How much does camping cost at Sycamore Campground?

Camping fees at Sycamore Campground range from $45/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Sycamore Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Sycamore 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 Sycamore Campground before I book?

Yes! Sycamore Campground has 12 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 Sycamore Campground?

Sycamore Campground is open Peak season typically includes summer months (May through September).. 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 Sycamore Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Sycamore Campground?

Fire policies at Sycamore Campground: Fires are allowed in designated fire rings, subject to daily fire level restrictions.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Sycamore Campground have?

Sycamore Campground has 56 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Sycamore Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Sycamore 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 Sycamore Campground?

Sycamore 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 Sycamore Campground?

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

Sycamore Campground

4.52

416 reviews

9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

Top 11% in CAFall

Great Hiking

Featured in:Beach Camping California#3 Camping Near Channel Islands National Park#3 Beach Camping

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

36 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

56 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

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

36 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

56 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Sycamore Campground

$45.00 - $45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite fees are $45 per night, applicable to standard sites. Additional reservation fee of $8.25 applies. Senior discounts and disability discounts...

Standard Site Fee$45.00

Premium Site Fee$50.00

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Reserve California

Provider

310-457-8144angelescamphost@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

Sycamore Campground

9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

Nearby places

Oxnard (15 miles), Santa Monica (30 miles), Ventura (approximately 25 miles)

Nearby supplies

Nearest locations for supplies include Oxnard and Ventura for groceries, camping equipment, and fuel. No direct camp store available at Sycamore Canyon Campground, although firewood and shower tokens are sold onsite.

Weather at Sycamore Campground

Current alerts(1)

Due to high tides, sea level rise and tidal surges, Thornhill Broome Beach campground is subject to frequent flooding. Please check with the park upon arrival about current tidal concerns.

Best Time to Camp at Sycamore Campground

Fall delivers the sweet spot: mid-60s to low-80s during the day, crisp evenings, and thinner crowds after Labor Day. Trails clear up once summer's marine layer breaks. The ocean stays swimmable into October. Summer brings reliable sun and the most competition for sites. Winter rains green up the canyon but can make tent camping soggy. Watch for Santa Ana wind advisories in fall, especially if there's wildfire risk nearby. Gusty offshore winds can rip through the canyon hard enough to flatten poorly staked tents.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 11% in CA

Described as the 'sweet spot': milder temps, thinner crowds, clearer trails after marine layer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season typically includes summer months (May through September).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Sycamore Canyon Campground is open year-round.

About Sycamore Campground

Sycamore Campground sits in a coastal canyon at Point Mugu State Park, where sycamores and oaks fill the valley floor just across Highway 1 from the beach. The 56 sites run $45/night and fill quickly in summer. An underpass connects camp to the ocean, putting surf and sand less than a 10-minute walk from your tent.

Sycamore Canyon Campground provides options for tent camping, small trailer camping, and RV camping, though reviews indicate it is better suited for tent campers ('If you are a tent Camper this campground is probably great. For anyone in an RV I would suggest looking elsewhere').

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the sweet spot: mid-60s to low-80s during the day, crisp evenings, and thinner crowds after Labor Day. Trails clear up once summer's marine layer breaks. The ocean stays swimmable into October. Summer brings reliable sun and the most competition for sites. Winter rains green up the canyon but can make tent camping soggy. Watch for Santa Ana wind advisories in fall, especially if there's wildfire risk nearby. Gusty offshore winds can rip through the canyon hard enough to flatten poorly staked tents.

Natural Features and SceneryMature sycamores shade much of the canyon floor, their mottled bark and broad leaves filtering the light above closely spaced sites. Hillsides thick with coastal sage and chaparral rise on both sides. Deer appear at dawn and dusk. Ground squirrels work the campsites during the day. The beach across Highway 1 has tide pools, surf breaks, and long sunset views over the Pacific. Elevation sits at 36 feet, so marine layer often lingers through morning before burning off by afternoon.

Geological RegionPositioned in the far western reaches of the Santa Monica Mountains, the campground showcases the dramatic meeting point of mountain and sea. This unique geological setting features weathered peaks and rolling hills carved by centuries of wind and water, creating a landscape of rugged beauty. Ancient valleys dotted with mature sycamores and coastal oaks flow toward the ocean, while the nearby shoreline reveals the constant dialogue between land and sea through its sculpted cliffs and sandy coves.

Scenic Views“You can hear the waves crashing at night.” Scenic views of the ocean and mountains are accessible via trails.

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 15 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 guests per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutOne-way loop with sites packed close together. Tent pads range from 5x5 feet up to 15x15. RV spots handle rigs up to 31 feet, though maneuvering the tight turns takes patience.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve California online or by calling 1-800-444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available for walk-up reservations; checking early in the morning is advised.

Cancellation PolicyCancelations must comply with Reserve California policies. Refunds may have restrictions.

AccessibilityADA accessible features include shower stalls and bathrooms, though the extent of accessibility beyond these facilities is unclear.

Site SizeVaries by site. Tent pad sizes range from 5x5 feet up to 15x15 feet. RV pad lengths generally accommodate up to 31 feet.

