How much does camping cost at Wheeler Gorge?

Camping fees at Wheeler Gorge range from $33.97-$72/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Wheeler Gorge first-come first-served or reservation?

Wheeler Gorge accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Wheeler Gorge before I book?

Yes! Wheeler Gorge has 4 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Wheeler Gorge?

Wheeler Gorge is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Wheeler Gorge?

Wheeler Gorge does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Wheeler Gorge?

Fire policies at Wheeler Gorge: Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Wheeler Gorge have?

Wheeler Gorge has 70 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Wheeler Gorge?

Yes, pets are allowed at Wheeler Gorge. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Wheeler Gorge?

Wheeler Gorge offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Wheeler Gorge?

Popular activities at Wheeler Gorge include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Wheeler Gorge

4.36

691 reviews

1190 E. OJAI AVE, OJAI, CA 93023, USA

Top 11% in CAFall

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Channel Islands National Park

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,827 ft

Price

$33.97 - $72/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

70 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on US Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,827 ft

Price

$33.97 - $72/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

70 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on US Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Wheeler Gorge

$33.97 - $72.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $33.97; STANDARD NONELECTRIC- Double Site: $70.00 (+$2.00 weekend) (+$2.00 holiday); STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $35.00 (+$2.00 weekend)...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

805-434-1996parksman@fix.net

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Wheeler Gorge

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Campground Map

1190 E. OJAI AVE, OJAI, CA 93023, USA

Wheeler Gorge

1190 E. OJAI AVE, OJAI, CA 93023, USA

Nearby places

Ojai: 7 miles (15 minutes), Ventura: 20 miles (30 minutes), Santa Paula: approximately 24 miles (40 minutes).

Weather at Wheeler Gorge

Current alerts(9)

All Double campsite reservations are good for 12 people and 2 vehicles. Maximum number of people per double site is 16 ($10.00 additional charge person per night after 12 people).
All single campsite reservations are good for 6 people and 1 vehicle.
Click here for more information on the Los Padres National Forest
Gate is locked at 10 p.m.; campsite check-in must be completed prior to closure

Best Time to Camp at Wheeler Gorge

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best balance of mild daytime temperatures (typically 55–80°F), cooler nights (40–50°F), and lower crowds after the summer rush, making trails and creekside spots more peaceful. Hiking and wildlife viewing are at their peak as animals become more active with cooler weather, and the oak/sycamore canopy takes on golden tones that make creekside campsites especially scenic. Expect good fishing and comfortable conditions for day hikes without the summer heat or the winter storms that, Peak months: October, November, April, May

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 11% in CA

Fall is the 'sweet spot' with pleasant temps, fall colors and thinner crowds per season notes.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Wheeler Gorge

Wheeler Gorge sits along Matilija Creek in the foothills of Los Padres National Forest, just north of Ojai. This US Forest Service campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites beneath oak and sycamore canopy, with direct access to hiking trails and creek swimming holes. Camp hosts run educational programs, and the setting balances accessibility with a backcountry feel, though Highway 33 runs nearby.

Wheeler Gorge Campground provides sites for tent and RV camping, including first-come, first-served options and reservable spots. Group camping is available, accommodating larger parties.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best balance of mild daytime temperatures (typically 55–80°F), cooler nights (40–50°F), and lower crowds after the summer rush, making trails and creekside spots more peaceful. Hiking and wildlife viewing are at their peak as animals become more active with cooler weather, and the oak/sycamore canopy takes on golden tones that make creekside campsites especially scenic. Expect good fishing and comfortable conditions for day hikes without the summer heat or the winter storms that, Peak months: October, November, April, May

Elevation1827 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryOak and sycamore trees form a canopy over much of the campground, with evergreen shrubs filling the understory. Matilija Creek runs through the property, providing swimming holes and a constant water soundtrack. The campground sits at 1,827 feet elevation where the creek has carved through rugged mountain terrain over time. Shade coverage varies by site. Some spots offer good views of the surrounding mountains, while others feel more enclosed in the riparian corridor.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground provides no hotel-style lodging, cabins, or glamping options.

