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Best Campgrounds near Carpinteria, CA

963 Reviews

Carpinteria on the California coast has several good camping options nearby. Malibu Creek State Park Campground is well-equipped with basic necessities like restrooms and drinking water. You can hike the trails from camp and might spot local wildlife during your stay. Wheeler Gorge Campground in Los Padres National Forest has shady sites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, giving it a more back-to-basics camping feel. Spring and fall are the best camping seasons around Carpinteria when temperatures stay comfortable. Summers can get hot, while winter brings cooler weather and some rainfall. Most campgrounds are accessible via paved roads, though you might need a vehicle with higher clearance in some spots, especially after rain. Cell service can be spotty in parts of these camping areas. It's smart to reserve your site ahead of time, especially during busy periods. Both Malibu Creek and Wheeler Gorge give you a nice break from city noise. These spots work well for both quick weekend trips and longer camping stays.

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Best Camping Sites Near Carpinteria, California (145)

    1. Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    50 Reviews
    Carpinteria, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (805) 968-1033

    $45 - $180 / night

    "Carpinteria State Beach Campground is a one of our frequently visited “staycation” spots."

    "I’ve grown up camping at Carpinteria as a SoCal native and it is definitely worth the visit."

    2. Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    39 Reviews
    Oak View, CA
    10 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."

    3. Emma Wood State Beach

    27 Reviews
    Ventura, CA
    11 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"

    4. Rincon Parkway RV Overnight

    17 Reviews
    Oak View, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    $43 - $47 / night

    "127 Slanted or parallel dry camp asphalt spots located along the Pacific Ocean and PCH approx 8 miles north of Ventura and 20 miles south of Santa Barbara off the Seaside Exit."

    "We had a dog and newly walking baby with us, so we REALLY had to keep an eye on both of them.  We brought little baby gates which helped. "

    5. Wheeler Gorge Campground

    31 Reviews
    Ojai, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 434-1996

    $34 - $74 / night

    "Of course fire, candles and bug spray help but because of the nice creek nearby its kind of unavoidable. With that said, the bugs go night night at dark and a big fire helps."

    "We reserved site #49 which was plenty big enough for our 26ft class c, but the drive through the campground to get to the site was a little narrow and tight, wouldn't recommend for larger RVs."

    6. Faria Beach Park

    12 Reviews
    Oak View, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    $30 - $65 / night

    "Dolphins passing by constantly, small campground so few people around even when full. Limited hours but cute little cafe. Quarter hott showers and clean bathrooms. It was 70’ in December."

    "Location: right off the highway, don’t hear the highway though, low traffic and loud waves Cleanliness: sites and bathrooms kept very clean. Bathrooms/showers: great and clean !!"

    7. Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park

    14 Reviews
    Summerland, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 966-9954

    "We needed an overnight in Santa Barbara and chose this convenient location. Yes, there is highway noise but it is like white noise to me."

    "It's right in the city - near to the beach and zoo (biking distance for us).  Only flaw is it's right next to the freeway.  But it's ideal if you want to visit Santa Barbara!"

    8. Hobson Beach Park

    8 Reviews
    Carpinteria, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    $41 - $60 / night

    "Dry camping next to the rocks. Oven view. Except for the occasional train very quiet."

    "Stes close to the water are very close together. Waves can be heard all night :)"

    9. Ventura Beach RV Resort

    15 Reviews
    Ventura, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 643-9137

    "The Ventura Beach RV Resort is very nice and a short bike ride or walk from the beach or town. Stay away from the sites in the first row closest to the freeway as those tend to flood."

    "Walking distance to beach. Taken well care of. Nice store on grounds. Pool and spa on site."

    10. Dennison Park

    20 Reviews
    Ojai, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    $25 - $28 / night

    "There is a small play park at the base of the hill for small children to unwind, but I recommend driving a few miles further into Ojai and visiting Libbey Park."

    "The closest flush toilets are closed but there are ones near the road that are nice."

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Recent Camping Photos near Carpinteria, CA

320 Photos of 145 Carpinteria Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Carpinteria, CA

963 Reviews of 145 Carpinteria 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.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    Beautiful location. Close to town

    Beautiful location. Close to town. Walkable, hike-able, bike-able, rideable via paths. No dogs on beach. There is a dog beach further up the coast. Sites are pretty tight. Lots of families and tent camping. Need token from kiosk for showers. Train comes by every once in a while. I stayed in Santa Cruz in my 25’ motorhome with no hook ups. Had my own picnic table and fire ring. May stay again only because of the nice walkable paths. Watch where you step near the tar pits.

