There’s a special kind of anxiety that builds when you’re cruising down a road as epic as California’s Pacific Coast Highway and you notice the tank monitors creeping into the red. The views are spectacular, a sheer masterpiece of coastline and crashing waves, but that beauty gets a little tainted when all you can think about is finding a place to empty the black tank. The last thing you want is to have to detour miles inland, away from the ocean breeze, just to handle the less glamorous side of RV life. That’s why discovering a spot like Moro Campground, nestled right inside Crystal Cove State Park, feels like finding an oasis. It’s not just a place to camp; it’s a perfectly located, scenic solution to one of RVing’s most persistent logistical headaches.
Imagine pulling your rig off the PCH, not into some dusty lot, but onto a coastal bluff with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. That’s the experience here. The dump station is conveniently located right near the park entrance, making it incredibly practical. You can take care of business on your way in before you even set up camp, or handle it on your way out without adding any extra time to your departure. For us, this kind of thoughtful layout makes all the difference. It shows the park was designed with RVers in mind. It’s a state-run facility, so it has that classic, well-maintained state park feel, blending natural beauty with the practical amenities we all need. We’re talking potable water spigots, honest-to-goodness hot showers, and reliable 30 or 50-amp electric at most of the sites. Whether you’re just out for a weekend adventure down Highway 1 or you’re a full-timer methodically chasing the sunset down the coast, finding a reliable and beautiful place to dump your tanks on this coveted stretch of coastline is a rare and wonderful thing.
Laguna Beach itself is more than just a pretty face; it’s a launchpad for all kinds of outdoor adventures, which is probably why you brought the rig here in the first place. You’re not just passing through, you’re here to experience it. Within minutes of the campground, you can be hiking through the unique coastal sage scrub on trails that offer even more staggering ocean views. Or you could be down at the shore, exploring the fascinating tide pools at Crystal Cove, a world teeming with tiny marine life. If you’ve got a kayak strapped to your roof, this is the place to unhitch it and paddle out past hidden coves and dramatic cliffs. The entire area is an RVer’s playground.
And when you’re ready for a change of pace, the location is unbeatable. You’re surprisingly close to some of Southern California’s biggest draws. The magic of Disney’s theme parks is only about an hour’s drive north, perfect for a long day trip. The legendary surf capital, Huntington Beach, is just up the road to the west, and the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano is a short, pleasant drive south. For those who appreciate the arts, the area is a cultural hub. The world-famous Pageant of the Masters festival in the summer is a truly unique experience, and the Laguna Art Museum offers a fantastic collection of California art. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon between beach sessions. With its mild, year-round temperatures and those unforgettable ocean vistas, this part of the coast lets you perfectly blend outdoor recreation with easy access to urban culture, all from the comfort of your home on wheels.
Using a dump station inside a state park is a world away from the hustle and concrete of a truck stop. The pace is slower, more relaxed. You can expect wider lanes, less pressure from people waiting behind you, and park rangers who keep a watchful eye on things to make sure the facilities are respected and maintained. At Moro, the placement of the dump station right at the entrance is a stroke of genius. It gives you the flexibility to service your tanks when it’s most convenient for your schedule, whether that’s before you’ve even picked out your spot or as the absolute last thing you do before hitting the road. This is especially handy for those of us who like to get an early start to beat the traffic.
The campsites themselves are generally level, which is always a relief, and the park is serious about its quiet hours. This means late-night dumping is off the table, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. It’s a place of peace and quiet, not a 24/7 service station. Because Crystal Cove is one of the most popular parks in the system, you can expect some queues for the dump station, especially on summer weekends when everyone is checking out at the same time. A little pro-tip from a seasoned RVer: try to plan your arrival or departure for a weekday morning. The weekend checkout rush is usually over by mid-morning, and the new arrivals don’t start pouring in until the afternoon. The beach-adjacent location also comes with a built-in perk, the coastal wind can be quite brisk, which does a great job of whisking away any unpleasant odors. Just be sure to keep a firm grip on any lightweight equipment like gloves or paper towels, or the wind will send them flying.
When it comes to amenities, it’s always best to know what you’re getting into. Moro is pretty well-equipped, but you need to bring the right gear. There’s fresh, potable water available near the dump station, perfect for rinsing your hoses and, more importantly, filling up your fresh water tank. Just be sure to use your dedicated white hose for any potable fills to keep things sanitary. The electric hookups, offering both 30 and 50-amp service, are a huge plus, letting you keep your batteries charged and your fridge cold without firing up the generator. After a day spent playing in the sand and salt water, the tiled bathhouses with their hot showers feel like an absolute luxury. And having large trash bins located in each camping loop means you can easily get rid of your garbage without having to haul it around in your truck or tow vehicle.
For those of us who travel with four-legged companions, it’s a pet-friendly campground, so your leashed dog is welcome in the campsite loops. However, and this is a big one, dogs are not allowed on the state park beach itself. You’ll need to plan your dog walks for the inland trails, so be prepared for that. Also, keep in mind that this is a park, not a travel center. There are no fuel or propane services on-site, and you won’t find a repair shop. You’ll want to stock up on fuel and get your propane tanks filled in one of the nearby towns like Newport Beach before you settle in. If you’re ever unsure about an amenity, like laundry services, your best bet is to just call the ranger kiosk directly. They’ll have the most up-to-date information.
Now, let’s talk about cost and value. The park doesn’t list a separate, standalone fee for just using the dump station. Access is typically included with your campsite fee, which can fluctuate with the season but usually hovers around $75 for one of the coveted coastal-view RV sites. Some day-use visitors have reported being able to pay a small fee to dump, but this isn’t a guaranteed policy and it can change, so you absolutely must call the entrance station first to check. When you compare that nightly rate to private RV parks along the California coast, which can easily soar past $125 a night, Moro offers incredible value. You’re getting that million-dollar seaside location, essential hookups, and a clean, maintained dump station all in one package. If you’re a frequent visitor to California’s state parks, it’s worth looking into the annual pass. Over the course of a season, it can save you a significant amount on entry fees.
For a smooth, stress-free visit, a little planning goes a long way. First and foremost, reserve your site as early as you possibly can. In the summer, these spots are often booked solid six months in advance. It’s that popular. Second, always call before you haul. Verify the dump station’s hours, especially if you plan to arrive mid-week, as that’s when maintenance crews sometimes close the lane for service. Third, pack your standard gear: sturdy gloves, a clear sewer elbow so you can see when the tank is empty, and your dedicated rinse hose. And finally, be mindful of the infamous Pacific Coast Highway traffic. It can get seriously congested, especially on weekends. Always build some extra buffer time into your travel schedule, so you’re not arriving or departing in a state of stress. Moro Campground truly marries that postcard scenery with the practical things we RVers need. Just remember to book early, call ahead, and you’ll be rewarded with hassle-free tanks and some truly unforgettable ocean sunsets.
8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(800) 444-7275
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
crystalcovestatepark.org