The best camping in San Buenaventura State Beach, CA

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Pack up a picnic and head to this popular Ventura-area beach.  

The best camping in San Buenaventura State Beach, CA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Arber-Moore's Ranch

2. Arber-Moore's Ranch

93%
(561)
15km from San Buenaventura State Beach · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Oak View, CA
Beautiful natural campsites in the Valley of the Moon (Ojai Valley). Our sites are within an eighth of a mile of walking, running, biking, and riding trails from Ojai to the beaches of Ventura. On many days you can experience Ojai’s famous pink moments. You can hike the trails above Ojai, boat, eat, or picnic at Lake Casitas. Travel to nearby Ventura to shop, fish the pier, or take a deep sea fishing charter or Island charter to Whale watch or fish around the Channel Islands. Please note the aerial view of the camping area recently placed by Hipcamp is NOT AT ALL REPRESENTATIVE of the current camping sites and shows a photo that is many years old when the site was merely land. That photo is without any of the existing amenities or improvements. The actual sites are all Larger than Federal Park and Statepark guidelines, with averages of 20'x30' for campsites and 20'x40' for a long RVCampsite. We have planted many young trees and continue to plant trees and native shrubs around and near the sites. We have picnic tables, table coverings, fire pits, and camping rugs/footprints. There is also an outdoor shower, a shower tent with hot water, and an upgraded porta-potty with a sink. Note: During times when high heat is predicted, we strongly recommend that our Hipcampers bring pop-up shade tents or canopies for their sites. The Hipcamp is adjacent to our working ranch, and any photos of old sheds, trucks, a wood lot, or other equipment are NOT on the Hipcamp, but you will drive past that property to get to the separate Hipcamp area. Wineries, Farmer's Markets, Craft Breweries, dispensaries, and more are within 10 to 15 minutes of our site. Our location allows moments when you may see Hawks, Owls, Geese, Swallows, Robins, Bluebirds, and more. We offer both tent and RV camping. The Majority of our Guests love it here: "Vivian and Dave were exceptional hosts! Easy to contact and find our way to their property. Also gave us a plethora of places to go and things to do in the Ojai area. The area was open and spacious, and many trees and upgrades were in the works to make future stays more user-friendly. Big pluses were the shower and toilet facilities—much appreciated !!"
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$69
 / night
Park At Tar Creeks Ranch

5. Park At Tar Creeks Ranch

98%
(66)
22km from San Buenaventura State Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV · Ojai, CA
Welcome to our tranquil ranch nestled among oak and pine trees with stunning views of the Topatopa bluffs. This site was created for the traveler passing through Ojai in mind—or those looking to visit Ojai in a cost-effective way. It is a spartan set up with the idea that visitors be mainly self-contained and Leave No Trace. While we don't yet have a compost toilet set up, we do provide a potable water hookup for your convenience. Please be mindful of your impact on the land and practice responsible camping during your stay. Pack out all that you bring in. No fires, not even portable ones. There are 4 permanent residents on the land, including me, who live within several hundred feet are in and out of the ranch daily. Our driveway passes near your campsite. So while you have privacy in the trees, you may have smile-and-wave distance interaction with other humans during your stay. There are also neighbors to the East several hundred yards away as well. A one-mile trail winds through the property that you are welcome to enjoy. Let me know if you are interested and I will show you were to find the trailhead. The path leads you to fascinating sites such as a tar caldera, Chumash cupules and mortars on boulders, and a tar marsh where wildlife thrives. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, botanist, birder, hiker, or simply seeking peace, this land offers something for you. We welcome guests to stay for a maximum of three days, but we're open to accommodating longer stays upon request. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the beauty of the natural world. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Potable water
from 
$51
 / night
This is where you can park your RV or Trailer and enjoy expansive views and a gorgeous night sky.

