Best Tent Camping near Maricopa, CA

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Maricopa and then fall asleep in your tent? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Maricopa. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Maricopa campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Maricopa, California (37)

    Antonio  C.'s photo of tent camping at Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos near Maricopa, CA

    1. Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos

    6 Reviews
    24 Photos
    395 Saves
    Pine Mountain Club, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo at San Emigdio Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at San Emigdio Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at San Emigdio Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at San Emigdio Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at San Emigdio Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at San Emigdio Campground near Maricopa, CA

    2. San Emigdio Campground

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    14 Saves
    Pine Mountain Club, California

    San Emigdio Campground is situated near the entrance to San Emigdio Canyon between the preserve's Administration Center and The Crossing. The campground includes twelve spacious tent campsites, picnic tables, potable water, flush toilet restrooms, and a dishwashing station. A small creek and pond meanders through the campground and there is plenty of shade provided by large cottonwood trees.

    Tent camping and camper vans/trucks only (max length 21 feet).

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherry Creek Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherry Creek Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherry Creek Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherry Creek Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherry Creek Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherry Creek Campground near Maricopa, CA

    3. Cherry Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    12 Photos
    62 Saves
    Frazier Park, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Bates Canyon Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bates Canyon Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bates Canyon Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bates Canyon Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bates Canyon Campground near Maricopa, CA

    4. Bates Canyon Campground

    4 Reviews
    11 Photos
    37 Saves
    New Cuyama, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    5. 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
    Meredith B.'s photo of tent camping at Autonomy Farms near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Autonomy Farms near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Autonomy Farms near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Autonomy Farms near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Autonomy Farms near Maricopa, CA

    6. Autonomy Farms

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    8 Saves
    Greenfield, California

    Autonomy Farms was created in 2013 with the goal of connecting people to their food. The main farm operates south of Bakersfield on 20 acres, where we have our poultry operation. The farm sits at the base of the San Joaquin Valley, with beautiful views of Bear Mountain the surrounding foothills.

    In 2022, we opened up the farm to allow campers to come visit and stay. The farm features a pond stocked with fish, an outdoor shower (with both hot and cold water), indoor bathroom and plenty of room to roam. We have a total of 6 sites for tent campers, Vans, car campers and pop up camper trailers - sorry, no RVs or 5th wheels are allowed.

    We are an organic working farm, so depending on the day you stay, we may have more activity than others. We have staff on and off the farm coming and going from the farmers markets we participate in. We have three working dogs that love to keep predators away at night by barking if they sense any around. We have roosters that crow, lizards, bugs and insects, bull frogs in the pond, California King snakes, and lots of birds/hawks/owls.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • WiFi

    $30 - $50 / night

    Jon S.'s photo of tent camping at Reyes Peak Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Reyes Peak Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Reyes Peak Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Reyes Peak Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Reyes Peak Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Reyes Peak Campground near Maricopa, CA

    7. Reyes Peak Campground

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    110 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

    Antonio  C.'s photo of tent camping at Miranda Pine Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Miranda Pine Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Miranda Pine Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Miranda Pine Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Miranda Pine Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Miranda Pine Campground near Maricopa, CA

    8. Miranda Pine Campground

    4 Reviews
    7 Photos
    146 Saves
    Carrizo Plain National Monument, California

    Nestled in the pines. Nice vistas of the Cuyama Valley.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Andy H.'s photo of tent camping at Pine Mountain Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Mountain Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Mountain Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Mountain Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Mountain Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Mountain Campground near Maricopa, CA

    9. Pine Mountain Campground

    1 Review
    7 Photos
    149 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

    Andrew S.'s photo of tent camping at Oak Flat Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Flat Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Flat Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Flat Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Flat Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oak Flat Campground near Maricopa, CA

    10. Oak Flat Campground

    10 Reviews
    18 Photos
    111 Saves
    Castaic, California

    2800-foot elevation. 27 campsites. No water. Vault toilets. Campsites are first come - first served. RV's to 18'.

    Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass required, but the camping is free if you have one.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $5 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 37 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Maricopa, CA

574 Reviews of 37 Maricopa Campgrounds


  • Tracey The Dyrt PRO User
    Gustavo C.'s photo of tent camping at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area near Maricopa, CA
    Oct. 27, 2020

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Peaceful retreat from the craziness

    We just spent one night at Cachuma Lake (a Sunday), camping near Chumash Meadows. The tent camping sites were probably only ~30% full, which made for a very peaceful (albeit short) stay! The sites are big with picnic tables and fire pits, and many are shaded by large trees. The nearby toilet block was clean, as were the showers (a little further away). Our tent site had a view out to the lake, and was a bargain! 

    There is a store (with a not-so-great assortment of goods), a restaurant and a fishing/boat hire shop. The roads and paths make for great cycling, and there are trails to explore too.

    We drove through the whole camp ground checking out the various areas (full RV sites, partial RV sites, tent sites, yurts & cabins). The full RV sites were (not surprisingly) still pretty full, even in mid-October, but the rest were not. We loved the campground, and plan to return for longer next time. Its proximity to cute little nearby towns is a bonus!

  • Veronica S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Veronica S.'s photo of tent camping at Foster Residence Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Jul. 22, 2022

    Foster Residence Campground

    Conveniently close to Ventura, nicely managed

    We stayed here in June as part of a 3 week camping trip. Foster Residence was the closest to a city that we've stayed in, and that was apparent during the stay (i.e. we had 2 fuel canisters stolen, odd people obviously tweeking coming in the middle of the night and screaming obscenities the next morning, a couple families setting up next to us for the weekend for late night partying, lots of road traffic, etc.).

    There are some reviews for this campground under Foster Park Campground. That is a separate campground right next to this one separated by a little nature trail. The same camp host manages both. Foster Park CG is RIGHT next to the road. But it does have a swing set with like one swing if that sways you. Foster Residence is otherwise the better choice. 

    The tent sites are further back into the trees and there is a lot of shade. When we pulled in, there was an oak branch down on top of our fire pit and picnic table. We tried to get the host, but he was unavailable. The next morning he stopped by and said he'd get maintance. I told him they can leave the wood next to the fire pit and we could burn some of it, and that's what we did. That came in handy because there were tons of biting flies. The smoke helped to control them while we were at the campsite. And on the subject of little flying things, there are also a lot of wasps in the area that LOVE meat. So if you are going to try to cook meat, just be aware that they will consider it theirs lol. 

    The bathroom is separated into male and female and the female has 2 toilet stalls with flushing toilets and stall doors that work and lock. Also a sink with running water, coconut-smelling hand soap, and hand dryers with warm air. I'm assuming the mens is similar.

    The tent sites do not have electricity (normal for a tent site). We stayed for 6 nights and on the last morning we received a notice from a "park ranger" that privacy tents are not allowed due to sanitary concerns? That's like national park-level control-freakness there. There IS full cell service at site 14 and other random places in the campground area. There are no showers, no store, and there is plenty of potable water.

    Overall, it was nice being able to tent camp so close to the beach (the reason we came to the area was for my son to take surf lessons... we live in the Midwest) and also not be IN the city. But the area was definitely not my kinda bag. Still, if I had to go back to the area, I'd probably stay again.

  • Amanda M.
    Bridget M.'s photo of tent camping at Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach near Maricopa, CA
    Oct. 24, 2018

    Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    Carpinteria State Beach Campground

    Carpinteria State Beach Campground is a one of our frequently visited “staycation” spots. We live in nearby Santa Barbara, but will use Carp State Beach as a midway meeting point when friends from Southern California and Central California meet up.

    The campground is pretty large, and caters mostly to RVs and trailers. There are loops within the campground that are essentially just asphalt lots with small dirt spaces for fire pits and picnic benches - these are intended for RV campers, but we have tent camped there in a pinch. Since we are tent campers we do prefer to camp in the grassy tent sites, but they are limited in number and tend fill up quickly. Because of the moderate year-round weather, Carpinteria State Beach Campground stays pretty full all year long!

