Wheeler Gorge

2211 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035

Where the Santa Clara River meets the Pacific Ocean, McGrath State Beach Campground beckons nature enthusiasts with beachfront campsites and some of California's most spectacular bird-watching opportunities. This coastal haven draws birders from around the world to witness incredible migrations and rare species, though Mother Nature occasionally reminds visitors of her power when winter storms cause the Santa Clara River to swell, temporarily transforming portions of this beloved campground.

Emma Wood State Beach Group Campground, Highway 101, Ventura, CA 93001

Where the Pacific meets the shore at Emma Wood State Beach, groups of adventurers gather to create lasting memories. This oceanfront group campground welcomes parties of up to 30 people per site, offering developed tent camping with all the essentials - restrooms, fire rings, and picnic tables perfectly positioned for sunset dinners. Self-contained RVs can embrace the primitive camping experience here, falling asleep to the rhythmic sound of waves just steps away from their door.

Highway 101, Ventura, CA 93001

Where the Pacific meets the shore in its most untamed form, Emma Wood State Beach - North Beach Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic coastal camping experience. This pristine stretch of oceanfront offers self-contained RV enthusiasts the rare opportunity to fall asleep to crashing waves and wake to spectacular sunrises over the water. While you won't find modern conveniences like restrooms, water hookups, or electricity here, what you will discover is something far more valuable: unfiltered access to California's wild coast, where sea lions bark in the distance and dolphins play in the surf just beyond your campsite door.

5361 Sixth Street, Carpinteria, CA 93013

Discover your perfect coastal retreat at Carpinteria State Beach, where over 200 family-friendly campsites await just steps from the Pacific surf. Celebrated as 'America's Safest Beach,' this treasured destination invites you to wake up to ocean breezes, spend sun-soaked days swimming in gentle waters, and create lasting memories around beachside picnics. Whether you choose a coveted beachfront spot or gather with friends at one of the spacious group sites, you'll find yourself immersed in the quintessential California beach camping experience.

1190 E. OJAI AVE.

Nestled in the heart of Live Oak Canyon, Holiday Group Campground beckons adventurers seeking a perfect basecamp for outdoor exploration. This secluded group site sits beneath a canopy of towering trees, offering natural shade and the soothing sounds of nearby Matilija Creek. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout expedition, or gathering of friends, the campground provides an ideal setting with its central kitchen area featuring a traditional Santa Maria-style grill for memorable outdoor cooking. Miles of surrounding trails invite exploration on foot, horseback, or off-road vehicle, while convenient vault toilets ensure basic comfort during your wilderness retreat.

Los Padres National Forest

Nestled within the rugged beauty of Los Padres National Forest, Rose Valley Campground beckons adventurers with nine generously-sized campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and BBQ stands. The crown jewel of this wilderness retreat is the spectacular 300-foot Rose Valley Falls, cascading in two dramatic tiers just a short hike away. While embracing a back-to-basics camping experience without running water or shower facilities, the campground provides essential pit-style toilets and serves as your gateway to exceptional trail networks. As darkness falls, the absence of artificial light reveals a breathtaking celestial display, while days bring encounters with diverse wildlife and the ever-changing tapestry of seasonal foliage.

Los Padres National Forest

Nestled alongside a babbling creek, Middle Lion Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with its single-loop design that creates a close-knit camping community. This charming retreat welcomes tent campers and small RVs (under 20 feet) to settle into sites equipped with sturdy tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilets and no running water, it rewards visitors with an authentic wilderness experience where the sounds of the creek replace the noise of modern life.

Forest Road 7N03C, approximately eight miles south of the Lockwood Valley Road

Nestled beneath the towering canopy of ancient Jeffrey Pines, Thorn Meadows Campground beckons adventurers seeking solitude among fascinating rock formations and pristine wilderness. Following storm damage in July 2023, this rustic retreat has transformed into a walk-in sanctuary, where determined campers can still discover its hidden charms. The campground maintains its authentic backcountry character with essential amenities including a pipe corral for equestrian visitors, four cooking stoves with accompanying tables, and vault toilet facilities. Without piped water, visitors should come prepared for a true wilderness experience in this secluded mountain haven.

Los Padres National Forest

Perched majestically on a ridge at 7,000 feet, Reyes Peak Campground beckons adventurers seeking solitude above the clouds. From this lofty vantage point, sweeping vistas unfold across the dramatic Cuyama Badlands, while the Pacific Ocean shimmers in the distance. On crystalline days, the Channel Islands emerge like ancient sentinels on the horizon. Six intimate campsites dot this mountain sanctuary, each thoughtfully appointed with a sturdy table, cooking grill, and stone fire ring where stories are shared under star-swept skies. Here, where eagles soar and the wind whispers through ancient pines, visitors discover the raw, untamed beauty that defines California's high country.

