Doheny State Beach, Dana Point, California

This beautiful state beach campground fills up quickly, so book your reservation early. One of the several PCH beachside campgrounds, Doheny is California's first state beach campground. The campground offers beachfront sites that come at a premium. Sites are small, offering a picnic table and fire pit,  but if you have your own fire pit, I'd bring it with you. In many sites the fire pits are placed so close to the parking pad, your rig is at risk. Shrubs spot the campground, and some sites are more private than others, but plan on being very close to your neighbor and getting to know them over your stay. Also, take the maximum vehicle lengths very seriously when booking,
as interior roads and sites are narrow and parking can be more of a challenge when camp is already full. The beachfront sites are obviously the best here, with sand on your back doorstep. These fire pits are settled in the sand and offer campers beachfront views of sunsets, sunrises and easy access to the beach. Coming here, we were worried about the campground's proximity to PCH and the train tracks, however our concerns were quickly alleviated as PCH noise was not a factor, and the train was rarely noticeable. Several day use areas are beyond the campground and offer additional beach access, picnic areas and parking. The healthy lifestyle of So Cals will be evident here with lots of cyclists, joggers, surfers and beach volleyball enthusiasts.  The ocean water temperature is some of the warmest around, and air temperatures are mild year round. During summer months, a beachfront burger shack and  bicycle rentals are available. Also, a Doheny Beach gift shop, small museum and a butterfly garden are on the grounds. Dana Point, a quaint So Cal beach town is just steps from the park and offers great food if you want to escape camp food for a meal.

Location
Best sites: 27, 29, 31, 33, 36-38, 40-41, 43, 45, 47, 49, 51, 53, 55, 57 59-60, 62, 64, 66, 68, 70, 72-73, 75, 77-78, 81, 83, 85, 87, 89, 91-95
Worst sites: 1, 3-4, 6, 8-9, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 106, 108, 112, 114-115, 117
Hookups: None
Potable Water: Yes
Dump Within Facility: Yes

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