Looking for kid-friendly camping that’s easy to reach, safe for little ones, and packed with fun? California’s coastal campgrounds check all the boxes. From sandy shores to calm bays, the coast offers a more relaxed way to experience the outdoors—where your kids can explore tidepools, ride bikes, splash in the water, and sleep under the stars (without the stress).
Whether you’re introducing toddlers to their first tent or planning a full-blown RV getaway with teens, these family-friendly destinations make it simple. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best coastal spots designed with families in mind—including a standout destination that blends resort-style comforts with natural beauty.
What Makes a Campground Truly Kid-Friendly?
Not all campgrounds are designed with children in mind. A truly kid-friendly camping spot goes beyond beautiful scenery—it provides comfort, security, and stimulation for all ages. Here’s what to look for when choosing a destination that works for the whole family.
Safety Comes First
The best family campgrounds prioritize child safety. This means well-marked paths, low-traffic areas for biking or scootering, and enclosed sites that reduce the risk of wandering. Campgrounds near the water should offer lifeguard-monitored zones, calm swimming coves, and clear signage. Family bathrooms and baby-changing stations are also a huge plus.
Built-In Fun
A campground that keeps kids active and entertained is worth its weight in marshmallows. Think: age-appropriate playgrounds, splash pads, scavenger hunts, organized crafts, or kayak and pedal boat rentals. Some even offer outdoor movie nights or junior ranger programs to keep the learning going.
Easy for Parents Too
Kid-friendly also means parent-friendly. Look for paved paths for strollers, toddler-safe beaches without strong surf, and quiet hours so everyone sleeps well. Having a grocery store, medical aid, or beach café within walking distance makes the trip less about logistics and more about quality time.
Practical Comforts
Laundry access, shaded areas, EV chargers, and reservable fire rings are small things that make a big difference for families camping with kids.
Top Family-Friendly Coastal Camping Spots in California
California’s coastline is dotted with campgrounds, but not all are created equal for families. These top coastal camping spots combine natural beauty with kid-approved amenities—from splash zones and skateparks to safe beaches and ranger-led programs. Here’s where families can set up camp and make lasting memories.
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina (Newport Beach)
Tucked along the calm waters of the Back Bay, Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina is a premium coastal resort that blends comfort with kid-friendly fun. Families can choose from RV sites, tent camping, or beachside cottages—making it ideal for every kind of setup.
Why kids love it:
- Giant inflatable water park in the bay during the summer season
- Sandy wave-free beach with shallow swim zones and lifeguards on duty during high season
- Craft activities, movie nights, and seasonal events
- Watercraft rentals (paddleboards, kayaks, duffy boats) right on-site
Why parents appreciate it:
- Full hookups and pull-through RV sites
- On-site market, laundry, and beachfront grill & bar
- In the heart of Newport Beach, close to Balboa Island, Fashion Island, restaurants, and local medical facilities
- Gated entry and security for peace of mind
With its resort-level amenities and laid-back coastal setting, Newport Dunes strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation for families.
Campland on the Bay (San Diego)
If your family loves action-packed days and lively evenings, Campland on the Bay is hard to beat. Located along the calm waters of Mission Bay, this full-service resort offers RV and tent camping, with many sites steps from the water.
Kid-friendly highlights include:
- A skatepark designed for all skill levels
- An arcade, playground, and inflatable obstacle course
- Weekly campground-organized kids’ activities like crafts and contests
- A sandy beach with gentle waters, perfect for paddleboarding or just wading safely
The vibe here is energetic but family-focused. Parents will appreciate the full hookups, laundry, on-site café, and evening entertainment. This is a destination where kids make friends quickly—and no one wants to leave.
Doheny State Beach (Dana Point)
For families seeking a simpler, classic beach camping experience, Doheny State Beach is a standout. The campground offers tent and RV sites right next to the sand, with the sound of crashing waves as your lullaby.
What makes it great for kids:
- Tide pool exploration during low tide
- Junior ranger programs and nature talks by rangers
- A flat bike trail that winds through the area
- Easy access to snacks, restrooms, and showers
This is one of the few state beaches that blends beachfront access with educational programs for younger campers. It’s also close to family-friendly Dana Point Harbor and the Ocean Institute.