Los Padres National Forest

Escape to Pine Mountain Campground, where six intimate campsites form a welcoming circle beneath towering pines and rolling hills. This peaceful retreat invites you to disconnect from the world below, offering essential comforts like picnic tables, barbecue grills, and fire rings for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. With just one pit toilet and no water sources, Pine Mountain embraces a back-to-basics camping experience that rewards the prepared traveler with unspoiled tranquility.

Forest Rt. 7N13, Los Padres National Forest, California

Tucked away in the rugged embrace of Los Padres National Forest, Halfmoon Campground offers an intimate escape into California's untamed wilderness. This hidden gem features 10 secluded campsites nestled beneath towering Jeffrey and Ponderosa Pines, where the whisper of wind through ancient branches creates nature's own symphony. Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts have long discovered this remote sanctuary, making it a beloved basecamp for off-highway vehicle explorers and those seeking the thrill of deer hunting season in the surrounding backcountry.

Los Padres National Forest

Nestled beneath towering Jeffrey Pines, Dutchman Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This rustic mountain retreat combines the serenity of old-growth forest camping with the thrill of off-highway vehicle exploration, serving as your gateway to the legendary Miller Jeep Trail #129. Here, the scent of pine mingles with campfire smoke as generations of outdoor enthusiasts have discovered their own slice of wilderness paradise.

Los Padres National Forest

Tucked away in the shadow of the Sespe Wilderness, Reyes Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain retreat. Here, where the babbling waters of Reyes Creek carve through ancient stone, you'll discover 24 intimate campsites perfect for tent camping and small RVs under 22 feet. Days unfold lazily as you string up a hammock between towering trees, cool off in crystal-clear swimming holes, or cast a line into the creek's promising waters. This is primitive camping at its finest—no running water means you'll need to pack in your own, but the trade-off is an undisturbed natural sanctuary where the only sounds are birdsong and rushing water.

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Discover a hidden gem where twelve thoughtfully spaced campsites nestle beneath a canopy of fragrant pinyon pines, creating natural privacy screens between each spot. This intimate single-loop campground embraces a 'pack it in, pack it out' philosophy, inviting responsible adventurers to experience pristine wilderness camping at the doorstep of the magnificent Sespe Wilderness.

Los Padres National Forest

Tucked away in a serene grassy canyon, Rancho Nuevo Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This hidden gem features just two intimate campsites, ensuring a peaceful retreat far from the crowds. The journey here requires a capable 4-wheel drive vehicle navigating rugged terrain, making this destination a true adventurer's sanctuary. While winter conditions may temporarily close access roads, those who make the trek during open seasons are rewarded with an unspoiled camping experience that few ever discover.

Los Padres National Forest

Adventure awaits at this gateway campground, where the excitement of the Snowy Motorcycle Trail begins right from your campsite. Whether you're seeking a peaceful night under the stars before hitting the trails or looking for a basecamp after a day of riding, this campground serves as the perfect launching point for your off-road adventures.

5301 Ralphs Ranch Road, Gorman, CA 93243

Nestled within the adventure-filled expanse of Hungry Valley SVRA, Lane Ranch Campground beckons off-highway vehicle enthusiasts to experience California's premier OHV playground. Here, sandy trails wind through a landscape purpose-built for exploration, where the rumble of engines mingles with the whisper of desert winds. This unpretentious campground offers a perfect basecamp for riders seeking authentic outdoor adventures, with just enough amenities to keep you comfortable while maintaining that coveted connection to the wild terrain that surrounds you.

5301 Ralphs Ranch Road, Gorman, CA 93243

Nestled within the adventurous expanse of Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area, Smith Forks Campground stands as a gateway to endless off-highway vehicle adventures. Consistently praised by outdoor enthusiasts as the crown jewel of the park's camping options, this beloved basecamp offers direct access to an extensive network of thrilling OHV trails that wind through California's rugged backcountry.

5301 Ralphs Ranch Road, Gorman, CA 93243

Nestled within the adventure-packed Hungry Valley SVRA, Scrub Oak Campground serves as your gateway to over 130 miles of thrilling OHV trails. This rustic retreat embraces you with its characteristic scrub oak canopy and sandy terrain, offering essential camping amenities while keeping you connected to the raw beauty of the high desert landscape.

5301 Ralphs Ranch Road, Gorman, CA 93243

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Hungry Valley SVRA, Cottonwood Campground beckons those seeking refuge from crowded camping spots. This intimate hideaway has earned a devoted following among ATV enthusiasts and adventure-seeking families who appreciate its perfect blend of seclusion and trail accessibility. Here, the roar of off-road engines mingles with laughter around evening campfires, creating memories that last long after the dust settles.

