RV camping near Lake of the Woods

A few minutes' drive down Frazier Mountain Park Road from the community of Frazier Park, Lake of the Woods is a great place to stock up on food and supplies before heading out on a hiking or camping adventure in Los Padres National Forest. There are lots of camping opportunities nearby, most of which are managed by the US Forest Service. While many sites in area campgrounds are reservable, some are only available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's wise to check in at the Chuchupate Ranger Station if you haven't pre-booked a campground or Hipcamp.

95% (4.8K) • 2,543 campsites

Top-rated RV parks near Lake of the Woods

Action Camp LA RV Resort

1. Action Camp LA RV Resort

100%

(10)

49mi from Lake of the Woods · 197 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

✨ Stay, Explore & Unwind at Action Camp ✨ Adventure meets comfort in a one-of-a-kind outdoor destination Located right along the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), Action Camp is the perfect home base for hikers, travelers, families, and outdoor lovers looking for both adventure and relaxation. 🏕 RV Sites Spacious, comfortable RV sites designed for easy access and longer stays surrounded by open skies and peaceful nature. 🏡 Cabin Rentals Fully equipped cabins offering multiple beds, private bathrooms, personal showers, WiFi, TVs, and kitchen appliances. (Select cabins include stoves.) Enjoy the comforts of home while immersed in the outdoors. ⛺ Tent Sites Traditional camping with plenty of room to relax and reconnect ideal for individuals, families, and group campers seeking a true outdoor experience. 🛖 Teepee Rentals A unique and unforgettable stay. Our teepees blend adventure with comfort for a magical night under the stars. 🌲 Woody Rustic Lodge Rentals Perfect for group stays, retreats, or special gatherings. The Woody Rustic Lodge delivers spacious accommodations with authentic camp charm. 🌟 Camp Experiences & Activities (available on selected nights) 🎬 Movies Under the Stars – Family-friendly outdoor movie nights 🎲 Family Game Tournaments Fun for all ages 🚜 Hayrides A classic camp experience everyone loves ✨ Why Guests Love Action Camp • Direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) • Unique lodging options for every type of guest • Family-friendly activities and special event nights • Rustic charm with modern comforts • Perfect for getaways, long stays, and group experiences 📍 Book your stay at Action Camp and experience a destination where adventure, community, and comfort come together.

Pets

Full hookups

Lone Juniper Ranch

2. Lone Juniper Ranch

97%

(129)

7.5mi from Lake of the Woods · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

You will fall in love instantly Camels, Llama ,Guanaco, donkeys, hammock a firepit and grill in the back yard. Book a wood fired sauna (extra)A Perfect mountain cabin retreat next to Tejon Ranch!The private, 100 + acre, mountain-top experience offers a 360-degree view of beautiful Southern California scenery, Super Bloom, Ideal for star gazing and hiking, amazing sunrises/sunsets.This is a 4 seasons paradise!Situated only 8 minutes off Rt. 5, this retreat is quite accessible (4-wheel drive necessary during wintertime snows.

Pets

Full hookups

Gem of the Bend (Horses welcome)

3. Gem of the Bend (Horses welcome)

100%

(16)

7.5mi from Lake of the Woods · 1 site

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

Los Padres National Forest

4. Los Padres National Forest

95%

(452)

National forest 44mi from Lake of the Woods · 762 sites

From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.

Pets

Angeles National Forest

5. Angeles National Forest

92%

(228)

National forest 59mi from Lake of the Woods · 791 sites

Experience the beauty of nature without having to stray far from Los Angeles.

