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Ventura Ranch KOA welcomes pets at their spacious accommodations offering tent sites, RV spaces, cabins, glamping options, and yurts. Dogs must remain leashed throughout the campground grounds with designated pet waste stations positioned near high-traffic areas. Lake Casitas Recreation Area permits pets at all accommodation types including tent, RV, and glamping sites with drinking water and trash services provided. Ventura Beach RV Resort allows pets with full hookup sites featuring electricity, water connections, picnic tables, and fire rings. Most Ventura area campgrounds enforce standard leash requirements and limit pets to two per site, though specific breed restrictions vary by location. Emma Wood State Beach offers a more primitive experience for RV campers with pets, providing trash service but lacking water hookups, toilets, or showers. Sites along the Rincon Parkway allow generator use, making them suitable for RV campers needing power while traveling with pets.
Foster Residence Campground features primitive tent sites shaded by oak trees where dogs can enjoy cooler temperatures during summer months. The Ojai Valley bike trail connects several pet-friendly campgrounds, allowing for extended dog walks between Foster Park and either Ventura beaches or Ojai. Ventura's dog-friendly beaches permit leashed pets in designated areas, providing water access for dogs needing cooling off after hiking. Wasps are prevalent at Foster Park campground during summer months, requiring caution when eating outdoors with pets. Faria Beach Park offers full hookups with showers and restrooms while maintaining beach proximity, though sites fill quickly during peak season. For tent campers with dogs, Wheeler Gorge Campground provides a more secluded forest experience with toilet facilities and trash service, though fires are not permitted. The proximity of most pet-friendly campgrounds to Highway 101 creates notable road noise that can disturb sensitive pets, especially during nighttime hours.
"Casitas Lake near Ojai in Ventura County has something for everyone, especially parents with children off from school in the summertime."
"Our site had Two picnic tables and a fire ring situated under a pine tree with excellent views of the lake. We were glad to discover the park was dog friendly."
"Between the freeway/ rail road tracks and the ocean with a great long bike path adjacent running from Ventura to Santa Barbara and beyond."
"There are no toilet facilities here (there are some portapotties at the entrance though - those might be for staff though.). The only "amenity" this place offers is trash and recycling bins. "
from $40 / night
Check Availability"Beautiful location. Close to town. Walkable, hike-able, bike-able, rideable via paths. No dogs on beach. There is a dog beach further up the coast. Sites are pretty tight."
"Nestled between Ventura and Santa Barbara just north of Los Angeles is this picture perfect State Beach campground."
from $45 - $180 / night
Check Availability"Well maintained, peaceful with many nooks to explore for the whole family including kids and dogs!"
"Perfect for friends, families, and dogs!"
from $35 - $74 / night
Check Availability"You can generally get a sense of the dimensions if you reserve via the Ventura County website. We were at site 15, one of the larger ones in the campsite. "
"I loved using Ventura County's online reservation system. So easy and I could book same day! I stayed in Site #4. Some shade. Short drive into Ojai which I love. Only a few people here, love that."
from $25 - $28 / night
Check Availability"We had a dog and newly walking baby with us, so we REALLY had to keep an eye on both of them. We brought little baby gates which helped. "
"Along frontage road next to US 1/101 outside Ventura. No hook ups but trucks come by offering sewer/ water services. Wood trucks also come by. First come first served $32 per night."
from $43 - $47 / night
Check Availability"The Ventura Beach RV Resort is very nice and a short bike ride or walk from the beach or town. Stay away from the sites in the first row closest to the freeway as those tend to flood."
"We love this area - it's right near the Emma Wood State Beach, and just a short walk to downtown Ventura. "
"You're also a few miles from downtown Ventura for a night out and live music."
"Any groceries and supplies can be purchased at Ventura, a 15 minute drive away. For beach lovers, low tide at Faria offer tide pools and a stretch of sand to lay out on or run with the puppy."
from $30 - $65 / night
Check Availability"The ADORABLE town of Ojai is a quick 5 min drive up the road with anything you could ever want! The camp host is an amazing older guy, who’s incredibly friendly and takes pride in this campground!"
"Ojai was absolutely wonderful, and less than a 5 minute drive… we rode horses, hiked, and shopped. At lake casitas we kayaked, hiked, and play disc golf."
"Even though you are lined up next to your neighbors, noise just doesn’t carry because the roar of the ocean is so loud! It’s amazing to fall asleep to."
"5 miles north of Neptune’s Net, Los Angeles/Ventura county line at Point Magu Rock! Depending on the time of year, the beach may be very rocky or it may be smooth."
from $35 / night
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GuideBeautiful beach side campground where you can put your wheels right over the sand Maybe even get ocean spray on your windows. $50 a night with no hook ups. Between the freeway/ rail road tracks and the ocean with a great long bike path adjacent running from Ventura to Santa Barbara and beyond.
