Best destination for a weekend camping trip from Los Angeles.
Sycamore canyon campground is one of my go to spot for a weekend camping trip. Living in Los Angeles, I prefer to go somewhere not too far for a weekend getaway and this campground is located about an hour driving distance from downtown Los Angeles.
Due to its location being in the Malibu area along the Pacific Coast, this place gives perfect scenic settings of both ocean and the mountain. You can enjoy the coastal views just across the PCH from the campground and also hike up the Santa Monica mountain to enjoy the view from higher elevation point.
Here’s what the campground is like. There are around 30 campsites to choose from. You can choose between tent camping or RV sites but both options have a picnic table, a fire ring and a grill. Unless there are serious issues with the weather, you can use the fire ring to bbq and the campsite also sells some good quality fire woods for a reasonable price. So I usually go here with my meat prepared for a bbq, buy a few bunches of fire woods for grilling and also campfires.
Some sites have more shades compared to others so I would recommend that you check out the camp site photos before making a reservation. I also noticed that some camp sites are smaller and close to the adjacent space so watch out for these issues when choosing a campsite.
Compared to the other campgrounds that I have been to, the restrooms were really clean with toilet papers stacked up. I really like how they have single stalls instead of dividing into just men and women’s restroom. This way it is easier to find a restroom stall when needed.
They also have the vanity right outside of the restroom which makes it very convenient to use. There are also coin operated showers available if needed. I have been to Sycamore campground several times but I never felt the restroom was crowded. This campground is also a pet friendly site so you can bring your dog but they have to be on a leash.
One thing I always do when I visit the Sycamore campground is to walk up the hiking trails. There are several scenic hiking trails available such as the Sycamore Canyon Trail and the Grew Canyon Trail, which offer stunning views of the canyon, hills, and the Pacific Ocean. I think these hiking trails are beginner friendly and not too intense but offering stunning views of the ocean. You can also try hiking up the Boney Mountain area which is more challenging but you will be rewarded with a panoramic views.
If you just cross the PCH from the campground, you will get to the Point Mugu State Beach right away. This beach is literally right in front of the campground entrance so it will be hard to miss. I always like to have a little early dinner at the campground and see the sunset from the beach.
Due to these benefits, this campground became a popular destination by the LA residents and also visitors. I would like to recommend that you make the reservation early if you want to get a nice spot on the weekend. This campground can be reserved through reserveca website ( details of how to make reservations are on my other post ).
If you need help with anything, there is a visitor center and also a park ranger on site. The campground is open year-round but the best time to visit are in the spring and fall when the weather is mild.
Wow !