Top Tent Camping near Taft, CA

Looking for tent camping near Taft? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Taft's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Taft, CA (37)

    Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
    Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
    Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
    Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
    Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos
    Camper-submitted photo from Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos

    1. Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos

    6 Reviews
    24 Photos
    393 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from San Emigdio Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Emigdio Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Emigdio Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Emigdio Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Emigdio Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from San Emigdio Campground

    2. San Emigdio Campground

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    12 Saves

    San Emigdio Campground is situated near the entrance to San Emigdio Canyon between the preserve's Administration Center and The Crossing. The campground includes twelve spacious tent campsites, picnic tables, potable water, flush toilet restrooms, and a dishwashing station. A small creek and pond meanders through the campground and there is plenty of shade provided by large cottonwood trees.

    Tent camping and camper vans/trucks only (max length 21 feet).

    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Bates Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bates Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bates Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bates Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bates Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bates Canyon Campground

    3. Bates Canyon Campground

    4 Reviews
    11 Photos
    35 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Autonomy Farms
    Camper-submitted photo from Autonomy Farms
    Camper-submitted photo from Autonomy Farms

    5. Autonomy Farms

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    7 Saves

    Autonomy Farms was created in 2013 with the goal of connecting people to their food. The main farm operates south of Bakersfield on 20 acres, where we have our poultry operation. The farm sits at the base of the San Joaquin Valley, with beautiful views of Bear Mountain the surrounding foothills.

    In 2022, we opened up the farm to allow campers to come visit and stay. The farm features a pond stocked with fish, an outdoor shower (with both hot and cold water), indoor bathroom and plenty of room to roam. We have a total of 6 sites for tent campers, Vans, car campers and pop up camper trailers - sorry, no RVs or 5th wheels are allowed.

    We are an organic working farm, so depending on the day you stay, we may have more activity than others. We have staff on and off the farm coming and going from the farmers markets we participate in. We have three working dogs that love to keep predators away at night by barking if they sense any around. We have roosters that crow, lizards, bugs and insects, bull frogs in the pond, California King snakes, and lots of birds/hawks/owls.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • WiFi

    $30 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Miranda Pine Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Miranda Pine Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Miranda Pine Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Miranda Pine Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Miranda Pine Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Miranda Pine Campground

    6. Miranda Pine Campground

    4 Reviews
    7 Photos
    141 Saves

    Nestled in the pines. Nice vistas of the Cuyama Valley.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • No image available

      7. Rancho Nuevo Campground

      1 Review
      3 Saves

      Rancho Nuevo Campground is a primitive campground with 2 sites on a grassy canyon bottom, 4-wheel drive access only. Road is subject to close in the winter.__

      • Tents
      Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Peak Campground

      8. Reyes Peak Campground

      2 Reviews
      8 Photos
      105 Saves

      Overview

      At an elevation of 7,000 feet, Reyes Peak Campground, rises above the Sespe Wilderness and is situated along a ridge with spectacular views of the Cuyama Badlands on one side and the Pacific Ocean from the other side. On clear days you can even see some of the Channel Islands!

      Recreation

      Several trails leave the Reyes Peak Campground area. Chorro Grande Trail is located at the gate just past the last campsite. Raspberry Spring Trail will lead you north on a short one-half mile walk through the pines. It starts at the parking area on the western edge of the campground. The Reyes Peak Trail (23W04) is moderately difficult. It leads eastward into the Sespe Wilderness for 5.8 miles to the Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail (22W03). Remember, no mountain bikes are allowed in the wilderness.

      Natural Features

      The landscape includes Jeffrey pines, sugar pines, white fir and ponderosa pines. Wildflowers are abundant in the spring and early summer. Be dazzled by lupine, false lupine, scarlet bugler and many others. Keep your eyes open for red-tailed hawks soaring above the trees. If you are lucky, you may see a California condor! Other birds in the area include woodpeckers and chickadees. Deer, bear, and coyote also live in the area.

      Nearby Attractions

      Hiking trails, biking and fishing are within 30 minutes. Take a day trip south along Hwy 33 to the Rose Valley Road (6N31) to the Piedra Blanca trailhead where three trails can be accessed, all located across Sespe Creek. The Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail (22W03) in the Sespe Wilderness will lead you to nearby massive white rocks, called Piedra Blanca! It is an easy walk for the first three miles. A principal attraction to this section of the Sespe is Rose Valley Falls. This trail to the falls begins just before you enter Rose Valley Campground. Follow it for a short half-mile and you will be at the base of the falls. The cliffs at the falls are arkosic sandstone and crumble easily, so tread lightly. Rose Valley Falls is the tallest waterfall in the range and while it is an easy hike to the base of the 100-foot tall lower tier of the waterfall (0.8 miles round trip with 150 feet of elevation gain), it is adventure to reach the more impressive upper tier. Please do not climb around on steep sections or get close to the edge. You will need to park outside Rose Valley Campground to hike the trails. Another trail, the Sespe River Trail (20W13) will lead you downstream into the Sespe Wilderness. You will find some swimming holes along this walk. Remember, no mountain bicycles allowed on wilderness trails. If you would like to go on a mountain bicycle ride, take the Middle Sespe Trail (22W04) that leads up river eight miles to the west to Middle Sespe Trailhead.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Picnic Table