    The campground has full hook ups, clean plumed bathrooms, and coin-operated showers. There are grocery stores and conscience stores within short walking distance for anything you might need. Train tracks run directly behind the campground, so there is some noise pollution from the passing trains.

    The campground is at the very end of downtown Carpinteria, right next to the ocean. There are no “ocean front” sites, but the beach is a quick 1-minute walk from essentially anywhere in the campground. Some small sandy dunes separate the campground from the beach, and there is an accessible paved boardwalk running along the length of the dunes. There are beautiful tide pools just south of Carpinteria State Beach Campground that are a must see. Check the tide charts on the internet to visit the tide pools at low to mid tide.

    While we really enjoy camp cooking, we tend to opt to walk into town to eat when camping in Carpinteria. Linden Avenue is right next to the campground, and is the main street in downtown Carpinteria. There is a wide variety of restaurants, breweries and coffee shops downtown. Island Brewery CO is a local favorite just on the edge of the campground - while I don’t think they have food available (yet), their beer is GREAT! Their avocado beer is a must try - I know it sounds weird, but it’s delicious (and doesn’t taste like avocados)! Rincon Brewery is a few blocks up from the campground, and also has great beer, and TASTY FOOD!

    CAMPSITE SPECS

    Fees: $45/night (normal campsite)

    Plumbed Toilets: Yes

    Drinking Water: Yes

    Showers: Yes (coin-operated)

    Picnic Table: Yes

    Firepit: Yes

    Cooking Grate: Yes

    Shade: No

    Cell Service: Yes

    Animal Bins/Food lockers: No

    Trash: Yes

  • Antonio  C.
    Antonio  C.'s photo of tent camping at Foster Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED near Maricopa, CA
    Mar. 16, 2020

    Foster Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Local Favorite

    Located right off highway 33 in Ventura California. This campground sits were the historical town of Foster Park once stood, which was torn down to build the highway. There are actually two campgrounds here separated by an abandoned road, Red Mountain and Foster Park residence campground. We stayed at the residence campground which offers some nice primitive tent sites. With lots of Boulders and old tables and abandoned buildings this campground was perfect. Foster park bowl, an old abandoned amphitheater is just a short walk away. Campground sits in close proximity to either Ventura or Ojai. The campground host was nice and friendly. All the tent sites were unoccupied so we were the only ones there which was great.

  • K
    Bridget M.'s photo of tent camping at Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach near Maricopa, CA
    Jun. 20, 2018

    Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    Nice State Beach Campground

    This is a nice little spot, close to town, but not as close to the train as some of the other Southern California state beaches. The campground hosts went above and beyond to keep the bathrooms clean and even provided nice soap. The tent camping spots were a pretty good size for beach camping.

  • J
    Kristina B.'s photo of tent camping at Ventura Ranch KOA near Maricopa, CA
    May. 28, 2021

    Ventura Ranch KOA

    Great place to camp!

    Booked a last minute trip and was not disappointed. This KOA site was great. You can either tent camp or RV. I tent camp and the sites were clean and spacious. Great shaded areas. Lots of trails and activities for both kids and adults. I took my two dogs and they loved it. My family stayed at one of the RV sites and had a great time too. Peacocks live there! They roost in the trees and just mingle with the campers without a care in the world. There is a store that sells firewood and other items you may need. Definitely going back!

  • Jorge R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at A Country RV Park near Maricopa, CA
    Jun. 9, 2024

    A Country RV Park

    Accommodating and Clean

    Very convenient and super clean. The lady who answers the phone is super friendly and helpful. I think it's better for RVs and don't think there are any tent sites.

  • Andrea R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Gustavo C.'s photo of tent camping at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area near Maricopa, CA
    Apr. 26, 2019

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    It has a pool!

    As with many southern California lakes, there is no human contact with the water due to it being a reclamation center. Unlike many other southern California lakes, this one has a pool!

    The bathrooms are well maintained and there are flush toilets and coin operated showers. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. I tent camped, like always, but they have cabins, yurts and rv spots. The guys enjoyed the fishing.

