Best Tent Camping near Carpinteria, CA

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Carpinteria? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Carpinteria. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Carpinteria, CA (37)

    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park

    1. Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park

    18 Reviews
    103 Photos
    270 Saves
    Oxnard, California

    Overview

    Fantastic ocean views and relaxing beach time is practically guaranteed at Scorpion Canyon Campground, the most family-friendly campsite on Santa Cruz Island. Set on the eastern part of the island, the campground is a short hike from the pier and is sheltered from harsh ocean winds. The largest of California's Channel Islands, Santa Cruz Island is one of the five islands that make up the Channel Islands National Park. The island is rich in cultural history, magnificent landscapes, and unique flora and fauna. Native American Indians inhabited the island for over 10,000 years and Europeans explored and ranched on the island for over 150 years. Over 600 plant species, 140 land birds, 11 land mammals and a handful of amphibians and reptiles call the island their home. The island fox and island scrub-jay are exciting finds, as they're unique to the island, found nowhere else in the world. For more information about Santa Cruz Island visit: https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/santa-cruz-island.htm .

    Recreation

    With its easy beach access and generally good weather, this area offers the most recreational activities in the park, including hiking, swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking and wildlife/wildflower viewing. There are no services on the island, so all gear has to be brought to the island. Guided kayak trips and kayak rentals must be arranged before arriving on the island. For more information about recreational activities in the park, visit https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/index.htm.

    Natural Features

    The beach near the campground is a mix of sand and rocks, and faces the Santa Barbara Channel. The campground is located in a valley with a mixture of trees and shrubs. Rugged mountain peaks rise above the campground to 1,808 feet.

    Nearby Attractions

    Hiking options are unlimited and offer spectacular coastal views. Try the 2 mile round-trip Cavern Point Loop hike for views of the island's mountain peaks, and the southern California coastline. This popular hike takes you past antique ranching equipment and historic buildings for a taste of island ranch history. For more advanced hikers, tackle the 7.5-mile round-trip hike from the campground to Smugglers Cove.

    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets

    $15 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground

    2. Reyes Peak Campground

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    108 Saves
    Ojai, California

    Overview

    At an elevation of 7,000 feet, Reyes Peak Campground, rises above the Sespe Wilderness and is situated along a ridge with spectacular views of the Cuyama Badlands on one side and the Pacific Ocean from the other side. On clear days you can even see some of the Channel Islands!

    Recreation

    Several trails leave the Reyes Peak Campground area. Chorro Grande Trail is located at the gate just past the last campsite. Raspberry Spring Trail will lead you north on a short one-half mile walk through the pines. It starts at the parking area on the western edge of the campground. The Reyes Peak Trail (23W04) is moderately difficult. It leads eastward into the Sespe Wilderness for 5.8 miles to the Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail (22W03). Remember, no mountain bikes are allowed in the wilderness.

    Natural Features

    The landscape includes Jeffrey pines, sugar pines, white fir and ponderosa pines. Wildflowers are abundant in the spring and early summer. Be dazzled by lupine, false lupine, scarlet bugler and many others. Keep your eyes open for red-tailed hawks soaring above the trees. If you are lucky, you may see a California condor! Other birds in the area include woodpeckers and chickadees. Deer, bear, and coyote also live in the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    Hiking trails, biking and fishing are within 30 minutes. Take a day trip south along Hwy 33 to the Rose Valley Road (6N31) to the Piedra Blanca trailhead where three trails can be accessed, all located across Sespe Creek. The Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail (22W03) in the Sespe Wilderness will lead you to nearby massive white rocks, called Piedra Blanca! It is an easy walk for the first three miles. A principal attraction to this section of the Sespe is Rose Valley Falls. This trail to the falls begins just before you enter Rose Valley Campground. Follow it for a short half-mile and you will be at the base of the falls. The cliffs at the falls are arkosic sandstone and crumble easily, so tread lightly. Rose Valley Falls is the tallest waterfall in the range and while it is an easy hike to the base of the 100-foot tall lower tier of the waterfall (0.8 miles round trip with 150 feet of elevation gain), it is adventure to reach the more impressive upper tier. Please do not climb around on steep sections or get close to the edge. You will need to park outside Rose Valley Campground to hike the trails. Another trail, the Sespe River Trail (20W13) will lead you downstream into the Sespe Wilderness. You will find some swimming holes along this walk. Remember, no mountain bicycles allowed on wilderness trails. If you would like to go on a mountain bicycle ride, take the Middle Sespe Trail (22W04) that leads up river eight miles to the west to Middle Sespe Trailhead.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table

    $30 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry — Channel Islands National Park

    3. Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry — Channel Islands National Park

    3 Reviews
    15 Photos
    138 Saves
    Carpinteria, California

    Overview

    For a truly remote getaway full of backpacking and breathtaking scenery, take a backcountry trip to Santa Cruz Island's Del Norte Campground. Del Norte is currently the only backcountry campground on Santa Cruz Island. The National Park Service opened this backcountry site in recognition of its rare wilderness values. As you explore these wild areas, please take the responsibility to help us protect and preserve these delicate natural resources for future generations. While backcountry camping is an incredible experience, it is not for the inexperienced backpacker. Due to difficult weather, rugged terrain, and off-trail hiking, backcountry camping is an arduous endeavor and should be undertaken only by experienced, well-conditioned backpackers. To reach this backcountry site, visitors will backpack along a historic ranch road/trail through a series of canyons and ridges, to a vista about 700 feet above sea level. This moderate to strenuous 3.5-mile hike from Prisoners Harbor travels through island oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub plant communities.

    Recreation

    From Prisoners Harbor, the shortest route to the Del Norte Campground is 3.5 miles via the Del Norte Trail. Follow the Navy Road out of Prisoners Harbor for 1.5 miles (600-foot elevation gain; strenuous). This gravel road is still used daily by vehicles, so please use caution while hiking along it. During winter and spring, visitors need to be prepared for a wet creek crossing at Canada del Puerto in Prisoner's Harbor.At the signed turn-off for Del Norte Trail, leave the gravel road and continue east (left) along the trail for 1.8 miles. The trail winds up and down two canyons (Ca__ada del Agua and Ca__ada del Muro)) to the signed junction with the Del Norte Road that leads .2 miles to the campground. The longer route (5 miles), which provides views of the south side of the island, follows the Navy Road as it climbs 1,200 feet over 4 miles and eventually reaches the junction with the Del Norte Road. At the signed junction, turn north (left) and descend 1 mile to the campground.From Scorpion Anchorage, Del Norte Campground is approximately 12 miles via the Navy Road.Beach access is at Prisoners Harbor. There is no access to the beach at Del Norte Campground.Recreational activities on Santa Cruz Island include hiking, swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking and wildlife/wildflower viewing. There are no services on the island, so all gear has to be brought to the island. Guided kayak trips and kayak rentals must be arranged before arriving on the island. For more information about recreational activities in the park, visit https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/index.htm .

    Natural Features

    Del Norte is nestled in a shaded oak grove and provides scenic views of the island's pristine coastline. The largest of California's Channel Islands, Santa Cruz Island is one of the five islands that make up the Channel Islands National Park. The island is rich in cultural history, magnificent landscapes, and unique flora and fauna. Native American Indians inhabited the island for over 10,000 years and Europeans explored and ranched on the island for over 150 years. Over 600 plant species, 140 land birds, 11 land mammals and a handful of amphibians and reptiles call the island their home. The island fox and island scrub-jay are exciting finds, as they're unique to the island, found nowhere else in the world.

