Tent camping near Santa Paula, California requires preparation for varying elevations and weather conditions. Campsites in Los Padres National Forest range from 6,000 to 7,000 feet elevation with temperature drops of 20-30 degrees at night compared to daytime highs. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 85-95°F while nighttime can drop to 45-55°F, requiring both sun protection and warm clothing for overnight stays.
What to do
Kayaking at Channel Islands: Access Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground for exceptional coastal activities. "We arrived at Santa Cruz to set up our tent and squeeze in an afternoon of kayaking before the rain hit. We brought our own kayak to the island (an extra fee on the ferry) but you can also rent kayaks or take a guided tour on Santa Cruz. We'd highly recommend kayaking while you're there!" reports SwitchbackKids.
Hiking with island wildlife: Trek the Scorpion Canyon loop trail where native foxes are common. "There are many hikes that start from the campground and every one of them are worth seeing. We went to smugglers cove, 8 mile round trip full sun. Worth the hike, spent all day at the cove," says Cassandra K.
Mountain trail exploration: The Reyes Peak trail near Reyes Peak Campground offers challenging terrain with elevation changes. "Love the proximity to Santa Barbra. And a fun place to check out with amazing views of the islands," notes Jon S. The trail connects to Pine Mountain campground for extended hiking options.
What campers like
Forest shade at higher elevations: Pine Mountain sites feature mature trees that block summer sun. "Lovely small campground high up in the Sespe Wildnerness. Pine Forest. 7 sites," notes Andy H. from Pine Mountain Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Oak Flat. "Nice wooded area, camp spots are nicely separated, quiet with the exception of the distant hiss of the freeway," reports Brian W.
Disconnecting from technology: The Channel Islands offer rare digital isolation. "Do I talk about how nice it is to be completely disconnected from the outside world? Do I talk about the amazing stargazing? I don't even know," shares Jen G. about her camping experience.
Group camping facilities: Danielson Group Multi-Use Area provides designated areas for larger parties. "We have been camping this site every Spring for about 6 years. We do a family style tent camping. 15-40 ppl. Young kids to elderly adults. Everyone always loves it!" says Deanna P.
What you should know
Adventure Pass requirement: Multiple campsites near Santa Paula require permits. "You do need to purchase a $5 Adventure Pass in order to stay here and someone will come around to check in the morning. The fine if you don't have a pass is over $500," warns Sarah S. about Oak Flat Campground.
Limited water access: Most mountain campsites lack potable water. "No water available tho, so pack it in and pack it out," advises Cierra M. Exceptions include Scorpion Canyon and Danielson Group Area.
Wildlife protection measures: Island foxes and ravens require special precautions. "USE THEM. The foxes and the birds love to use every place in the world as their bathroom, and if you don't put things away you'll end up with some nasty stuff on your things," cautions Jen G. about using fox boxes.
Seasonal access restrictions: Mountain campgrounds typically close during winter months. "It is generally only open May-Nov and is usually chilly at night because it is at almost 7,000 feet," notes Ryan T. about Dutchman Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with established facilities. "The campgrounds have clean restrooms and plenty of fresh water so its perfect for families. The group sites are quite large and more secluded in the upper level," recommends Katie O. about Santa Cruz Island camping.
Group activities: La Jolla Group Campsite offers organized recreation spaces. "This is a good group campground with sinks, showers and flush toilets. The one downside is how exposed the campground is, there is no shade. Bring a sun canopy if you can. A nice day hike trailhead is right at the campground," suggests Meghan W.
Pack preparation: Bring entertainment for weather changes. "If you visit in the spring like we did, we'd recommend bringing plenty of rain gear and maybe a deck of cards, as there wasn't too much to entertain us when it poured," advises SwitchbackKids.
Transportation planning: For Channel Islands camping, strategize gear transport. "Going to Santa Cruz island had been on our bucket list for quite a while, but getting there requires a bit of planning and a boat reservation. Some folks were wrestling with multiple bags and boxes, but several clever people brought folding wagons to tote things and that was a great idea," shares Janet R.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Mountain roads can limit larger vehicles. "It can be difficult to get to if the road is rutted but a 2wd vehicle can make it up there without a problem if the road is graded," advises Ryan T. about accessing higher elevation sites.
Overnight alternatives: Some campers use forest sites as transit stops. "We were originally going to do an overnight stay at a gas station or Walmart but had a hard time finding one in this area. Luckily we found this spot which was just a few minutes of the highway," shares Sarah S.
Weather preparations: Wind protection is essential. "It can get very windy," notes Ryan T. about Dutchman Campground, suggesting RVers secure awnings and outdoor equipment.