    I still have a problem paying $25+ for a place in the dirt, but families love it.

  • Darryl L.
    Antonio  C.'s photo of tent camping at Dennison Park near Maricopa, CA
    Feb. 21, 2023

    Dennison Park

    Spent President’s Day here

    Small quiet ,off road but highway noise. Very friendly camp host, Ojai just a few miles away, no full hookup, clean bathroom no showers. Good views from tent sites-not RV sites.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Gustavo C.'s photo of tent camping at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area near Maricopa, CA
    Oct. 13, 2023

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Quiet in the off-season

    General: Many different options from tent sites to premium tent sites, water/electric, and FHU sites in addition to yurts and cabins. 

    Site Quality: Varies greatly depending on what type of site you choose. The only sites with gravel paved pads were the ones with water/electric hookups or FHU; all others were grass. Most seemed level. It was raining heavily when we were there and some of the sites were flooded. Very little to no separation/privacy between sites. We were in a w/e site, and it was long enough to easily accommodate two camper vans.

    Activities/Amenities: Off-season, everything was closed but in-season, there is a marina, boat rentals, restaurant, store, gas station, pool, and laundry. 

    Bath/Shower house: Clean but very basic. No hooks or shelves for toiletries. Cold water only. The shower looked nice but did not use so cannot comment on it. 

    IMO, the best options are the premier tent sites, yurts, and cabins as they offer the best lake views. We had not planned on camping here but after evacuating from Jalama Beach, we were told this park would honor our reservation. It rained most of the time we were there, and it was off-season, so I imagine it would be an entirely different experience in the summer when all amenities were offered and the campground was full.

  • C
    Gustavo C.'s photo of tent camping at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area near Maricopa, CA
    Jun. 27, 2021

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Great County Campground

    Nice spot, sites are well spaced, FHU spots have concrete pads.

    Lots of tent/group sites available, tent sites are roomy many with great shade.

    Large disc golf course, well stocked general store, gas station (no diesel) boat rentals.

    No body contact is allowed with the lake.

  • Charlotte R.
    Chris B.'s photo of tent camping at Brite Lake Aquatic Recreation Area near Maricopa, CA
    Jul. 19, 2018

    Brite Lake Aquatic Recreation Area

    Nice .. Not for kids so much

    Our family stayed here for 2 nights. We enjoyed our time but the kids were disappointed they couldn't touch the water at the lake. I brought a small plastic pool for them to get wet in at our site because it was hot. They do not take reservations and they do fill up quickly so claim your spot early if you plan on going. Fishing is nice if you have a boat of some kind. The boat has to have a trolling motor only though. Not a whole lot of shade in the RV sites there is more shade in tent areas. Bathrooms near RV sites were clean and nice. Down by the tent sites not so much there were ants everywhere. We will probably stay here again as it is only 30 minutes from our house but we will bring our generator and stay near tent sites with shade.

  • April C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jessica P.'s photo of tent camping at KCL Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Apr. 14, 2023

    KCL Campground

    Great location

    Nice and clean. Vault toilets. There’s water, but not sure if it’s potable, there wasn’t a sign. No trash service, you have to pack it out. There is an area for your horse. Walk in sites, rv/car camp/van/tent sites. It’s first come first serve, no reservations and it’s free.

  • Jennifer D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Gina H.'s photo of tent camping at Kern River Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Jul. 31, 2018

    Kern River Campground

    camping riverside

    rv camped. but could’ve tent camped in our spot, closer to the water. sites are HUGE! rv hookups lots of trees. water has enough pools to chill in. short walk upstream, gives you option for rafting back down to your camp. very enjoyable couple of days. oh! and super close , for a run into Sequoia for the day ( we did that!) we also reserved our spots, so our whole caravan of rvs would be together!

  • Lauren H.
    Wutang P.'s photo of tent camping at Manzana Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Jun. 8, 2019

    Manzana Campground

    Perfect site for relaxing by the water

    I have been here a few times over the years and it never disappoints! This year the swimming holes were perfect for some post hike cools downs. On the way to the site prepare for about 12 water crossings. There are roughly 6 tent sites all close together. There was a pretty rowdy crew of guys so get there early to pick your spot!

