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Established Camping

Ballinger Campground

Ballinger Campground is located in Los Padres National Forest, featuring rugged terrain with hills and sparse vegetation. Temperatures can range from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Carrizo Plain National Monument and the Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge, offering opportunities for exploration and wildlife viewing.

Description

National Forest

Los Padres National Forest

Overview

Tucked away in the high desert, surrounded by scenic views of the badlands in the Los Padres National Forest, Ballinger Campground and day use area offers the perfect getaway for those looking to access off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails. Explore 11 four-wheel drive roads, 12 all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails, and 14 motorcycle trails, which include loose dirt, hard pack, sand, steep hills, and a few jumps and berms.

Recreation

The Ballinger Campground and day use areas are best appreciated by OHV enthusiasts. ATVs/Quad Runners/Dual Sports/Single track, will find access to 68 miles of marked and rated trails that range from novice-friendly hard packed trails, twisty sand washes, open play areas to steep and rugged black diamond, all accessed from your scenic high desert camping spot.

Natural Features

Junipers, lupine and tall scrub and brush surround Ballinger Canyon, just inland of California's Central Coast and regionally bound by the Sierra Madre and Caliente Mountain Ranges.

Nearby Attractions

Hiking trails, biking and fishing are easily accessed within 30 minutes from Ballinger Campground. Day trips to the higher elevation mountains for snow play in the winter.

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Location

Ballinger Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Los Angeles: Take I-5 north to 126 west to Santa Paula Hwy 150 exit. Go north on Hwy 150 for 20 miles to the intersection of highway 33. Go north over the mountain, 55 miles to Ballinger Cyn rd. Turn right and proceed 2 miles to the entrance.

Coordinates

34.8839 N
119.4452 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

Contact

General Info

Reservations


Reviews

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3.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 8, 2020

Good for dirtbikers/ ATVers

Several open spaces. Not much shade. Good for those accessing off road trails. Road coming in is unpaved but manageable for most vehicles.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Ballinger Campground by Esther Y., August 8, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Ballinger Campground?

    Camping at Ballinger Campground can cost between $30.00 and $34.00 depending on the site.

  • What is the max vehicle length at Ballinger Campground?

    Ballinger Campground allows vehicles up to 70 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Ballinger Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Ballinger Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Ballinger Campground?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is available, AT&T is available, and T-Mobile is available.

  • How hard is it to get a campsite at Ballinger Campground?

    Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Ballinger Campground. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Ballinger Campground, try setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts

  • Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Ballinger Campground?

    There are 13 campsites at Ballinger Campground and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts