Rv camping near Fillmore, California presents unique opportunities for both beachside and mountain experiences, situated between the coastal fog of the Pacific and the dry inland climate. With an elevation range from sea level to over 4,000 feet in nearby mountains, camping options vary dramatically in temperature and terrain. Seasonal rainfall patterns create distinct camping conditions, with winter bringing occasional storms and summer offering consistently dry weather.
What to do
Beach activities and fishing: 5 minutes from Ventura Beach RV Resort where "Great sunsets!!!!" can be enjoyed according to Rob L., who notes "Beach is 5min bike ride either way out of the resort." The nearby coastline offers multiple fishing spots accessible to campers.
Hiking mountain trails: Access nearby Los Padres National Forest for day hikes ranging from beginner-friendly 1-2 mile loops to challenging 8+ mile treks. At Soledad Canyon RV and Camping Resort, Tyler V. mentions it's "a good location to explore LA and greater LA area, 45 min to Hollywood sign," making it convenient for both nature and city adventures.
Wildlife viewing: Coastal estuaries and wetlands provide bird watching opportunities. Pete W. describes the experience at Rincon Parkway: "incredible ocean views and 1 1/2 mile dog friendly beach... Our dog Libbi's favorite camping spot." Campers regularly report seeing "seals, sea lions, whales, and dolphins" along the shoreline.
What campers like
Ocean proximity: Rincon County Parkway RV offers beachfront dry camping where Paul N. experienced "views of the Channel Islands, seals, sea lions, whales, and dolphins." The parkway features "127 RV/Trailer spots with incredible ocean front views" along old PCH.
Pool and recreation facilities: Many campgrounds include swimming options for hot days. Jose N. mentions Rincon Parkway is "Great for kids" and "Beach is never crowded," while Rob L. notes that Ventura Beach RV Resort has a pool and jacuzzi, though during his March 2021 visit, "half the resort was still closed to covid restrictions."
Urban convenience: Hollywood RV Park provides a base for exploring Los Angeles. Manon S. explains: "This seems to be one of the best places to stay with an RV to visit LA, since driving and parking and RV in LA can be challenging and parking an RV in west LA is not allowed." She adds, "We took an uber. if you stay on the West side of the city it's okay (still 50/60 USD) for a single ride."
What you should know
Highway noise: Roadway sound affects several campgrounds. At Ventura Beach RV Resort, Ronald R. notes: "road noise from 101 was nonstop," while at Rincon Parkway Devon H. cautions: "All the campsites are parallel to the beach but on a busy road. We had a dog and newly walking baby with us, so we REALLY had to keep an eye on both of them."
Limited availability: Popular sites book quickly during peak seasons. At Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park, Debbie S. warns: "Our space was so ridiculously small, we could not fit 2 chairs. No picnic table, so we literally could not go outside. 21 should be a drive thru, not a spot."
Self-contained camping requirements: Some locations have limited facilities. At Rincon Parkway, Tippy B. advises: "Don't forget your campfire stove, there are porta-potties. As long as your self contained in a RV, car, bus, you are golden."
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety precautions: Monitor children carefully at oceanside campgrounds. Steve L. cautions about Rincon Parkway: "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)."
RV positioning for comfort: Request spots away from roads when possible. At Malibu Beach RV Park, Tim Z. highlights: "Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff! General store is well stocked and there's a park to lounge or play games on the cliffs edge!"
Tent camping considerations: Be prepared for carrying gear at some locations. Kate at Malibu Beach RV Park explains: "beware the tent sites do NOT have electrical hookups. you also have to park and carry your things to your campsite. luckily, they have wheelbarrows to make that easier."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Check site dimensions before booking. At Castaic Lake RV Park, Michael C. warns: "For a 43 footer this place is TIGHT. If you have a big rig, prolly not the best idea. But if you have a 28 footer, this place is Six Stars!!!!"
Parking assistance: Some parks offer help with positioning. At Hollywood RV Park, Mel B. shares: "Steve the owner is amazing and the team will take your rig on a forklift to your site and fully set you up. It feels like a neighborhood instead of a busy RV park."
Utility fluctuations: Monitor electrical systems during peak usage. Ronald R. reported at Ventura Beach RV Resort: "There were so many people running their AC that my surge protector kept shutting off on 'low current' below 104 voltes."