PrivacyPrivacy is limited as campsites are described as small and close together. Reviews describe varying experiences ('Sites are close together, and you don't get much privacy.')

Total Campsites56 campsites

Recommended SitesSites 41 and over provide easier access for larger trailers. Sites closer to hosts are recommended for quieter stays.

Best CampsitesSites 11 through 17 get mentioned for decent shade and bathroom proximity. Sites 29, 30, and 45 also show up in reviews as solid picks. The tradeoff: shade often means tighter spacing and less privacy, since the sycamores cluster where the canyon narrows.

Need help booking Sycamore Campground?

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Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The maximum combined length for vehicles and trailers at Thornhill Broome Campground is 31 feet. The total lengh of the towing vehicle + trailer + hitch/tongue may not exceed 31 feet. Visitors with vehicles AND trailers exceeding a combined total lengh of 31 feet will be denied entry. Refunds will not be issued for camping and/or parking fees.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Point Mugu State Park and Sycamore Canyon Campground offer diverse recreational activities for campers. Hiking is a major draw with over 70 miles of trails, including nearby hikes like Mugu Peak Trail (moderate) and Scenic and Overlook Trails Loop (easy). Additional activities include biking, beach access, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking. Swimming is possible at the beach, though conditions vary ('Waves were small, but water was rough, picking up a lot of sand in the waves'). Wildlife viewing features species such as deer and marine life ('Listened closely at night and you can hear the waves crashing!'). Cultural and educational programs are not explicitly available.

Hiking

Hiking opportunities are abundant, with well-maintained trails leading to scenic views. Popular trails include Mugu Peak Trail and Scenic and Overlook Trails Loop. Reviews highlight accessibility from the campground ('Lots of trails to enjoy the scenery') and diverse terrain with some creek crossings ('Nice hikes thru Sycamore Canyon. During our visit the creek crossing trail at several places, were running, knee-deep and moderate speed').

Swimming

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes and poison oak are prevalent. Flooding can occur during rainstorms. High tides can make beach trails inaccessible.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

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 are allowed in designated fire rings, subject to daily fire level restrictions.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced but inconsistently observed.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include hospitals in Oxnard and Ventura, as well as local ranger stations. Police and fire services are available within Los Angeles County.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling bins are available, though reviews mention occasional overflow issues ('The trash bins are overflowing').

Water FeaturesCampground is near Sycamore Creek and the Pacific Ocean. Beach access is available via an underpass.

Camp HostCampground hosts John and Christine are available with basic items for sale and provide assistance with reservations.

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

4.5

416 reviews

Top-Rated

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

Mixed reviews highlight the campground's pros and cons. Positive aspects include proximity to the beach, scenic views, clean bathrooms (in some cases), and friendly staff. Negative reviews note overcrowding, noise, broken amenities, and limited enforcement of quiet hours. Privacy is limited, and some sites are small and closely packed.

Review Summaries

Based on 416 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests praise the scenic location, proximity to the beach, clean bathrooms (in some cases), and hot showers. Wildlife sightings and access to hiking trails also receive positive mentions. 'Bathrooms...

Based on 416 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints focus on noise levels, lack of privacy, overcrowding, broken showers, and inconsistent maintenance. 'Tent limits (if there are any) were not enforced.' 'Worst campground imaginable - no...

Based on 416 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Highly recommended sites include 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 29, 30, and 45 for their privacy and proximity to amenities. Site 45 is praised for its shade ('Our site was 45 and it had shade all day')....

Based on 416 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Plan visits during off-peak times for quieter experiences. Check weather before tent camping and bring bug spray to avoid mosquito issues ('the insane! number! of! mosquitoes!'). Carefully select...

Based on 416 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are crowded and noisy, while late fall and early spring offer quieter experiences. Mosquito populations and issues with maintenance are more pronounced during warmer months.

Based on 416 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'We love this place because you're secluded in the valley surrounded by Sycamore trees and mountains, but you can literally walk to the beach.' 2. 'Bathrooms cleaned and maintained in mornings...

Based on 416 reviews

Accessibility Features

ADA accessible bathrooms and showers are available, but detailed feedback from users with disabilities is not provided.

Based on 416 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed on leashes in campgrounds and day-use areas. Dogs are reported to have enjoyed the beach and surrounding nature ('Wonderful place to camp and enjoy the beach with your dogs.')....

Based on 416 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Fall visitors who want surf, trails, and wildlife in the same trip. Sites 11-15 and 45 get the best shade and quiet; dolphins and deer are genuinely common sightings. Mugu Peak Trail is walkable from camp.

Skip if

Light sleepers and anyone expecting privacy will struggle: sites are packed close, quiet hours go unenforced on weekends, and reviews specifically flag partying neighbors and bathrooms running out of toilet paper by 8pm.

Nearby Campgrounds

Highly Popular

4.6

(223)

Thornhill Broome Campground

9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

Thornhill Broome Campground sits directly on the Pacific beach in Point Mugu State Park, where the western Santa Monica Mountains meet the ocean. All 31 sites face the water, and you can pitch a tent on the sand itself. Nightly rates run $35-50. Expect vault toilets, no showers, and no cell service. Reserve early for summer weekends.