Port Hueneme camping opportunities extend beyond the beachfront glamping highlighted at Point Mugu, with options ranging from canyon settings to lakeside retreats within a 30-mile radius. The area's Mediterranean climate creates camping conditions with warm days averaging 65-75°F year-round and cool nights, ideal for outdoor activities. Visitors seeking yurt camping near Port Hueneme, California will find several options that combine comfort with natural surroundings.
What to do
Hiking at Leo Carrillo State Park: Located in Malibu Canyon, the park offers multiple trails with scenic views just 3-4 miles from campsites. "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access- 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," notes one Leo Carrillo State Park visitor.
Fishing at Lake Casitas: The recreation area permits fishing year-round with daily permits starting at $13. "The lake offers fishing and boating, no body contact. There are several campsites around the lake. Some lakefront and some wooded," explains a camper at Lake Casitas Recreation Area.
Explore movie locations at Malibu Creek: The former film set features recognizable backdrops from MAS*H and other productions. "The state park is a former movie set and is filled with easily accessible trails for hiking and some for mountain biking. The primary trails were open fire roads with off-shoots to lakes, pools, meadows, and more," shares a Malibu Creek visitor.
Wildlife viewing at Ventura Ranch: The property maintains natural habitats with guided nature walks available on weekends. "Wild peacocks roam this campground. The facilities are well maintained and some being rebuilt after a fire. This location is more expensive than others but the views and facilities are worth it," reports a Ventura Ranch camper.
What campers like
Quieter beaches with fewer crowds: Many campers appreciate the less congested shorelines compared to LA beaches. "The beach is on the base, and has a protected wetland and then shooting range on one side then on the other is the base itself, so this beach is really JUST for those staying on the base or campground," explains a Point Mugu Recreation Facility guest.
Family-friendly amenities: Kid-focused facilities receive consistently high ratings. "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. So much to do and see!" notes a visitor to Lake Casitas.
Unique accommodation options: Beyond standard camping, specialized lodging creates memorable stays. "We selected our campsite based on the map and online photos. We couldn't have been more pleased with the location we chose!! 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," shares a Lake Casitas visitor about their yurt camping experience near Port Hueneme.
Stargazing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. "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," notes a Kenney Grove Park camper.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds require booking 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends. "Just book well in advance for summer weekends and maybe bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper," advises a Leo Carrillo camper.
Wildlife precautions: Animals frequently visit campsites, requiring proper food storage. "Also spotted a few rats at night, so definitely store your food properly," warns a Leo Carrillo State Park visitor, while another Kenney Grove camper notes, "We even had a few friendly bats fly around us."
Train noise at some locations: Railway proximity affects certain campgrounds with scheduled disruptions. "Stayed here a few times — quiet except for trains," mentions an Oak Park visitor, while another notes, "This site provides a pretty nice location close to home. The train however is also close and very loud!"
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. "It was hot in the daytime, and got really cold at night, so we switched to a Glamping tent. The Glamping tent was nice!" reports a Ventura Ranch KOA guest about their yurt camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play equipment for various age groups. "There's a nice park, but small, for the little campers. Each site had a fire pit and a picnic table," notes a Kenney Grove Park visitor.
Beach gear planning: Bring transportation for equipment to beach access points. "Bring a wagon if you're hauling beach gear though, as the walk can feel long with all your stuff," recommends a Leo Carrillo camper.
Activity programming: Check schedules for ranger-led events and structured activities. "Lots of fun activities for kids, like crafts, making your own rocket to launch, etc. It is not the place to come, if you want a quiet, mellow place to read a book! It is busy, and loud," shares a Ventura Ranch KOA reviewer.
Swimming alternatives: When ocean conditions aren't ideal, seek out campgrounds with pools. "The water park. You can take a break from the heat and tube down the lazy river," suggests a Lake Casitas visitor, providing options when Pacific waters are too cold or rough for young swimmers.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up variations: Electrical service ranges from 30-50 amp with inconsistent availability. "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," notes a Lake Casitas visitor.
Site configurations: Many campgrounds feature unusual parking arrangements requiring adaptations. "Some of the sites are very small. We picked a site towards the back (which actually once you drive through is closest to the main street but no street noise whatsoever)," explains a Kenney Grove camper.
Supply access: Several campgrounds lack on-site stores, requiring advance shopping. "There is a store that sells firewood and other items you may need," notes a Ventura Ranch visitor, while others mention that grocery stores in Ojai and Ventura are 10-15 minutes from most campgrounds.
Length restrictions: Large rigs face limitations at certain campgrounds. "I wouldn't suggest for really large campers. But for a van, we had power, water, bathrooms and off season prices," advises a Kenney Grove Park visitor.
