Dispersed camping opportunities near Ojai extend through the Los Padres National Forest with sites along creeks and mountain roads at elevations from 1,500 to 4,000 feet. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F during the day but cool to the low 60s at night, creating stark temperature variations that campers should prepare for. Creek access varies dramatically by season with most waterways reduced to a trickle by late summer.
What to do
Creek exploration: Wheeler Gorge Campground offers access to a seasonal stream that runs through the campsite. The creek provides natural cooling during hot summer days, with shallow areas safe for splashing. "This campground is gorgeous. It is nestled by a creek in an oak grove and the sites offer a decent amount of privacy. Most spots are shady," explains Dylan V.
Birding opportunities: Camping areas around Ojai attract diverse bird species throughout the year. At Steckel Park, you'll find a unique aviary and wild peacocks roaming the grounds. "When you drive in you pass by a large aviary and apparently there's wild peacocks that live here too!" notes one camper. The peacocks often visit individual campsites, creating memorable wildlife encounters.
Mountain biking trails: Several campgrounds provide access to both beginner and advanced mountain biking routes. Trails from Dennison Park connect to the Ojai Valley Trail system. One visitor mentioned, "Great campground and close to downtown Ojai. It was nice to be so close to downtown and we went there for a bit to get away from the heat."
What campers like
Panoramic valley views: Upper campsites at Dennison Park offer sweeping vistas across the Ojai Valley. "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," reports Johnny G. Sites 14 and 15 provide the most unobstructed views of the valley floor.
Peaceful water sounds: The creeks running through several campgrounds create natural white noise that masks road sounds and enhances sleep quality. "The creek runs through the campsite which was cool. Overall it was good. We could hear the stream and frogs at night which was nice," shared Jennifer S. about Wheeler Gorge Campground.
Dog-friendly creek access: Many pet owners appreciate the shallow water areas where dogs can cool off. At Camp Comfort Park, "The best part of this campground is the creek that runs behind it. It's so nice and refreshing on a hot day, and safe for little kids to splash around in," according to Laura M. The creek maintains some flow even in drier months.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the mountains surrounding Ojai have spotty or non-existent cellular coverage. "There's zero cell reception in this entire area, the roads leading up to the campground as well," notes Laura M. about Wheeler Gorge Campground. Plan communications accordingly.
Wildlife precautions: Coyotes are frequently heard at night from multiple dog-friendly campgrounds near Ojai. "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 Bower about Lake Casitas Recreation Area.
Temperature variations: Mountainside camping areas experience significant temperature drops after sunset. Overnight lows can dip into the 40s even when daytime highs exceed 90°F. "It got down into the 30's last night," reported Jordan M. about winter camping at Dennison Park, noting the "light dusting of snow on the mountains."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: During summer months, the Lake Casitas water park provides a welcome respite from the heat. "The most fun is the water park. You can take a break from the heat and tube down the lazy river. Also there is a disk golf course," explains Shannon R. The water park typically operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Steckel Park includes both playground equipment and the unique bird aviary. "The attached park has an aviary and if you follow it to the opposite side of the campgrounds, has quite some land to walk the dog around," writes Vincent B.
Quieter camping sections: For families seeking more peaceful sites, certain campground loops offer greater separation from weekend social groups. At Steckel Park, "Drive a bit farther, where we stayed, and although no hookups, more spread out and quieter which we prefer," recommends Bower. These outer loops typically fill last and offer more space between sites.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Several campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring blocks or leveling systems. At Rincon Parkway RV Overnight, Pete W. notes, "Spots along the seawall can accommodate bigger rigs." Most sites require some adjustment to achieve level positioning.
Hook-up variations: Campgrounds offer different utility connection configurations. "Sites are pretty tight. Lots of families and tent camping. Need token from kiosk for showers," says Sandi M. about the Santa Cruz Campground at Carpinteria State Beach. Many sites have water and electric but lack sewer connections, requiring strategic tank management.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds lack on-site dump facilities, requiring planning for longer stays. "No hook-ups so be prepared," cautions Jesse A. When camping at locations without sewer connections, the nearest dump stations are at Lake Casitas Recreation Area and Ventura Beach RV Resort, both requiring a separate fee for non-guests.