El Capitan Canyon (Santa Barbara)
Want the camping feel without roughing it? El Capitan Canyon delivers a unique glamping experience on the coast just north of Santa Barbara. You won’t pitch a tent here—you’ll stay in canvas safari tents, cedar cabins, or yurts, complete with beds and heating.
Family perks include:
- A working llama and goat farm onsite
- Campfire circles and s’mores kits available at check-in
- A general store stocked with picnic gear and healthy snacks
- Easy hiking trails into the Santa Ynez Mountains
El Capitan is a great option for families with younger kids or grandparents who prefer comfort over campfires. The serene setting and creature comforts make it feel like a retreat.
Sunset State Beach (Santa Cruz Area)
Tucked into a quiet corner of the Monterey Bay coastline, Sunset State Beach is a haven for families looking to disconnect. This tent and RV-friendly campground sits atop dunes overlooking the Pacific, with wide, uncrowded beaches.
Why families love it:
- Gentle slope to the beach—great for sandcastles and picnics
- Dune exploration and nature walks for curious kids
- Large group campsites for multi-family gatherings
- Ample shade and picnic areas
Sunset doesn’t have splash pads or playgrounds—but that’s the point. It’s about unstructured play in a beautiful natural setting, with space to breathe and sunsets that wow every time.
Refugio State Beach (Santa Barbara County)
Tucked along the Gaviota Coast, Refugio State Beach is a quieter option known for its calm waters and palm-lined coves. It offers tent and RV sites, many with ocean views.
Kid-friendly features include:
- A protected cove for safe swimming
- Tidepools, beachcombing, and gentle shoreline
- Large grassy areas for running and group games
- Seasonal kayak tours and ranger-led walks
Refugio is ideal for families looking to slow down, swim safely, and connect with nature. Group campsites make it popular for reunions and multi-family adventures.
Mission Bay RV Resort (San Diego)
Tucked along De Anza Cove, Mission Bay RV Resort offers a peaceful waterfront base that’s ideal for families who want convenience without the crowds. It’s quieter than some of the larger campgrounds in San Diego, but still delivers plenty for kids and parents alike.
Highlights for families include:
- Paved bike paths that connect directly to the scenic Mission Bay loop
- Access to nearby marina activities and Campland’s amenities via a pedestrian bridge
- On-site swimming pool, hot tub, and sports courts
- Easy beach access for kayaking, paddleboarding, or building sandcastles
For families seeking a low-key, well-equipped RV spot that’s close to San Diego attractions but still feels like a getaway, Mission Bay RV Resort is a solid pick.
Planning Your Kid-Friendly Camping Trip: Tips & Tools
Family camping gets smoother—and a lot more fun—when you plan ahead with kids in mind. Whether you’re hitting the road with an RV or setting up a beachside tent, these tips will help you make the most of your coastal camping getaway.
Book Early
California’s best kid-friendly campgrounds fill up fast, especially during spring break and summer. Aim to book your site at least 3 to 6 months in advance, particularly if you want beachfront or full-hookup spots.
Wheels Make a Difference
Bring bikes, scooters, or even a wagon. Many campgrounds have long paths or boardwalks perfect for riding, and wheels give kids the freedom to explore safely.
Know Your RV Needs
If you’re in an RV, check whether your campground offers full or partial hookups. Full hookups (power, water, sewer) can be a game-changer with young children in tow.
Read the Fine Print
Before you arrive, check for fire restrictions, pet policies, and campground-specific rules. Many destinations also publish a seasonal events calendar, so you can time your visit with family movie nights or nature programs.
Create a Kid-Friendly Routine
Balance is key: morning beach walks, shaded downtime after lunch, and evenings by the campfire make for happy campers. Pack smart—layers, sunscreen, simple card games, wet wipes, and a sound machine for light sleepers.
At full-service resorts like Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina, many of these logistics are already covered. From beach access to kid-friendly rentals, it’s a vacation that feels like it’s built for families.
A California Coastal Adventure for Every Family
Camping with kids along California’s coast isn’t just a getaway—it’s a chance to slow down, explore nature, and make memories that stick. With the right destination, even first-time campers can feel right at home. Whether you prefer dunes, tide pools, glamping cabins, or beachfront tent sites, there’s a family-friendly spot waiting for you.
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina make it even easier, blending the beauty of the bay with resort-style comfort that takes the stress out of setup. Wherever you go, the coast is calling—and your next family adventure is closer than you think. Book your family vacation today!
