Best camping spots in Ventura County! From beachside RV sites to wooded mountain getaways, explore the top campgrounds that locals love. Picture this: the salty scent of the Pacific Ocean drifting through your tent flap as waves crash rhythmically in the distance. Or maybe the gentle rustle of oak trees overhead while a breeze dances through the canyon. Whether you crave the coastal cool or the warmth of inland oaks, Ventura County is a camper’s dream.
With its diverse terrain—from sun-kissed beaches to quiet foothills and forested valleys—this slice of Southern California offers more than just good weather. It’s the ideal destination for those wanting to unplug, reconnect with nature, and still stay relatively close to civilization.
Locals know this, but visitors are often surprised at just how many hidden gems dot our backyard. So if you’re planning your next campout, here’s your definitive guide to the best camping spots in Ventura County—no fluff, just the good stuff.
Table of Contents
County Campgrounds: Nature on a First-Name Basis
Ventura County maintains several campgrounds that offer easy access, affordable fees, and gorgeous scenery. These are perfect for family weekends, quick getaways, or peaceful midweek escapes.
Camp Comfort – Ojai
Nestled along Creek Road in the Ojai Valley, Camp Comfort is a cozy, shady escape beneath towering oak trees. This small park features around 15 RV sites (some with hookups) and several tent spaces. The nearby creek adds a soothing soundtrack, and you’re just minutes from downtown Ojai.
Why locals love it:
•Quiet, intimate setting
•Clean restrooms and picnic areas
•A stone’s throw from Ojai’s boutiques and eateries
•Clubhouse available to rent for parties. Reservation required.
Dennison Park – Ojai
Up in the hills above Ojai, Dennison Park offers stunning views of the entire valley. The higher elevation means cooler temperatures in summer and a sense of seclusion, even though it’s only 15 minutes from town.
Highlights:
•38 campsites
•Picnic tables and fire rings
•Incredible sunrise and sunset views
Faria Beach Park – Ventura Coast
Beachfront camping without the crowds? Yes, please. Faria Beach Park hugs the coast just off Highway 101 and offers RV and tent camping with unbeatable ocean views. You’ll fall asleep to crashing waves and wake up to surfers riding the morning swell.
Features:
•Oceanfront campsites
•RV hookups
•Popular for fishing and tide pooling
Foster Park – Ventura/Ojai Corridor
Set along the Ventura River, this spacious park features two campgrounds (Red Mountain Campground and Resident Campground), each with shady sites surrounded by mature trees. This site is only open to pedestrian access. It’s ideal for bike riders using the Ojai Valley Trail or families looking for wide open play areas.
Good to know:
•Tent and RV camping
•Great access to bike trails
•Tons of picnic space and large group areas
Hobson Beach Park – Ventura
Another stellar beachfront option, Hobson is Faria’s slightly quieter neighbor. It’s a small strip of campsites right on the sand, favored by early risers, surfers, and sunset watchers.
Notable perks:
•Waterfront RV sites and tent camping
•Flush toilets and hot showers
•Dogs allowed (6ft leash max required)
Kenney Grove Park – Fillmore
Hidden in the hills of Fillmore, Kenney Grove offers group and individual tent camping or RV camping surrounded by shady groves and grassy lawns. This park is especially popular for reunions and group events.
Standouts:
•Large group picnic shelters
•Horseshoe pits and volleyball courts
•Great for tent camping and day use
Oak Park – Simi Valley
Located in Simi Valley, Oak Park provides a quick camping fix close to the suburbs. It’s great for first-time campers, with nearby grocery stores and trails. Best for RV camping.
Details:
•Small, quiet campground
•Clean restrooms
•Close to hiking in the Santa Susana Mountains
Rincon Parkway – Ventura
If you have an RV and want front-row seats to the Pacific, Rincon Parkway is your dream setup. This strip of highway-shoulder camping between Ventura and Carpinteria is beloved by boondockers and snowbirds alike.
Key points:
•No hookups (dry camping)
•Epic sunset views
•Popular year-round with limited availability
Steckel Park – Santa Paula
A family favorite in Santa Paula, Steckel Park includes a small aviary, playgrounds, and large lawns perfect for kids. It also has a peaceful creekside location and is a great base for exploring nearby hiking trails.
Family-friendly features:
•RV and tent camping
•On-site aviary with exotic birds
•Creekside picnic areas
Tapo Canyon Park – Simi Valley
Tucked in a quiet canyon near Simi Valley, Tapo Canyon offers serenity with a touch of seclusion. With clean facilities and space for both RVs and tents, it’s a great weekend escape without the long drive.