  • L
    Bridget M.'s photo of tent camping at Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach near Maricopa, CA
    May. 17, 2018

    Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    Beautiful ocean sunsets at this quaint campground

    Nestled between Ventura and Santa Barbara just north of Los Angeles is this picture perfect State Beach campground. This location has both full hook-ups as well as tent camping right up to the coast This campsite also has showers availa le and restrooms There are plenty of miles of bike trails as well as hiking tails to the Bluffs that overlook a sea lion protected sanctuary But the most glorious reason to come here are the breath taking sunsets viewable from your own campsite

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo at Wheeler Gorge Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Nov. 9, 2021

    Wheeler Gorge Campground

    Easily accessible campground in any vehicle

    This campground is a great site to meet up with friends that don't always get out and go exploring as it's a nice campground off a main road through the Ojai area.

    We booked a site here while driving through and spent a weekend catching up with friends that were able to drive up in a small car and join us.

    Beautiful wooded area with a nice stream that passes through. Good flat soft ground to tent camp and a great spot to throw up some hammocks and relax!

  • Sasha D.
    Jennifer O.'s photo of tent camping at Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area near Maricopa, CA
    Mar. 28, 2022

    Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area

    Good for fishing and water sports

    Super dusty, muddy and dirty if you’re off the main camp site away from the RV circle. What balances being away from the main campsite though- is the literal waterfront campsites. Weather is all over and there are tons of bugs because you’re on the waters edge- but the symphony of frogs singing you to sleep at night is great! Was there with my two dogs tent camping. Def not worth the cost if it’s a frequent visit place. Water spouts and flushing toilets/showers are only in the main campsite- not in the PKW where we were.

  • Jen G.
    Gustavo C.'s photo of tent camping at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area near Maricopa, CA
    May. 24, 2017

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Ranger Review: Optic Nerve Sunglasses at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, CA

    Campground Review:

    This would be the most epic campground ever for a huge family reunion! There is something for everyone here- RV sites, tent sites, cabins, yurts, even big group sites. There are tent sites overlooking Lake Cachuma, and tent sites in the shady grass, and almost everything in between. There's a dog park, and playgrounds, and a pool (since you can't swim in the lake because it's drinking water... which was strange to us as Utahns when all reservoirs are drinking water and we still swim in them), and a general store! There are close to 200 sites here, which is mind-boggling to me. It was an awesome campground, and we were cooking up plans for a someday party (be it friends or family) there.

    The restrooms are plentiful and clean, the quiet hours are well observed (though that may have had more to do with the fact that the campground was pretty empty while we were there), and the facilities are reasonably easy to navigate. Every employee we interacted with was helpful and professional. We rented kayaks for several hours while we were there and it was a blast! This place is a perfect little getaway a super reasonable distance from Santa Barbara and the surrounding areas.

    My only complaints were mostly about the tent sites. Some of them are a little too smashed together with unclear boundaries, and the footing consisted of kind of icky weeds. I know, it's me being absurdly nitpicky. But I can't give EVERY campground 5 stars... right..?

    Product Review:

    As Rangers for The Dyrt, we get products to test from time to time, and at Lake Cachuma we tested out some Optic Nerve sunglasses. We used them throughout our trip, but they came in especially handy while kayaking! The morning started out a little cloudy so we were worried that we wouldn't get a real opportunity to use them, but the sun eventually came out and the sunglasses were PERFECT. The pairs we got were polarized, which was great for cutting glare from the water (as well as driving throughout our whole road trip. The sunglasses were comfortable and seemed high quality, which was great considering they're nowhere near as spendy as some of the high-end brands of sunglasses. I'll admit I was too much of a wuss to see if they'd float in the lake, but they were awesome for keeping our eyes safe and protected (from the sun and from splashes)! If I had to have any gripe it would be that the wood grain print on the sunglasses I got (which I love) is pretty pixelated up close- completely a non-issue that only affects aesthetics, but might look better with a higher resolution for future printings.