LegendFor a national park that’s located just off mainland California, Channel Islands feels like a world away from bustling L.A. We visited in March, and while the weather was cold and rainy, our experience was one of the most unique we have had in the national parks.
After ferrying from Ventura, we arrived at Santa Cruz to set up our tent (be sure to reserve your site ahead of time online) 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!
The campsites were spacious, flat, and SO GREEN! Santa Cruz is one of the few Channel Islands to have running water, but you’ll have to bring all the other supplies you’ll need during your stay. 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. Also, mind your food and clothing; an island fox ran off with a pair of underwear we had left out to dry!
The rest of the island provides many hiking trails (we loved Potato Harbor and Cavern Point Loop) and secret coves (like Smuggler’s Cove) which provide even more sanctuary and solitude than just being on the island. And the ferry itself was a wildlife viewing experience, with harbor seals and dolphins dotting the way.
You can read much more about our four days in the park on our blog: Switchback Kids (Channel Islands)
LegendEconomical 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.
ScoutClose to town but no cell signal, this place is amazing! Large camping area and I’ve never felt crowded ! Quarter showers and laundry, and a dog park! Lots of deer in the area and Great Lake to fish at! They also offer some hook ups for the rv campers
GuideFirst of all, staff was amazing. We were originally supposed to arrive on a Tuesday and we’re not able to make it. Staff shifted our reservation instead of us eating the missed night cost. Also super accommodating allowing us to extend a day longer last minute. Park is tight quarters with 200 spots. Two laundry rooms/bathrooms with showers on site, plus a cute little dog park! We stayed for three nights. Every “road” in the park is themed with California or Hollywood themed decorations and murals. We were parked right next to a Mister Roger’s mural across from the laundry/bathrooms. My only complaint in the noise level at times which is not from the park itself. Helicopters would fly over randomly, sometimes at night and it could be annoying when trying to sleep. Otherwise, absolute GEM of a place!
TravelerLovely place and lovely staff! It’s a bit pricey but you get what you pay for. They also have heated pool and jacuzzi, clean showers, and bathrooms. Trail and dog park available. Just kinda sucks you hear the cars passing at the 101. But I’d still come back.
LegendWe stayed here while visiting Santa Barbara. It is about 15 minutes north of town right across from the (closed) El Capitan State Beach. The sites are typical for an RV park but not right on top of one another. We chose a premium site to be in a tad more secluded area. The pool and hot tub are nice. Our pup enjoyed the dog park. The bathrooms were clean with spacious showers with hot water. Easy access to the Bill Wallace trail up into the hills. We’d stay again as we liked this better than a downtown RV park we stayed in last time. While the sites don’t have ocean views you can view sunrise and sunset from the Bill Wallace trail or even catch peep ocean views walking around the RV Park. Staff is friendly. They do close the bathrooms too early for cleaning. Around 8:30 or 9 am, but you can go to one of the single room showers or toilets behind the laundry.
GuideEverything‘s clean and orderly. Pool area is nice with a nice hot tub. Friendly staff and the grounds are well kept. Nice dog park. Not much road noise from the 101. Has all the modern conveniences. And all this comes with a price. It is pricey, but there’s a lot of amenities.
GuideCasitas Lake near Ojai in Ventura County has something for everyone, especially parents with children off from school in the summertime. The campgrounds are spacious and clean and there are at least six different types from basic tent on dirt all the way up to executive motorhome with all hook ups. Prices vary from 35 to 55$ for tents on dirt to 65-75$ for RVs with hook ups.There is also a charge for a vehicle, boat, pet, etc. The highlight for families though is the waterpark. Open during the summer, it’s perfect for the younger kids when it’s hot.Always check current Covid restrictions as most water parks are closed.
Ventura County's coastal location provides a diverse camping landscape with elevations ranging from sea level to over 2,000 feet in the surrounding mountains. The Mediterranean climate creates mild year-round conditions, though summer temperatures can reach 85-90°F during the day while dropping to the 50s at night. The area's unique geography allows campers to choose between beachfront sites with ocean sounds or mountain retreats with oak tree shade.
Beach exploration: Near Thornhill Broome Beach you'll find excellent tide pools filled with marine life. "There's rocks to the left and right that are fun to explore," notes Garrett M. The beach is suitable for long walks and wildlife spotting. "If you're lucky you'll see pods of dolphins swimming just out from the shore, actually more often than not," shares Sam H.