8. Prospector Ranch

100%
(45)
41km from San Buenaventura State Beach · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Thousand Oaks, CA
Prospector Ranch which is an 1800's style ranch located right next door to the acre used for Hipcamping. The ranch is made up of their home and is also a venue for filming, photo shoots and small events. When not being used, camping guest are welcome to enjoy the area down around the authentic saloon, use the picnic area under large Oak trees and hike the property. We purchased the ranch 8 years ago and love being outside of the city in the mountains. Star gazing is a must when staying there! The camp site is NEXT DOOR to Prospector Ranch which is our 1800's style ranch tucked away in the Santa Monica mountains, close to beaches, vineyards, amazing hiking, biking to the beach and the city! The wide open empty lot looks out at the beautiful mountains. Enjoy stunning sun sets and Picnic under the grand Oak Trees at the ranch or maybe come by the saloon next door for a cold beverage if we are around. :-). We are happy to point you in the direction for what ever you want to do. There are so many things to do in Thousand Oaks!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$144
 / night
Harmony's Glamping

10. Harmony's Glamping

95%
(347)
52km from San Buenaventura State Beach · 11 sites · Lodging · Santa Barbara, CA
Nestled along a spring fed creek in the beautiful mountains of Santa Barbara. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors while staying cozy in a Yurt, or one of our Geo Domes. Each is secluded with a hot shower, propane fire pit, camp kitchen (stove and sink ) please bring pots/ pans and all necessary cooking supplies, and a comfortable queen bed. Wake up to the sound of the birds chirping and the creek rippling. Hike to our very own 30' ft waterfall where you can take a dip, lay out and catch some sunshine. The trail is rugged so be ready to boulder and use your hands in some places. Our wood burning hot tub is freshly filled every time, and right along the creek for a natural hot/cold plunge experience. We also offer morning yoga, and relaxing massages for a fully rejuvenating experience. We provide a list of things to explore off-site, but our on-site amenities include things like disc golf, corn hole, ping pong, puzzles in the yurts, books, and more! We do require a liability waiver to be signed, and by booking, you are agreeing to and signing to the waiver. We will also send you a waiver via your welcome message. Enjoy some nearby experiences all within 30 minutes: -Cold Springs Tavern, historical stagecoach stop, live music and delicious BBQ -Wine Tasting in Solvang or on Stearns Wharf -State Street, Downtown Shopping and Restaurants -Beaches, LedBetter, East Beach, Butterfly, Hendry's Beach (Dog Friendly) -Painted Cave, a cave full of Indian paintings -Hikes, SaddleRock, Lizards Mouth, Hot Springs Please note that a high clearance vehicle is recommended! This is a mountainous bumpy dirt road with steep sharp corners. A regular car can make it, just be warned you may bottom out a couple times. We are not liable for any damage to you or your vehicle when entering our property, so do so at your own risk. Please feel free to reach out with any further questions. Text or Call: 805-698-8623 IG:@harmonys_glamping
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$225
 / night
Steel ring fire pit, large picnic table, hammock spot under the large piñon pines.

12. Gem of the Bend (Horses welcome)

100%
(16)
56km from San Buenaventura State Beach · 1 site · RV · Frazier Park, CA
The Chumash called the peak of Mount Piños the center of the universe, or center of the world depending on the translation. This campground is at the southeast base of this mountain. The San Andreas fault is just about 8 miles away, and many other faults meet nearby. The mountains here are full of geological signs of the Forces that ripped away Santa Barbara from the North American plate as it was flipped upside down. This is the entrance to the Enchanted Forest. Learn more about this land: Lockwood Valley is so close to Los Angeles and other urban areas, but feels 1000 miles away. Our neighborhood is a gem within Lockwood Valley. The community has less than 20 residences so it is very rural, but neighborly. There are horses nearby, you will hear some roosters in the distance, and if you are lucky, you may hear the African lions or wolves from the next canyon over where there is a (fully contained) wildlife sanctuary called Steve Martins Working Wildlife (not the funny guy). Great secluded spot for a fully contained RV. Easy entrance from a good dirt road. The actual property of the site is 1/8 of an acre and is surrounded by forest and fields. A picnic table is nestled in a grove of trees next to a steel fire pit ring. Bring your hammock to relax under big shady piñon pines. The site is about 200 yards from the entrance to the Los Padres National Forest with great hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, hunting, etc. There is currently no privacy barrier between the campsite and the dirt road, but the traffic is extremely minimal. There are two 12’x24’ horse corrals on the property. This area is ideal for horseback trail riding and the campsite location makes for the perfect base camp. This is a superb stargazing spot, far from the city lights. Many amateur astronomers come to this area for the dark skies. At a mile high, nights can be very cold, and in the winter it is possible to get up to a couple feet of snow. Weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow can make the roads and campsite impassable at times so cancellations are possible in this case (this happens a lot less than we would like, of course, because we need the precipitation!).
Pets
Campfires
from 
$56
 / night
Beyond Eden Campground

