Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping areas near Ojai require careful planning for various access conditions. Weather across the region fluctuates dramatically by season and elevation, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Regulations restrict campfires throughout most dispersed areas during fire season, typically May through November, with permits required during permitted periods.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Access natural swimming areas at Big Cone Camp - Santa Paula Canyon via a moderate 3-mile hike. "This is a fairly easy hike through what would not be considered a typical hike. It starts off going through Thomas Aquinas College, winding through horse property and oil fields, before finally opening up into Santa Paula Canyon," notes camper robherr.
Stargazing: The Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed camping area offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. Jonathan E. reports, "The stars were also quite visible with minimal light pollution. The area is hilly and beautiful with enough flatness and openness to pitch a tent without issue."
Cross-island hiking: From Santa Cruz Island, multiple trails provide challenging day hikes with ocean views. "Hiked from Scorpion Harbor cross-island to Del Norte Camp, great way to see the island. Camped at site 1, had the most wind but also the best views of the ocean," shares Tom M., highlighting the unique perspectives available from island trail systems.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Campers at Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry frequently mention unique wildlife sightings. "Saw lots of island foxes - so cute!" writes Kathleen L., though she cautions to "use the food storage boxes to protect your food from the foxes." This island environment offers wildlife viewing opportunities not available on mainland sites.
Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of many sites means minimal crowds and noise. At Carrizzo Plain, Gert K. enjoyed "some warm breezes in the evening, silent night with great views of the night sky," noting the "beautiful hilly landscape" despite the lack of shade trees.
Morning views: Early risers appreciate the panoramic vistas at higher elevation sites. "Great view in the morning, beautiful. Would def come back," reports Mareike W. about Morrow hill dispersed camping area, emphasizing how elevation provides visual rewards for overnight stays.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation. Mareike W. cautions about Morrow Hill: "The road is a little tricky and we almost wouldn't have driven there." Similarly, at Carrizzo Plain, Natalie T. experienced difficulties: "tried going further down the road to other more secluded camping spots. However the dirt road was slick & minivan, loaded down, was slipping & sliding."
Restricted camping zones: Camping is prohibited in several key areas regardless of what maps might suggest. Paul O. clarifies about Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp: "There is a nice hike-in campsite about 1.5 miles up the Chorro Grande trail called Oak Camp. I think the other review here might be unintentionally implying that camping along the 33 is allowed. It isn't."
Temperature variations: Actual temperatures often diverge significantly from forecasts. Jonathan E. reports from Carrizzo Plain: "It was about 15 degrees (F) colder than was forecasted (20 F vs 35 F) at night, so be prepared to be a bit chilly if visiting during the winter."
Tips for camping with families
Short-distance backpacking: First-time backpackers or families with younger children can try the accessible trails to Big Cone Camp. "It is one of my favorite spots simply because it is close and when my kids were young it was a fairly easy hike to get to, and there's a nice reward when you get there," explains robherr.
Island adventure planning: Families visiting Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry should prepare thoroughly. Kate W. advises: "You have to set up a boat trip here and back so do your homework because it takes some coordinating. We picked site 1 unknowingly and it turned out to be the best! It was away from others and felt private."
Water requirements: All dispersed sites require carrying water for all family members. Kate W. emphasizes that when hiking on Santa Cruz Island, "bring a ton of water because you'll want it!" Kathleen L. adds a critical reminder: "Also you have to PACK YOUR OWN WATER."
Tips from RVers
Space limitations: Many dispersed sites have minimal space for larger vehicles. At Figueroa Mountain Road Pullout 01, Roland L. notes the constraints: "The site is all up hill and really only has a small area where a few vans can fit."
Free camping options: RV campers seeking free camping near Ojai, California can find options at Carrizzo Plain, where level sites accommodate smaller RVs without hookups. "We drove a bit further down the main road than the gps location suggests, and took the next road to find a spot," advises Gert K., indicating that persistence may be needed to find suitable locations.
Wind exposure: RVs and trailers face significant wind at certain exposed sites. "VERY WINDY!" emphasizes Kate W. about Santa Cruz Island camping, while robherr notes about Chorma Camp: "Situated high on a bluff it gets lots of wind, and with very little shelter around to break it, if you camp here you will get the brunt of it."