      $30 - $34 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground

      9. Pine Mountain Campground

      1 Review
      7 Photos
      144 Saves

      Overview

      Perfectly situated high above the Sespe Wilderness offering stunning views of the valley below and the Channel Islands in the distance lies Pine Mountain Campground. You will find yourself surrounded by moderate hills, tall pine trees and the sounds of silence. At an elevation of 6,650 feet, it offers cooler temperatures on hot summer days, and a chance to let everything else go as you take in all that nature has to offer.

      Recreation

      There is one designated trail in the area, Boulder Canyon (23W03). You may also want to walk around the surrounding hills to see the views and the trees. And just a mile up the road there are a couple of trails leaving Reyes Peak Campground - Chorro Grande Trail and Raspberry Spring Trail. Drive past the gate at the end of the paved road and you will end up at Reyes Peak Trailhead.

      Natural Features

      You will find Jeffrey pine, sugar pine and white fir trees at the campground. Along the outskirts, you'll notice chaparral species. These species include manzanita, and California sage. You may also see some scrub oak. Be dazzled by wildflowers, which are abundant in the spring and early summer. Lupine, false lupine, scarlet bugler and many others round out the scenery. Keep your eyes open for red-tailed hawks soaring above the trees. If you are lucky, you may see a California condor! Other birds in the area include woodpeckers and chickadees. Deer, bear and coyote also live in the area.

      Nearby Attractions

      Hiking trails, biking and fishing are all within 30 minutes from the campground. On a day trip south along Hwy 33, to the Rose Valley Road (6N31), you will find the Piedra Blanca trailhead located across Sespe Creek. The Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail (22W03) in the Sespe Wilderness will lead you to nearby massive white rocks, called Piedra Blanca! It is an easy walk for the first three miles. A principal attraction to this section of the Sespe is Rose Valley Falls. This trail to the falls begins just before you enter Rose Valley Campground. Follow it for a short half mile and you will be at the base of the falls. The cliffs at the falls are arkosic sandstone and crumble easily, so tread lightly. Rose Valley Falls is the tallest waterfall in the range and while it is an easy hike to the base of the 100-foot tall lower tier of the waterfall (0.8 miles round trip with 150 feet of elevation gain), it is adventure to reach the more impressive upper tier. Please do not climb around on steep sections or get close to the edge. You will need to park outside Rose Valley Campground to hike the trails. Another trail, the Sespe River Trail (20W13) will lead you downstream into the Sespe Wilderness. You will find some swimming holes along this walk. Remember, no mountain bicycles allowed on wilderness trails. If you would like to go on a mountain bicycle ride, take the Middle Sespe Trail (22W04) that leads up river eight miles to the west to Middle Sespe Trailhead.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Picnic Table

      $30 - $34 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Colson Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Colson Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Colson Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Colson Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Colson Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Colson Canyon Campground

      10. Colson Canyon Campground

      6 Reviews
      22 Photos
      42 Saves

      Colson Campground is a primitive campground located approximately 40 miles from the city of Santa Maria, CA. There are five campsites with tables and fire rings. There is no running water and no bathroom. Popular campground for hunters, as this campground is easy access to the Alejandro Trail. Please pack out all of your trash.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Equestrian
      • Picnic Table
    Showing results 1-10 of 37 campgrounds

    Recent Tent Reviews In Taft

    435 Reviews of 37 Taft Campgrounds


    • AnnaEvan S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Campo Alto Campground
      Oct. 15, 2024

      Campo Alto Campground

      Great Escape!

      This is a wonderful campground if you're looking to escape the crowds elsewhere. We were in spot 4 which was right next to the check in board. Despite the close proximity to the road the site was very big and had plenty of trees to throw our hammocks up and relax. Next time we would likely pick spots 6-8 or 13-17 as they were a little further into the campground and away from the main road.

      There is plenty of firewood to gather but I may suggest a small hatchet.

      The vault toilets were clean enough for vault toilets.