    Pro Tip for Hungry Adventurers: DO NOT MISS Cold Spring Tavern just up the highway from Lake Cachuma. Delicious food, atmosphere that is simply out of this world, and a gorgeous setting. Seriously. Don't miss it. And if you live in Santa Barbara and you've never been... GO. NOW. You won't regret it.

  • Marie K.
    Jessica P.'s photo of tent camping at KCL Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Apr. 17, 2022

    KCL Campground

    Peaceful retreat in beautiful desolate Carrizo Plains

    Great little spot! I pulled in late at 10pm with my camper van. All the spots were taken except one tent camping spot - but it was super chill so im sure I could have parked in the large pullout just before the designated campground area. Just parked in the parking area of the camp area and slept in van. It was lightly drizzling when I woke up- absolutely beautiful! It was quite and everyone was very respectful. No water on site, people had campfires. Heads up - the road getting there is long and pretty rough, took a star for that - definitely washboard sections- so watch out for that. Happy camping

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Antonio  C.'s photo of tent camping at Dennison Park near Maricopa, CA
    Dec. 31, 2022

    Dennison Park

    Rainy stop over near Ojai

    Rolling Oak Woodlands. Shade. Solar will be available in some sites. Note: sites near the road are near the highway -road noise.

    Tent site loop appears to be very nice and away from the highway. Trailer/ RV sites:. Our site, #1, looks down on day use parking area. Sites 2,5 and 6 are clustered together. Site 4 is one of the nicer RV sites - farthest RV site from the road and somewhat private.

    General: Quiet. Bathrooms are fine. There is some road noise during the day, I anticipate little at night.

  • Brandon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Antonio  C.'s photo of tent camping at Foster Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED near Maricopa, CA
    Jun. 12, 2022

    Foster Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Worth every penny

    Being that we chose this camp site last minute is a total score. Large sites, full hookup options and 10 minutes from the beach. Camp host were very nice and accommodating. Some sites are close to the 33 highway so you will have road noise but we are used to Rincon. There is tent camping in the higher sites. Covered with plenty of mature trees for nice shade. Clean restrooms but no showers. Campground is very close to the Ojai-Ventura bike trail. Hiking trails all over and did I say 10 minutes from the beach!!! We stayed with our 2 toddlers/teen and had a blast. Only odd thing is that some sites hookups are backwards. No biggie. We just ran our lines under our rig. We would definitely stay here again.

  • L
    Charles's photo of tent camping at Rose Valley Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Dec. 27, 2021

    Rose Valley Campground

    Camping Gem

    The campground itself does not have much to offer. It is small and quiet with a vault toilet. It is surrounded by burn scars so that is unfortunate but the scenery is still beautiful. We enjoy tent camping with minimal amenities and easy hiking trails for kids. The trail that starts in this campground and leads you to the waterfall is a pleasant surprise. It is completely unexpected, you feel like you're at a waterfall in Hawaii, it's a beautiful must-see. Most sites have little to no shade or privacy. We were there in April and it was too hot for our liking with no tress/no shade at our site. It is a small campground so even if full it wouldn't feel crowded. Most of the traffic is foot traffic from day hikers coming through to get to the waterfall.

  • A
    Gustavo C.'s photo of tent camping at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area near Maricopa, CA
    Sep. 27, 2021

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Great view but felt unsafe

    We camped here the Thursday before Labor Day weekend. It was empty! Out of 400 sites there were about a dozen campers here.

    When we first arrived to our lake site (453) there was a car in our spot and two guys were sitting at our picnic bench. They quickly left once they saw us pull in. It was very weird because they obviously weren’t campers. Once they left we started setting up camp but it was pretty difficult with the amount of wind so make sure to bring heavy duty stakes if tent camping here. The ground is extremely hard and rocky.

