessible features include beach wheelchairs, ADA-compliant restroom and shower facilities, and designated accessible campsites such as #27, #55, #77, #80, #95, and #107. Accessible site #55 includes electricity and water hookups.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size but generally accommodate one RV or trailer and up to eight people. Pad lengths range from 24 to 27 feet.

PrivacyUser reviews indicate limited privacy between campsites, with exceptions for premium oceanfront sites which are larger and more secluded.

Total Campsites111 campsites

Recommended SitesSites #88 and #73 feature exceptional ocean views. Lower numbered sites near the road may experience noise.

Best CampsitesSites #20, #21, #22, #23, #59, #62, #70, #73, #75, #76, #78, #79, #82, #87, and #88 receive consistent praise in reviews. Premium oceanfront sites offer better privacy and views than interior loops, though they book quickly. Most campsites have limited screening from neighbors except for these larger bluff-facing spots.

Need help booking New Brighton State Beach Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveCalifornia Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

CAMPING is available for tents and RVs. There are over 100 campsites with 11 RV hookup sites. No hike-in campsites are available.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at New Brighton State Beach Campground

Activities at New Brighton State Beach include hiking, swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. Official sources mention ranger-led programs, geocaching, and Pacific wildlife migration exhibits in the visitor center during summer. User reviews highlight biking opportunities and oceanfront views.

Hiking4.0/5

Bluff-top hiking trails noted as well-maintained and family-friendly with ocean views.

Biking4.0/5Top 13% in California

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Sea lions, dolphins and migrating whales present; adjacent to Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

Beach activities4.0/5Top 24% in California

Direct access to sandy beaches via wooden stairs; beachcombing and sunbathing noted.

Fishing3.5/5

Fishing allowed from pier; common catches include rock crabs; DFW limits apply.

Swimming3.5/5

Swimming popular in warm months on the sandy beach; conditions vary by season.

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Sweeping ocean vistas, sandstone cliffs and marine wildlife create strong photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStorm recovery remains a challenge due to damage caused by the 2023 winter storms. Sandstone cliffs are unstable, and climbing is prohibited.

Food Storage RequiredFood lockers are standard at each campsite to protect wildlife and provide convenience.

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFires must be contained in state-provided fire rings. Beach fires are seasonally permitted in designated rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM. Generators can only be used from 10 AM to 8 PM.

Emergency ServicesSanta Cruz Medical Foundation, 6.8 miles (15 minutes); Capitola Police Department, 1.5 miles (5 minutes); Ranger Station within park.

Trash & RecyclingDetails about trash and recycling facilities are not specifically provided, but standard services are assumed based on the campground description.

Water FeaturesDirect access to Monterey Bay and sandy beach areas. Trails lead down from the bluffs to the shore.

Camp HostCamp hosts are available on-site and sell firewood. Hosts may also assist with accessibility services such as beach wheelchairs.

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

137 reviews

Top-Rated

New Brighton State Beach Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are mixed, with positive highlights focusing on the oceanfront views, spacious campsites, and proximity to local attractions like Capitola Village. Complaints often mention noise from nearby roads, outdated facilities, and issues with shower access.

Review Summaries

Based on 137 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciate the beautiful ocean views, quiet atmosphere (depending on location), and accessibility to biking and hiking trails. Some campers praised the ranger-led programs and overall...

Based on 137 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback highlights steep or uneven site terrain, freeway noise, and inconvenience with coin-operated shower facilities. Some reviewers criticized the lack of privacy at standard campsites...

Based on 137 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Best campsites include #20, #21, #22, #23, #59, #70, #73, #75, #76, #78, #79, #82, #87, and #88 for views and space. Some sites, such as #73, offer direct bluff-top ocean views.

Based on 137 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bikes for local excursions and quarters for showers. Premium oceanfront sites are recommended for privacy and views. Early booking is advised due to high demand.

Based on 137 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Positive reviews often mention the warm summer weather and ranger-led programs, while winter reviews include complaints about inclimate weather and potential park closures.

Based on 137 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Our site had fire pit, picnic table and food locker, all in good condition." (Christian Nuñez Alvarez) "Bring your bikes! We rode down into Capitola Village a few times to get dinner and just hang...

Based on 137 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites like #55 are praised for their electricity and water hookups. Accessible restrooms and showers are available, and beach wheelchairs can be borrowed.

Based on 137 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed on leashes. However, they are not permitted on fire roads or trails. Some users mention the importance of cleaning up after pets.

Based on 137 reviews

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New Brighton State Beach Campground

$35.00 - $100.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees include $35 for standard campsites, $50 for bus parking (10-24 passengers), $100 for bus parking (25+ passengers), and $10 for vehicle day-use....

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup 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

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve California

Provider

(831) 464-6329SCD.specialevents@parks.ca.gov

Go if

Families and casual bikers who snag sites #73, #75, or #82 early get bluff-top ocean views, easy pedaling distance to Capitola Village, and pier fishing without a license. Summer is the reliable window before fog and crowds thin out.

Skip if

Freeway noise bleeds into most standard sites after dark, coin-operated showers require quarters the camp store doesn't always stock, and pad lengths top out at 27 feet, rigs longer than that won't fit the hookup loops comfortably.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

New Brighton State Beach Group Campground

4.5

(137)

New Brighton State Beach Group Campground

1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010

New Brighton State Beach Group Campground sits in Monterey cypress groves above the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, a short walk from bluffs overlooking sandy beaches. The 111-site campground includes group sites that accommodate up to 25 people each, running $185 per night. Premium oceanfront sites offer privacy and views, while standard sites are more open.