24 AREA CAMPGROUNDS

Best Campgrounds in the Southern Los Padres National Forest

The Pine Mountain Club area is home to 24 campgrounds, offering everything from serene forest retreats to rugged backcountry adventures. Surrounded by ancient pine forests, the protected Chumash Wilderness, and breathtaking mountain views, this region is perfect for camping, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle (OHV) exploration.

Enjoy fresh mountain air, star-filled night skies, and abundant wildlife while exploring hundreds of miles of scenic trails just minutes from Pine Mountain Club. Each campground listed below includes a detailed description and entrance location to help you plan your next outdoor adventure in Los Padres National Forest.

• Aliso Campground
• Ballinger Campground
• Caballo Campground
• Campo Alto Campground
• Cherry Creek Campground
• Chuchupate Campground
• Chula Vista Campground
• Cottonwood Campground
• Dome Springs Campground
• Dutchman Campground
• Goldhill Campground
• Halfmoon Campground
• Kings Campground
• Marian Campground
• McGill Campground
• McGill Group Campground
• Mt. Pinos Campground
• Nettle Springs Campground
• Pine Springs
• Pleito Creek Campground
• Rancho Nuevo Campground
• Reyes Creek Campground
• Salt Creek Campground
• Sunset Campground
• Thorn Meadows Campground
• Toad Springs Campground
• Valle Vista Campground

Aliso Park Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Aliso Park Campground, located in the beautiful Los Padres National Forest, is just 7 miles south of Highway 166 on Aliso Canyon Road. This scenic campground is perfect for those looking for a peaceful outdoor escape. Offering first-come, first-served campsites, Aliso Park Campground can accommodate recreational vehicles (RVs) up to 28 feet in length, making it an ideal destination for RV camping in California.

Surrounded by native trees, Aliso Park provides a shaded, tranquil environment that is perfect for camping, hiking, and outdoor relaxation. With no reservations required, it's a fantastic spot for spontaneous camping trips and nature getaways.

Ballinger Canyon Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Ballinger Canyon Campground, located at the end of Ballinger Canyon Road (FS 9N10) in the stunning Los Padres National Forest, is just 3.4 miles east of State Highway 33. This serene campground offers 9 reservation-only campsites and 3 first-come, first-served campsites, providing options for both planned and spontaneous camping trips. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure in nature, Ballinger Canyon Campground is the perfect destination for campers seeking a quiet retreat.

With its picturesque surroundings and proximity to outdoor activities in the Los Padres National Forest, Ballinger Canyon Campground is ideal for hiking, wildlife off-road vehicles, watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of California's Central Coast.

Caballo Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Caballo Campground is located off Mil Potrero Highway/Hudson Ranch Road, approximately 3 miles west of Pine Mountain Club. The road leading to the campground is a dirt path, and high-clearance vehicles are recommended by the Forest Service for safe access.

Once you arrive, you'll be surrounded by the natural beauty of Los Padres National Forest and shaded by Pinyon Pine trees, making it a peaceful and serene spot for camping. Whether you're looking to relax under the trees or explore the surrounding area, Caballo Campground provides a perfect outdoor retreat.

Campo Alto Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Campo Alto Campground is located off Mil Potrero Highway/Hudson Ranch Road, approximately 3 miles west of Pine Mountain Club. To reach the campground, take Forest Road 9N27 south for about 6 miles, offering a scenic drive through the Los Padres National Forest.

This no-reservations campground is shaded by Jeffrey Pine trees, providing a peaceful, natural environment for campers. Campo Alto Campground also offers convenient access to the Vincent Tumameit Trailhead, a great spot for hiking and exploring the surrounding wilderness.

Whether you're looking to relax under the shade of Jeffrey Pine trees, enjoy nearby hiking trails, or explore the beauty of Los Padres National Forest, Campo Alto Campground is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cherry Creek Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Cherry Creek Campground is located on West Tecuya Road (9N19), off Cuddy Valley Road, approximately 6 miles east of Pine Mountain Club. This no-reservations car campground is situated about 2 miles north of the entrance on Forest Road 20W20, offering a peaceful retreat in Los Padres National Forest.