Guide to Carpinteria

Camping near Carpinteria, California, offers a fantastic mix of beachside relaxation and outdoor adventure. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

What to do:

  • Boating and Fishing: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, 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."
  • Beach Access: Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach is just steps from the beach. A camper shared, "Great location, spots are so close to the beach with no bluff and stairs."
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Malibu Creek State Park Campground. One visitor noted, "Great location. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach, hiking and MTB/gravel trails accessible from the campground."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers at El Capitán State Beach Campground rave about the beautiful ocean views. One reviewer said, "First night unobstructed views of sunset over the ocean."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A camper at Jalama Beach County Park mentioned, "The flush bathrooms are clean and spacious."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Lake Casitas Recreation Area are great for families. One reviewer stated, "This is a huge place, with lots to do."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wheeler Gorge Campground, lack basic amenities like drinking water and showers. A visitor noted, "No running water available; fire ban... a lot of the sites are very close together."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially in summer. A camper at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "These are often booked out so plan ahead."
  • Noise Levels: Some sites near highways may have noise from traffic. A camper at Point Mugu State Park said, "The campground was full but not too noisy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach, which is close to the beach and has fun activities. One family shared, "The beaches are always nice."
  • Pack for the Beach: Bring water shoes and sunscreen for beach days. A camper at Jalama Beach County Park advised, "Bring water shoes... lots of driftwood & rocks pepper the shore."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have games or activities for downtime. A visitor at Lake Casitas Recreation Area mentioned, "The campground is broken down into a bunch of different camping loops."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have small sites not suitable for larger RVs. A reviewer at Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park noted, "The spaces are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs."
  • Be Prepared for Fees: Campgrounds like Lake Casitas Recreation Area may charge extra for pets. One camper said, "We paid online... getting charged $5 a day extra for pets."
  • Use Solar Power: If you’re camping at places without hookups, consider solar panels. A camper at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "You can easily get all the power you need with an appropriately sized solar panel system."

Camping near Carpinteria, California, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for beach fun, hiking, or just a peaceful getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best camping sites in Carpinteria State Beach?

The most coveted sites at Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach are the beach row spots with full hookups, offering direct ocean views and easy beach access. These oceanfront sites fill up fastest, especially on weekends. For those seeking more space, the Anacapa section offers larger, more spacious dry camping sites adjacent to a grassy park area. If Santa Cruz is full, check Santa Rosa Campground — Carpinteria State Beach for alternatives, though be aware that some sites there are simply parking spaces backing up to sand hills with picnic tables. For the best experience, aim for oceanfront sites or those in the first two rows from the beach to maximize your coastal camping experience.

How do I find and reserve a campground in Carpinteria?

Carpinteria camping spots are in high demand, especially during peak seasons. Reserve sites at Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach through ReserveCalifornia.com up to six months in advance. Weekends fill quickly, so book early or look for last-minute cancellations. For alternatives nearby, consider Refugio State Beach Campground, which offers oceanfront camping about 20 miles north. Both campgrounds have online reservation systems. If you're unable to secure a reservation, check nearby private campgrounds or consider visiting during weekdays when availability is better. The reservation window opens at 8am Pacific Time six months before your arrival date, so mark your calendar and be ready to book the moment reservations open.

Is RV camping available at Carpinteria State Beach?

Yes, Carpinteria State Beach offers excellent RV camping options. The campground has specific sections with full hookup sites (water, electric, and sewer), though these sites tend to be more compact than the dry camping areas. The Santa Rosa section has hookup sites that are particularly popular with RVers, but they fill quickly due to their premium location. For larger RVs seeking more spacious options nearby, Rincon Parkway RV Overnight offers big-rig-friendly oceanfront sites just a short drive away. When booking at Carpinteria, check site dimensions carefully as some areas are quite tight for larger rigs. The campground's proximity to town amenities makes it particularly convenient for RV campers who can easily access supplies without breaking camp.

What amenities are available at Anacapa campground in Carpinteria?

Anacapa campground at Carpinteria State Beach offers spacious dry camping sites (no hookups) adjacent to a large grassy area and park, making it ideal for families with pets who need play space. The campground features clean restroom facilities with coin-operated showers. While Anacapa doesn't have electrical or water hookups at individual sites, it compensates with larger camping spaces compared to the hookup sections. The campground is conveniently located within walking distance to Carpinteria's downtown, where you'll find grocery stores, restaurants, and shops. For those seeking hookups, consider the Ventura Beach RV Resort as an alternative nearby option. Anacapa's proximity to both the beach and town amenities makes it a practical choice for campers who prioritize space over electrical connections.

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