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Anacapa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anacapa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anacapa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anacapa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anacapa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Anacapa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park

    4. Anacapa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park

    3 Reviews
    13 Photos
    95 Saves
    Port Hueneme, California

    Overview

    Once visitors have scaled the rugged cliffs using the stairwell from the Landing Cove, they will be rewarded with a campground perched on the bluffs with magnificent coastal views. Anacapa Island, the closest Channel Island to the mainland of California, is comprised of three islets (appropriately named East, Middle, and West Anacapa Islands). Waves have eroded the volcanic island, creating towering sea cliffs, sea caves, and natural bridges, such as forty-foot-high Arch Rock -- a symbol of Anacapa and Channel Islands National Park. Exploring East Anacapa's two-mile trail system allows visitors to experience the island's native vegetation, wildlife, and cultural history. The islands' native vegetation is recovering slowly with the help of the National Park Service's restoration efforts. This recovery, along with the removal of nonnative predators, has aided in the reestablishment of nesting land birds and seabirds. The island is one of the most important seabird nesting sites within the Channel Islands. While the steep cliffs of West Anacapa are home to the largest breeding colony of endangered California brown pelicans, all the islets of Anacapa host the largest breeding colony of western gulls in the world. The rocky shores of Anacapa are perfect resting and breeding areas for California sea lions and harbor seals. Anacapa's rich kelp forests (ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and diving) and tidepool areas provide visitors with the opportunity to meet some of the resident ocean animals up close. Anacapa Island has a rich human history as well. Shell midden sites indicate where Chumash people camped on the islands thousands of years ago. In addition, visitors can view the 1932 light station. The original lead-crystal Fresnel lens, which served as a beacon to ships until an automated light replaced it in 1990, is on exhibit in the East Anacapa Visitor Center.

    Recreation

    With two miles of hiking trails, ocean access nearby the campground, and generally good weather, Anacapa Island offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking and wildlife/wildflower viewing. In summer, rangers lead an underwater video program. The program includes live video footage of sea life which is projected for visitors to see. It's a great way to stay dry while viewing colorful sea creatures. Since Anacapa Island is a cliff island, access to the water is only at the Landing Cove via a dock. There are no other accessible beaches unless you have a watercraft. There are no services on the island, so all gear has to be brought to the island. For more information about recreational activities in the park, visit https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/index.htm.

    Natural Features

    Waves have eroded the 5-mile volcanic island, creating steep, towering sea cliffs, sea caves and natural bridges. Much of the year, the island vegetation looks brown, but the winter rain brings brightly-colored terrain. The altitude is low and ranges from sea level to 250 feet.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Landing Cove near the campground is an ideal place for swimming, diving, snorkeling and kayaking, but there are no lifeguards on the island. The island is also home to just over two miles of trails that meander to dramatic overlooks and magnificent coastal views. All hikers must stay on the trails for visitor safety and to protect fragile vegetation and nesting seabirds. No off- trail hiking is allowed.

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground

    5. Pine Mountain Campground

    1 Review
    7 Photos
    147 Saves
    Ojai, California

    Overview

    Perfectly situated high above the Sespe Wilderness offering stunning views of the valley below and the Channel Islands in the distance lies Pine Mountain Campground. You will find yourself surrounded by moderate hills, tall pine trees and the sounds of silence. At an elevation of 6,650 feet, it offers cooler temperatures on hot summer days, and a chance to let everything else go as you take in all that nature has to offer.

    Recreation

    There is one designated trail in the area, Boulder Canyon (23W03). You may also want to walk around the surrounding hills to see the views and the trees. And just a mile up the road there are a couple of trails leaving Reyes Peak Campground - Chorro Grande Trail and Raspberry Spring Trail. Drive past the gate at the end of the paved road and you will end up at Reyes Peak Trailhead.

