Moro Campground

Moro Campground, nestled within the breathtaking Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach, is truly something special for Californians. For those who cherish the iconic Southern California coastline, this campground offers a peaceful, scenic escape that feels like a hidden gem. It's a place where the rhythmic sound of the waves provides a constant lullaby, and panoramic ocean views are a daily luxury. Moro Campground is a highly sought-after destination, beloved by locals for its unique blend of accessibility to urban centers and immersive natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for both spontaneous getaways and planned vacations.

What sets Moro Campground apart is its remarkable location directly on a slope, ensuring that nearly all sites boast an ocean view – a rarity even in coastal California. This, combined with direct access to a miles-long stretch of pristine beach, creates an unparalleled camping experience. Whether you're pulling in with an RV, setting up a tent, or opting for a van conversion, Moro caters to various camping styles with a mix of full hook-up and primitive sites. While its popularity can make securing a reservation challenging, particularly during peak summer months, the effort is well worth it for the serene, spacious, and stunning slice of coastal paradise that awaits.

Moro Campground is perfectly positioned at 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA. This prime location places it within Crystal Cove State Park, a jewel of the Orange County coastline, situated between the communities of Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach. For Californians throughout Southern California, accessing the campground is straightforward, primarily via Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), offering a scenic drive that immediately sets the tone for a relaxing retreat. The campground’s strategic placement allows for easy visits to the vibrant art scene and dining options of Laguna Beach to the south, as well as other coastal attractions.

Beach access from the campground is a notable feature, primarily via a short tunnel located in the adjacent Crystal Cove Day Use area. While this tunnel sometimes experiences minor flooding, requiring campers to temporarily remove shoes, it's a small inconvenience for direct access to such a spectacular beach. Parking is generally manageable within the state park, with various lots available, though it's important to remember that parking is a state beach fee ($15 for the day, card only). The convenience of having an upper and lower lot, plus additional spots, helps accommodate visitors. The blend of a relatively accessible location with a feeling of secluded coastal wilderness is a major draw for local campers.

Services Offered:

• Campsites with Hookups: Select sites offer water and electric hookups (30 and 50 amp) suitable for RVs and trailers (sites 2-29, maximum 38 feet length).
• Primitive Tent Sites: Dedicated sites for tent camping and low-impact trailers/vans (sites 31-60). Note: all tents must be free-standing; no stakes allowed.
• Clean Flush Toilets and Hot Showers: Well-maintained restroom facilities are available (coin-operated showers).
• RV Dump Station: Conveniently located within the park for RV users.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite comes with a picnic table. Fire rings are present, but only self-contained gas BBQs or propane fire pits are permitted; wood and charcoal fires are strictly prohibited.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed in the campground (on a 6' leash at all times) but not on the beach or in the backcountry.
• Online Reservation System: Reservations are required and can be made through the Reserve California website (booking well in advance, especially for summer, is highly recommended).

Features / Highlights:

• Stunning Ocean Views: A key highlight, with nearly all campsites offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean due to the campground’s sloped terrain.
• Direct Beach Access: Easy access to a beautiful, long stretch of sandy beach via a short tunnel, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks.
• Spacious Campsites: Sites are generally medium to large, offering ample room for setting up camping gear and providing good separation between neighbors, enhancing privacy.
• Crystal Cove State Park Exploration: Part of a larger state park, providing access to 3.2 miles of coastline, diverse marine life in tide pools (at low tide), and 2,400 undeveloped acres of backcountry.
• Extensive Hiking and Biking Trails: Numerous multi-use fire roads and single-track trails within Moro Canyon and the broader Crystal Cove State Park, offering varied difficulties and panoramic views.
• Proximity to Laguna Beach: Just a short drive away, offering access to art galleries, boutique shopping, and diverse dining options.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to spot various mammals, reptiles, birds, and marine animals, including coyotes, rattlesnakes, seabirds, dolphins, and migrating whales (December-April).
• Interpretive Programs: Park staff often conduct interpretive programs, including guided hikes and tidepool walks.

Contact Information:

Address: 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA

Phone: (800) 444-7275 (Reservations via Reserve California)

Mobile Phone: +1 800-444-7275

Moro Campground is an absolute treasure for locals across California, particularly those in Southern California. Its prime location within Crystal Cove State Park offers the coveted combination of immediate beach access and spectacular ocean views, a rarity for campgrounds in such a populated region. For Californians who grew up with or long for the quintessential Southern California beach experience, Moro delivers. The long stretch of uncrowded sand, even on busier days, makes it perfect for picnics, relaxing, or enjoying the vastness of the Pacific.

While booking can be competitive and parking incurs a state park fee, these are minor considerations when weighed against the serenity and beauty available. The mix of RV hookups and primitive tent sites caters to a wide range of camping preferences, and the clean facilities with hot showers are a welcome comfort. Beyond the beach, the extensive network of hiking and biking trails in Crystal Cove State Park adds another layer of adventure, inviting active locals to explore the diverse coastal and canyon landscapes. Moro Campground embodies the best of California outdoor living – convenient yet wild, amenity-rich yet naturally stunning. It's truly a favorite coastal paradise for those in the know, offering countless opportunities to create cherished memories by the sea.

Moro Campground

8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA