Camping near Lake Sherwood, California takes advantage of the region's Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. The area sits at approximately 900 feet elevation in the Santa Monica Mountains with nearby campgrounds spanning from beachside locations to mountain settings. Weather remains relatively stable year-round with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-90°F.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: Point Mugu Recreation Facility provides direct beach access with minimal crowds. "This is probably my favorite beach campground yet! Being on the Military base reduces the number of people trying to get to it. The beach is on the base, and has a protected wetland and then shooting range on one side then on the other is the base itself, so this beach is really JUST for those staying on the base or campground," reports Danielle P.
Bowling and entertainment: Military-access campgrounds offer unique recreation options. At Fairways RV Resort, "there are parks located throughout the base and the bowling alley is super cheap for unlimited bowling. There is a movie theater on site but limited on how many movies are showing," according to Ryan C.
Explore downtown areas: Several RV sites near Lake Sherwood allow for convenient urban exploration. At Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park, "Loved the convenience of this campground. It's an easy bike ride to beaches, downtown and restaurants. Very clean and showers were very nice! Some road noise but it didn't bother us," notes Trey T.
What campers like
Wildlife watching: Coastal campgrounds provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "We watched seals, ducks and more swimming around the beach. We practically had it all to ourselves," writes Danielle P. about Point Mugu Recreation Facility.
Pool and spa access: Many RV sites near Lake Sherwood provide refreshing amenities. At Golden Shore RV Resort, "Staff keeps the grounds clean, clean bathrooms, heated pool and hot tub, and other fun things to do like horse shoes. We would stay here again if we come back to this area," mentions Ruth N.
Unique art and landscaping: Some campgrounds offer interesting visual experiences. At Hollywood RV Park, "Every street is themed with murals and art everywhere! The site size depends on where you are in the park. Most of it is an affordable community for locals to live. We were lucky and got a middle spot with wonderful shade trees!" shares Clean Slate D.
What you should know
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience significant traffic noise. "Unfortunately 101 is really loud all night long. Might be ok in a hard-sided RV…but if you're in anything else you may not sleep much," warns Michael U. about Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park.
Train disruptions: At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, "During the day it was difficult to conversate with my group of people or listen to any music at my campsite. The free way is right next to you. You can literally see the cars driving by. At night, it was so loud, it was difficult to sleep," according to Stephanie H.
Check-in procedures vary: Some parks have unique arrival systems. At Hollywood RV Park, "This isn't a self-park park...the spaces are so close together that they use a cart to park you," explains Donna H.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be spotty at certain locations. "No WIFI and reception for Verizon was hit or miss," notes Keisha D. about Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Seasonal activities: Some parks offer organized entertainment. At Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon, "The Saturday activities [are good]. However if you have older kids forget it! The activities are for ages 5-7 maybe! They did have a movie night the last night we were there," mentions groverlicious1.
Swimming reservations: During busy periods, pool access may require planning. "During COVID you need to reserve your time at the pool. Make sure you know that you want to stay here for the full time because there is not a generous refund policy," advises Anna about Golden Shore RV Resort.
Bathroom access hours: Some facilities have limited overnight availability. "Great place to spend the weekend. Close enough to some good shopping and restaurants! Only downside is they lock the bathrooms from 8pm-730am," warns Derrick about Golden Shore RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Large RVs face challenges at certain parks. At Castaic Lake RV Park, "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!!!!" advises Michael C.
RV assistance: Some parks provide setup help. At Hollywood RV Park, "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," reports Mel B.
Sprinkler systems: Watch for overnight watering systems that might affect outdoor items. At Ventura Beach RV Resort, "Sprinklers go on at midnight and spray all over the RV... and arrived late so we had things on the picnic table," warns Wendi S.