      My husband and I stayed Saturday to Monday and found that only a few hunters were left Sunday night and Monday morning and we enjoyed walking through the campground and checking out all the small viewpoints through the trees to the valleys below. The group sites looked spacious and awesome as well!

      Pine Mountain Club was close, quaint, and the people we met were friendly.

      We are keeping this spot in our back pockets for the next time we want to escape the busy city life!

    • Michelle M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
      Sep. 27, 2024

      Lake Casitas Recreation Area

      A beautiful Lake

      This is a nicely maintained municipal water reservoir with a very large lake. No swimming allowed, but boating is. Go figure.

      There are campgrounds with hookups that are only available for RVs. There is one Campground -Indian- that has a mixture of tent and RV sites with hookups available but it was under maintenance when I was here this weekend. So all the rest of the areas that do have hookups do not accommodate my truck and tent rig. And there are no 110V or 30a outlets available for people who are traveling light -with solar and a minimum amount of panels, where you might need to plug in once in awhile- they can't cover you here. Too bad no one thought of that when they were designing this place, because it's an awfully big place with a lot of sites.

      So we're leaving today to find another place to weekend.

      But two nights next to the lake, in the campground called Mallard was lovely as can be. Next time I'll come out with more panels to keep my pair of EcoFlow RiverPro solar generators topped up.

    • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Gorge Campground
      Sep. 21, 2024

      Wheeler Gorge Campground

      Peaceful and Calm!

      We loved camping here. The whole area has a really peaceful and mellow vibe. 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. This end of the campground is right next to the emergency exit, too, but they keep that gate locked, otherwise it would be an easy swoop in. Camp host was really nice, campground was huge, nice that there's a creek running through it which comes in handy in the hot summer months. You have to drive over some creek runoff at parts, no problem.

      There's zero cell reception in this entire area, the roads leading up to the campground as well.

      Fees are $35 or $37 for weekends/holidays. Pricey for what you get and for what we're used to paying for a forest service campground.

    • S
      Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
      Aug. 30, 2024

      Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

      Please Don’t Tell Anyone About This — OOPS

      This is tragi-comedy: I was invited to a wedding in Santa Barbara. It was summer and the most fleabitten motel prices were astronomical. I began to look at campsites within driving distance, I was desperate. Booked Catchuma and thought, hoorah, I’ve defeated the tourism trap. 

      Well… from the moment I arrived . . . I really could not care less about the wedding. My god. I think I’ll leave it at that. 

      Bring binos. Boat, bring your canoe/kayak.

    • Elaine H.
      Camper-submitted photo from Dennison Park
      Jul. 16, 2024

      Dennison Park

      Great campground and host!

      I love finding a camping spot last minute and it turns out to be amazing! Dennison Park Campground did not disappoint! Although there are beautiful upper campground spots that Overlook Ojai Valley, I chose, from the choices I had, a spot that looked spacious and offered the most shade. Nestled in the middle of upper and lower campsites, I found it to be a quiet reprieve from our day's activities -- the campfire always the highlight for me. The camp host, Dane, was friendly, helpful, and a joy to chat with. He also gave us some suggestions of other county parks to check out the next time we venture to the Ojia area! We will definitely be back to camp here!

    • Jorge R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from A Country RV Park
      Jun. 9, 2024

      A Country RV Park

      Accommodating and Clean

      Very convenient and super clean. The lady who answers the phone is super friendly and helpful. I think it's better for RVs and don't think there are any tent sites.

    • t
      Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
      Jun. 5, 2024

      Lake Casitas Recreation Area

      Nice place but dog owners beware

      Just to be clear, I love lake Casitas. I grew up camping here with my family. The reason I’m writing this review is to warn pet owners about the abundance of foxtails and burs. We have 2 poodle mixes with med-long hair and they both ended up with their fur filled with burs and foxtails. So much that it required a vet visit. This was from a weekend camp in our RV that had a large rug and they have raised dog cots.

    • Maria K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Shady Haven RV Park and Mini Storage
      Jun. 1, 2024

      Shady Haven RV Park and Mini Storage

      Worst campground I’ve ever stayed at!

      5+ years Full time RVer, worst ever campground we have ever stayed at, stayed in many states, long-term short-term, stayed at this one for two months, although had a reservation for three. Sites are too tight, everything‘s grayish/dusty and dirty, you’re near a rail track, that blows its horn for minutes 24/7, that includes 2 AM, that includes 4 AM. Many of the neighbors you’ll see look like they’re on (mental) disability and don’t look healthy. Hot tub is smelly and yellow water too often although they state they clean it almost weekly. I god major depression staying here.

