Best Campgrounds near Ojai, CA

Camping near Ojai, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: There are numerous trails around Ojai, perfect for hiking and biking. One camper mentioned, "Great location for beach, biking and hiking. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach, hiking and MTB/gravel trails accessible from the campground."
• Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking or fishing at places like Cachuma Lake Recreation Area. A review noted, "The lake is perfect for boating... kayaking, canoeing, fishing or sailing on the lake is the perfect way to spend the afternoon."
• Beach Time: Spend a day at the beach, especially at Thornhill Broome Beach. One visitor said, "Awesome spot for boondocking! Can't beat camping on the beach."

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views. A review from Malibu Beach RV Park states, "Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff!"
• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like El Capitán State Beach Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. One camper mentioned, "The bathrooms were fairly clean and there are showers."
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Lake Casitas Recreation Area are great for families. A review highlighted, "This is a huge place, with lots to do... Good cell service here at the park."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Wheeler Gorge Campground, have limited amenities. A camper noted, "No drinking water, no electric hookups, no showers."
• Crowded During Peak Season: Campgrounds can get busy, especially during summer. One review for Cachuma Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "It was off-season, so I imagine it would be an entirely different experience in the summer when all amenities were offered."
• Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Wheeler Gorge Campground shared, "They let us know there was a bear in the area... Bucky the bear was in our campsite."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Carpinteria State Beach that offer activities for kids. A family shared, "The beaches are always nice... Carp itself is one of my favorite little towns."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper suggested, "The sunshine is typically abundant in this California park... plan on using the campground pool to cool off during the summer months."
• Pack Snacks and Essentials: Having snacks handy can make a big difference. A review from Lake Casitas Recreation Area mentioned, "The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Leo Carrillo State Park noted, "The sites are small. It is very difficult to back in to a spot when you have campers across from your campsite."
• Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Malibu Beach RV Park offer electric hookups, which can be a plus. A visitor said, "The park was beautiful and so was the location."
• Be Prepared for Fees: Some campgrounds charge extra for pets or amenities. A camper at Lake Casitas Recreation Area mentioned, "They nickel and dime a lot of things, showers pets."

Camping near Ojai, California, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!