Sewer hookup

Pets

North Fork Ranch (Horses Welcome)

6. North Fork Ranch (Horses Welcome)

100%

(19)

9.3mi from Lake of the Woods · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging

Where Forest meets the Farm. The North Fork Ranch began as a 100 year old homestead Apple Orchard and Turkey Ranch. The ranch surrounded by the Los padres forest is now a diversified farming ranch including cider apples, hops, cattle, babydoll sheep, chickens, dogs and a vineyard. We are at 5500 ft so we get the luxury of seasons and wildlife. The ranch includes a bunkhouse and dry land camping areas. There are hiking trails, seasonal hunting, ohv and motorcycle trails. Bring the horses and explore the mountains.. Escape to Lockwood Valley at the edge of the Los Padres National Forest, where quiet trails, towering pines, and some of Southern California’s darkest night skies create a true mountain retreat. Located just minutes from the alpine village of Pine Mountain Club, this peaceful forest setting offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. Guests can hike secluded trails, watch wildlife, enjoy crisp mountain air, and stargaze beneath clear, star-filled skies rarely seen near Los Angeles. Despite its peaceful setting, the property is within easy driving distance of Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, and Bakersfield, making it an ideal getaway for a weekend in the mountains. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore the forest, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of Lockwood Valley, this is a place where the forest surrounds you and the sky opens wide above.

Pets

Campsite 3 & 4

7. Campsite 3 & 4

99%

(176)

26mi from Lake of the Woods · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Every campsite has its own picnic table, fire pit with grill, a large trash can, and a kitchenette table, a rustic outdoor loo, and gorgeous 360º view. They are semi-secluded and spacious. There are many hiking trails near by, a vast riverbed to explore, and a quail guzzler to check out! The absolute best part is the night sky views of the Milky Way.

Pets

Campsite 1

8. Campsite 1

98%

(99)

26mi from Lake of the Woods · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Campsite 2

9. Campsite 2

99%

(101)

26mi from Lake of the Woods · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Emma Wood State Beach

10. Emma Wood State Beach

96%

(29)

State park 42mi from Lake of the Woods · 93 sites

Fish, surf, and explore WWII ruins at this Southern California beach.

Pets

Carpinteria State Beach

11. Carpinteria State Beach

94%

(113)

State park 42mi from Lake of the Woods · 333 sites

Twelve miles south of Santa Barbara, this beach is one of the best ways to take in the beauty of the southern California coast. Carve out a spot along the sun-soaked shoreline to warm your bones after a dip in what is known as Cali’s safest beach.  Grab the paddle of your choice and commune with the dolphins, whales, and seals that call these waters home. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or along one of the dune trails. Discover tide pools full of starfish, crabs, snails, sea anemones, and sea urchins. Look out for seals, sea lions, and the occasional gray whale from December through May.  Adventurers looking to catch their own dinner have ample opportunities for fishing and clamming. Those less interested in living off the land can take a short walk to town for a restaurant meal. Dogs aren’t allowed here, so furry friends should be left at home. Truly a California experience, get ready to beach it up on these golden shores. Take your pick from more than 200 campsites at four different campgrounds: Santa Cruz, San Miguel, Santa Rosa, and Anacapa. Reservations are available between 2 days and seven months in advance. Rinse the salt from your body in the coin-op showers located at each of the campgrounds. Hookups are available at Santa Rosa and San Miguel campgrounds. There are also hike or bike-in campgrounds available. Truly a Socal experience, get ready to beach it up on these golden shores.

Sewer hookup

Pets

McGrath State Beach

12. McGrath State Beach

82%

(17)

State park 44mi from Lake of the Woods · 133 sites

Discover the natural splendor of McGrath State Beach.

Pets

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

13. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

96%

(12)

National park 53mi from Lake of the Woods · 1 site

Discover the wild side of Los Angeles in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Pets

Cuyama Valley View

14. Cuyama Valley View

100%

(17)

27mi from Lake of the Woods · 1 site

Learn more about this land: View of the Cuyama Valley and Coastal Mountains. Rising terrain in the foothills of the Los Padres National Forest with native Juniper, grassland, dry creek beds and canyons. Great for hiking, mountain biking, star gazing and bird watching! Panoramic views and privacy are key features. There is convenient access and it is a fenced/gated property. Summer breeze prevails, winter can expect low to freezing temperatures and occasional snow in winter months.  Behind the campsite to the east are some farm buildings/storage, owners home is visible to the south half a mile away, manager lives on the property. The campsite is accessible with vehicle and trailer or RV with pull through/turnaround access. RV camping is preferable due to weather and/or wildlife, please message first to determine if it is a good fit for your visit. Campsite has a concrete slab, campfire bowl, non-potable water access, no restroom. If you prefer, there is always the option of camping somewhere else on the property, as there is a total of 740 acres.

