Dispersed camping opportunities near Westlake Village, California require travel distances of 45-90 minutes by car. Most sites sit at elevations between 2,000-5,000 feet, creating temperature variations 10-15 degrees cooler than coastal areas. Los Padres National Forest contains the majority of primitive camping options, though specific zones restrict overnight stays due to environmental protection measures.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Santa Cruz Island's Del Norte Backcountry provides access to miles of undeveloped hiking trails. "It's only 4-miles from harbor to campsite, but it's mostly uphill. My friends were beginner backpackers so it was a bit tiring, but it was over quick and I still think it's a great trip for beginners," notes camper Kathleen L.
Water activities: Big Cone Camp - Santa Paula Canyon offers swimming opportunities in natural pools. "From Big Cone Camp you can easily reach the waterfalls and pools that make this area known as the punch bowls. Depending on weather and water conditions there are some nice water rock slides, and a few pools you can jump from the cliffs into," reports reviewer robherr.
Stargazing: Angeles Crest Overlook provides nighttime sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "Dark, fairly quiet, good view! I loved car camping here," writes Jaydon C., adding "When I stayed, there were no other people who stayed the night, but quite a few people came throughout the night just for 20 minutes at a time or so."
What campers like
Mountain views: Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry offers panoramic ocean vistas. "We picked site 1 unknowingly and it turned out to be the best! It was away from others and felt private with the most spectacular mountains to our back," shares Kate W.
Wildlife sightings: Island foxes frequent campsites at Del Norte Backcountry. "Saw lots of island foxes - so cute! Note that there are gear restrictions for the cruise (check the website). Also you have to PACK YOUR OWN WATER. And use the food storage boxes to protect your food from the foxes," advises Kathleen L.
Easy access: Angeles Crest Overlook to LA provides free camping near Westlake Village with minimal setup required. "This is just a few parking lots that overlook the valley and gives a view of the city skyline in the distance. The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise!" notes Valerie.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Current regulations prohibit open flames at most dispersed sites. "There is a nice hike-in campsite about 1.5 miles up the Chorro Grande trail called Oak Camp. I think the other review here might be unintentionally implying that camping along the 33 is allowed. It isn't," clarifies Paul O., adding "Disperse camping is NOT allowed on Hwy 33, the Rose Valley Recreation Area or the Pine Mountain Recreation Area or Matilija Canyon Rd."
Weather conditions: Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness experiences significant wind. "Situated high on a bluff it gets lots of wind, and with very little shelter around to break it, if you camp here you will get the brunt of it," warns robherr.
Water requirements: Pack all drinking water for your stay at dispersed sites. "Hiked from Scorpion Harbor cross-island to Del Norte Camp, great way to see the island. Food storage locker provided to protect food from sneaky foxes. No water anywhere near the campsite," reports Tom M.
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty: Select hikes appropriate for children's abilities. "This is a fairly easy hike through what would not be considered a typical hike. It starts off going through Thomas Aquinas College, winding through horse property and oil fields, before finally opening up into Santa Paula Canyon," notes reviewer robherr about Big Cone Camp.
Safety concerns: Weekday camping provides quieter conditions than weekends. "During the week it's more quiet. Close to town so that is a plus. Would recommend to smaller vans or car sleepers," suggests Nicole D.
Pack-in requirements: Bring sufficient water and food for all family members. "Take advantage and hike as far as you can- it's unreal! But bring a ton of water because you'll want it! The crows are unruly so watch your belongings, and the fox are cute but sneaky," advises Kate W.
Tips from RVers
Parking size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate small to medium vehicles only. "Perfect last minute late night hold over stop," notes Joey B. about Angeles Crest Overlook, while Andrew S. clarifies "This is literally just a roadside pull-off. Only really useful in a pinch. No space for a tent. Sleep in your vehicle."
Overnight safety: Consider camping in groups when possible at roadside locations. "It is not a real campground, just the parking area of a view point. So the view was great. I parked at one end of the area but in the evening lots of couples and teenagers came and the parking area was well used," reports Iris A.