    Natural Features

    You will find Jeffrey pine, sugar pine and white fir trees at the campground. Along the outskirts, you'll notice chaparral species. These species include manzanita, and California sage. You may also see some scrub oak. Be dazzled by wildflowers, which are abundant in the spring and early summer. Lupine, false lupine, scarlet bugler and many others round out the scenery. Keep your eyes open for red-tailed hawks soaring above the trees. If you are lucky, you may see a California condor! Other birds in the area include woodpeckers and chickadees. Deer, bear and coyote also live in the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    Hiking trails, biking and fishing are all within 30 minutes from the campground. On a day trip south along Hwy 33, to the Rose Valley Road (6N31), you will find the Piedra Blanca trailhead located across Sespe Creek. The Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail (22W03) in the Sespe Wilderness will lead you to nearby massive white rocks, called Piedra Blanca! It is an easy walk for the first three miles. A principal attraction to this section of the Sespe is Rose Valley Falls. This trail to the falls begins just before you enter Rose Valley Campground. Follow it for a short half mile and you will be at the base of the falls. The cliffs at the falls are arkosic sandstone and crumble easily, so tread lightly. Rose Valley Falls is the tallest waterfall in the range and while it is an easy hike to the base of the 100-foot tall lower tier of the waterfall (0.8 miles round trip with 150 feet of elevation gain), it is adventure to reach the more impressive upper tier. Please do not climb around on steep sections or get close to the edge. You will need to park outside Rose Valley Campground to hike the trails. Another trail, the Sespe River Trail (20W13) will lead you downstream into the Sespe Wilderness. You will find some swimming holes along this walk. Remember, no mountain bicycles allowed on wilderness trails. If you would like to go on a mountain bicycle ride, take the Middle Sespe Trail (22W04) that leads up river eight miles to the west to Middle Sespe Trailhead.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table

    $30 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area

    6. Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area

    8 Reviews
    8 Photos
    285 Saves
    Solvang, California
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins
    • Trash
    • Showers
    • No image available

      7. Rancho Nuevo Campground

      1 Review
      5 Saves
      Pine Mountain Club, California

      Rancho Nuevo Campground is a primitive campground with 2 sites on a grassy canyon bottom, 4-wheel drive access only. Road is subject to close in the winter.__

      • Tents
      Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
      Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
      Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
      Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
      Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
      Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos

      8. Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos

      6 Reviews
      24 Photos
      394 Saves
      Pine Mountain Club, California
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Picnic Table
      • Toilets
      • No image available

        9. Lions Canyon

        1 Review
        8 Saves
        Ojai, California
        • Pets
        • Tents
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        • Picnic Table
        • Alcohol
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Rosa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Rosa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Rosa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Rosa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Rosa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Rosa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park

        10. Santa Rosa Island Campground — Channel Islands National Park

        5 Reviews
        22 Photos
        64 Saves
        Goleta, California

        Overview

        Tucked away in a canyon to protect visitors from strong northwest winds, Water Canyon Campground offers exceptional island views, access to spectacular hiking opportunities and a nearby white sand beach. Located 40 nautical miles from the Channel Islands National Park visitor center in Ventura, Santa Rosa is the second largest island in California at approximately 53,000 acres in size. The island landforms support a diverse array of plant and animal species including six plant species found nowhere on earth but Santa Rosa Island. The island also hosts over 100 bird and three land mammal species, including the endemic island fox. Remains of an ancient species like the pygmy mammoth have been uncovered on Santa Rosa Island. These miniature mammoths, reaching just four to six feet tall, roamed the island's grasslands and forests during the Pleistocene Age. The island has rich archeological resources as well. It is home to thousands of significant archeological sites of the Chumash Native Americans, who inhabited the island until 1820. Others have come to the island during more recent centuries to exploit its rich resources, sometimes making it their home. In addition to the native Chumash, European explorers, Aleut sea otter hunters, Chinese abalone fishermen, Spanish missionaries, Mexican and American ranchers, and the US military all have left their mark on the Santa Rosa landscape. Visitors can see relics of these occupations in remnants of fishing camps, water troughs and fence lines, the pier where cattle were loaded and unloaded, buildings and equipment of the historic Vail and Vickers ranch at Bechers Bay, and remains of the military installations.

