Crystal Cove State Park – Moro Campground, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Moro Campground sits on the ocean bluffs of Crystal Cove State Park between Laguna Beach and Newport Beach. It’s one of Southern California’s most coveted coastal campgrounds — offering sweeping Pacific views, access to tide pools, hiking in Moro Canyon, and a front-row seat to sunset afterglow. Beach trails drop from camp to the sand, and coastal breezes keep things comfortable year-round.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Clean, breezy, and drop-dead gorgeous.” Campers love the ocean panoramas and spotless facilities, though they warn of strong winds and tightly spaced pads. Expect more RVs than tents, but the views make up for it.
Highlights
- Ocean bluff views: nearly every site faces west for sunsets.
- Trail access: Moro Canyon, Moro Ridge, and the El Moro backcountry network start from camp.
- Beach walks: paved path down to tide pools and swimming coves.
- Location: close to Newport Beach and Laguna for supplies, food, and rentals.
Frictions to plan around
- Windy afternoons: secure tents and canopies — gusts are common.
- Tight layout: RV pads close together; expect less privacy.
- Cost: premium pricing for premium views.
- No shade: bring awnings or pop-ups for mid-day comfort.
Camper Quotes
“Views don’t get better than this — ocean right out the trailer window.”
“Super clean, great showers, and perfect for a quick surf weekend.”
“Windy but stunning. Sunset every night felt like a show.”
“Book early — these sites disappear fast.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: 57 total — 27 with hookups, 30 standard (no hookups).
- Hookups: electric/water on select sites; dump station on-site.
- Facilities: modern restrooms, coin-op showers, picnic tables, fire rings.
- Access: beach trail to tide pools; backcountry trailheads adjacent.
- Backcountry camping: 3 hike-in primitive sites (3–4 miles one way) with no water.
- Pets: leashed in campground/day-use areas; not allowed on the beach or trails.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via ReserveCalifornia.com. Spots open six months ahead and sell out quickly, especially ocean-view pads and weekends. Spring and fall shoulder seasons bring calmer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
Tip: Book at midnight when new dates release. If full, check back frequently — cancellations are common when weather shifts.
Best Spots
- Front-row bluff pads: unobstructed ocean panorama — the most coveted in Orange County.
- Hookup row (sites 1–30): ideal for RVs, close to restrooms and dump station.
- Tent section (upper loop): quieter atmosphere, still strong views.
Wind picks up by afternoon — stake gear well and use low beach chairs for comfort.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Doheny State Beach: beach-level camping with direct surf access in Dana Point.
- Bolsa Chica State Beach: long, lively beachfront stretch closer to Huntington.
- San Clemente State Beach: blufftop sites with stair access to wide sand and mellow surf.
Map & Directions
From I-5, take CA-1 (Pacific Coast Highway) to Crystal Cove State Park between Newport and Laguna Beach. Follow signs for “Moro Campground.” The entrance is on the inland side of PCH, across from the beach.
Address: 8471 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Moro Campground FAQ
Do all sites have hookups?
No — about half do. Check the “hookup” filter on ReserveCalifornia before booking.
Can I walk to the beach?
Yes, a paved path leads down from camp to the sand and tide pools (10–15 minutes).
Are fires allowed?
In provided rings only and when local restrictions allow. Always check fire status on arrival.
Is it tent-friendly?
Yes — the upper non-hookup section suits tents best, though wind protection is limited.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
No, only in campground and paved areas. The beach itself is protected habitat.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
If you spot a tall figure at dawn with a surfboard and coffee, that’s just Bigfoot catching early sets. 👣🌊
