Camping options around Piru, California include several established sites within a 30-mile radius. This high desert region sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 3,500 feet, creating diverse microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90-100°F during daylight hours but can drop 30-40 degrees after sunset, requiring layered clothing for overnight stays.
What to do
Hiking trails with wildlife viewing: Kenney Grove Park offers accessible hiking opportunities with minimal light pollution. A camper noted, "It's one of those rare places where the light pollution is truly minimal and you can really see the stars at night. A great place to see meteor showers or simply just get away from the bustle of stuff for a while."
Beach activities near luxury accommodations: While Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground doesn't allow swimming at the campground itself, the beach is just a short walk away. "It's about a 10-minute walk from most sites, and you can explore some amazing tide pools and caves once you get there. The kids loved searching for hermit crabs and sea anemones."
Water recreation with limitations: Castaic Lake State Recreation Area offers boating and fishing, though swimming areas are restricted. One visitor explained, "Swimming only allowed at their 'swimming beach' and only while life guard on duty. And to use my inflatable kayak, I have to use their boat launch and pay a $9.00 fee."
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The glamping sites near Piru balance convenience with natural beauty. At Kenney Grove Park, a camper shared: "Such a Pleasant Surprise... I stayed at Kenney Grove Park on my way from Vegas to Santa Barbara. It was a lovely, quiet park that I was surprised to find tucked away in Fillmore. Water spigots, picnic tables, and firepit at each site."
Proximity to both wilderness and urban amenities: Malibu Creek State Park Campground combines access to nature without complete isolation. A visitor noted, "Three miles from a the grocery and only minutes from north LA, you'll find a basic campground with flush toilets, coin showers, and easily accessible hiking trails... It was easy to imagine you weren't anywhere close to the city."
Family-friendly facilities: Luxury camping options include designated kid-friendly spaces. "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."
What you should know
Weather and seasonal considerations: Summer heat impacts camping comfort significantly. A visitor to Malibu Creek warned, "I came here during the summer and it was extremely HOT. Typically during the summer season, I like to find campgrounds that have a lot of lush trees so we can be under the canopies and stay cool... There isn't much shade on the actual campgrounds."
Wildlife interactions: Animals are common around Piru's glamping sites. At Ventura Ranch KOA, "The campsites are in a large park, with trees and lots of space—not your basic parking lot KOA. Peacocks roam the grounds, but were not noisy." Another camper had a different experience: "This campground is in a pretty canyon with beautiful trees... The problem is, we were in a tent trailer and they have tons of extremely outdoor peacocks. They poop everywhere, even on top of our trailer."
Bathroom and shower facilities: Facilities vary widely between sites. At Kenney Grove Park, "Shower houses were lovely for a vanlifer like me; bring your quarters as they are coin operated. Nice clean bathrooms with running water."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for variable weather: Temperature swings require appropriate gear. At Lake Casitas Recreation Area, a camper advised: "Our space had basic hook ups - there are two dump stations on site. There's a big cost differential compared to a full hook up site - if that's any concern."
Consider wildlife exposure: Children may enjoy wildlife viewing, but preparation is necessary. At Malibu Creek, "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. If you have a dog with you make sure they don't try join the pack."
Water access for recreation: Some families prioritize water activities. A Lake Casitas visitor noted, "The lake offers fishing and boating, no body contact. There are several campsites around the lake. Some lakefront and some wooded... The most fun is the water park. You can take a break from the heat and tube down the lazy river."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For RV glamping near Piru, space constraints affect comfort. At Canyon Campground, one RVer mentioned, "The rv campsites are to small. You have to squeeze to get in or out of your rv. They do have beautiful views and the beach is beautiful."
Hookup limitations: Understanding electrical and water options is essential. A visitor to Oak Park explained, "Stayed here a few times — quiet except for trains electric and sewer hook ups."
Level surfaces matter: At Ventura Ranch KOA, an RVer noted, "Our lot was secluded, private and close to the entrance/exit. The only thing was the unlevel ground we were on. Our RV was a simple 30' rental without any leveling."
