Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

Camping in Leo Carrillo State Park is a unique experience. You have the opportunity to wake up early and watch the sun rise over the beach and to stay up late watching the stars emerge above the campground. During the day you have access to a mile and a half of pristine Malibu beachfront, complete with tide pools, reefs, sea caves, and kelp beds. If you would like to spend the day on the sand you can sunbathe and keep an eye out for whales. The more adventuresome visitors go on a hike or take to the water to swim, fish, and surf. Round up your group at lunchtime and head to the picnic area or back to the campground to cook something over a campfire.

Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire pit. Up to eight people are allowed to stay at one site, but they are relatively small. You might want to consider snagging two adjacent campsites if you have very many people in your group. There is also a designated group campground near the Campfire Center. Accessible campsites are available as well. Your dog is welcome to stay with you so long as it is on a leash and stays in certain areas of the park (the exception being service dogs, which are allowed all throughout the park). All campers are asked to be quiet between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Leo Carrillo State Park is nestled between Point Mugu State Park and Malibu Creek State Park. It was named for Leo Carrillo, an actor who loved the outdoors and believed firmly in conservation.  He was a member of the California Beach and Parks Commission for nearly two decades. Today visitors can learn about the park at free Campfire Programs, a series of educational courses that take place during the summer. Other educational endeavors include the Junior Rangers who learn how to respect the plants and animals that live in the park, and the Junior Lifeguards who learn to maintain visitors’ safety on the beach.