Best Campgrounds near Ventura, CA

Camping near Ventura, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for you.

What to do:

• Boating and Fishing: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, you 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 at Point Mugu State Park. A camper noted, "Great location. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach, hiking and MTB/gravel trails accessible from the campground."
• Beach Access: Leo Carrillo State Park offers beautiful beaches. One visitor shared, "Beautiful campgrounds in a canyon next to the beach."

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Malibu Beach RV Park. A happy camper said, "Every spot has a great view of the Pacific Ocean from high upon a cliff!"
• Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer from El Capitán State Beach Campground mentioned, "This campground is clean and quiet."
• Variety of Accommodations: Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers a range of camping options. One camper noted, "This is a huge place, with lots to do."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wheeler Gorge Campground, lack certain amenities. A visitor mentioned, "No running water available; fire ban."
• Crowded During Peak Season: Expect larger crowds during summer months. A reviewer at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area said, "I imagine it would be an entirely different experience in the summer when all amenities were offered and the campground was full."
• Noise Levels: Campgrounds near highways, like Thornhill Broome Beach, can be noisy. One camper noted, "Sound of waves and occasional traffic all night."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Santa Cruz Campground, which has activities for kids. A family camper said, "The beaches are always nice."
• Plan for Activities: Bring bikes for trails or kayaks for the lake. One reviewer at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area suggested, "Bring binos. Boat, bring your canoe/kayak."
• Pack Snacks and Essentials: Make sure to stock up on snacks and drinks. A camper at Lake Casitas Recreation Area mentioned, "The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A reviewer at Leo Carrillo State Park said, "The sites are small. It is very difficult to back in to a spot when you have campers across from your campsite."
• Be Prepared for Fees: Expect additional charges for pets or amenities. A camper at Lake Casitas Recreation Area noted, "They nickel and dime a lot of things, showers pets."
• Utilize Solar Power: If you're camping at places like Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, consider using solar panels. One camper shared, "We’ve run on solar for over 10 years, and it saves us thousands of dollars each year for our full-time camping life."

Camping near Ventura, California, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're with family or friends, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.