Water hookup

Pets

Rancho Los Encinos in Ojai CA

15. Rancho Los Encinos in Ojai CA

93%

(63)

27mi from Lake of the Woods · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

We've officially re-opened as of 2025! Come stay at my beautiful land!

Pets

Cuyama Badlands

16. Cuyama Badlands

99%

(4546)

27mi from Lake of the Woods · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

If you've ever wondered what it might be like to camp on the moon, this is it. Completely removed from civilization and surrounded by a barren nature that is alive with the subtle presence of the universe. Seasonally, Spring wildflowers burst across the landscape. Cave paintings of Chumash Indians at Painted Rock remind us of those who lived before us. **Read on for more details.** This is our home but we love to share our life in the outback. We believe it will give you a better appreciation of life's simpler side. That being said, and to maintain the balance here at home, we'd appreciate if you keep your dogs in your car until you get to your site. Our offerings include fresh air and sunshine, amazing night sky, endless views, and plenty of space and privacy to enjoy your moments in nature. You'll find our amenities and activities puposefully sparse here. Upon booking, there are about 5 miles of dirt road on the property that you are welcome to explore on foot or by bicycle. Rustic is the theme here. There is no shower, no wifi, and no electricity available, but you will enjoy your own private spigot and the cellular service is acceptable. For any sites located south of Ballinger Wash, your vehicle length is limited to 22' and no more than 4' overhang from the rear axle, so you don't get stuck in the crossing and block access for others. Towing services are 1-3 hours away. Our Songdog Camps are sparsely scattered atop a 200 foot mesa that looks west over a valley offering stunning desert sunsets and amazing stargazing. These UPPER SITES are NOT OHV friendly, but any of our canyon bottom sites are a great base for your riding adventures up in Ballinger Canyon OHV. We'll be happy to recommend a site for you. **Forest Service law enforcement is actively ticketing unplated OHV on Ballinger Canyon Road. Be sure to know and abide by the laws.** Our friendly cancellation policies vary between 24 hours for simple campsites and 72 hours for our Glamp sites and Group sites. Be sure to check the Google for distance to Cuyama Valley, and your dates for availability and site descriptions. Upon booking, you can look forward to an information packed email to help you make the very best of your trip! We look forward to seeing you!

Pets

Park At Tar Creeks Ranch

17. Park At Tar Creeks Ranch

98%

(73)

28mi from Lake of the Woods · 1 site · Tent, RV

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!

Water hookup

Pets

Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

18. Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

95%

(171)

31mi from Lake of the Woods · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Run by three generations, our ranch has been in our family for more than 70 years. We opened our doors to the public in 2014 to help support feeding our animals, bred and rescued, after the Powerhouse Fire almost burned us out. We’ve survived a county quarantine(2018-2019), the COVID Lockdowns (2021-2022), the Lake Fire (2020), and the Hurricane Kay burn scar debris flow and flood (9/11/22), depending on hard work and strong family and community bonds. In addition to camping and educational tours, we host private and community events, grow and sell produce and eggs, hatch and sell chicks, rescue ratites, and support the local bee population (which gives us RAW honey to sell), and are working to open a private U-pick-by-appointment orchard. We are all animal lovers, and conservationists, and try to do our part to ensure our children inherit a healthy and viable world. This is our home where we live, work, love, and play. We enjoy sharing our space with visitors who we hope learn about ostrich and make some great memories.

