Expert: Steve Summers - 6/19/2006

Question
dear steve,

i have researched numerous southern california state beach camping areas, and they all seem to not allow tents. i know carpinteria does allow tents, but they also seemed to be booked until the year 2030. is there any stretch of coast that allows tent camping with a small dog, that is first come first served? emma wood, carlsbad, refugio, chica bolsa are all rv only, which i think is ridiculous. maybe somewhere in southern cali that allows primitive beach camping, or with just pit toilets? i'm not looking those crazy areas that have wifi, electricity etc. i just want to camp on a beach in a tent and hear the waves with my dog. seems impossible in california these days. help.

Answer
Hi Iaine,

It's all about the math: There's only so much coastline, and so many people want to stay there. I'm sure that with a little luck and patience, you can find a spot along the coast. First off, Carpinteria is crowded in summer, but there are occasional openings here and there. You have to check every site, because it is site-specific. You didn't say how long you wanted to camp, and whether you can camp midweek. Of course, summer weekends have been booked for months, since everyone and their Aunt Edna likes to camp there. But keep your eyes peeled for a cancellation. They do happen. If you MUST have a full 7 days, you really don't stand much of a chance no matter which campground you choose. At this late date, the key is to be flexible, and mark your calendar for Nov 1 when campsites go on sale for May (Memorial Day weekend).

Just for the record, you can tent camp (with dogs) at Refugio, El Capitan, Doheney, San Clemente, San Elijo, and South Carlsbad. Double-check those for any openings, as well.

As for First come, first-served camping, you can always try Jalama Beach. It's a bit of a drive, but well worth it if you can get in. Check out the details at www.jalamabeach.com.

Good luck and have fun,

Steve