Due to flooding, as of 7/10/2019, McGrath State Beach is closed until further notice. McGrath State Beach features 172 campsites directly on the beach and is situated adjacent to the Santa Clara River and dunes. At McGrath’s northern end is the Santa Clara Estuary Natural Preserve, which includes eight ecosystems and a boardwalk flanked by tall grasses. Numerous bird species spend at least part of their year in the nature preserve near the beach.
The campground is pretty remote by Southern California standards, but not too far away from civilization’s comforts. The beach here is wide and sandy, making it ideal for a stroll or simply soaking up the sun. Strong currents and rip tides are common hazards for swimmers; use caution.
McGrath’s campsites are arranged in six sections. Both tents and RVs are welcome at McGrath State Beach. There is a 34-foot maximum length limit for motorhomes and a 30-foot maximum length limit for trailers and pop-up campers.
McGrath State Beach Best Campsites
The best and closest to the beach are campsites 102 to 107, 35 to 37, and 41 to 44. Next are sites 161 to 163, 167 to 169, and 59 to 97, which are located near sand and lawn. Campsites to avoid are 150 to 153 and 156 to 160 near the farmland and the grounds closest to Harbor Boulevard.
The campground is in Oxnard, five miles south of Ventura on Harbor Boulevard. McGrath State Beach is one of California’s best bird-watching areas, with the Santa Clara River’s lush riverbanks and dunes along the shore.
Santa Clara Estuary Natural Preserve
A nature trail leads to the Santa Clara Estuary Natural Preserve. Two miles of beach provide surfing and fishing opportunities. McGrath State Beach is five miles south of Ventura, off Highway 101 via Harbor Boulevard. The beach is located at 2211 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035
Beach access is limited from the campground due to flooding and protection of nesting habitats. There is no easy access. Campers will need to walk approximately 0.5 miles or more to get around the inland lagoon and reach the beach. All camping spots for RVs are “back-in” style; there are no pull-through camping spots at McGrath.