    • Dennis F.
      Camper-submitted photo from Kern River Campground
      May. 21, 2024

      Kern River Campground

      Not the best but it's a great place

      Been going up there since 1969 had many many Fantastic trips fishing is always good sightseeing is good just all around good place.

    • kThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Lost Hills RV Park
      May. 3, 2024

      Lost Hills RV Park

      After the wind there as calm

      When arrived the wind was blowing and the dust was a moving.. but in the evening it calmed down.. nice place every thing looks updated, facilities, pool, help is nice, right next to loves truck stop so there is traffic but not hateful.. good place to stop on I 5

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Kcl Campground
      May. 1, 2024

      Kcl Campground

      Quiet rolling hills

      Small campground for 12 smaller than 30 ft rigs or tents. Most are much smaller. Rough bumpy road for miles ether direction on a first come, first serve campground. Has vaulted toilet with no water or other services. If full, would seek off road area on right just as you approach. Has older building of interest. There was a great horned owl in one of the few eucalyptus trees at the campsite. Quiet and nice area to take a hike or two with pretty nice views if you like the high desert landscape. Warning not to travel dirt roads after a rain as you’re likely to get stuck. Better if you come in from the north side(58) on paved roads, but would limit you to boondocking likely because unable to get to this or Selby campgrounds. Selby is another first-come site to the NW

    • Jenny S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Songdog Campground
      Apr. 2, 2024

      Songdog Campground

      Spacious and beautiful private property. Friendly, accommodating hosts!

      I stayed for a quick stop overnight and found the site as described. Just a table, fire pit, and water spigot.  The hosts are very accommodating and made sure I was able to find my site after dark and were very responsive to my texts!  Cell service was fine and I felt perfectly safe as a solo female!  I really enjoyed the ranch dogs coming to hang out with me! I'll be back to try one of the other sites with more amazing views!

    • Jack J.
      Camper-submitted photo from Nettle Springs Campground
      Mar. 23, 2024

      Nettle Springs Campground

      One Night Stay

      It’s a pack in and pack out camp ground. Apache canyon trail getting is was a fun drive. I used my 4x4 but could easy done without. Not a soul was there. Could see it getting busy during the summer though.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from A Country RV Park
      Nov. 12, 2023

      A Country RV Park

      Convenient, clean and friendly

      Convenient park adjacent to freeway but the noise is minimal. Clean park and bathrooms. Nice place to spend a night.

    • Kristi D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
      Oct. 29, 2023

      Lake Casitas Recreation Area

      Seems like a popular place

      Economical for California and the area. Off the beaten path from all the craziness by the beach.

      We are just passing through CA or it would not be my top spot. They nickel and dime a lot of things, showers pets. We paid online and we pull up and all of a sudden getting charged $5 a day extra for pets including a cat that doesn't leave the camper. Was not thrilled about that.

      Otherwise, it was scenic, had a camp store, was close to restaurants, had a gate to drive into, so the place was pretty secure. Seemed like a lot of people gathered on the weekends.

      We had the dirt campground which wasn't my favorite but all that was left, while the other campgrounds had cement pads. It was still pretty level.We did have cell reception, nice views and they had a water park for kids during summer months, though wasn't open while we were there.

    • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
      Oct. 19, 2023

      Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

      Huge County Campground with Numerous Site Types

      The lovely county run park in the hills above the Santa Barbara coastline, is a great campground offering a wide variety of camping experiences from full hook ups to grass covered spaces under the trees along the shores of this lovely reservoir. The sites offer the usual camp picnic table and fire ring, and the many group sites offer large grills and even a few picnic shelters. 

      The sunshine is typically abundant in this California park, and even without full hook ups you can easily get all the power you need with an appropriately sized solar panel system. We’ve run on solar for over 10 years, and it saves us thousands of dollars each year for our full-time camping life. 

      The flush bathrooms are clean and spacious. Water spigots were plentiful throughout the campground. The coin operated showers got the job done, but since we were there during a chilly March, things could have been warmer. But hey, everything important got clean… 

      The lake is perfect for boating, but since it’s a drinking water reservoir, there is no body contact with this body of water. So plan on using the campground pool to cool off during the summer months. Hiking and mountain biking trails are abundant throughout the area, and kayaking, canoeing, fishing or sailing on the lake is the perfect way to spend the afternoon. 

      The campground offers some excellent yurts and cabins for nightly rent right on the shores of the lake. These are often booked out so plan ahead. 

      The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something, including ice, snacks, fire wood, and gas.  There is also a cool pub down by the boat ramp which offers live music in the weekends.  The nearby tourist town of Solvang offers a great day trip to sample the amazing Dutch pastry treats, pick up some groceries, wine tasting, or a night out on the town.

    • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
      Oct. 13, 2023

      Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

      Quiet in the off-season

      General: Many different options from tent sites to premium tent sites, water/electric, and FHU sites in addition to yurts and cabins. 

      Site Quality: Varies greatly depending on what type of site you choose. The only sites with gravel paved pads were the ones with water/electric hookups or FHU; all others were grass. Most seemed level. It was raining heavily when we were there and some of the sites were flooded. Very little to no separation/privacy between sites. We were in a w/e site, and it was long enough to easily accommodate two camper vans.

      Activities/Amenities: Off-season, everything was closed but in-season, there is a marina, boat rentals, restaurant, store, gas station, pool, and laundry. 

      Bath/Shower house: Clean but very basic. No hooks or shelves for toiletries. Cold water only. The shower looked nice but did not use so cannot comment on it. 

      IMO, the best options are the premier tent sites, yurts, and cabins as they offer the best lake views. We had not planned on camping here but after evacuating from Jalama Beach, we were told this park would honor our reservation. It rained most of the time we were there, and it was off-season, so I imagine it would be an entirely different experience in the summer when all amenities were offered and the campground was full.

    • C
      Camper-submitted photo from Kern River Campground
      Sep. 8, 2023

      Kern River Campground

      Great Sites right on the river!

      We had a blast here. Collin our camp host was fantastic. Vault bathrooms are what they are. We loved our 3 days here. Tubing, Fishing... though, river was very high and super fast, plus wrong lures make for no bites. But a great time still...

    • E
      Camper-submitted photo from Radl Ranch
      Aug. 12, 2023

      Radl Ranch

      Little hidden gem

      We loved the atmosphere. Small well maintained and cute, outdoor shower was a highlight!

    • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
      Camper-submitted photo from Autonomy Farms
      Aug. 8, 2023

      Autonomy Farms

      Farm Stay perfect for Vans & small campers

      Jake from the Dyrt here!  Autonomy Farms is a unique place to stay, built to connect people with the process of growing food, but also offering a scenic place to stay in a tent, van or small camper.  Check them out and share some pics of your stay on the Dyrt!



    Guide to Taft

    Camping near Taft, California, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to bustling campgrounds, there's something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

    What to do:

    • Boating and Fishing: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy boating and fishing. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is perfect for boating, but since it’s a drinking water reservoir, there is no body contact with this body of water."
    • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Lopez Lake Recreation Area. A camper noted, "Hilly area, lots of trails, lots of rain," highlighting the area's natural beauty.
    • Beach Activities: Refugio State Beach Campground is great for beach lovers. One visitor shared, "Every campsite is a few steps from the beach, made picturesque by a line of palm trees."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Bakersfield River Run RV Park. A reviewer said, "Clean, grassy, bath houses and laundry, many different flowers, pool and hot tub."
    • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the generous space at Orange Grove RV Park. One camper mentioned, "Large sites, semi-private with orange trees, pool, clubhouse, laundry, dog areas and VERY clean."
    • Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views at Emma Wood State Beach. A visitor noted, "Ocean almost comes to your doorstep."

    What you should know:

    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wheeler Gorge Campground, lack certain amenities. A camper pointed out, "No running water available; fire ban."
    • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can get busy. One reviewer at Lopez Lake Recreation Area said, "Way too crowded for our taste."
    • Wildlife Precautions: Be aware of wildlife, especially at places like Wheeler Gorge Campground. A camper shared, "They let us know there was a bear in the area."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Lake Casitas Recreation Area. One family mentioned, "The campground is broken down into a bunch of different camping loops, each with different amenities and vibe."
    • Plan for Meals: Bring enough food and snacks, as some campgrounds, like Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, have limited stores. A camper noted, "The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something."
    • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A reviewer at Refugio State Beach Campground mentioned, "Children riding scooters, children riding bicycles, children driving a Barbie jeep."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of RV sites, especially at Bakersfield River Run RV Park. One RVer said, "The pull-through sites alternate direction of entry."
    • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds, like Orange Grove RV Park, can have highway noise. A camper noted, "At times you can hear the freeway and trains passing by."
    • Bring Your Own Firewood: Many campgrounds do not provide firewood, so it's best to bring your own. A visitor at Emma Wood State Beach mentioned, "There are large bin trash cans for trash."

    Camping near Taft, California, has its unique charm and challenges. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there's a campground that fits your needs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Taft, CA?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Taft, CA is Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos with a 4.5-star rating from 6 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find tent camping near Taft, CA?

      TheDyrt.com has all 37 tent camping locations near Taft, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.