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Best Campgrounds near Santa Paula, CA

882 Reviews

Camping options near Santa Paula, California range from established campgrounds to more primitive sites across varied terrain. Ventura Ranch KOA, located at 7400 Pine Grove Road, offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations in a foothill setting. Steckel Park, situated along Mistletoe Road, provides water and electric hookups for both tent and RV campers. Several campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, fire rings, and basic amenities within a 15-minute drive of downtown Santa Paula.

Reservations are recommended for most developed campgrounds in the region, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. The area experiences mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. "The campground is pretty large, and caters mostly to RVs and trailers. There are loops within the campground that are essentially just asphalt lots with small dirt spaces for fire pits and picnic benches," noted one visitor about a nearby state beach campground. Cell service varies by location, with better coverage at campgrounds closer to town. Many campgrounds in the region require advance booking through reservation systems, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Campers frequently mention the scenic mountain views and proximity to outdoor recreation as highlights of the Santa Paula camping experience. Kenney Grove Park, described by one visitor as "a nice little somewhat hidden spot," offers a quieter alternative to busier coastal campgrounds. The nearby Los Padres National Forest provides more remote camping opportunities with access to hiking trails and natural features. Several visitors noted the family-friendly atmosphere at Ventura Ranch KOA, with amenities like a trampoline pillow, walking trails, and adventure courses. Proximity to Santa Paula's historic downtown is another advantage, allowing campers to easily access restaurants and shops. Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with those closer to highways experiencing more ambient sound than more secluded options in the surrounding hills.

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Best Camping Sites Near Santa Paula, California (155)

    1. Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    39 Reviews
    Oak View, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 649-2233

    "This campground is located in Santa Barbara County just west of Ojai. Beautiful mountain scenery. It’s great for tents and RVs.

    The lake offers fishing and boating, no body contact."

    "A nice feature, (we did not take advantage of), is there is a water slide park near the entrance. As far as I know, this is a separate fee, but nothing astronomical."

    2. Ventura Ranch KOA

    15 Reviews
    Santa Paula, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 933-3200

    "Feels far from everything, but is only a short drive from LA/SFV. The adjacent town of Santa Paula is a great place to spend time."

    "This KOA is nestled in the hills of Santa Paula."

    3. Dennison Park

    20 Reviews
    Ojai, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    $25 - $28 / night

    "There is a small play park at the base of the hill for small children to unwind, but I recommend driving a few miles further into Ojai and visiting Libbey Park."

    "The closest flush toilets are closed but there are ones near the road that are nice."

    4. Wheeler Gorge Campground

    31 Reviews
    Ojai, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 434-1996

    $34 - $74 / night

    "Of course fire, candles and bug spray help but because of the nice creek nearby its kind of unavoidable. With that said, the bugs go night night at dark and a big fire helps."

    "We reserved site #49 which was plenty big enough for our 26ft class c, but the drive through the campground to get to the site was a little narrow and tight, wouldn't recommend for larger RVs."

    5. Steckel Park

    13 Reviews
    Santa Paula, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    "It seems the campsite attracts a rowdy crowd but that's expected so close to the city. Still, noisy neighbors was definitely the most negative aspect of our stay."

    "A family of 2 peahens, a peacock, and 3 babies hung out near the creek. Beautiful birds. After walking around the creek for an hour, I came back to see a few bundles of wood left for me."

    6. Kenney Grove Park

    13 Reviews
    Fillmore, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 524-0750

    "It’s tucked away from the street and you almost wouldn’t know it’s there! Loved this small and well kept campsite.

    Some of the sites are very small."

    "Ok, so first off driving into this place feels a little "Texas Chainsaw" but don't worry, its fine."

    7. Emma Wood State Beach

    27 Reviews
    Ventura, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 585-1850

    $40 / night

    "There are no toilet facilities here (there are some portapotties at the entrance though - those might be for staff though.).  

    The only "amenity" this place offers is trash and recycling bins.  "

    "We parked next to the sea wall great view of the ocean. Ocean almost comes to your door step"

    8. Thornhill Broome Beach — Point Mugu State Park

    36 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $35 / night

    "Not crowded and a place you can rarely camp beachfront in souther California. I have to note the bathrooms are absolutely terrible."

    "You are so close to the water and there is plenty of space between you and your neighbor. When we were there many people had RVs so there were only a few tents."

    9. Canyon Campground — Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $45 - $60 / night

    "It was a quick drive up the coast and onto this hidden gem. You get access to a private beach with gorgeous California hill views of PCH behind you. Perfect place for families or even RVs."

    "The campground is tucked away in a beautiful canyon setting with lots of shade trees, which was really nice for keeping cool."

    10. Sycamore Canyon Campground — Point Mugu State Park

    34 Reviews
    Lake Sherwood, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 488-1827

    $45 / night

    "Fantastic body surfing, some good surf waves up the highway a bit. There is a backpacking access site as well up the canyon about 3 miles."

