Channel Islands National Park camping options span across both Santa Barbara County and Ventura County, with elevations ranging from sea level to 100 feet. The coastal Mediterranean climate averages 65-75°F year-round with morning fog common during summer months. RV parks near Channel Islands National Park typically experience stronger afternoon winds from April through September, when self-contained camping becomes essential during peak visitation periods.
What to do
Horseback riding excursions: At Thousand Trails Rancho Oso, equestrian activities are a primary attraction. "If you are looking for a campground with horseback riding opportunities, this is the campground for you. Remote, mountain location. Almost no cell coverage, no restaurants or services nearby," notes one visitor who appreciated the designated horse facilities.
Beach access from camp: At Emma Wood State Beach, camping puts you directly on the shoreline. "At high tide the ocean comes right up to your doorstep, watch where you park if you don't want the waves crashing and splashing all over your rig and camp area," advises a regular camper. The beach allows for immediate water access without driving.
Harbor exploration: Ventura Harbor provides excellent paddling opportunities adjacent to Channel Islands Harbor RV Park. "Convenient place to put in Kayaks right across the street to paddle around the harbor," mentions one military visitor. Kayak rentals are available at the harbor for $45-65 per half-day.
Walking and biking paths: Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park offers convenient coastal access via designated paths. "It's an easy bike ride to beaches, downtown and restaurants," says one camper. Another notes, "Walking distance to the waterfront and biking lanes and trails all around," making it ideal for exploring without a vehicle.
What campers like
Immediate oceanfront views: Rincon Parkway RV Overnight offers unobstructed ocean access with fishing opportunities. "Great for last second check-in online. Best I've ever had checking in. Sites with lower numbers have more sand in front and maybe easier access beach," reports one camper who appreciated the straightforward reservation process.
Pool and spa amenities: Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara provides resort-style amenities not commonly found at basic RV parks. "They have a pool, playground, 24 hour bathroom and showers included with your stay. Also have a small restaurant in case you don't feel like cooking," notes a family who stayed there. Another camper adds, "Heated pool and jacuzzi. Concrete pads and lots of trees."
Proximity to urban amenities: Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park offers convenient access to city services. "Trader Joes .7 mi away; walkable to the waterfront and biking lanes and trails all around," mentions a visitor who extended their stay. The accessibility to grocery stores and restaurants within walking distance creates a practical base for Channel Islands excursions.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Point Mugu Recreation Facility provides natural habitat viewing. "We watch seals, ducks and more swimming around the beach. We practically had it all to ourselves," shares one visitor. The protected wetlands adjacent to this military campground create unique wildlife observation opportunities not available at other coastal campgrounds.
What you should know
Military-only facilities: Several RV campgrounds near Channel Islands National Park have restricted access. Point Mugu Recreation Facility requires proper credentials: "This is a wonderful campground right next to the beach however it is only available to the military and their families," clarifies a visitor. Channel Islands Harbor RV Park similarly requires "military affiliation only."
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience consistent traffic noise. Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park sits adjacent to a major highway. "Yes, there is highway noise but it is like white noise to me," notes one visitor, while another mentions "highway noise is disturbing." Similar concerns exist at Emma Wood, where "you can hear the sound of the freeway and trains."
Limited connectivity: Remote locations can mean connectivity challenges. Rancho Oso has significant technology limitations: "No wifi or Verizon cell service. So I had to commute daily, I work remotely." This makes advance planning essential for those needing to stay connected.
Weather-related closures: Seasonal flooding affects several coastal campgrounds. One visitor at Ventura Beach RV Resort reported significant flooding: "By the time I got there I was in waist high water. I lost over a $1000 worth of gear and $2500 in damage to my coach." Check weather forecasts carefully during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Ventura Beach RV Resort offers family-focused amenities despite highway proximity. "Pool, hot tub, playground, transport vehicle to and from town, and game room," lists a visitor, though noting some facilities were closed during their visit. Standard amenities include concrete pads with fire rings and designated grass areas.
Safety considerations: When staying at oceanfront locations, monitor children carefully. A visitor to Rincon Parkway notes, "Not the best place for young kids, as it is too scary being right off the highway in my opinion. Just stay down on the beach (break water rocks provide a barrier if you have kids)." Traffic hazards require constant vigilance at roadside beaches.
Nature exploration programs: Several campgrounds offer educational opportunities. Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara connects to hiking trails where families can explore local ecosystems. "We had a nice hike down to El Capitan beach with the kids where they enjoyed themselves," shares a family that visited, highlighting the accessibility of nature programs.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Beach camping provides opportunities for marine life education. "We saw a baby sealion on the beach one morning!" reports a visitor to Point Mugu. Channel Islands area beaches frequently host marine mammals during spring and early summer months when viewing is optimal.
Tips from RVers
Tide awareness: For oceanfront camping at Emma Wood State Beach, understand tide patterns. "During off season months this campsite is filled with retired folks and keeps its super quiet at night," mentions one RVer who appreciated the peaceful atmosphere. Another warns, "On Spot 20 water splashes up the side, on occasion you will get splashed depending how high tide is."
Site selection strategies: At Rincon Parkway, certain sites offer better beach access. "127 Slanted or parallel dry camp asphalt spots located along the Pacific Ocean and PCH," describes a regular visitor. Sites numbered below 25 typically provide more privacy and direct beach access than higher-numbered spaces.
Resource planning: Self-contained RV camping requires advance preparation. "This is for full RV Camping. There's no Bathrooms, water, nada. There are large bin trash cans for trash," explains an Emma Wood camper. Most oceanfront locations lack hookups but have trash service, requiring RVs to arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks.
Tight maneuvering spaces: Several campgrounds have limited turning radius for larger rigs. At Rancho Oso, one visitor warned, "Scary climb, lost transmission and brakes...if you do not have big diesel pusher in tip top shape, AVOID." The mountain access road requires careful driving, particularly for vehicles exceeding 32 feet.
