Rose Valley Campground

4.35

165 reviews

Scenic Views

Featured in:Camping Near Channel Islands National Park

Quick Facts

3,425 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens CampOne site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

3,425 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens CampOne site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Rose Valley Campground

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The facility rates are $30 per night for standard non-electric campsites during peak season (January 1 - December 31). An additional $2 weekend and...

Standard Site Fee$30.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

805 434 1996customerservice@pmcparks.com

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What Campers Say

4.35

Recommended

Based on 165 reviews

112 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulspaciouswell-maintained

"Rose Valley Campground is praised for its scenic beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to Rose Valley Falls. However, common complaints include lack of shade, litter at some sites, and occasional rowdy visitors. The vault toilet is generally clean but can become heavily used."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Rose Valley Campground

34.5326, -119.1824

Driving directionsFollow Hwy. 33 north from Ojai 14.7 miles to mile marker 25.84. Turn right at the Rose Valley Road (6N31) turnoff and follow the paved road for 3.1 miles. Turn right again at the Rose Valley Campground sign (across from the lower lake) and follow this road 0.6 miles into Rose Valley Campground. Watch out for rough sections of road.

Roads are paved but contain rough sections requiring careful driving. Seasonal access issues are not mentioned explicitly.

Nearby places

Ojai (15 miles, 20-minute drive)

Nearby supplies

The nearest stores and gas stations are in Ojai, 15 miles south along Hwy. 33.

Best Time to Camp at Rose Valley Campground

Rose Valley transforms with the seasons, offering sun-drenched summer days perfect for waterfall hikes and refreshing creek exploration. As autumn arrives, the warmth gives way to crisp nights that can dip below freezing, painting the landscape in brilliant fall colors. Winter storms bring life-giving rains that swell the creeks and intensify the falls, though trail conditions may become challenging. Each season presents its own rewards, from wildflower meadows in spring to golden afternoons in fall, ensuring year-round appeal for those seeking nature's changing moods.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Sun-drenched summers are good for waterfall hikes, but can be hot and buggy.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 25% in US

Fall singled out as particularly beautiful with changing foliage and crisp nights.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 13% in US

Spring brings wildflowers and strong waterfall flow—reviews note spring beauty.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round but winter nights can be freezing; no winter-sport amenities mentioned.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1 - December 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round (January 1 - December 31).
Current Alerts: No drinking water is available. Fire bans may be in effect. Visitors should check for updates on closures or restrictions.

About Rose Valley Campground

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.

The campground is suitable for tent camping and small RVs. It is rustic, with no water or electricity hookups.

Weather and SeasonsRose Valley transforms with the seasons, offering sun-drenched summer days perfect for waterfall hikes and refreshing creek exploration. As autumn arrives, the warmth gives way to crisp nights that can dip below freezing, painting the landscape in brilliant fall colors. Winter storms bring life-giving rains that swell the creeks and intensify the falls, though trail conditions may become challenging. Each season presents its own rewards, from wildflower meadows in spring to golden afternoons in fall, ensuring year-round appeal for those seeking nature's changing moods.

ElevationPerched within the dramatic mountainous terrain of Los Padres National Forest, Rose Valley Campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine adventure. The elevation provides cooling relief from valley heat while positioning visitors ideally for exploring both lower canyon trails and higher mountain paths.

Natural Features and SceneryAt the foot of the majestic Topatopa Mountains, Rose Valley unveils a landscape of extraordinary diversity. The showstopping two-tier waterfall plunges through ancient rock formations, creating misty grottos and emerald pools. Surrounding lakes mirror the sky, while aromatic sage, hardy chamise, and festive toyon berries paint the hillsides. This rich ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife—from elusive mountain lions and curious black bears to melodious frogs and soaring red-tailed hawks circling overhead. Spring explodes with wildflower displays, while autumn sets the canyon ablaze with warm hues, creating an ever-changing natural gallery.

Geological RegionRose Valley sits within the untamed Sespe Wilderness of Los Padres National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of arkosic sandstone cliffs that glow golden in the evening light. Graceful cottonwood trees line the waterways, their leaves whispering stories of seasons past, while drought-adapted chamise, aromatic sage, and bright-berried toyon cling to the rocky slopes. The centerpiece remains the magnificent two-tiered Rose Valley Falls, where water has carved its path through millennia of stone, creating one of Southern California's most photogenic natural wonders.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Reservations allow for a maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Camping fee includes 1 vehicle and 1 tent, trailer, or RV. Extra vehicles require a $10 fee.

