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Established Camping

Middle Lion Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Middle Lion Campground is located in Los Padres National Forest, surrounded by rugged terrain and dense forest. Temperatures can range from 40°F in the cooler months to 90°F during the warmer season. Nearby attractions include the Piedra Blanca Trailhead and the Sespe Hot Springs, offering opportunities for hiking and relaxation.

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Location

Middle Lion Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

Follow Highway 33 north of Ojai for 14.7 miles to the Rose Valley Road turnoff (6N31) which is at mile marker 25.84. Turn right and follow the paved road 4.8 miles. Turn right and go 0.8 miles to Middle Lion Campground. The elevation is 3250 feet. Watch out for the rough sections of road.

Coordinates

34.5494 N
119.1662 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Reservations


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4.0

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 6, 2016

Pretty Little Sepse Wilderness Campground

We have been camping here for years. I used to go up there to paint landscapes. It's mostly quiet and safe, but we did arrive one Friday evening and found it rampant with thug-like teens, playing loud music and parked everywhere. It was not our idea of an outdoor experience, so we moved further up the 33 to find somewhere else. That said, most of the time, we have found it quiet and beautiful. We have used as a base camp for the Sespe Wilderness and the Sespe River trail. The river has warm hot springs underneath, so it can be a very comfortable temperature and private most of the time. The campground is adequately equipped for our needs, but we did bring water with us. There is a great little hike from the campground to a little waterfall.

  • Review photo of Middle Lion Campground by Warren K., September 6, 2016
  • Review photo of Middle Lion Campground by Warren K., September 6, 2016
Reviewed Apr. 16, 2015

Quiet Car Camping

A great secluded camping spot at the end of an old side road, it gets very little traffic. Two out of the three times I have been there it has been almost deserted. It can become busy on summer weekends however. There are 9 sites here, each with a table/benches, freestanding grill and a fire pit. (Depending on the drought conditions though, fires may or may not be allowed). The only other amenity is a vault restroom. There is no potable water here, but there is a creek with water in it year round that runs along the east side of the campground if you feel inclined to filter your own. Most of the sites are well shaded by large deciduous trees, and the surrounding hills do a great job at blocking most of the wind, making it a very pleasant spot for a weekend of car camping.

All that is required is a forest adventure pass, which can be bought at any near by outdoors store for $5 for a day and a night, or $30 for a year, and can be used at most any site in the forest.

  • Review photo of Middle Lion Campground by Ryan P., April 16, 2015
  • Review photo of Middle Lion Campground by Ryan P., April 16, 2015
  • Review photo of Middle Lion Campground by Ryan P., April 16, 2015
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Middle Lion Campground?

Middle Lion Campground offers 9 individual sites, each equipped with a table and benches, a freestanding grill, and a fire pit. The campground is fairly primitive with basic facilities suited for those seeking a more rustic camping experience. While the site provides essential amenities for cooking and gathering, visitors should come prepared with their own water and supplies. The campground's secluded nature means fewer modern conveniences but offers a more authentic outdoor experience.

What do previous visitors say about their experience at Middle Lion Campground?

Visitors to Middle Lion Campground generally appreciate its secluded, quiet atmosphere, particularly during weekdays when it's often nearly deserted. Many enjoy the peaceful setting that allows for activities like landscape painting and relaxation in nature. The campground has earned a reputation as a hidden gem for those seeking solitude. However, some weekends, especially in summer, can become busy and occasionally attract louder groups. Overall, the campground is treasured by repeat visitors who have been returning for years.

How do I find Middle Lion Campground and navigate the area?

Middle Lion Campground is located at the end of an old side road, giving it a secluded feel away from major traffic. The access road is not heavily traveled, contributing to the campground's private atmosphere. For specific directions, it's advisable to contact the managing agency before your trip. Once at the campground, you'll find it's a small area with 9 sites arranged in a way that preserves the natural setting. The remote location means visitors should bring detailed maps or download offline directions before arriving, as cell service may be limited in the area.