13. Sanctuary Cielo

98%
(29)
56km from San Buenaventura State Beach · 1 site · Tent · Santa Barbara, CA
Find your inner calm. Quiet and beautiful 5 acre, mountain forest retreat with walking paths, seating areas, yoga platforms, swings, caves, boulders and a hammock. (Our neighbors had a rooster for a short time, but they moved it on!) Our sanctuary is more like a bed and breakfast, with touches of being in a warm home environment....an outdoor living room and kitchen. Easily accessible to cliffside hiking, caves or / rock climbing and the beach. Close to the Lizard's Mouth recreational area that has acres of exquisite cliffside boulders overlooking the ocean. Close to the Playground Recreational hiking area. And close to the Chumash Painted Caves and the Santa Ynez River. Some folks like to go to Montecito to Cold Springs Hotsprings. Tent camping, ( for a small fee, we have one if you don't). Room for a camping van. We have a variety of games to choose from for the whole family. Kid friendly. We have 2 friendly kitties and a small doggie. Outdoor kitchen with grill, wash basin, outdoor shower, potable water, fire pit, electricity and wifi. Hot tub is available for a small charge. Spa upgrades such as massage are available.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$140
 / night
Sleepy Meadow Ranch

17. Sleepy Meadow Ranch

93%
(20)
58km from San Buenaventura State Beach · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Frazier Park, CA
The ranch been here for many years ( We uncovered a buried Horse wagon from the late 1800's at the back end of the property) . There was originally a very small cabin, but since it was upgraded by the previous owner around 1961 by adding a small kitchen and indoor restroom instead of the "outhouse" . My wife purchased the property about 3 years ago and we been doing intensive cleaning and upgrading of the Rustic property so we can share it with our guests !        Learn more about this land:Ranch setting on the high desert with over 15 pine trees for shadow areas.Great paved area with chairs and tables for eating, reading, or just contemplating nature! Plenty of room for RV's or tents! Water and electrical power available.Come and hear the wolves howl in the evening! ( Wolf reserve nearby).Great site for solitude, and relaxation or for bringing your toys and go play in the near areas! Great place for church groups or musicians that want to come in and play! (Also one small cabin available for couples!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$70
 / night
A very comfortable observation lounge offers a dining table and a library. This settee could be used as a sleeping area for a small person.

