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

Camping fees at New Brighton State Beach Group Campground range from $185/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 Group Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

New Brighton State Beach Group 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 Group Campground before I book?

Yes! New Brighton State Beach Group Campground has 17 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 Group Campground?

New Brighton State Beach Group Campground is open Memorial Day to Labor Day is the peak season.. 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 Group Campground?

Yes, New Brighton State Beach Group 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 Group Campground have?

New Brighton State Beach Group 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 Group Campground?

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

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

New Brighton State Beach Group Campground

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

Fire policies at New Brighton State Beach Group Campground: Fires allowed only in designated fire rings. Beach bonfires permitted seasonally in provided rings.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

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

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

4.52

137 reviews

1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010

Top 16% in CASummer

Scenic Views

Featured in:Group Camping California Beach Camping California Group Camping

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

144 ft

Price

$185/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

111 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

144 ft

Price

$185/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

111 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

New Brighton State Beach Group Campground

$185.00 - $185.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group site fees are $185 per night. Additional fees include $8.25 reservation fee per booking.

Group Site Fee$185.00

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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 Group Campground

1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010

Nearby places

Capitola: 1 mile, Santa Cruz: 5 miles, Aptos: 3 miles

Nearby supplies

Grocery stores and supplies are available in Capitola, approximately 1 mile away.

Weather at New Brighton State Beach Group Campground

Current alert: No current active alerts as of the latest check on 12/13/2024.

Best Time to Camp at New Brighton State Beach Group Campground

Summer brings the warmest weather, with daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s and evenings in the 50s-60s. This is peak season for swimming, beach activities, and evening campfires, though morning fog often lingers and the water stays chilly year-round. Expect crowds on summer weekends and holiday weeks. The mild coastal climate makes camping viable in other seasons, with fewer visitors during spring and fall.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in CA

Warmest weather, peak season for swimming, beach activity, and ranger programs (Memorial-Labor Day).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day is the peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round for reservations.

About New Brighton State Beach Group Campground

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.

The campground accommodates group camping with three designated sites nestled in groves of Monterey cypress trees on the southern end of the campground. While the group sites themselves are beautifully shaded by the forest canopy, they are just a short walk from the dramatic bluffs that offer spectacular ocean views and access to the trail leading down to the beach below.

Historical Significance

The Ohlone people lived along this coast for thousands of years before European contact. In the 1870s, Chinese fishing communities established operations on these shores. The campground's name references Brighton, England's seaside resort.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the warmest weather, with daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s and evenings in the 50s-60s. This is peak season for swimming, beach activities, and evening campfires, though morning fog often lingers and the water stays chilly year-round. Expect crowds on summer weekends and holiday weeks. The mild coastal climate makes camping viable in other seasons, with fewer visitors during spring and fall.

Elevationnull

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies marine terraces at 144 feet elevation, where bluffs drop to sandy beaches along Monterey Bay. Monterey cypress and pine provide shade between sites, with premium locations framing direct ocean views. The bay itself is part of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, one of the most biologically diverse marine environments on the coast. Fog is common in the mornings.

Geological RegionDramatically positioned along the world-renowned Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, the campground sits atop ancient marine terraces where millennia of geological forces have sculpted spectacular bluffs that rise majestically from sandy beaches below. This protected sanctuary teems with marine life, making it one of the most biologically diverse marine environments on Earth.

Scenic ViewsSweeping ocean views of Monterey Bay from bluff-top sites. Sunrise and sunset views are especially notable.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges are available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThe Pacific Migrations Visitor Center offers interpretive exhibits and ranger-led programs during the summer.

Best Campsites

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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 of 25 people per group site.

Groups

Group campsites such as #G001, #G002, and #G003 accommodate up to 25 people and six vehicles. Each site includes picnic tables, fire rings, and ADA-accessible shared bathrooms and showers.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutGroup sites are arranged in a bluff-top configuration with cypress and pine trees between them. Site pad lengths range from 32 to 38 feet. Premium locations offer more privacy and shade, while standard areas are more exposed. Some sites slope steeply.

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

Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available for reservation online; walk-up availability not clearly stated.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are in line with ReserveCalifornia guidelines. $8.25 reservation fee is non-refundable.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites (#27, #77, #80, #95, and #107) and ADA-compliant restrooms and showers are available. Beach wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge, but reservations are recommended.

Site SizeSite pad lengths are detailed in the source (e.g., 32-38 feet).

PrivacyVaried privacy levels; premium sites offer more privacy and ocean views, while standard sites are described as open and less secluded. Direct quote: 'Lots of trees and greenery between you and your neighbor. The oceanfront sights are the best.

Total Campsites111 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose group sites for larger gatherings. Bluff-top sites offer the best views.

Best CampsitesOceanfront sites are the most spacious and can fit several tents plus an RV or trailer, with the best views and more privacy. Standard sites are open with less seclusion. Check site slopes before booking, as some campsites sit on steep terrain that complicates setup.

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Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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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

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers activities such as hiking, beach walking, fishing, and group programs. The proximity to Capitola Village allows for additional recreational options.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCoastal erosion along bluffs. Poison oak present on trails.

Food Storage RequiredFood lockers available at group sites, suitable for bear-safe storage.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

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 allowed only in designated fire rings. Beach bonfires permitted seasonally in provided rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM. Generators allowed between 10 AM and 8 PM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available in Capitola, approximately 1 mile away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are provided, but specific details about their locations or schedules are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary with direct beach access.

Camp HostCamp host available for assistance and firewood sales.

Cell CoverageNo explicit mention of cell phone service quality or provider coverage in the authoritative source or user reviews.

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 Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews are mixed, with positive highlights focusing on ocean views, spacious campsites, and proximity to Capitola Village. Common complaints include issues with the coin-operated showers and the steep slopes of certain campsites.

Review Summaries

Based on 137 reviews

What Campers Love

Spacious campsites with privacy at premium locations, breathtaking ocean views, clean facilities, and engaging ranger-led programs. 'The oceanfront sights are the best as they are huge and can...

Based on 137 reviews

Common Concerns

Coin-operated showers and lack of change availability, steep or uneven campsite slopes, freeway noise at certain locations, and outdated facilities. 'Our site was on a very steep slope and we had a...

Based on 137 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Premium sites with ocean views, such as #88, are highly recommended. Site-specific complaints focused on steep slopes and lack of privacy at some standard sites.

Based on 137 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring quarters for showers, check site slopes before booking, and book premium sites for better views and privacy. 'Be sure to try AJs Market up the street and Brusters Ice Cream by the Safeway.'

Based on 137 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Positive reviews during summer highlight the beauty of the ocean views and engaging ranger programs. Winter reviews mention potential for inclement weather and quieter camping conditions.

Based on 137 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Kids rode bikes around with no problems and plenty of other kids.' 'Bring your bikes! We rode down into Capitola Village a few times to get dinner and just hang out.' 'The oceanfront sights are the...

Based on 137 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites (#27, #77, #80, #95, and #107) include electricity and water hookups. Restrooms and showers are ADA-compliant. Beach wheelchairs are available.

Based on 137 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Some reviews appreciate the pet-friendly policy. 'Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under human control at all times.'

Based on 137 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Groups of up to 25 who can snag a premium ocean-view site like #88 will get spacious pads, cypress shade, marine wildlife visible from camp, and an easy bike ride down to Capitola for dinner. Pier fishing needs no license.

Skip if

Steep site slopes are a real problem at standard locations, some sites catch freeway noise, and the coin-operated showers require quarters nobody warns you to bring. Groups needing electric hookups won't find them here.

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4.5

(137)

New Brighton State Beach Campground

1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010

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.