Hiking the mountains: Visit Wheeler Gorge Campground for creek-side trails. "Creek running through and a one way road system this little gem is a great spot for a quick trip not far from downtown Ojai," explains Dawn B. The area offers several hiking options: "Enjoyed hiking up and down the gorge. Plenty of swimming holes. Did the Rose waterfall hike just 20min drive further up the road."
Water activities: At Lake Casitas, children can enjoy the on-site water park during summer. "The most fun is the water park. You can take a break from the heat and tube down the lazy river," mentions Shannon R. Beyond swimming, the lake offers boating opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. "The lake offers fishing and boating, no body contact. There are several campsites around the lake. Some lakefront and some wooded."
Wildlife viewing: The region's diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife. At Ventura Ranch KOA, "Peacocks live there! They roost in the trees and just mingle with the campers without a care in the world," reports Jessica R. Campers also appreciate marine wildlife sightings along the coast. "We saw squirrels, rabbits, dolphins, sea lions and birds," notes a GotelRV visitor at Faria Beach Park.
Campsite privacy: Dennison Park offers more secluded sites than beachfront locations. "A good amount of trees at each site, some on the upper back side have an amazing view of the Ojai Valley," explains Alex P. Sites vary significantly in terms of privacy and views. "Only one site has an unobstructed view of the Valley (#15) but that one was occupied when I arrived and I had a lovely view from my site."
Town accessibility: Many campsites provide convenient access to nearby communities. At Santa Cruz Campground, "The park staff is amazing... The location to Shopify and eatery's absolutely perfect," shares Sandee B. Similarly, "This campground is literally on the beach, along the PCH with picnic tables and fire rings it's one of the few on the beach that actually allows fire," notes one camper at Thornhill Broome Beach.
Weather considerations: Coastal sites experience significant wind that can impact camping comfort. At Thornhill Broome, "You have to be ok with wind and making sure your equipment is secured," warns Kelly S. Beach sites also experience marine layer fog that can affect visibility and temperature. "50% chance you will have marine layer. But if you love the sound of waves crashing and seagulls then it's perfect!" notes one Rincon Parkway visitor.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, advance planning is essential. "[Thornhill Broome] campground is popular in the summer months and spaces get reserved up to 6 months in advanced," advises Jeremy F. For last-minute trips, consider off-peak timing or less popular sites. "Took my son here for a weekend to explore Santa Barbara. There is no overnight parking in the park unless you have a previously reserved car camping campsite."
Road noise factors: Highway proximity affects several campgrounds, particularly beachfront locations. At Emma Wood State Beach, "Doesn't really feel like camping, since you can hear the sound of the freeway and trains," mentions Jill F. However, many campers find the ocean sounds compensate: "Train tracks are 30 feet away but the trains are not overly loud since the wonderful sound of the ocean drowns it out."
Water features for kids: Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers family-friendly amenities beyond standard camping. "This campground is great for beginners and disabled," notes Shannon R., adding "the water park... you can take a break from the heat and tube down the lazy river. Also there is a disk golf course." The variety of activities keeps children entertained throughout your stay.
Protected beach access: When camping with children at oceanfront sites, look for locations with designated access points. "The campgrounds have an ocean view and the staircase to the beach is in the campground," explains Devon H. about Faria Beach Park. This structured access makes supervision easier while still providing beach enjoyment.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specialized facilities for younger campers. "From zipline obstacle courses to tie dye classes, this KOA easily occupies kids and has teepee and cabin rentals available for glampers," explains a visitor to Ventura Ranch KOA. The investment in facilities translates to easier family camping: "Lots of fun activities for kids, like crafts, making your own rocket to launch, etc."
Site selection strategy: At Faria Beach Park, site position significantly affects your experience. "Sites are pretty tight. You have to squeeze to get in or out of your rv," cautions Ana M. about crowded locations. For improved views and comfort, "Just make sure to get one on the water. You'll never want to leave," recommends Care B.
Hookup considerations: Understanding service limitations helps prevent surprises. At Rincon Parkway RV Overnight, "No hook ups but trucks come by offering sewer/water services. Wood trucks also come by," explains Paul N. Sites vary considerably in service availability: "$35 per night for a standard site, depending. There's a camp host and ranger at the entrance but keep in mind they lock the gates for vehicles entering at night."
Size restrictions: Vehicle dimensions affect campground suitability. At Wheeler Gorge, "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," cautions Laura M. For larger units, coastal parking may work better: "Spots along the seawall can accommodate bigger rigs," notes Pete W. about Rincon Parkway's pet-friendly camping near Ventura.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Ventura, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Ventura, CA is Lake Casitas Recreation Area with a 4.2-star rating from 40 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Ventura, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 96 dog-friendly camping locations near Ventura, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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