Programs & ActivitiesRanger-led educational programs and hikes are offered year-round, providing insight into the area's natural and historical features.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

15 consecutive nights

Guests Allowed Per Site

6included in fee, maximum of 8

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or by contacting the campground directly.

AccessibilityThe campground has paved parking spurs and accessible vault toilets. Campers with disabilities should confirm site-specific accessibility prior to arrival.

Site SizeCampsites are medium to large, accommodating tents and RVs up to 35 feet in length. Specific sites vary in layout and size, with some offering spacious setups near the creek.

PrivacySite privacy varies. Some campsites are spacious and shaded with natural barriers, while others are closely spaced with limited privacy. Creekside sites are popular for their scenic views and natural ambiance.

Total Campsites70 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites near the highway and restrooms due to noise and odor. Choose higher-numbered sites for more privacy.

Best CampsitesSites 26, 27, and 38 get consistent praise for creekside access and privacy. Site 35 is more secluded. Lower-numbered sites sit closer to Highway 33 and catch more road noise.

Need help booking Wheeler Gorge?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Accessible vault toilets are provided, but drinking water is not available. Visitors must bring their own water, and remove their trash from the campground.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Wheeler Gorge Campground provides a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, exploring the creek, and relaxing in the natural surroundings. It is ideal for families, with a serene environment and options for both relaxation and adventure.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at the campground. Only vault toilets are provided, which are noted to be cleaned regularly but may have strong odors during peak usage times.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Wheeler Gorge

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From Booking Sources

4.4

691 reviews

Recommended

Wheeler Gorge is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Wheeler Gorge Campground is celebrated for its scenic beauty and tranquil environment, with a mix of positive and constructive feedback from visitors. Many users praise the camp hosts, creekside locations, and family-friendly atmosphere. Concerns include the lack of running water, proximity to the highway for certain campsites, and the presence of wildlife such as bears.

Review Summaries

Based on 691 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 691 reviews.

Site #27Loved
Site #27 is secluded with creek access and is a camper favorite.
Site #14Mentioned
Site #14 and #15 are close to the creek but located near the highway.
Site #52Issues noted
Site #52 is criticized for its steep slope and lack of shade.

What Campers Love

Campers frequently highlight the creek's beauty, the well-maintained vault toilets, friendly camp hosts, and the serene ambiance of the campground. Many find the educational programs and proximity to...

Based on 691 reviews

Common Concerns

Common concerns include the absence of running water, noisy neighbors, site proximity to the highway, and occasional maintenance issues. Issues with wildlife, such as bears and insects, have also...

Based on 691 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers suggest bringing plenty of water, bug spray, and flashlights. Booking creekside sites for a more scenic experience and arriving early for first-come, first-served spots are common tips.

Based on 691 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During summer, campers enjoy the creek and shaded sites but report issues with insects and high temperatures. Winter visits are quieter, offering a more secluded experience. Spring and fall are...

Based on 691 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful scenery, a nice creek, clean bathrooms, and friendly camp hosts." - Andy Rubiano. "No running water, so bring lots of drinking water and water to wash hands and clean." - Joseph Vaudreuil....

Based on 691 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews from campers with accessibility needs are limited but indicate that the campground's paved spurs and accessible toilets are appreciated.

Based on 691 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, but owners are reminded to keep them leashed. The creek offers a nice play area for dogs, but precautions are advised around wildlife.

Based on 691 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want creek access and hiking in the Los Padres foothills with friendly hosts and seasonal programs.

Skip if

You need running water, electric hookups, or complete silence from highway traffic.

Nearby Campgrounds

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(22)

Holiday Group Campground

1190 E. OJAI AVE.

Holiday Group Campground sits in the Los Padres National Forest foothills near Ojai, operated by PMC Parks for group reservations only. Shaded by large trees along Matilija Creek, the site offers space for group activities, multiple fire rings, and access to a small swimming hole. Fall brings the best conditions, with mild temperatures for hiking and biking on nearby trails.