Campers visiting Thousand Oaks, California typically experience daytime temperatures ranging from 70-85°F during summer months, with cooler evenings dropping to the 50s. The surrounding Santa Monica Mountains create varied terrain for camping, with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,800 feet across the region. Most campgrounds experience high weekend occupancy from April through October.
What to do
Beach access within 30 minutes: Malibu Beach RV Park provides easy access to multiple beaches, including a small beach directly across the street. "I absolutely love this campground, it's perfectly situated in between the Malibu pier area (to your left) Dume, Zuma, and more beaches (to the right), + a lovely small beach across the street," notes one visitor at Malibu Beach RV Park.
Bike paths along coastline: Dockweiler Beach RV Park connects to an extensive coastal bike path. "There's also a bike path that goes for miles both north or south - great for an early workout," according to a camper at Dockweiler Beach RV Park. Rental kiosks are available on-site for visitors without bikes.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Point Mugu Recreation Facility offers protected wetlands ideal for birdwatching. "The beach is on the base, and has a protected wetland and then shooting range on one side then on the other is the base itself, so this beach is really JUST for those staying on the base or campground. We watch seals, ducks and more swimming around the beach," mentions a visitor.
What campers like
Ocean views from elevated sites: Many campers value the panoramic perspectives from bluff-top sites. A visitor at Malibu Beach RV Park shares, "We enjoyed our one night stay we had a great spot overlooking the bay. The owners have a great plan and it looks like they are achieving their goal!"
Themed environment at urban parks: Hollywood RV Park offers artistic touches throughout the grounds. "Every street is themed with murals and art everywhere! The site size depends on where you are in the park," reports a camper at Hollywood RV Park. These design elements create distinct character within urban camping settings.
Clean facilities despite urban settings: Campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards throughout facilities. "The bathrooms are clean. Pool & jacuzzi are nice," notes a visitor at Golden Shore RV Resort. Another camper mentions, "The grounds are kept in excellent condition - very clean and secure. The pool, showers, bathrooms are all spotless."
What you should know
Airport noise affects some locations: Proximity to airports creates noise challenges at certain parks. "We will hear each and every of the planes taking off from LAX, but at one point you don't hear them anymore. It was not really annoying, but that flight at 5a was..." explains a camper at Dockweiler Beach RV Park.
Staff assistance with parking: Some parks use specialized equipment for tight spaces. "Steve the owner is amazing and the team will take your rig on a forklift to your site and fully set you up. It feels like a neighborhood instead of a busy RV park," shares a Hollywood RV Park visitor.
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Weekday stays offer quieter experiences than weekends. "We went during the corona virus so many things were closed. Which I totally understand however, only one pool was open we waited hours just to swim for thirty minutes," reports a visitor at Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon about peak-time facility access.
Tips for camping with families
Pool scheduling awareness: During peak periods, plan swimming time strategically. "We had a great time. Although it was really hot the pool was nice and refreshing and clean," mentions a camper at Castaic Lake RV Park. Some parks implement timed swimming sessions during busy periods.
Beach access evaluation: Consider how beaches connect to camping areas. "The campground was very basic with just hookups but the view and beach were beautiful! As a bonus we saw a baby sealion on the beach one morning!" shares a Point Mugu Recreation Facility visitor.
Activity planning for various ages: Many campgrounds offer limited age-appropriate activities. "The Saturday activities. However if you have older kids forget it! The activities are for ages 5-7 maybe!" notes a Thousand Trails Soledad Canyon visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Request specific areas based on needs and preferences. "If you need cell signal you must carefully select your site location. Concrete pads with grass areas provide better comfort than all-dirt sites," advises a camper at Ventura Beach RV Resort.
Utility reliability concerns: Power fluctuations can affect sensitive electronics. "There were so many people running their ac that my surge protector kept shutting off on 'low current' below 104 voltes," reports a Ventura Beach RV Resort visitor about summer peak usage.
Space considerations for large rigs: Older parks present navigation challenges for larger vehicles. "Judging by the shape of the office, this place was a 60's or 70's KOA back in the day. For a 43 footer this place is TIGHT. If you have a big rig, prolly not the best idea. But if you have a 28 footer, this place is Six Stars!!!!" notes a Castaic Lake RV Park visitor.