5301 Ralphs Ranch Road, Gorman, CA 93243

Escape to Circle Canyon Campground, a hidden gem nestled within the adventurous expanse of Hungry Valley SVRA. At just $10 per night, you'll discover your choice of convenient pull-through or cozy back-in sites, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, fire pits with grills, and protective lean-to shelters. While vault toilets provide essential facilities, the real luxury here is the untamed beauty surrounding you. Your four-legged companions are welcome to join the adventure, though they'll need to stay leashed as they explore alongside you.

Los Padres National Forest

Nestled within the dramatic Dry Canyon area, Dome Springs Campground offers a unique desert camping experience beneath ancient pinyon pines. Please note: This campground is temporarily closed under a Forest Service law enforcement closure order. The current safety restrictions prohibit all hunting, OHV use, hiking, and camping activities in the area. Check with local ranger stations for the most current status before planning your visit.

5301 Ralphs Ranch Road, Gorman, CA 93243

Nestled within the adventure-filled Hungry Valley SVRA, Sterling Campground serves as your gateway to an off-road paradise. This well-loved basecamp connects riders and outdoor enthusiasts to an impressive network of 130 miles of OHV trails, making it the perfect launching point for dusty adventures and memorable expeditions through California's rugged backcountry.

Los Padres National Forest

Tucked away in the high desert near Tejon Pass, Chuchupate Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This remote sanctuary delivers sweeping panoramic vistas and the kind of profound quiet that only comes from true solitude. Whether you're navigating rugged trails on your OHV, exploring hidden hiking paths, or simply lying beneath one of California's most spectacular night skies, Chuchupate offers the perfect basecamp for those who prefer their camping experiences untamed and unforgettable.

Los Padres National Forest

Nestled beneath the aromatic canopy of ancient pinyon pines, this intimate campground offers a perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts. While the sites are designed for smaller RVs and tent camping, the compact layout creates a cozy atmosphere where the sounds of nature take center stage. Adventure seekers will find themselves at the crossroads of scenic hiking trails and thrilling OHV routes, making this hidden gem an ideal launching point for both peaceful nature walks and adrenaline-pumping off-road expeditions.

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Nestled among towering Jeffrey pines at 8,300 feet, Chula Vista Walk-in Campground offers adventurers a serene mountain escape without the price tag. This free wilderness retreat in Los Padres National Forest rewards those willing to carry their gear a short distance with fair to good privacy between sites and a landscape that transforms with the seasons. Spring and summer visitors are greeted by meadows bursting with wildflowers, while the campground serves as the perfect basecamp for the rewarding 2-mile trek to Mt. Pinos summit—a place where ancient Chumash traditions meet modern-day hikers seeking both adventure and spiritual connection.

Los Padres National Forest

Perched high at 7,800 feet where the stars seem close enough to touch, Mount Pinos Campground beckons adventurers seeking refuge from city lights and digital distractions. This mountain sanctuary transforms into nature's own planetarium after dark, where the Milky Way sprawls across an ink-black canvas unmarred by light pollution. By day, winding trails invite exploration through pine-scented forests, whether you're navigating rocky paths on foot or challenging yourself on two wheels through the rugged terrain.

Los Padres National Forest

Perched high in the mountains, McGill Campground beckons adventurers seeking refuge from the hustle of city life. Here, winding hiking trails lead through towering pines, while mountain biking paths challenge riders with scenic rewards. Whether you're planning a solo retreat or gathering with friends, this tranquil haven delivers panoramic valley vistas and the kind of deep forest quiet that restores the soul.

Los Padres National Forest

Perched high in the Los Padres National Forest, Campo Alto Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking refuge from the crowds below. This intimate mountain retreat features 15 secluded single campsites and 2 group sites, each thoughtfully spaced among towering Jeffrey pines to ensure the privacy and tranquility that draws campers back season after season. As a primitive, high-altitude sanctuary operating seasonally, Campo Alto embraces the 'Pack it in, Pack it out' ethos—there's no running water, electricity, or dump stations here. Instead, you'll find something far more valuable: the rare opportunity to disconnect completely and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of California's backcountry.

Los Padres National Forest

Nestled deep within a secluded canyon, this intimate campground offers a tranquil escape beneath a canopy of ancient cottonwoods and aromatic pinyon pines. Adventure seekers will find themselves at the perfect basecamp for hiking scenic trails, pursuing seasonal hunting opportunities, and exploring rugged terrain on OHV adventures. Despite its small size, this hidden gem provides an authentic wilderness experience where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and distant bird calls.

Los Padres National Forest

Tucked away in the rugged wilderness of Los Padres National Forest, Caballo Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience for adventurers seeking solitude beneath ancient Pinyon Pines. This intimate, dispersed camping area serves as a gateway to the legendary San Emigdio Jeep Trail, where off-road enthusiasts and hikers can explore miles of challenging terrain and discover hidden corners of California's untamed landscape.