    The views are amazing though and site 453 is right on the lake. Although we were one of the only campers around there was an rv setup close by so we felt better until some random guys decided to have tea or something directly next to our site. They pulled up in a car and parked in the site next to us but didn’t setup anything except a little stove and kept all of the lights off and cooked in complete darkness which was very weird and strange. After about an hour of this they got in their car and left.

    We felt very unsafe at this point knowing that anyone could come into the campground even though they weren’t campers. It was getting really cold and the wind was still pretty strong so we decided to head in for the night. As soon as we laid down inside the tent the rv nearby decided to turn on their generator at 9pm! It ran until 1am when it finally ran out of gas. It kept us up all night and there wasn’t anything we could do. We tried calling the park number which no one answered. There was no patrolling at all of the campground had no camp host. We were completely on our own and just had to deal with the rude neighbors.

    I would not recommend this campground if you are tent camping with a family due to these issues above.

  • Robert T.
    Robert T.'s photo of tent camping at Mt. Figueroa Campground near Maricopa, CA
    Aug. 10, 2020

    Mt. Figueroa Campground

    Great Tent Camping

    The family went up and enjoyed FigMtn campgrounds. The site is large but has a lot of flies. I would not recommend trailers or fifth wheels. This is mainly tent camping. 

    Cost:$20 

    Size: Good 

    People allowed per site: 6 

    Vehicles allowed per site: 1 

    Hookups: No water, no electric, no dumping 

    Includes: Bonfire pit, Grill, Table 

    Bathrooms: Non-flush toilets(three locations) 

    Camp host: Yes, Amber is great 

    Bugs: Lots of flies. Did not have any issues with mosquitos  

    Cellphone Service: Verizon has spotty service, but works better than most other big name companies. 

    First Come First Serve: Yes, but they fill up fast on weekends during spring, summer and fall. I would recommend getting a reservation.

    *Notes: 

    1. Fires are only allowed in camping grounds. 

    2. Website says you have to stay two nights, but camp host does not require that.

  • G
    Gustavo C.'s photo of tent camping at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area near Maricopa, CA
    Oct. 12, 2021

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Awesome lake views and fishing

    Cachuma is an awesome campground with amazing lake views and fishing. Unfortunately no human contact with the water. The restrooms can be far away if you are tent camping. We went in August 2020 and the pools were closed. We had so many yellow jackets coming from the trees and underground. Our neighbors were a group of about 8 and it was one of their birthdays. They were gone most of the day leaving the campsite in a shambles to go wine drinking (they got picked up in a car) just to return in the evening drunk and be loud until 03:00 in the morning. No rangers in site to enforce quiet hours. The next day they were on repeat. I would definitely return but I feel that they can handle some unruly campers better and be more responsive to the yellow jackets.


Guide to Maricopa

Tent camping near Maricopa, California, offers a variety of scenic locations where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from secluded spots to well-equipped campgrounds, there's something for everyone.

Affordable Tent Camping Options

  • Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos: This campground is free and features shaded sites with fire rings and picnic tables, perfect for a budget-friendly getaway.
  • San Emigdio Campground: While not free, this campground offers a reasonable price for clean facilities and access to beautiful trails.
  • Rancho Nuevo Campground: Enjoy a peaceful stay at this campground with no fees, located near a flowing creek.

Local Attractions to Explore

  • Reyes Peak Campground: Located near stunning views of the Channel Islands, this campground is a great base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
  • Pine Mountain Campground: Nestled in the Sespe Wilderness, this site offers access to scenic hiking trails and breathtaking vistas.
  • Dome Springs Campground: Although currently closed, this area is known for its picturesque landscapes and hiking opportunities, making it a worthwhile mention for future visits.

Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts

  • Cherry Creek Campground: Ideal for those who enjoy off-roading, this campground provides access to rugged trails and a small creek for exploration.
  • Autonomy Farms: This unique farm stay offers a chance to connect with nature while enjoying activities like hiking and stargazing.
  • Sheep Camp: A hike-in campground that allows for a more immersive experience in nature, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Maricopa, CA is Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos with a 4.5-star rating from 6 reviews.

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

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