Doheny State Beach Campground at Dana Point, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Doheny State Beach Campground puts you right on the sand in Dana Point, steps from surf breaks, the harbor, and paved beach paths. Expect lively SoCal energy by day and sunset glow by night, with tidepools, a long sandy shoreline, and easy access to coffee, tacos, and rentals.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Sunny, social, and convenient.” Campers love the walk-to-surf location, sunset hangs, and kid-friendly sand right in front of camp. Expect some city noise and weekend buzz — this is classic SoCal beach camping.
Highlights
- Beachfront pads: front-row sites with sand access and ocean views.
- Surf & SUP: mellow breaks and rental options nearby.
- Bike & stroll: paved paths to the harbor and town eats.
- Family-friendly: lifeguarded swim areas in season, tidepools at low tide.
Frictions to plan around
- High demand: weekends and summers book out fast.
- Road/train noise: expect urban sounds; bring earplugs.
- No hookups on many pads: mixed amenities; verify when booking.
- Wind & marine layer: afternoons can be breezy; mornings may be foggy.
Camper Quotes
“You can’t beat coffee at sunrise with waves 50 feet away.”
“Perfect spot for kids — sand, bikes, and ice cream walks.”
“Bring earplugs and book early for the oceanfront row.”
“Surf, grill, sunset, repeat.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: tent and RV sites, including coveted beachfront pads.
- Hookups: a subset of sites offer electric/water; many are dry — check site details.
- Facilities: restrooms, coin-op showers, picnic tables, fire rings.
- Access: direct beach access, paved multi-use paths, nearby rentals (bikes, boards).
- Pets: leashed in campground and day-use areas; beach leash rules vary by section.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via ReserveCalifornia.com. Summer and holiday weekends sell out quickly; aim for the earliest booking window. Midweek and shoulder seasons (spring/fall) offer better odds and great weather.
Tip: If beachfront is gone, grab an inland pad and spend days oceanside; also stalk cancellations 2–7 days out.
Best Spots
- Front-row ocean pads: immediate sand access and unobstructed sunset views.
- Corner pads near path: easy rolling to harbor, playgrounds, and cafés.
- Buffers from restrooms: aim one or two sites away for quieter evenings.
Pack a soft brush/rug for sand control, and a low-wind beach canopy for afternoon shade.
Nearby Campgrounds
- San Clemente State Beach: blufftop sites with stair access to wide sandy stretches.
- San Onofre Bluffs: surf mecca vibe along Old Pacific Highway.
- Crystal Cove Moro Campground: coastal canyon camping with beach/trail access (north along PCH).
Map & Directions
From I-5, take Pacific Coast Highway to Dana Point and follow signs for Doheny State Beach. The campground entrance is south of the harbor with clear signage.
Nearby address: Dana Point, CA 92624
Doheny State Beach FAQ
Do any sites have hookups?
Some do (often electric/water). Many are dry — confirm per-site details at booking.
Can I camp right on the sand?
Yes, select front-row pads back directly to the beach — these sell out first.
Is it noisy?
It’s an urban beach: expect people, road/train noise, and weekend energy. Front-row ocean sound helps mask it.
Are fires allowed?
In provided rings when conditions allow. Follow local fire rules and wind advisories.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
Leashed dogs are allowed in designated areas/times; check posted beach rules.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
If you spot giant footprints in the sand at dawn, that’s just Bigfoot dragging a longboard. Hang loose, legend. 🏄♂️👣
