Best Campgrounds near Camarillo, CA

Camarillo, California provides access to diverse camping areas along the Southern California coast, from beach campgrounds to mountain retreats. Within a 30-mile radius, campers can find established sites at Point Mugu State Park, Leo Carrillo State Park, and Lake Casitas Recreation Area. These developed campgrounds accommodate various camping styles including tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and some locations offering cabin or glamping options. Most campgrounds in the region maintain proximity to beaches, hiking trails, or recreational lakes while remaining accessible from Highway 101.

The coastal campground options typically stay open year-round due to Southern California's mild climate, though advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer months and holiday weekends. Many State Park campgrounds require bookings up to six months ahead. "Small little campground adjacent to Sycamore Canyon. This is great for trail runners and mountain bikers. The spaces are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs," noted one visitor about Point Mugu State Park. Cell service varies significantly between camping areas, with better coverage at coastal sites than canyon locations. Most developed campgrounds provide basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, though shower facilities often require tokens or quarters.

Beach proximity represents a major draw for many camping areas near Camarillo, with several campgrounds offering direct beach access or ocean views. Leo Carrillo State Park receives consistently positive reviews for its combination of canyon camping and beach access. Visitors frequently mention the convenience of RV facilities at Point Mugu Recreation Facility and Lake Casitas for travelers seeking full hookups. A camper observed that Emma Wood State Beach provides a unique experience where "you are parked right on the beach, which we love so much. At high tide the ocean comes right up to your doorstep." Noise from nearby transportation corridors affects some campgrounds, with train tracks running behind Carpinteria State Beach and flight paths over sites closer to Los Angeles. Most camping areas provide convenient access to nearby towns for supplies, with Ventura, Ojai, and Malibu all within reasonable driving distance.

Best Camping Sites Near Camarillo, California (154)

    1. Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $45 - $60 / night

    "It was a quick drive up the coast and onto this hidden gem. You get access to a private beach with gorgeous California hill views of PCH behind you. Perfect place for families or even RVs."

    "The campground is tucked away in a beautiful canyon setting with lots of shade trees, which was really nice for keeping cool."

    2. Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park

    36 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $35 / night

    "Not crowded and a place you can rarely camp beachfront in souther California. I have to note the bathrooms are absolutely terrible."

    "You are so close to the water and there is plenty of space between you and your neighbor. When we were there many people had RVs so there were only a few tents."

    3. Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park

    34 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $45 / night

    "Small little campground adjacent to Sycamore Canyon. This is great for trail runners and mountain bikers. 

    The spaces are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs."

    "Fantastic body surfing, some good surf waves up the highway a bit. There is a backpacking access site as well up the canyon about 3 miles."

    4. Point Mugu Recreation Facility

    13 Reviews
    Port Hueneme, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 989-8407

    "The tent sites are very basic and very close together, but the surroundings are worth it!"

    "This is a wonderful campground right next to the beach however it is only available to the military and their families."

    5. Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    El Nido, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 880-0367

    $45 - $225 / night

    "It is prime location for some great hiking and at night it is super quiet. There are restrooms and showers as well."

    "The grounds were beautiful and well maintained, the camp host super friendly and helpful, the bathrooms well positioned and clean, and the sites had shade and everything we needed."

    6. Ventura Ranch KOA

    15 Reviews
    Santa Paula, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 933-3200

    "Our lot was secluded, private and close to the entrance/exit. The only thing was the unlevel ground we were on. Our RV was a simple 30’ rental without any leveling."

    "Feels far from everything, but is only a short drive from LA/SFV. The adjacent town of Santa Paula is a great place to spend time."

    7. Emma Wood State Beach

    27 Reviews
    Ventura, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 585-1850

    $40 / night

    "There are no toilet facilities here (there are some portapotties at the entrance though - those might be for staff though.).  

    The only "amenity" this place offers is trash and recycling bins.  "

    "We parked next to the sea wall great view of the ocean. Ocean almost comes to your door step"

    8. Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    39 Reviews
    Oak View, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 649-2233

    "This campground is located in Santa Barbara County just west of Ojai. Beautiful mountain scenery. It’s great for tents and RVs.

    The lake offers fishing and boating, no body contact."

    "A nice feature, (we did not take advantage of), is there is a water slide park near the entrance. As far as I know, this is a separate fee, but nothing astronomical."

    9. Steckel Park

    13 Reviews
    Santa Paula, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    "It seems the campsite attracts a rowdy crowd but that's expected so close to the city. Still, noisy neighbors was definitely the most negative aspect of our stay."

    "A family of 2 peahens, a peacock, and 3 babies hung out near the creek. Beautiful birds. After walking around the creek for an hour, I came back to see a few bundles of wood left for me."

    10. Kenney Grove Park

    13 Reviews
    Fillmore, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 524-0750

    "It’s tucked away from the street and you almost wouldn’t know it’s there! Loved this small and well kept campsite.

    Some of the sites are very small."

    "Ok, so first off driving into this place feels a little "Texas Chainsaw" but don't worry, its fine."

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Recent Reviews near Camarillo, CA

878 Reviews of 154 Camarillo Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Carpenteria State Beach

    Good location

    This was our first stop out of LA, great location. The beach was nice but beware of tar staining. The showers required tokens but the token machine was out of order. A bit annoying for the price of the site.

  • B
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Tapo Canyon Park

    Favorite spot near LA

    The Camp Hosts here are Very Friendly and welcoming, the campground has a lush grass area and nice covered playground. The showers and bathrooms are nice, we highly recommend Tapo Canyon.

