Summary
At Doheny State Beach near Dana Point, you can go camping close to the ocean. In fact, some of the campsites at Dana Point are located only a few steps away from the beach. From the park and beach, you can get great ocean views, and you might even see dolphins playing in the surf.
There’s a lot to do at Doheny Beach besides gaze at the sea. When you’re not hanging around your campsite, you’ll find tide pools to explore and a visitor center with several aquariums. Moreover, you could set up a net and play beach volleyball.
Surf fishing is also popular. You can visit nearby Dana Point Harbor to rent a boat or take a whale-watching trip. Swimming and surfing are other popular activities among campers at Doheny State Beach. Smaller waves make this beach ideal for those learning to surf. Lifeguards patrol the beach year-round, and lifeguard towers are staffed roughly from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Some individuals love to camp at Doheny Beach due to its proximity to the ocean. However, others find it too crowded. If you stay in the campsites that are furthest from the beach, you may hear noise from passing trains. Consequently, some campers express concerns about cleanliness. Tent campers may complain about the noise generated by RV campers. Thus, reading reviews of the Doheny Beach campground can provide valuable insights from fellow campers.
What Facilities Are There for Camping at Doheny State Beach?
Doheny State Beach offers 16 RV sites for trailers and RVs up to 35 feet long, alongside 100 tent sites. All campsites are non-hookup “dry camping” sites.
Restrooms and showers are available, along with an RV dump site. WiFi service is offered, but only at the concession stand.
For those who wish to enjoy Doheny State Beach but do not have an RV, Luv2Camp can deliver and set up an RV for you.
What You Need to Know Before You Go Camping at Doheny State Beach
- California State Park campgrounds necessitate reservations, which can be somewhat complex. You may need to select your date as much as six months in advance. Consequently, it’s essential to be prepared in order to secure a spot during peak times.
- The campsite fee covers one motor vehicle and one legally towed-in vehicle. You can register three vehicles (trailer or car) for each campsite, with extra vehicles requiring an additional fee.
- Sites 37 through 94 are closest to the ocean, offering direct access to the beach. Site 29 is next to water, but it’s actually the San Gabriel River, not the ocean.
- For those with RVs that have side sliders, it’s wise to note that some spaces may be narrow. Therefore, looking for wider spots on the map is recommended.
- If you bring a generator, please turn it off during nighttime quiet hours to respect your fellow campers.
- Water shoes are advised for those wanting to go into the ocean, as it helps protect your feet from the rocky bottom.
- Dogs are welcome in the campground at no extra charge, but they must be leashed and attended to at all times. Additionally, dogs are prohibited on the beach and must be kept inside your vehicle or tent at night.
- The area can get very busy during events like the Doheny Blues Festival in late May.
How to Get to Doheny State Beach Campground
Doheny State Beach
25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Dana Point, CA
Doheny State Beach Website