        Recreation

        Several trails and roads traverse the island, providing visitors with spectacular hiking opportunities, including the relatively flat route to Water Canyon Beach to the rugged, mountainous path to Black Mountain. Due to the strong, persistent wind, swimming, snorkeling, diving and kayaking are limited and recommended for the experienced visitor only. Despite the wind, Santa Rosa Island offers exceptional beach walking on white sand beaches. Access to one of the best beaches, Water Canyon Beach, is just over a mile from the pier in Bechers Bay and just down canyon from the campground. Beach access is also available near the pier. No fishing is allowed within the marine reserves located around the island. Fishing is allowed outside of these areas. For more information about recreational activities in the park, visit https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/index.htm.

        Natural Features

        Santa Rosa has a landscape of remarkable contrasts. High mountains with deeply cut canyons give way to gently rolling grass-covered hills, extensive beaches and coastal wetlands. The altitude ranges from sea level to 1,589 feet.

        Nearby Attractions

        Good tidepooling spots are located within Bechers Bay, including just east of the pier, the east end of Southeast Anchorage, and near East Point. A short hike from the campground is the Santa Rosa Island Torrey pine grove. This pine is considered one of the rarest pines in the world-the last enduring members of a once widespread Pleistocene forest. Near the pier, visitors can see buildings and equipment of the historic Vail and Vickers ranch. Access to a highly recommended beach, Water Canyon Beach, is just over a mile from the Bechers Bay pier. The sandy beach lies on the northeastern shore of the island. Bechers Bay is a destination in itself, with buildings and equipment at the historic Vail and Vickers ranch.

        • Reservable
        • Tents
        • Picnic Table
        • Drinking Water
        • Toilets

        $15 / night

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      Showing results 1-10 of 37 campgrounds

      Recent Tent Reviews in Carpinteria

      764 Reviews of 37 Carpinteria Campgrounds


      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area
        Jan. 30, 2025

        Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area

        Park near the berm

        This place really came in handy on our way north. Two notes! The entrance and exit are build for traffic going south, so you have to be comfortable doing a freeway u-turn if you're going north. Not a big deal, and there are lanes that are built for it, but those were my first two ever freeway u-turns. Also: I bet it's quieter if you park with the large "berm" between your car and the freeway. We didn't, and I heard the traffic noise all night long. Beautiful view in the morning.

      • Diane M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Faria Beach Park
        Jan. 25, 2025

        Faria Beach Park

        Spectacular Views!!

        This was a an amazing find! What a gem! Easy hook up with clean restrooms and showers! Loved the view out my back deck!

      • Collin B.
        Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
        Jan. 10, 2025

        Lake Casitas Recreation Area

        Super nice night staff

        The night ranger Ron is awesome 👌 totally let me shower in the middle of night when the shower was closed, even gave me a few bucks for shower tokens very kind man!!! Just don't be late getting out of there at checkout time they don't like it and definitely threatened to call police wich kinda killed the whole good vibe of the place.

      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Oak Flat Campground
        Dec. 15, 2024

        Oak Flat Campground

        Nice but needs a permit not free

        Ranger woke me up early asking for a permit. He was not agro, as I didn't look like I bum I think that helped. He explained a shell station off the 176 nearby sells $5 day passes and $30 annual.

      • Wendy S.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Kenney Grove Park
        Dec. 14, 2024

        Kenney Grove Park

        Solid place to camp

        First, I imagine this place was so cool in the 80’s. You can see the bones that it was built around. It’s just a touch run down. That said, the bathrooms were really clean. The showers were quarter showers, but seemed fine. For December it was pretty quiet. The spaces are different, some shade some not. I wouldn’t suggest for really large campers. But for a van, we had power, water, bathrooms and off season prices.

