Camping at Doheny Group Campground
Overview
Doheny State Beach is a popular beachfront California State Park located in Dana Point, Orange County. It features the Doheny Group Campground, which is a designated area within the park for group camping.
Facilities
The Doheny Group Campground offers facilities for a comfortable camping experience. These typically include:
- Picnic tables: For meals and gatherings
- Fire pits: For campfires and cooking
- Restrooms: With flush toilets for convenience
- Showers: Some may be coin-operated
Group Camp Sites
The group sites are designed to accommodate larger numbers of campers, making them ideal for family reunions, corporate retreats, or gatherings of friends. It's essential to book these in advance as they are sought after and tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Activities
- Swimming: The beach is suitable for ocean swimming; however, always heed lifeguard warnings and be cautious of currents.
- Surfing: Known as a top location for surfing in Southern California.
- Fishing: The park offers a good spot for fishing, so don't forget your gear.
- Paddleboarding and Kayaking: Calm waters near the shore are ideal for these activities.
- Biking: There are bike trails nearby for those who wish to explore the area on two wheels.
- Volleyball: Sand volleyball courts are available for use.
Reservations
- Booking: Reservations for group camping should be made well in advance through the California State Parks Reservation System, as group campsites have limited availability.
- Capacity: Each group site has a maximum capacity that should not be exceeded.
- Fees: There is a fee for booking group sites, which varies depending on the size of the group and length of stay.
Regulations
Strict rules may be enforced to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all campers as well as the protection of the park environment. This includes:
- Noise Control: Quiet hours are typically enforced in the evenings.
- Pets: There may be restrictions on pets, so check the park's policy in advance.
- Alcohol: Alcohol policies can vary, and any regulations regarding alcohol use should be respected.
- Parking: Limited parking space means that parking may be restricted to a certain number of vehicles per group.
Visit Preparedness
To ensure an enjoyable visit, come prepared with all necessary supplies, including food, water, camping gear, and appropriate clothing for changes in weather. It's also wise to know first aid and to have a plan for emergencies.
Contributing to Conservation
When camping at Doheny Group Campground, it’s vital to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. This includes packing out what you pack in, staying on designated trails, and minimizing impacts on the natural environment.
Before planning a trip to Doheny Group Campground, always check the latest park information for any updates on facility availability, regulations, or advisories that may impact your visit.
