Camping options near Ojai, California range from basic creek-side sites to full-service facilities with modern conveniences. The region sits within the Transverse Ranges at elevations between 700-1,200 feet, creating temperature variations that can differ by 15-20°F between downtown Ojai and outlying campgrounds. The Santa Clara River watershed supports seasonal creeks that run through several campgrounds, providing natural cooling during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
What to do
Bird watching at Steckel Park: Visit the unique aviary located in the park's day-use area where peacocks also roam freely throughout the campground. "There is a seasonal creek when flowing. Nice oak trees sprawling through the park," notes one camper, while another mentions that "after walking around the creek for an hour, I came back to see a few bundles of wood left for me. I think the ranger found them at a site and gifted them to me."
Creek exploration at Wheeler Gorge: Follow the stream that runs through this shaded mountain campground to find small swimming holes during warmer months. One camper states, "Creek running through and a one way road system this little gem is a great spot for a quick trip not far from downtown Ojai. Pit toilets, no hookups and not much cell service. So great way to disconnect for a bit."
Cycling the Ojai Valley Trail from Camp Comfort Park: Rent bikes and access the paved trail connecting Ojai to Ventura. "We biked into Ojai through green lushness and beautiful silvery sheer like oak trees, a nature wonder. There are bike trails going all over Ojai and all the way to Ventura although from the campground into town you are along a road that just is super lush."
What campers like
Morning wildlife viewing at Dennison Park: Early risers appreciate quiet mornings with native wildlife sightings. "Great bird watching," mentions one camper, while another notes, "It was quiet and peaceful." The upper campground provides unobstructed views: "Views from upper campsites are beautiful (we stayed in site #14), and on a full moon the sound of coyotes cackling throughout the valley is a nice way to fall asleep."
Water activities at Lake Casitas Recreation Area: Fishing and boating opportunities draw many campers to this reservoir. "We were able to backup to the lake and literally fish off our rear bumper. I would recommend this place and you should add it to your list," shared one happy angler. Another mentioned, "Our space was F-11 and after driving through all of the campgrounds, and there are many, we felt that the Fox site was best suited for us."
Creek access at Wheeler Gorge Campground: The stream running through the campground creates natural play areas for children. "The stream runs through the campsite which was cool," writes one visitor, while another points out that "there is a creek running through the campground which was nice but a little small. Our sites were next to the road which was okay Friday night but loud Saturday night but we could hear the stream and frogs at night which was nice."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Fire bans frequently affect campgrounds during dry summer and fall months, particularly at higher elevations. Always check current fire restrictions before arrival and pack alternative cooking methods.
Elevation temperature differences: Campgrounds at higher elevations like Wheeler Gorge typically run 10-15 degrees cooler than downtown Ojai, making them preferable during summer heat waves but potentially chilly in winter.
Limited cell service at Wheeler Gorge Campground: Most canyon campgrounds have spotty reception. "Creek running through and a one way road system this little gem is a great spot for a quick trip not far from downtown Ojai. Pit toilets, no hookups and not much cell service. So great way to disconnect for a bit," notes one camper.
Wildlife encounters: "Beware! There are ground squirrels in abundance everywhere here and they live without fear of humans! We watched them approach as we sat right near the truck and they hopped up into the engine compartment," warns a Lake Casitas visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education at Steckel Park: Children enjoy the free aviary and wandering peacocks. "We loved camping here. The whole area has a really peaceful and mellow vibe," notes a visitor, while another mentions "The birds were super cool to look at. The creek near by was full because of all the rains that were gotten this year."
Playground access at Ventura Ranch KOA: This campground offers dedicated children's activities. "From zipline obstacle courses to tie dye classes, this KOA easily occupies kids and has teepee and cabin rentals available for glampers, but nice showers, clean bathrooms and a roomy pool area really make this campground 5 stars," states one reviewer. Another mentions, "There is a big beautiful pool, but it was closed for the season. There is a very large jumping pillow for kiddos, my 6 year had a blast playing on it."
Space considerations at Dennison Park: Sites vary significantly in size and terrain. "It's a lovely campground nearby Ojai. A tiny one way road weaves around a hill and connects all the spots. Only one site has an unobstructed view of the Valley (#15) but that one was occupied when I arrived and I had a lovely view from my site," mentions one camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Faria Beach Park: RVers recommend oceanfront sites for the best experience. "Summary: by far my favorite place ever. For someone who needs to hear the ocean this is that spot! Privacy: small spots, angled well for your own beach if you're on the water. Hookups at some sites, campfires only allowed at some sites." Another notes, "Easy to back into spots, I only have a van but the RV seemed to do just fine even with the steep entrance into the park."
Site access limitations at Dennison Park: The steep, narrow upper road presents challenges for larger rigs. "It's a pretty steep hill up to the back park and there is a sign recommending RVs to not make the climb, but there are plenty of lower sites if you have a larger vehicle," explains one camper.
Hookup options at Camp Comfort Park: "Site #13 is a weird 'pull in' site, which in all the traveling we've done, we've never stayed in one before. So you pull in forward (not back in), because all your hookups are to the left of the site, on the driver's side. Which is fine, except that unless you have a long sewer hose, your hose won't reach from the back of your RV to the sewer connection."
