Heterogeneous catalytic ozonation (HCO) was used to degrade organic pollutants in water via both direct oxidation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) converted from ozonation. In general, the physicochemical catalysts properties were considered as an important factor that influenced the wastewater purification efficiency. Being attributed to stable chemical properties, easily regulated surface properties and pore structures, carbon-based materials for HCO arose much attention in wastewater treatment. Herein, the research progress and application of carbon-based catalysts for HCO in wastewater treatment were systematically discussed, which helped reader make a complete view. Furthermore, the functionalization and regulation methods of commonly used carbon-based catalysts were introduced in details, and the relationship between carbon-based materials structure and ROS generation was deeply discussed. Meanwhile, organic pollutants degradation mechanisms via radical and non-radical reaction under different reaction conditions such as water quality were expounded. Finally, the prospection and development of carbon-based materials for HCO in wastewater treatment was proposed. The results showed that carbon-based materials for HCO have broad application prospects in wastewater treatment. Future research should focus on the optimization of catalysts and the in-depth exploration of practical applications.