Best Dispersed Camping near Santa Paula, CA
Los Padres National Forest offers several dispersed camping areas near Santa Paula, California. Big Cone Camp requires a hike through Santa Paula Canyon, starting at Thomas Aquinas College and passing through oil fields before reaching the campsite. A local camper described it as "fairly easy" with the reward of nearby waterfalls and pools known as the "punch bowls" where visitors can swim. The site is primitive with no facilities.
Other dispersed options include Morrow Hill, which accommodates small RVs but requires navigating tricky roads. A camper noted, "We had a great and quiet night up there in our 21ft RV. But the road is a little tricky." Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness is another primitive option accessible by hiking south through Cherry Creek, though reviews mention it's "windy and high" with "very little shelter." Contrary to some information, dispersed camping is not permitted along Highway 33, as this is a Restricted Use Zone according to forest service regulations. Most sites in the area maintain fire restrictions and require visitors to pack out all trash.