    "If you love Fall and trees and the California golden sun... this place is the place to be! It has it all in one."

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Recent Camping Photos near Santa Paula, CA

269 Photos of 155 Santa Paula Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Santa Paula, CA

882 Reviews of 155 Santa Paula Campgrounds

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Camp Comfort Park

    It's fine

    It's fine. It is a lower cost option although not exactly low cost. Website says $46 or $48 a night for full hook up but was actually $50 plus $15 (mandatory reservation fee). Farther off of 101 than what we would have liked but ok. Get quarters before you arrive if you want to shower and do laundry.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Malibu Beach RV Park

    Great Family Vacation

    Perfect weekend getaway for the family! Loved the store and how close to the beach this place was. Will definitely be coming back!!

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Carpenteria State Beach

    Good location

    This was our first stop out of LA, great location. The beach was nice but beware of tar staining. The showers required tokens but the token machine was out of order. A bit annoying for the price of the site.

  • B
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Tapo Canyon Park

    Favorite spot near LA

    The Camp Hosts here are Very Friendly and welcoming, the campground has a lush grass area and nice covered playground. The showers and bathrooms are nice, we highly recommend Tapo Canyon.

  • Lee-Ann C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Steckel Park

    Beautiful location

    The camp host came over shortly after we arrived and was very kind and friendly. I appreciate that they enforce quiet hours! The lots were not very private but they were clean and having full hookups was great. The location is pretty, on a creek. And there’s a playground and aviary which our whole family enjoyed. We’ll plan to go back when it’s not so hot!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Malibu Creek State Park Campground

    Great trip/great site!

    This place is great! We stayed on site 59 and it had so much space you can fit a ton of people on the site. We had a beautiful, big tree and a great view in the back of the site. Site 62 had the most beautiful view but no shade, but I want to book it for the cooler months. Showers and bathrooms were pristine!! Can’t wait to go back!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Dennison Park

    Great spot close to downtown Ojai

    Firstly camp host knocked it out of the park. Site had water which was a nice surprise and very well kept bathrooms. Pay attention to RV vs Tent sites. This was my backup as Wheeler has closed for a bit. It was nice to be so close to downtown and we went there for a bit to get away from the heat. No natural water on site so if you love a creek look elsewhere.

Guide to Santa Paula

Camping near Santa Paula, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are great options to explore.

What to do:

  • Boating and Fishing: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, you can enjoy kayaking and canoeing. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is perfect for boating... kayaking, canoeing, fishing or sailing on the lake is the perfect way to spend the afternoon."
  • Hiking and Biking: The trails around Leo Carrillo State Park are great for hiking and biking. A visitor shared, "Great location for beach, biking and hiking. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach."
  • Beach Access: Thornhill Broome Beach offers direct beach access. One camper noted, "Can't beat camping on the beach... cooked on the beach and enjoyed throwing rocks into the ocean!"

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Malibu Beach RV Park. One guest said, "Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff!"
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at El Capitán State Beach Campground mentioned, "This campground is clean and quiet... very clean and well maintained."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Lake Casitas Recreation Area are great for families. One family shared, "This is a huge place, with lots to do... good cell service here at the park."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wheeler Gorge Campground, have limited facilities. A visitor noted, "No running water available; fire ban... a lot of the sites are very close together."
  • Noise Levels: Campers at Sycamore Canyon Campground mentioned noise from the nearby highway. One camper said, "The campground was full but not too noisy."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially at Wheeler Gorge Campground. A camper shared, "They let us know there was a bear in the area... cleaning up all of Bucky's messes."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for Activities: Choose campgrounds with plenty of activities. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area offers a variety of options. One reviewer said, "The sunshine is typically abundant in this California park."
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. At Carpinteria State Beach, a camper noted, "Great location, spots are so close to the beach."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and games for family fun. A visitor at Malibu Creek State Park mentioned, "The sites are nicely spaced out... great vibe."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Leo Carrillo State Park said, "The sites are small. It is very difficult to back in to a spot when you have campers across from your campsite."
  • Look for Hookups: Choose campgrounds with electric hookups if needed. Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers these amenities. One camper noted, "The sites are clean and the pads are very flat."
  • Plan for Pets: If traveling with pets, check the pet policies. A visitor at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "Pets allowed... great views and clean facilities."

Camping around Santa Paula, CA, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Santa Paula, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Santa Paula, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 155 campgrounds and RV parks near Santa Paula, CA and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Santa Paula, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Santa Paula, CA is Lake Casitas Recreation Area with a 4.2-star rating from 39 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Santa Paula, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Santa Paula, CA.

What parks are near Santa Paula, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Santa Paula, CA that allow camping, notably Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Channel Islands National Park.

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