Pets

Antelope Canyon Ranch

19. Antelope Canyon Ranch

98%

(61)

34mi from Lake of the Woods · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

The Ranch has many varied sites to explore from oak woodlands to pine covered woods. The ownership of the land has been held since 1883 by the Summit Lime Company and was until the 1930's the site of several lime quarries one of which was used to supply material for the Owens valley to Los Angeles aquaduct. Current utilization is for recreation, private hunting club, timber production, and cattle grazing. The campground was built in 1967 to provide a location for church, non-profit, and youth groups to enjoy a private, and safe location for outdoor recreation activities. Camping is restricted to family and group activities. The campground has 17 sites a comfort station, water hook-ups, fire ring, and 4X8 foot stone BAR-B-Que. In order to provide a private experience no two groups are scheduled at the same time. An ideal group size is 15 to 150 persons.

Water hookup

Pets

Terra Vivus

20. Terra Vivus

96%

(52)

34mi from Lake of the Woods · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Terra Vivus is Latin for "The Earth is alive." Welcome to a great balance of being away from civilization, engulfed in nature with peace and quiet yet also being 10 minutes away from the nearest market and 30 minutes away from the nearest city. Chipmunks, crows, doves, crickets, coyotes, sparrows and many other creatures call this land home. This is protected land called a Significant Ecological Area mostly because of the thousands of Joshua Trees. Send a photo/video of you sharing your water with the plants at terra.vivus.inquiries@gmail.com and receive $3 off your stay. 25% of all revenue goes to restoring, preserving and enhancing the existing ecosystem. Come experience and contribute to the preservation of this beautiful landscape. It can be windy at times, in order to mitigate this I recommend using your car(s) to block the wind. Local markets also sell neck gaiters for face protection. I also have pieces of plywood with bricks that you're welcome to move and shift to fit your needs. I am in the process of building a tree/shrub wind block. There's about .4 miles of dirt road to get to the property, there are some dips to watch out for but I come out here in a little Prius so it's manageable. Overall, there is an element of seclusion but occasionally people do drive by on the dirt road. I would rate the cell phone service a 7/10, it's pretty solid but can go out at times.

Pets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Robert

2 weeks ago

10 ft rooftop tent

1 night at Campsite 3 & 4

I love Camp 4 having stayed there multiple times. It’s both private and yet expansive with a beautiful view in all directions.

Phillip

2 weeks ago

20 ft Class C

1 night at Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

It was easy to get to easy to set up and easy to leave. They have some cool birds out there too. I’d recommend for those looking for a quiet night.

Nicolas

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

Amazing host and amazong place. A lot of privacy and poasible hikes

Linda

2 weeks ago

19 ft rooftop tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

What a fantastic view!! We have a rooftop tent and there was just the right spot for it. Loved that there was water at the sight and the toilets are very near by. The host Jenny was very nice and helpful. They have things if you run out like ice or firewood. Sunsets are 5 star just like this campground.

Jane

2 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

This site was peaceful, clean, and Vivian was a friendly host.

Kristi

2 weeks ago

18 ft truck camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

Jen was a great host and the site is beautiful and well maintained. The amenities were perfect for a comfortable camping experience and the view was fantastic. It was easy to find/ get to yet felt a world away.

Kathy

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

2 nights at Cuyama Badlands

I had a great time camping here with my dog! The site was easy to find and Jim was very friendly upon arrival. The site/campground was clean, quiet, and amenities including the toilets and table/chairs were in great condition and comfortable to use. The added shade over the table during the heat of mid day was also appreciated (: Finally, the sunsets/sunrises, stars, and wildlife certainly did not disappoint. Lost of lizards, birds, and rabbits to be seen! I’ll definitely be returning.

Thomas

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Cuyama Badlands

Stayed early April. Great site with a nice view of sunset. Clean site and bathrooms. Plenty of space between sites where you could hear the other campers but not really see. The 2 lounge chairs were awesome. Met Jim upon arrival and very nice guy. Bought some wood which was a $1 a stick and much cheaper than other local offerings. Songdog is next to Ballinger Canyon OHV trails which were pretty empty and great to explore. Would totally recommend. Thanks Jim and fam! Tom B.

