Best Campgrounds near Moorpark, CA
The camping landscape surrounding Moorpark, California spans from coastal state parks to inland recreation areas, offering a mix of developed and primitive sites within an hour's drive. Tapo Canyon Park in nearby Simi Valley provides year-round camping with full hookups for RVs and tent sites with modern amenities. To the west, Leo Carrillo State Park Campground in Malibu offers canyon camping with beach access, while Lake Piru Recreation Area to the north features lakeside camping with boat-in options. Kenney Grove Park in Fillmore operates seasonally from May to October with both tent and RV accommodations. Most campgrounds in the region maintain picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water, with varying levels of electrical and sewer hookups.
Reservations are essential for most established campgrounds in the area, particularly during summer weekends when coastal sites fill months in advance. Fire restrictions frequently impact camping experiences, especially during California's dry season. As one camper noted at Lake Piru, "The California drought is the problem. The lake side is so muddy and slimy, it's unappealing." Many coastal campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or train tracks, while inland sites offer more seclusion. Cell service varies significantly by location, with stronger signals at developed campgrounds closer to urban areas. Weather remains mild year-round, though coastal areas often experience morning fog that burns off by midday.
Beach access represents a major draw for many campgrounds west of Moorpark. At Leo Carrillo State Park, campers appreciate the 10-minute walk to tide pools and caves, though one visitor advised: "Bring a wagon if you're hauling beach gear though, as the walk can feel long with all your stuff." Noise levels vary considerably between locations, with some campers reporting peaceful experiences at smaller county parks like Kenney Grove, which one reviewer described as "tucked away from the street and you almost wouldn't know it's there." Wildlife sightings are common throughout the region, from coastal birds at Point Mugu State Park to coyotes at inland campgrounds. Family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and hiking trails are available at most established sites, though weekend crowding remains a consistent challenge.
