Trip · 3-day backpacking trip
For · Friends and first-time backpackers
Vibe · Moderate and fun
Distance · 5 miles round trip and 1,581 feet of elevation gain
Permits · Yes! Book a site at Lower Moro Campground
Drive · 1 hour from LA
Ideal dates · September to December or March to May
Pets · Not allowed on trails
Crystal Cove State Park (CCSP) is one of the largest open spaces and natural seashores in SoCal's Orange County. Treat yo' self to 3.2 miles of sandy beach, 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness, and awesome campsites along the Pacific Ocean. Scuba divers frequently explore Crystal Cove's underwater park, and trail runners and mountain bikers love to whiz through its steep hills and canyon floors. Take a break from Twitter, and swap your screen for a weekend of sun, stars, and surf at Crystal Cove.
Official Crystal Cove SP Trail Map
Main image credit: N/A
Each campsite comes with a:
Crystal Cove SP has three backcountry campgrounds: Lower Moro, Upper Moro, and Deer Canyon. Lower Moro Campground is the most easily accessible from the trailhead and a great destination for beginners to try out backpacking. Every backcountry campsite reservation comes with one vehicle parking pass; Each extra car is $15 a night. Trash collection isn't available so be sure to pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace!
Check-in: After 2 PM · Check-out: Before noon
View Backcountry Camping Route Map
View Lower Moro Campground Map
Nightly Rate: $25
In 1979, the Irvine Company, a family-owned ranch, sells the parkland to the state. Crystal Cove Historic District is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Thousands of years ago, the Tongva and Acjachemen tribes lived in this area. They manufactured soapstone bowls and knives, along with weaving exquisite baskets and nets
When logging began in the 1850s, there were over 2 million acres of redwood forests, but by the 1960s, nearly 90% of all original redwoods were gone
A spacious sleeping bag that will help you stay warm for spring, summer, and fall camping.
Essential Items
Whether it's coffee or cocoa, bring a silicone mug like this one into the wild. Your tummy will thank you.
Kitchen
Leave your backpacking pack at camp, and use this sleek, compressible pack for day hikes.
Shared Gear
An affordable day pack for bringing snacks, sunglasses, and water on your next day hike.
Shared Gear
Handmade in Seattle, Washington, this sleeping bag is pricey, but you can count on it lasting for years.
Essential Items
A fun, affordable tent for beginner car campers that can be used in the spring, summer, and fall.
Shared Gear
An absorbent, antimicrobial fabric that will keep you clean and dry down under.
Personal Stuff
This cook station has plenty of storage and counter space, and is easy to set up and carry out.
Kitchen
If you like to toss and turn at night, this sleeping pad is known for being a quiet, quality option for car campers.
Essential Items
A solid, lightweight, and relatively affordable tent for people are new to backpacking.
Shared Gear
Camp underneath the stars and watch glorious sunrises in Joshua Tree National Park, the second largest national park in California.