Ventura County camping offers both mountain and beach environments at elevations ranging from sea level to over 4,000 feet in the Los Padres National Forest. The region's Mediterranean climate creates ideal camping conditions year-round, with average summer temperatures near the coast rarely exceeding 75°F. Winter camping remains viable with overnight temperatures typically staying above 45°F at most coastal campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking near Ojai Valley: Wheeler Gorge Campground provides access to numerous trails within Los Padres National Forest. "This campground is gorgeous. It is nestled by a creek in an oak grove and the sites offer a decent amount of privacy. Most spots are shady," notes a camper. The area includes moderate 2-3 mile loop trails suitable for day hikes.
Beach exploration at low tide: Thornhill Broome Beach offers excellent tide pool access during morning low tides. "There's rocks to the left and right that are fun to explore," shares one visitor. The campground sits directly on the beach with easy access to marine wildlife viewing.
Mountain biking accessible routes: Trails connecting Dennison Park to downtown Ojai provide moderate terrain for cyclists. A reviewer mentions, "It's a lovely campground nearby Ojai. A tiny one way road weaves around a hill and connects all the spots." The 10-minute drive to downtown allows campers to combine outdoor recreation with town amenities.
What campers like
Beachfront parking: Rincon Parkway RV Overnight offers direct ocean access. "Great for last second check-in online. Best, I've ever had checking in. Sites with lower numbers have more sand in front and maybe easier access beach," explains a camper. Sites cost $32-40 per night and require self-contained vehicles.
Creek access during summer heat: Wheeler Gorge Campground provides natural water features for cooling off. "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," notes a reviewer. The creek remains accessible even during drought conditions.
Mountain views from elevated sites: Santa Cruz Campground at Carpinteria State Beach offers panoramic vistas. "Spaces can be tight... neighbor's RV was about two feet from ours. Non-hook-up fee was $43.00 plus $8.25 online reservation fee," explains a visitor. Despite limited space, the campground provides access to swimming beaches and walkable areas.
What you should know
Cash-only payment at some locations: Emma Wood State Beach requires non-electronic payment. "Right now it's First Come First Serve, pay with cash or check only (no cards). There's an iron ranger for self pay if you arrive after hours," a camper advises. Sites cost $40 for essentially a parking spot with ocean access.
Train noise affects sleep quality: Multiple coastal campgrounds have railway proximity. "The Amtrak passenger train goes through several times a day, but we didn't find it bothersome at all," notes an Emma Wood visitor. Train schedules include both daytime and overnight passages.
Wildlife encounters require preparation: Campgrounds report various wildlife interactions. "There are ground squirrels in abundance everywhere here and they live without fear of humans! We watched them approach as we sat right near the truck and they hopped up into the engine compartment," warns a Lake Casitas visitor. Proper food storage prevents unwanted animal encounters.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers family-friendly amenities. "The most fun is the water park. You can take a break from the heat and tube down the lazy river. Also there is a disk golf course," shares a camper. The water park operates seasonally with additional fees.
Sites with playground access: Ventura Ranch KOA includes activities specifically for children. "They have a very large jumping pillow for kiddos, my 6 year had a blast playing on it. They also have a zip line, but it was damaged in the large fire last year, and is being fixed currently," explains a visitor. Activities rotate seasonally with some requiring additional fees.
Beach sites with easy access: Faria Beach Park provides family-friendly ocean proximity. "All the campsites have an ocean view and the staircase to the beach is in the campground. There is also a little cafe that serves breakfast and lunch," notes a visitor. Campsites range from $35-58 depending on hookup requirements.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most camping spots near Ventura, California offer partial or no hookups. "Rv camping right on the water. During off season months this campsite is filled with retired folks and it keeps it's super quiet at night," shares an Emma Wood State Beach visitor. Many beach locations provide trash service but no water or electrical connections.
Challenging access at coastal sites: Faria Beach Park requires careful navigation. "The drive down from the main road is pretty steep with a sharp turn, I'm surprised more RVs don't scrape and cause damage on the way down," warns a reviewer. Larger RVs should consider alternative locations with easier access.
Power fluctuations during peak usage: High-occupancy periods affect electrical reliability. "There were so many people running their ac that my surge protector kept shutting off on 'low current' below 104 volts," explains a visitor at Ventura Beach RV Resort. RVers should bring surge protectors and be prepared for potential service interruptions during summer months.