  • Lee-Ann C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Steckel Park

    Beautiful location

    The camp host came over shortly after we arrived and was very kind and friendly. I appreciate that they enforce quiet hours! The lots were not very private but they were clean and having full hookups was great. The location is pretty, on a creek. And there’s a playground and aviary which our whole family enjoyed. We’ll plan to go back when it’s not so hot!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    Great trip/great site!

    This place is great! We stayed on site 59 and it had so much space you can fit a ton of people on the site. We had a beautiful, big tree and a great view in the back of the site. Site 62 had the most beautiful view but no shade, but I want to book it for the cooler months. Showers and bathrooms were pristine!! Can’t wait to go back!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Dennison Park

    Great spot close to downtown Ojai

    Firstly camp host knocked it out of the park. Site had water which was a nice surprise and very well kept bathrooms. Pay attention to RV vs Tent sites. This was my backup as Wheeler has closed for a bit. It was nice to be so close to downtown and we went there for a bit to get away from the heat. No natural water on site so if you love a creek look elsewhere.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    Close to Walkable Swimmable Beach / Close to Town / Nice Sunsets / Crowded

    Santa Cruz non-hook-up sites have: asphalt parking (close to level); picnic table; fire pit.  Individual restrooms with flush toilets and hot/cold water sinks cleaned daily but get lots of use.  Showers (tokens) cleaned but may have beach sand on floors.  Check feet / shoes for TAR from beach before entering tent / RV!  Baby oil helps take it off... plastic bag(s) helps to contain shoes.  Spaces can be tight... neighbor's RV was about two feet from ours.  Non-hook-up fee was $43.00 plus $8.25 online reservation fee.  "Enroute" camping may be available if campground is "full"... no hook-ups or tables - and have to leave by 9am - but you might have more space!   Inquire at front gate even if sign says "campground full".  Quiet after 10pm on Friday night even though campground and group sites were very full.  Thanks fellow campers!  Nice wide and safe swimming beach - close to quaint town - make this a CALIFORNIA CLASSIC.


Guide to Camarillo

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

What to do:

  • Boating and Fishing: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, you can enjoy kayaking and fishing. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is perfect for boating... kayaking, canoeing, fishing or sailing on the lake is the perfect way to spend the afternoon."
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Point Mugu State Park. A camper noted, "Great location. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach, hiking and MTB/gravel trails accessible from the campground."
  • Beach Access: Leo Carrillo State Park offers a beautiful beach nearby. One visitor said, "Nice short walk to the beach where dogs are welcome."

What campers like:

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

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wheeler Gorge Campground, lack certain amenities. A camper noted, "No drinking water, no electric hookups, no showers."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Campgrounds like Cachuma Lake Recreation Area can get busy. One visitor mentioned, "It was still pretty level... but all that was left, while the other campgrounds had cement pads."
  • Road Noise: Campers at Thornhill Broome Beach noted some noise from the highway. A reviewer said, "Sound of waves and occasional traffic all night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One family at Santa Cruz Campground mentioned, "The beaches are always nice. The trail that goes to the end of the campground is always fun bike ride."
  • Choose the Right Campsite: Look for sites that offer privacy and space. A camper at Malibu Creek State Park said, "The sites are nicely spaced out."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and layers for cooler nights. A visitor at El Capitán State Beach Campground noted, "The campground gets a track train and 101 fwy noise, but you can also hear the waves at night."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Leo Carrillo State Park mentioned, "The sites are small. It is very difficult to back in to a spot when you have campers across from your campsite."
  • Be Prepared for Fees: Some campgrounds charge extra for pets or amenities. A camper at Lake Casitas Recreation Area said, "They nickel and dime a lot of things, showers pets."
  • Enjoy the Views: Many RVers love the scenic spots. A visitor at Malibu Beach RV Park shared, "The owners have a great plan and it looks like they are achieving their goal!"

Camping around Camarillo has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent or an RV. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping near Camarillo, CA?

Several excellent camping options surround Camarillo within a short drive. Dennison Park offers a peaceful setting in the Ojai Valley with spacious sites, though some are on slopes. For those seeking recreation opportunities, Hungry Valley State Vehicle Recreation Area provides ample space for camping with areas that include picnic tables and pergolas, perfect for off-road enthusiasts. Other nearby options include Lake Casitas Recreation Area to the northwest and Point Mugu State Park to the south. Most campgrounds in the region require reservations, especially during peak season, and offer varying levels of amenities from basic dry camping to sites with water access.

Can I go beach camping near Camarillo?

Beach camping is readily available within a short drive from Camarillo. Emma Wood State Beach offers oceanfront camping within walking and biking distance to Ventura, with restrooms and water available. For a more secluded experience, Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground provides access to a private beach with stunning California coastal views along PCH, making it ideal for families and RVs alike. Other beach camping options near Camarillo include Carpinteria State Beach to the north and Point Mugu's Thornhill Broome Beach to the south. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer months when these popular coastal campgrounds fill quickly.

Are there any RV parks or campgrounds in Camarillo?

While Camarillo itself doesn't have dedicated RV parks within city limits, several options are available in the surrounding area. Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake offers approximately 90 dry camping sites with water spigots available in some areas, though not for permanent hookup. For RV camping, Lake Piru Recreation Area is another nearby option, offering lakeside sites with fire rings, grills, and picnic tables at each site, plus access to bathrooms. Most nearby campgrounds can accommodate RVs, but it's advisable to check size limitations and reservation requirements before arrival, as facilities and hookup availability vary by location.