18. Tiny Tiki Retro Hideaway

100%
(12)
59km from San Buenaventura State Beach · 1 site · Lodging · Los Angeles, CA
With a combination of spectacular view and luxury camping, the "Tiny Tiki Retro Hideaway" is a unique glamping experience. Relax and retreat on a sandstone mesa, where nobody will find you at this extraordinary get away. Our 1954 vintage retro-tiny-house-on-wheels, furnished patio, and a shady gazebo offer an unforgettable highlight of your travels.Please read entire listing and rules. No smoking, no pets, no children, guests must have a car of their own or a rental car.  No open fires of any kind: grills, candles etc.Michael and Julia bought their property in Chatsworth Lake Manor in 2011. They remodeled their home into a Poquito Hacienda. In 2016 they bought "Gypsy" the 1954 Spartan Manor trailer and brought her from New Orleans. It took 3 years to create the special hideaway. Michael and Julia are both self employed and they have 2 large dogs, Bella and Loki who live with them in their home right near the hideaway. They love gourmet cooking, travel, hiking and sailing. Living with a beautiful view and each other is their dream come true!Learn more about this land:"Gypsy" the Spartan Manor vintage 1954 24' foot aluminum trailer welcomes up to 4 people. Located high on a cliff in a private neighborhood, Tiny Tiki Retro Hideaway is serene and romantic. With a combination of spectacular view and luxury camping, the "Tiny Tiki Retro Hideaway" is a unique glamping experience. Relax and retreat on a sandstone mesa, where nobody will find you at this extraordinary get away. Our 1954 vintage retro-tiny-house-on-wheels, furnished patio, and a shady gazebo offer an unforgettable highlight of your travels.Please read entire listing and rules. No smoking, no pets, no children, guests must have a car of their own or a rental car. No cable TV. No open fires of any kind: grills, candles etc.Far from crowds and traffic is the inimitable Tiny Tiki Retro Hideaway. Open sky, 360 degree dramatic valley and city views and sandstone cliffs will surround you. . Unplug and enjoy the view, a great novel or your travel companion.See Pictures! Design Driven Travel! Ready to make sweet memories ??Please check map! Where is Chatsworth Lake Manor? Located in NW San Fernando Valley, it feels remote and for some is too remote.... yet we're close enough for exploring Los Angeles and Ventura. Zip code 91311."Gypsy", our 24 ft. 1954 Spartan Manor vintage travel trailer has a private double bed, kitchen and a bathroom with shower. The kitchen has a gas stove top, microwave, toaster oven, coffee maker, refrigerator, pots, pans, cutlery and vintage dinnerware. A custom daybed, dining area and library are in the forward "observation lounge".Outfitted for private, luxurious relaxation the Tiny Tiki Retro Hideaway large cliff-top patio has 2 chaises, 2 armchairs, a loveseat and dining table. Take a nap, enjoy cocktails, tea, coffee or dinner al fresco. The gazebo, with an outdoor double bed is available May 1st to November 1st, or until the rains arrive, then it is tarped. Living spaces are fully electric and have A/C. 1 small bathroom only.Due to extreme fire hazard, no smoking allowed ANYWHERE in our tinder surrounded neighborhood. You must travel 1 mile to local store to smoke. Vaping ok outside only. Details, other rules, please read all.Excellent wifi wireless reception provided, 8mb up, 4 mb down, which may not be what you are expecting or what you are accustomed to. Smart 24" TV. Due to no phone land-line we are somewhat off-grid.The 1 1/2 mile gated driveway is a steep old paved road. Not recommended for road sissies. Gate code access provided. Close to 118 major freeway, and near north end of Topanga Blvd. Free outdoor parking.IT IS So. Cal., (1 hour from Los Angeles) after all-- so expect Summer Heat!!) This Desert luxury camping experience is sited at natures doorstep. it often reaches over 104 in August and September!Did you always want to sleep in an Airstream? They are the Mercedes' of the vintage trailer world. Spartans, like an old Bentley, are more collectible due to unrivaled mid-century design, mono-coque aircraft construction and beautiful real wood paneling and cabinetry throughout. Ours is restored and retains its original beauty and function.All seen only here for our guests delight, Tiny Tiki Retro Hideaway is furnished with one of a kind designer textiles and ceramics, real 1950's decor, and many irreplaceable custom items sourced from recycled, reclaimed and repurposed materials. Please be careful in the Hideaway. Enjoy it respectfully as if it were your own Grandmother's treasured getaway.Although well equipped, please remember "Gypsy " is about the size of a private train car. The bed is a double size. (75" x 54" ) Cozy living quarters and 'character' are part of the experience, like a Tiny House.Nearby: In historic Chatsworth town restaurants, bars and shopping are 3 miles drive away. Downtown Los Angeles and Hollywood are 27 miles away. Disneyland is 65 miles away, Universal City 26 miles, and Malibu beaches are 24 miles away; timing is all depending on traffic. Stoney Point world class rock climbing is 15 minutes, Magic Mountain 6 Flags and the Reagan Library are 1/2 hour away.IMPORTANT:If you choose this location you must drive a car of your own or a rental. No Ubering. No deliveries. PLEASE NOTE GOOGLE MAPS does NOT get YOU to our property! We need to meet you 1 mile away, so you can follow us up here the 1st time..There are 6 local watch dogs: 50 yards our Bella and Loki, 100 yards 1 dog, 300 yards 1 other dog; all are fenced in. You will hear dogs barking during your stay here. We are in a pristine wildlife corridor and there are numerous wild animals all around, including rabbits, squirrels, lizards, coyotes and others.** No Infants, No Kids, No Pets: Children over age 10 only and they must be pre-approved by host prior to booking. Unsafe place for younger children or pets due no containment, no child proofing, wild animals, unfenced cliff and steep terrain. Please tell us before booking if you want to bring your service animal. Due to the nature of the site your SA could be in danger. ** Sorry, No Self Check In. Personal introduction to the Hideaway will be done by us while welcoming you. Your hosts Julia and Michael live next door. We are flexible and your contentment is important to us, so please visit, ask or call if you have any needs or questions. We hope your stay at the Hideaway a.k.a Tiny Tiki Trailer Zone is super comfortable!Rules! : #1 House Rule: Due to extreme fire hazard, no smoking allowed ANYWHERE in our tinder surrounded neighborhood. You must travel 1 mile to local store to smoke. Violators will be asked to leave, and will not be refunded. There are regularly county-wide police enforced bans on outdoor burning of any sort. High fire danger exists during most of the year. There might be a 'red flag' event of sustained high winds (55mph +) or an extreme temperature event (104+ degrees ).# Quiet after TEN PM.# No pets.# No parties.# All guests must sign personal injury/ liability release and rental agreement.# Smoking prohibited indoors or outdoors ie no smoking anywhere on our property. >>>Smokers, >> Please do not request booking.# Not suitable or safe for infants or children. Uneven terrain. Wild animals. Not a contained or a child-proof environment at all.# No wheelchair access. Multi-level patio. Wooden steps up to trailers.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$218
 / night