Amenities:
•Paved RV sites with hookups
•Easy hiking access
•Clean restrooms and showers
State Parks: Classic California Camping
Ventura County and its neighboring areas are home to some of the most iconic coastal state parks in Southern California. These parks are especially suited for beach lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Carpinteria State Beach – Carpinteria
Technically just north of Ventura County’s border, Carpinteria State Beach is worth the quick drive. It features wide beaches, tide pools, and campsites just steps from the sand.
Campground insights:
•200+ campsites
•Flush toilets and showers
•Walkable to downtown Carpinteria
Emma Wood State Beach – Ventura
For those who like their camping rugged, Emma Wood offers primitive campsites along the ocean with no electricity or water hookups. Still, the views alone are worth it.
Best for:
•Self-contained RVs
•Stargazing and ocean photography
•Off-the-grid beach camping
Emma Wood Group Camp – Ventura
Separate from the main beach, the group camp area is ideal for scout troops, church groups, or big family gatherings. It’s still beachfront, just more spacious and private.
McGrath State Beach – Oxnard/Ventura (Closed until further notice)
Located near the mouth of the Santa Clara River, McGrath offers a mix of wetlands, dunes, and oceanfront. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise and a peaceful spot for campers looking to relax.
Fun facts:
•Seasonal closures due to flooding
•Beautiful nature walks
•Close to Oxnard’s amenities
Point Mugu State Park – Malibu/Oxnard
With over 70 miles of hiking trails, rugged coastline, and backcountry canyons, Point Mugu has two major campgrounds: Sycamore Canyon and Thornhill Broome.
Pick your vibe:
•Sycamore Canyon: Shady, inland, family-friendly
•Thornhill Broome: Beachfront, open, and rustic
Private Campgrounds: More Comfort, Fewer Crowds
Private sites tend to offer more amenities, like swimming pools, general stores, and even Wi-Fi. Perfect if you want the outdoors without sacrificing convenience.
Ventura Beach RV Resort – Ventura
Located a short bike ride from Ventura’s historic downtown and pier, this resort-style RV and tent park offers full hookups, a heated pool, and fun summer events.
Why stay here:
•Clean, well-managed grounds
•Bike rentals and laundry facilities
•Walking distance to shops and the beach
Lake Casitas Recreation Area – Near Ojai
With boat rentals, fishing, and a seasonal water playground, Lake Casitas is a huge draw for families. The camping area is massive, with options for tents, RVs, and group sites.
Big highlights:
•Over 400 campsites
•Lake views and boat ramps
•Water Adventure Park (summer only)
Ventura Oaks RV Park – Ventura
A quieter, long-term stay option near Ventura’s east end. It’s more of a community than a destination campground, but good for folks seeking extended stays with full hookups.
Ventura Ranch KOA – Santa Paula
Part rustic retreat, part glamping resort, Ventura Ranch KOA offers teepees, deluxe cabins, tent sites, and more. With zip lines, a playground, and even peacocks roaming the grounds, it’s a hit with kids.
Can’t-miss amenities:
•Zipline and rock climbing
•Seasonal events and crafts
•Fire pits, general store, and clean showers
Lake Piru Recreation Area – Piru
Tucked into the Los Padres National Forest, Lake Piru is a peaceful lakeside retreat with ample fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Key offerings:
•Tent and RV sites
•Boat rentals and launch ramps
•Shady campsites under mature trees
FAQs: Ventura County Camping Tips
When is the best time to go camping in Ventura County?
Spring and fall offer the best weather—warm days, cool nights, and fewer crowds. Summer is popular but can get busy, especially along the coast.
Do I need reservations for these campgrounds?
Yes, especially for weekends and holidays. State parks and private campgrounds book up fast. County parks often have first-come, first-served options, but it’s best to call ahead.
Are campfires allowed?
Fire restrictions vary by season and location. Always check with the park or campground directly before lighting a fire.
Can I bring my dog camping?
Most parks allow leashed dogs, but some beach campgrounds have restrictions. Check ahead for pet policies.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Favorite Spot Under the Stars
Whether you’re a beach bum with an RV, a tent camper chasing waterfalls, or a weekend warrior looking for fresh air and starry skies, the best camping spots in Ventura County deliver all that and more. With so many options packed into one county, you’re never far from your next adventure.
So pack your sleeping bag, load the cooler, and hit the road. Nature is calling—and Ventura County’s best-kept secrets are ready to be explored.
