Thornhill Broome Beach Camping: RV & Tent Sites at Point Mugu State Park

Beachfront Camping at Thornhill Broome Campground, Point Mugu, California

Picture waking up to the sound of Pacific waves just outside your tent or RV, with only a rocky shoreline between you and the ocean. Thornhill Broome Beach Campground in Point Mugu State Park offers one of Southern California’s most unique primitive beach camping spots. It sits right on the Pacific Coast Highway north of Malibu, giving you direct beachfront access that feels far from busy city beaches, but is still just a short drive from Oxnard or Los Angeles.

Whether you’re in an RV looking for ocean views or camping in a tent for adventure, Thornhill Broome is a great choice if you’re ready for its rugged setting. Be aware of strong coastal winds, especially in winter, and the chance of high-tide flooding. This guide has all the info you need for a great trip.

Why Camp at Thornhill Broome Beach? The Ultimate Beachfront Appeal

The best thing about this campground is its location. Campsites are right on the beach, with almost nothing between you and the surf. Set up your RV or tent, and the Pacific is right in front of you. The southern part has more sandy spots, while the rest is rocky, which is great for tide pooling but not as good for relaxing on soft sand.

This is true primitive camping—no hookups, but you’re right next to the water for sunrise coffee, sunset drinks, or stargazing. The campground is part of the huge Point Mugu State Park, which has over 70 miles of hiking trails through the Santa Monica Mountains and Boney Mountains Wilderness.

Campground Amenities and What to Expect

Thornhill Broome has about 40 to 46 primitive campsites, depending on recent storm impacts. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, and can fit up to 8 people. Your RV or trailer counts as one vehicle. There’s limited overflow parking for extra vehicles, with an extra fee (usually about $12 per day).

• Restrooms: Chemical/vault toilets (porta-potties); no flush toilets or hot showers on-site. Cold outdoor showers are available. Campers often use facilities at nearby Sycamore Canyon (about 1.5 miles away) for hot showers and dump stations.
• Water: Potable spigots scattered throughout; no individual hookups.
• Other: Trash dumpsters, fire rings (check current fire restrictions). No electricity or Wi-Fi.
• RV Limits: The maximum total length for your vehicle and trailer together is 31 feet, including the hitch. If your setup is taller or longer, you will be turned away and there are no refunds.

This campground is mostly RV-friendly, but tents are welcome too. Just keep in mind that wind and sand can make setting up a tent tough. The sites are lined up along the highway and beach, so you might hear some road noise and have limited privacy.

Reservations, Fees, and Planning Your Stay

Reservations are a must because sites fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. You can book up to 6 months ahead on ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275. All sites now require reservations, and staff often assign your specific site when you check in.

• Fees: Typically $35–$50 per night (standard to premium oceanfront). Additional vehicle and day-use fees apply. Check current rates on ReserveCalifornia.
• Check-in/Check-out: Usually 2 PM / Noon.
• Max Stay: Often 14 days; vehicle entry covers one towed unit

Pro Tip: Book as early as you can and check the tide schedule, since high tides and surges sometimes cause flooding.

Beyond the Campsite: Trails, Tides & Ocean Adventures

Address: 9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265 (about 15 miles south of Oxnard on PCH/Highway 1).

The park offers swimming, surfing, body surfing, surf fishing, and wildlife viewing (seals, dolphins, whales in season). Hike popular trails like Mugu Peak, Grotto Trail, or Ray Miller Backbone Trail sections. Nearby Sycamore Canyon provides more amenities and family-friendly options.

Bring all your supplies with you, since the closest major store is about 12 miles away. Cell service is usually pretty good.

Pros, Cons & Real Camper Insights

Pros: Unbeatable beachfront access, ocean views from every site, pet-friendly (on leash), safe/gated, great for surfing or relaxing by the fire.

Cons: Primitive facilities, wind/sand exposure, road noise, flooding risk, limited shade, and no on-site showers/dump station. Some sites were lost to past storms.

Campers love the simple setup and great location, but they recommend bringing tools to manage sand, windbreaks, and some patience for the porta-potties.

FAQ: Camping at Thornhill Broome Beach

Is Thornhill Broome good for tent camping?
Yes, but challenging due to wind, sand, and rocky terrain. A few sites work well; bring sturdy stakes and a wind-resistant tent.

Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on leash in campgrounds and day-use areas. Not on backcountry trails.

What about flooding or weather?
Subject to high tides, surges, and winter flooding. Check with the park ((310) 457-8144) before arrival. Winds are common.

Can I have a campfire?
Yes, in provided rings when fire levels permit. Follow posted restrictions; no beach fires outside rings.

Is there an RV dump or hot showers?
No on-site. Use Sycamore Canyon nearby for those amenities.

How far in advance can I reserve?
Up to 6 months. Book early for weekends.

What’s the difference from Sycamore Canyon?
Thornhill Broome is more primitive and directly on the beach; Sycamore offers more amenities, showers, and a canyon setting.

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