      • Ryan W.
        Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park Campground
        Dec. 13, 2024

        Malibu Creek State Park Campground

        Convenient to Wilderness and Luxury

        Three miles from a the grocery and only minutes from north LA, you'll find a basic campground with flush toilets, coin showers, and easily accessible hiking trails. The sites are basic with campfire pit and grill, open space for a tent or rv, and picnic table. The inner circle of sites abuts the bathrooms and is better for groups. The outer rings on three sides have nice views, but some sites on the south side are shorter and abut a fence.

        We stayed in site 59 which had a really nice shade tree and great views of a meadow and the cliffs out the back of the site. The sites are fairly open and close to each other, so be prepared to hear everything, and because the campground is close to the city it is popular with groups and families.

        The campground was under fire warning all weekend, but faux wood (javalog or duraflame) and charcoal was still allowed. The camphost sold Javalogs, and there were plenty of options at the nearby Albertson's.

        The state park is a former movie set and is filled with easily accessible trails for hiking and some for mountain biking. The primary trails were open fire roads with off-shoots to lakes, pools, meadows, and more. It was easy to imagine you weren't anywhere close to the city. During a holiday weekend the trails were fairly busy with day-use hikers, but even then, it was easy to get away and be on trails alone if you wanted. There is also a visitor center in the park, but it has limited hours.
        The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. If you have a dog with you make sure they don't try join the pack. On a hike right out of the park a few hundred yards, I came across a pair of bobcats—mom and cub—making their way to a running creek.

        I'd recommend a visit if you're looking for a close to town escape.

      • Natalie T.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed
        Nov. 23, 2024

        Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed

        Rolling Hills & Plains

        ☆ No target shooting allowed ☆ Arrived on a drizzly day & tried going further down the road to other more secluded camping spots. However the dirt road was slick & minivan, loaded down, was slipping & sliding. Backtracked to a nice spot, camaflouged by a small hill, it'll protect my gear tent. This is open castle range.

      • Dominik K.
        Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
        Nov. 23, 2024

        El Capitán State Beach Campground

        Great place worth to visit

        Place with beautiful ocean view, a lot of space on each campsite. One star less due to Very worn sanitary facilities…… but still working :-) Very crowded on weekends

      • Jon S.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Ventura Beach RV Resort
        Nov. 15, 2024

        Ventura Beach RV Resort

        Ditto no laundry right now

        Ditto what others say…clean, great noise, pricey $142/night for Sprinter, laundry is being remodeled right now

      • ian S.
        Camper-submitted photo from Songdog Ranch
        Nov. 11, 2024

        Songdog Ranch

        Politicized campground

        Not a bad campground, but driving in, the owner has large political flags flying. In these highly divisive times, I don't want to stay at places that divide our country, I want to get away from that. Not recommended.

      • Spicy  N.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach
        Nov. 3, 2024

        Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

        Not Worth staying here

        Facilities are run down. This places needs a major make over! Bathrooms are dirty, showers are gross. Sinks to wash dishes are disgusting & right next to dumpsters. You have no privacy and sites are right on top of each other…you’re basically in a parking lot. Barking dogs right next to you can get pretty annoying pretty fast. NOT WORTH the $70 a night fee. I would only stay here here as a LAST resort

      • Spicy  N.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Anacapa Campground — Carpinteria State Beach
        Nov. 3, 2024

        Anacapa Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

        For $70 a night we Expected More!

        Facilities are run down. This places needs a major make over! Bathrooms are dirty, showers are gross. Sinks to wash dishes are disgusting & right next to dumpsters. You have no privacy and sites are right on top of each other…you’re basically in a parking lot. Barking dogs right next to you can get pretty annoying pretty fast. NOT WORTH the $70 a night fee. I would only stay here here as a LAST resort

      • AnnaEvan S.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Campo Alto Campground
        Oct. 15, 2024

        Campo Alto Campground

        Great Escape!

        This is a wonderful campground if you're looking to escape the crowds elsewhere. We were in spot 4 which was right next to the check in board. Despite the close proximity to the road the site was very big and had plenty of trees to throw our hammocks up and relax. Next time we would likely pick spots 6-8 or 13-17 as they were a little further into the campground and away from the main road.