Groups

No group camping facilities are available.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutNine campsites, spacious, level, equipped with picnic tables and fire pits. Sites 4 and 5 are near the trailhead; Site 9 borders a creek.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov and CampOne.Com.

Walk-in AvailabilityThree out of nine campsites are first-come, first-serve. Availability fluctuates; weekends are typically full, while weekdays are less crowded.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up until midnight one day before arrival for a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s recreation use fee. Cancellations on the day of arrival are not possible.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned in the source materials.

Site SizeThe campsites are described as large, spacious, and level.

PrivacySites generally lack privacy, with little to no shade. Some are more secluded, such as campsite 2, which is 'up on a bit of a hill and seemed the most removed from the others.

Total Campsites9 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy, Site 2 is recommended but is challenging for trailers. Sites closest to the trailhead (4 and 5) may experience foot traffic. Weekdays are less crowded.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Rose Valley Campground offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and nearby biking and fishing. The main attraction is Rose Valley Falls, accessible via a 0.8-mile round-trip trail. There are additional trails a mile away at Piedra Blanca Trailhead.

HikingThe trail to Rose Valley Falls starts between campsites 4 and 5. It leads to the base of the falls in 0.4 miles (0.8 miles round trip) with a 150-foot elevation gain. The falls are described as spectacular, with rivulets streaming down over green moss and even a small cave beneath the cascade. Other trails, such as the Piedra Blanca Trail, are nearby.

BikingBiking is listed as an activity within 30 minutes of the campground, though no specific trails are detailed.

Wildlife viewingThe area is home to diverse wildlife such as coyotes, deer, bobcats, mountain lions, bears, frogs, toads, and ducks. Red-tailed hawks are frequently seen soaring above.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife including bears, mountain lions, and coyotes are present. Seasonal insects like flies and gnats can be nuisances. Trails may be muddy after rain and creeks may overflow.

Active AlertsNo drinking water is available. Fire bans may be in effect. Visitors should check for updates on closures or restrictions.

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.

Fire PolicyCampfires may be prohibited during fire bans. Visitors should bring their own firewood and avoid open flames during restricted periods.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are miles away; visitors are advised to carry first aid and emergency supplies. Basic supplies and gas can be found in Ojai, 15 miles south along Hwy. 33.

Trash & RecyclingEnclosed trash receptacles are available throughout the campground. Reviews indicate that trash is emptied regularly, though litter has been reported at some sites.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to an active creek and Rose Valley Falls. Visitors often praise the relaxing sound of running water.

Camp HostReviews mention 'Randy the camp host' and his dog providing helpful service at times.

Weather at Rose Valley Campground

Reviews

4.4

165 reviews

Recommended

Rose Valley Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Rose Valley Campground is praised for its scenic beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to Rose Valley Falls. However, common complaints include lack of shade, litter at some sites, and occasional rowdy visitors. The vault toilet is generally clean but can become heavily used.

Review Summaries

Based on 165 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews highlight the beauty of the falls, the peaceful nighttime environment, and the well-maintained sites. Campers appreciate the spaciousness of the sites and the convenience of having a...

Based on 165 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of shade, litter (particularly broken glass in some sites), and disturbances from rowdy campers or day hikers. The single vault toilet is adequate but can lack supplies...

Based on 165 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water and shade structures. Campers recommend visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds. Campsite 2 is praised for its seclusion and views but is challenging for trailers.

Based on 165 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall is particularly beautiful due to changing foliage, while spring offers wildflowers. Summer months are hot, with frequent insects. Winter nights can be freezing, making proper preparation...

Based on 165 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The waterfall is the main attraction and is only about a 10-minute walk from the parking lot." - Sam H. "The campsites are large and flat, perfect for pitching tents." - James W. "Night skies here...

Based on 165 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite 2 is highlighted for its privacy and views but is difficult for trailers. Campsites 4 and 5 are near the trailhead and can be less peaceful. Campsite 9 is close to the creek but has moisture...

Based on 165 reviews