Carol

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Arber-Moore's Ranch

Vivian and co. were extremely welcoming and helpful for our stay. They even let our toddlers help feed a lamb. The campsite was very spacious! Outdoor shower and porta-potty were very well maintained. Loved our stay!

Nik

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Cuyama Badlands

This was my third stay at Songdog and it won't be my last. Amazing time as always! Thank you, Jim.

Matthew

3 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Park At Tar Creeks Ranch

Such a lovely time! Pete was a fantastic host, and the property is both surrounded by gorgeous scenery, and has its own unexpected, uniquely beautiful paths to discover! We had a wonderful time unwinding and enjoying the quiet of the valley here.

Alex

3 weeks ago

17 ft truck camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

A beautiful, quiet and seemingly private location despite the Ranch having several sites. We loved staying here and hope to get one of the spots on the mesa with a bigger group this summer. The self serve “convenience store” was a great add. Be aware that while it is off leash, there are a good amount of rattlesnakes out.

Drew

3 weeks ago

27 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

Absolutely magical place, and you'll sleep like a baby!

Lisa

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Cuyama Badlands

Our first truck-tent camping experience was a great success! The Grand View site at Songdog was perfect for us. It appeared to be the farthest site from the "East" and "West" mesa sites, overlooking scenic New Cuyama (I believe)! While there were a few other campers our weekend, none were close to us! Felt private and secluded, we were happy. One morning, we walked to the store to get some snacks and sticks of wood. Jen helped us back to our site with a ride on the Kubota which was much appreciated! A short drive from home but a longggg sigh of relief and relaxation once there, we'd definitely return!

Poppy

3 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to A Unique Mountain Retreat

John was a very helpful and kind host. He is totally off grid so his set up is impressive and unique. It feels very remote and peaceful but town is only 20 minutes away. Had everything we needed. Would stay again.

Lukas

3 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to A Unique Mountain Retreat

We loved John’s peaceful and beautiful property. The trail around the mountain and outdoor hot showers are a must! Thank you for your hospitality!

Jonathan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

I’ve really enjoyed trying out all of the different sites. Each has its own perks. Always appreciate the how well the camp site is kept and I bought fire wood and a popsicle from the store. Such a cool place.

Karolina

3 weeks ago

14 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to A Unique Mountain Retreat

Impeccably built camp and lovely host. John showed us around his land, including a nice trail all around it. Very peaceful and convenient to the highway and town. Would definitely stop here again!

Leah

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Cuyama Badlands

This was a beautiful spot and a more secluded spot away from other sites. We came on a Thursday and were the only ones the first night, besides the coyotes. We will definitely be back!

Tyler

April 2026

23 ft campervan

1 night at A Unique Mountain Retreat

John is a very friendly and accommodating host. His sites are clean and maintained well, and the property overall has a thoughtful and unique design. We had a quiet and peaceful stay and would definitely stay there again next time we are in the area.

Lake of the Woods camping guide

Where to go

Los Padres National Forest

Lake of the Woods is right in Los Padres National Forest, the third-largest national forest in the state. The forest is home to massive stretches of protected wilderness areas, developed campgrounds (many of which are seasonal) along with thermal hot springs, fresh rivers, and endless opportunities for hiking.

Sequoia National Forest

Some of the biggest trees in the land can be found in Sequoia National Forest, a 1.2 million-acre expanse that includes the Giant Sequoia National Monument. Within the forest are 52 developed campgrounds, thousands of rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes, and over 1,100 miles of hiking trails.

California's Central Coast

In the mood for some fresh coastal air? California's Central Coast isn’t too far away. Here you'll find a solid mix of sandy beaches and rocky cliff-lined shores, plus a few fantastic state beach campgrounds.

When to go

Lake of the Woods is a summer destination, and the surrounding area gets lots of visitors during the summer months, when school is out and people from hotter parts of the state descend on the forest for camping and cooling off. The weather stays warm into October, making early autumn a great time to visit when you want to avoid crowds. Winters tend to be mild without much snow, but nearby parts of the forest do get a lot of snowfall, so it’s wise to bring chains.