Los Padres National Forest and surrounding areas provide multiple backcountry camping options around Santa Paula, California. Winter temperatures in this region typically range from 30-60°F, while summer can reach 85-100°F in canyon areas. Fire restrictions frequently change based on seasonal conditions and forest management policies.
What to do
Swimming in natural pools: Several campsites offer access to seasonal swimming holes beyond the well-known punch bowls. Visitors to Santa Cruz Island's Del Norte Backcountry campground can combine camping with coastal exploration. One camper notes, "Take advantage and hike as far as you can- it's unreal! But bring a ton of water because you'll want it!" (Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry)
Trail access: Primitive camping near Santa Paula provides jumping-off points for longer treks. The Chorro Grande trail near dispersed sites runs approximately 9 miles. A camper reports, "This site is next to chorro grande trail which is about a 9 mile hike. After your long hike if you want to rest go up the mountain site across and it's an awesome place to camp out." (Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp)
Wildlife observation: The area supports diverse wildlife including island foxes on Channel Islands locations. A camper at Del Norte observed, "Saw lots of island foxes - so cute! Note that there are gear restrictions for the cruise. Also you have to PACK YOUR OWN WATER."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Some sites provide significant privacy despite proximity to urban areas. At Morrow Hill, a visitor shared, "We had a great and quiet night up there in our 21ft RV. Beautiful view in the morning, beautiful. Would def come back." (Morrow hill dispersed)
Unique ecosystems: The region contains multiple microclimates. On Santa Cruz Island, "We arrived at the campsite and pitched two 2-person tents on the sand pit. When we woke up everything was damp from the seaside fog. But the fog made the views quite lovely."
Accessibility for beginners: Several sites work well for those new to dispersed camping. One visitor explained, "My friends were beginner backpackers so it was a bit tiring, but it was over quick and I still think it's a great trip for beginners."
What you should know
Restricted camping zones: Many areas prohibit camping despite appearing suitable. A recent visitor warned, "I think the other review here might be unintentionally implying that camping along the 33 is allowed. It isn't. This is from the district web page: 'Disperse camping is NOT allowed on Hwy 33, the Rose Valley Recreation Area or the Pine Mountain Recreation Area or Matilija Canyon Rd.'"
Weather considerations: Wind impacts certain primitive camping sites near Santa Paula significantly. At Chorma Camp, a camper observed, "Situated high on a bluff it gets lots of wind, and with very little shelter around to break it, if you camp here you will get the brunt of it." (Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness)
Water sources: Most backcountry sites require carrying all water. A visitor to Del Norte noted, "Food storage locker provided to protect food from sneaky foxes. No water anywhere near the campsite. About 4 miles from Prisoners Harbor ferry landing."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection for kids: Several locations work well for introducing children to backcountry camping. One experienced visitor mentioned that Oak Camp up the Chorro Grande trail is suitable for children but requires a 1.5-mile hike in.
Wildlife awareness for children: Children should be prepared for both fascinating and potentially dangerous wildlife encounters. A camper at Del Norte reported, "The crows are unruly so watch your belongings, and the fox are cute but sneaky."
Navigation challenges: Many primitive camping areas near Santa Paula feature trail changes due to seasonal flooding. Marking routes or having navigation backup helps families stay oriented when paths become unclear.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to most dispersed sites near Santa Paula challenge larger vehicles. At Morrow Hill, a camper advised, "The road is a little tricky and we almost wouldn't have driven there. Make sure, you really stay at the place up the hill (coordinates) otherwise the landlord will clarify that you're on private property." (Alamo Creek)
Site reservation confusion: While most primitive sites are first-come, first-served, some nearby areas operate differently. A visitor reported, "Most of the spots are reservation only. There are a few that look like you could just pull up and camp. But they all tend to lead to hike and biking trails. I wouldn't risk camping here."
Limited turnaround space: Many primitive camping areas near Santa Paula have minimal space for maneuvering larger vehicles. RVs over 25 feet generally cannot access most dispersed sites in the region.