4201 Fort Tejon Road, Lebec, CA 93243

Nestled beneath towering century-old oaks, Fort Tejon Group Campground invites you to gather with friends and family in a setting where California's frontier past meets modern comfort. Your group will enjoy well-appointed sites featuring picnic tables perfect for communal meals, barbecues for evening cookouts, and crackling fire pits for sharing stories under the stars. Fresh drinking water flows throughout the grounds, while RV adventurers can take advantage of convenient electric and water hookups that make extended stays a breeze.

Los Padres National Forest

Los Padres National Forest

Los Padres National Forest

Los Padres National Forest

Los Padres National Forest

Los Padres National Forest

Los Padres National Forest

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Los Padres National Forest

Forest Rt. 7N13, Los Padres National Forest, California

Emma Wood State Beach Group Campground, Highway 101, Ventura, CA 93001

5361 Sixth Street, Carpinteria, CA 93013

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Highway 101, Ventura, CA 93001

Los Padres National Forest

1190 E. OJAI AVE.

2211 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, CA 93035

Forest Road 7N03C, approximately eight miles south of the Lockwood Valley Road

Los Padres National Forest

Los Padres National Forest

INYO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Big Pine Canyon offers adventurers a gateway to some of California's most dramatic alpine wilderness. This stunning canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and towering granite peaks that pierce the sky at over 14,000 feet. Whether you're seeking challenging mountaineering routes or peaceful streamside camping, Big Pine Canyon delivers an authentic High Sierra experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty surrounding you.

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.

Modoc National Forest

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Pepperdine Campground offers three distinct camping experiences in one remarkable location. Equestrian enthusiasts will discover a dedicated horse camp complete with convenient stock water and pole stalls at select sites. The trailhead staging area beckons adventurers with ample parking and corrals, serving as your launching point into the wilderness. For those seeking a more intimate experience, a cozy family camping loop awaits beneath a canopy of ancient fir trees. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility, Pepperdine encourages visitors to embrace Leave No Trace principles while immersing themselves in this pristine mountain environment.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Gather your favorite people at Camp 4 Group Campsite, where up to 35 adventurers can create lasting memories together in the heart of nature. This thoughtfully developed campground welcomes groups with everything needed for the perfect outdoor gathering – spacious picnic tables for shared meals under towering trees, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and regular garbage collection that lets you focus on what matters most: quality time with friends and family.

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Nestled in the heart of Reds Meadow Valley, Upper Soda Springs Campground offers an intimate escape where the melodic San Joaquin River becomes your constant companion. This tranquil retreat features 28 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with bear-proof lockers, picnic tables, and access to pristine pit toilets and fresh potable water. Adventure beckons from every direction—cast a line into the crystal-clear river waters, set out on scenic trails that wind through ancient forests, or venture to the nearby geological wonder of Devil's Postpile National Monument and the breathtaking cascade of Rainbow Falls.

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Saddle up for an unforgettable equestrian adventure at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern camping comfort. This specialized horse-friendly retreat beckons riders and their four-legged companions with direct access to the legendary California Riding and Hiking Trail. Well-appointed horse corrals ensure your equine partners rest as comfortably as you do, making this the perfect basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through California's stunning backcountry.

Doran Regional Park

Nestled along a stunning 2-mile stretch of sandy beach on Bodega Bay, Doran Regional Park Campground offers 112 year-round campsites where the Pacific Ocean meets coastal adventure. With five distinct camping zones ranging from harbor-side spots to tent-only areas, this family-friendly destination combines beach camping with exceptional access to fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Whether you're launching your kayak into the bay, exploring tide pools along the rock jetty, or simply enjoying soft sand and mellow surf, Doran delivers a quintessential California coastal camping experience.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful inlet at Lake Pillsbury's northwestern corner, this campground offers the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and easy water access. Just a short stroll from your campsite, the shimmering waters of Mendocino National Forest's largest lake beckon with endless possibilities for adventure. Whether you're launching your boat from the nearby ramp at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, or taking an afternoon swim, this scenic basecamp puts you at the heart of one of Northern California's most beloved recreational lakes.

17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott CA 95571

Escape into the cathedral-like sanctuary of Hamilton Barn Environmental Campground, where primitive hike-in campsites nestle beneath towering old-growth redwoods. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls with unparalleled privacy and profound solitude, offering a rare chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's ancient rhythms.

CA-108, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California

Nestled along the scenic Sonora Pass on CA-108, Sonora Bridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 22 tranquil sites carved into a landscape of towering Jeffrey pines and aromatic sagebrush. Here, where the melodious West Walker River flows just steps away, anglers cast their lines into pristine waters while hikers set off to explore the dramatic high country. This rustic mountain retreat offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventures, complete with firewood available on-site to fuel evening campfires under star-studded skies.