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The best camping in San Buenaventura State Beach, CA guide

Overview

About

Situated right in the Southern California city of Ventura, San Buenaventura State Park attracts surfers, swimmers, and anglers throughout the year. Here you’ll find two miles of sandy shores plus a lagoon, volleyball courts, and plenty of picnic tables. There’s even a seasonal oyster shack, and bicycle rentals are available for those who want to cycle up to Ventura Pier nearby. While San Buenaventura State Beach is only open for day use (from dawn until dusk), camping is available at Emma Wood State Beach, a 10-minute drive up the coast.

When to go

San Buenaventura State Beach is a year-round destination, with long, hot summers and short winters that rarely get too cold. If you want to swim, you'll have the warmest weather and the lowest chance of rain between June and mid-October. If you've come to surf, you'll have the best waves in the winter months, particularly in January. Lifeguards watch over the beach year-round, but summer months have the most lifeguards on staff.

Know before you go

  • Wheelchair-accessible features at the park include restrooms, a water station, and picnic sites.
  • Dogs are allowed in day-use areas, but not on the beach.
  • Electric bikes and Surreys (four-wheel carriage bikes) are available for rent from Wheel Fun Rentals. You can pick up oysters, clams, and oyster knives at the Jolly Oyster. Both concessionaires are located right inside the park.
  • If you don’t want to pay to park at Buenaventura, you may be able to find free street parking nearby.
  • Rip currents are common in this part of the coast. If you find yourself stuck in one, swim parallel to the beach until you are released.
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