Tent camping near Summerland, California offers opportunities in both coastal and mountainous environments, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 6,000 feet. The Los Padres National Forest provides the majority of tent camping options in higher elevations where summer temperatures average 10-15 degrees cooler than coastal areas. The region experiences seasonal closures on certain forest roads during winter months when snow can temporarily block access to higher elevation campsites.
What to do
Kayaking at Santa Cruz Island: Explore sea caves and secluded coves from Scorpion Anchorage at Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground. "Kayak around and experience seals and dolphins right underneath you in beautiful coves. An amazing and unique experience," reports Megan B.
Hiking to Smuggler's Cove: Complete the 8-mile round trip hike from Scorpion Canyon for a full day adventure. "We went to smugglers cove, 8 mile round trip full sun. Worth the hike, spent all day at the cove," writes Cassandra K.
Ridge hiking at Reyes Peak: Access high-elevation pine forest trails directly from Reyes Peak Campground. "Way up near the Reyes Peak Trailhead, 6 sites right on the ridge... This campground is right up the road from the less popular Pine Mountain Campground - they are essentially one larger campground," notes Andy H.
What campers like
Remote feeling with easy access: The Channel Islands provide isolation without difficult travel. "What a fantastic getaway! The Channel Islands offer some of the most remote camping, and it's easy to do. Plus, the weather is moderate, and you don't have to worry about wildlife much," shares Jonathan G.
Wildlife viewing: Island foxes are common at Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground. "There are tons of cute little island foxes EVERYWHERE at both loops - we were worried that we wouldn't see any, but that concern was quickly put to rest," says Jen G.
Rock formations and views: Some sites offer unique natural features. "The 2 other sites are down the road some distance from the toilet and have much less shade. But they do have fun rocks to play on and great views," notes Andy H. about certain sites at Reyes Peak.
What you should know
Campground closures: Some camps in the Los Padres National Forest have temporary closures. Both Hidden Potrero Camp and 19 Oaks Camp are currently marked as temporarily closed.
No facilities at some sites: Many forest campgrounds lack basic amenities. "Primitive vault toilet. No water. Site 6 is closest to the toilet - only one I'd avoid," explains Andy H. about Pine Mountain Campground.
Channel Islands planning requirements: Camping on Santa Cruz Island requires advance boat reservations. "You must book your boat ride and camp site in advance and then check the day before to make sure weather permits the boat ride," cautions Deborah C. "You are allowed only 60 lbs of 'stuff' each."
Tips for camping with families
Bring collapsible wagons: Moving gear from the ferry to campsites on Santa Cruz Island can be challenging. "The boat docks at Scorpion inlet, and from there it is about a hike of about half mile to the campground... Several clever people brought folding wagons to tote things and that was a great idea," suggests Janet R.
Bring cleaning supplies: Animal activity can create messes at campsites. "I would also highly recommend bleach wipes or something of the sort to help keep your table clean... the foxes and the birds love to use every place in the world as their bathroom," advises Jen G.
Secure absolutely everything: Keep items protected from wildlife at Rancho Nuevo Campground. "Nice small campground with Rancho Nuevo creek flowing right next to it... No cell service no toilets no water, so come prepared," notes Antonio C.
Tips from RVers
Limited space at forest campgrounds: Higher elevation sites have size restrictions. "Pine Mountain Campground has 7 sites, with site 7 located up the road, far away from the toilet and other sites but secluded and private," explains Andy H.
Consider rest areas for overnight stops: The Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest Area offers free parking with ocean views. "We decided on a whim to check it out... We made sure to get there early enough to get a spot looking over the Pacific Ocean," shares MomentoMori C., though notes the 8-hour parking restriction.
Park strategically for noise reduction: Highway noise can be mitigated with proper positioning. "If you park so that the large berm is between you and the freeway it muffles the sound," recommends Ronald K.