        There is plenty of firewood to gather but I may suggest a small hatchet.

        The vault toilets were clean enough for vault toilets.

        My husband and I stayed Saturday to Monday and found that only a few hunters were left Sunday night and Monday morning and we enjoyed walking through the campground and checking out all the small viewpoints through the trees to the valleys below. The group sites looked spacious and awesome as well!

        Pine Mountain Club was close, quaint, and the people we met were friendly.

        We are keeping this spot in our back pockets for the next time we want to escape the busy city life!

      • Michelle M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
        Sep. 27, 2024

        Lake Casitas Recreation Area

        A beautiful Lake

        This is a nicely maintained municipal water reservoir with a very large lake. No swimming allowed, but boating is. Go figure.

        There are campgrounds with hookups that are only available for RVs. There is one Campground -Indian- that has a mixture of tent and RV sites with hookups available but it was under maintenance when I was here this weekend. So all the rest of the areas that do have hookups do not accommodate my truck and tent rig. And there are no 110V or 30a outlets available for people who are traveling light -with solar and a minimum amount of panels, where you might need to plug in once in awhile- they can't cover you here. Too bad no one thought of that when they were designing this place, because it's an awfully big place with a lot of sites.

        So we're leaving today to find another place to weekend.

        But two nights next to the lake, in the campground called Mallard was lovely as can be. Next time I'll come out with more panels to keep my pair of EcoFlow RiverPro solar generators topped up.

      • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Gorge Campground
        Sep. 21, 2024

        Wheeler Gorge Campground

        Peaceful and Calm!

        We loved camping here. The whole area has a really peaceful and mellow vibe. 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. This end of the campground is right next to the emergency exit, too, but they keep that gate locked, otherwise it would be an easy swoop in. Camp host was really nice, campground was huge, nice that there's a creek running through it which comes in handy in the hot summer months. You have to drive over some creek runoff at parts, no problem.

        There's zero cell reception in this entire area, the roads leading up to the campground as well.

        Fees are $35 or $37 for weekends/holidays. Pricey for what you get and for what we're used to paying for a forest service campground.

      • Kim N.
        Camper-submitted photo from Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park
        Sep. 3, 2024

        Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park

        Great site with no amenities

        Loved the quietness of this campsite. No water, no dump station, only portable bathrooms on site from what we can see. We were in an RV so we didn't mind at all. Went to Sycamore campground to fill up on water. Youre packed right on the beach next to the sand. Combo of tent and rv campers. Wifi is great at this location. We have tmobile

      • S
        Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
        Aug. 30, 2024

        Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

        Please Don’t Tell Anyone About This — OOPS

        This is tragi-comedy: I was invited to a wedding in Santa Barbara. It was summer and the most fleabitten motel prices were astronomical. I began to look at campsites within driving distance, I was desperate. Booked Catchuma and thought, hoorah, I’ve defeated the tourism trap. 

        Well… from the moment I arrived . . . I really could not care less about the wedding. My god. I think I’ll leave it at that. 

        Bring binos. Boat, bring your canoe/kayak.

      • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Faria Beach Park
        Aug. 3, 2024

        Faria Beach Park

        Beachy casual

        I'm giving this place 5 stars, because even though it's cramped and packed and awkward to maneuver through, it's got the casual and fun beach vibe that we love about this area.

        You're right on the beach, with easy access to the beach via stairs. This campground is very close to Rincon, but the setup is totally different. Rincon is basically just a parking space on the road, while Faria is a regular campground. The drive down from the main road is pretty steep with a sharp turn, I'm surprised more RVs don't scrape and cause damage on the way down.

        The sites here are very close together, but it doesn't matter. Everyone is friendly and happy and in a good mood. The cafe is fun and seems to be a hangout for bikers riding along Hwy 1. We love it here.

      • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Danielson Group Multi-Use Area
        Jul. 29, 2024

        Danielson Group Multi-Use Area

        Haven't stayed, looks a little run down

        I came across this group campsite while on a long hike with a friend. I had no idea it existed, so I'm adding it to the Dyrt so more people can find it if they are looking for a group campsite. You can reserve it for large groups of 10-50 people. Some of the communal areas and fencing looked like it could use some resfreshing. Facilities available: Drinking Water, Flush Toilets, Showers, Tent Spaces, and Fireplace.

        I recommend visiting in the spring, when things are greenest, and there are beautiful wildflowers.

      • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park
        Jul. 29, 2024

        Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park

        protected campground in middle of the island

        Both upper and lower campgrounds get almost total shade, which provides a relief from the direct sunlight throughout the rest of the island. The vault toilets were clean. Each site comes with its own table and metal food box. Some sites are closer together, but if you get lucky you can nab one towrds the outskirts.

        According to my Alltrails, lower sites were about 0.3 mile from the dock, and upper sites were about 0.6 mile.

        I recommend packing dramamine, in case you get motion sickness on the 1-1.5 hour boat ride in both directions. In January, the ride out to the island was pretty chopping. The ride back was calmer, and we boated along a pod of HUNDREDS of dolphins, it was spectacular.

      • Julian M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Malibu Creek State Park Campground
        Jul. 24, 2024

        Malibu Creek State Park Campground

        Amazing experience, beautiful sunset

        Great campground, Great spots but unfortunately bit expensive .Very disappointed about the rules regarding fire, but I understood. I left from the campground after the sunset...fire allowed only with courchal...

      • Elaine H.
        Camper-submitted photo from Dennison Park
        Jul. 16, 2024

        Dennison Park

        Great campground and host!

        I love finding a camping spot last minute and it turns out to be amazing! Dennison Park Campground did not disappoint! Although there are beautiful upper campground spots that Overlook Ojai Valley, I chose, from the choices I had, a spot that looked spacious and offered the most shade. Nestled in the middle of upper and lower campsites, I found it to be a quiet reprieve from our day's activities -- the campfire always the highlight for me. The camp host, Dane, was friendly, helpful, and a joy to chat with. He also gave us some suggestions of other county parks to check out the next time we venture to the Ojia area! We will definitely be back to camp here!


      Guide to Carpinteria

      Carpinteria, California, offers a variety of tent camping options that allow you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery and diverse wildlife.

      Tips for tent camping near Carpinteria

      • For a unique experience, consider the Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground, where you can enjoy shaded sites and clean vault toilets, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
      • Be prepared for a bit of a trek at Reyes Peak Campground, which requires a short walk to access its beautiful high-elevation sites with stunning views.
      • If you're looking for a more secluded experience, Rancho Nuevo Campground offers a small, quiet setting next to a flowing creek, ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds.

      Tent campers like these nearby activities

      • At Osprey - Lake Casitas Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and family-friendly activities, making it a great spot for beginners and kids alike.
      • The scenic trails around Pine Mountain Campground provide excellent hiking opportunities, with access to the nearby Reyes Peak Trail for breathtaking views.
      • For those who appreciate wildlife, Lions Canyon is a remote spot where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature and possibly spot some local fauna.

      Explore local attractions while camping

      • The Middle Santa Ynez Campground is a great base for exploring the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, known for its wineries and picturesque landscapes.
      • If you're up for a challenge, the trails near Tinta Campground offer access to rugged terrain and stunning vistas, perfect for adventurous hikers.
      • Don't miss the chance to visit the charming town of Ojai, just a short drive from Happy Hollow Camp, where you can explore local shops and enjoy delicious dining options.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Carpinteria, CA?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Carpinteria, CA is Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park with a 4.8-star rating from 18 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near Carpinteria, CA?

        TheDyrt.com has all 37 tent camping locations near Carpinteria, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.