The road leading to Cherry Creek Campground is a dirt path, and the Forest Service recommends high-clearance vehicles for safe access. Along the way, you'll enjoy some shade provided by pinyon pine trees, as well as stunning views of Cuddy Valley.

Whether you're looking to enjoy the incredible views, experience Cuddy Valley, or explore Los Padres National Forest, Cherry Creek Campground offers a serene, scenic camping experience.

Chuchupate Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Chuchupate Campground is located along Frazier Mountain Road (8N04-1), off Lockwood Valley Road, approximately 3 miles east of the Chuchupate Ranger Station.

This scenic campground features 29 campsites, each offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by Pinyon Pine trees. It can accommodate recreational vehicles (RVs) up to 24 feet in length, making it a great spot for tent and RV camping.

Perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing, Chuchupate Campground provides a serene mountain escape in the Los Padres National Forest.

Chula Vista Walk-in Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Chula Vista Walk-in Campground is located at the Chula Vista Parking Lot, at the end of Mt. Pinos Road. The campsite is approximately 500 yards from the parking area and does not require reservations.

This first-come, first-served campground features 12 campsites shaded by Jeffrey Pine trees, providing a peaceful and scenic retreat. Campers have easy access to the Mt. Pinos Summit Trail, making it a great spot for hiking, stargazing, and nature exploration.

Cottonwood Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Cottonwood Campground is located on Lockwood Creek Road, heading south off Lockwood Valley Road, in the stunning Los Padres National Forest. This no-reservations car campground offers an accessible camping experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.

The road to Cottonwood Campground is a dirt path, and high-clearance 4x4 vehicles are necessary for safe access. The campground is located at Longitude 119.017682 and Latitude 34.71601704, providing a peaceful setting for campers to enjoy the great outdoors.

Whether you're planning a short stay or an extended visit, Cottonwood Campground offers a serene spot to unwind and explore the surrounding Los Padres National Forest.

Dome Springs Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Dome Springs Campground is located on Lockwood-Ozena Road, approximately 7 miles east of Highway 33, in the picturesque Los Padres National Forest. To reach the campground, continue about 3 miles on Forest Road 8N40.

The road leading to Dome Springs Campground is a dirt path, and high-clearance 4x4 vehicles may be necessary to access the campground, especially in certain areas. Once you arrive, the campground is shaded by pinyon pine trees, offering a peaceful and natural environment for camping and outdoor relaxation.

Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a base to explore Los Padres National Forest, Dome Springs Campground provides an ideal setting for your outdoor adventure.

Dutchman Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Dutchman Campground is a remote, off-road-accessible campground located near the intersection of Miller Jeep OHV Road (20W06) and Alamo Mountain OHV Road (8N01.3). It can be reached via:

• Mutau Flat Road to Yellow Jacket OHV Road (20W24) from Lockwood Valley Road
• Goldhill Road (8N01.2) from Hungry Valley OHV Park, accessible off Ralphs Ranch Road in Gorman

The Los Padres Forest Service recommends high-clearance 4x4 vehicles due to the dirt road conditions leading to the campground. Nestled among Pinyon Pine trees, Dutchman Campground offers a rugged, off-grid camping experience ideal for OHV enthusiasts, overlanders, and nature lovers.

Goldhill Campground – Hungry Valley OHV Park

Goldhill Campground is nestled within Hungry Valley OHV Park in Gorman, California, offering easy access to off-roading trails, scenic views, and Piru Creek. The entrance is located off Goldhill Road, approximately 8 miles south of the park's main entrance on Ralphs Ranch Road.

To reach the campground, take Goldhill Road south until you see the entrance on your right. Piru Creek, accessible from the campground, features picturesque spots for swimming during the spring and summer months, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Half Moon Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Half Moon Campground is located on Mutau Flat Road, which can be accessed from Lockwood Valley Road in the beautiful Los Padres National Forest. This peaceful campground is shaded by Jeffrey Pine trees and situated along the serene banks of Piru Creek, making it an ideal spot for outdoor relaxation.

The road leading to Half Moon Campground is a dirt path, typically accessible by 2-wheel drive vehicles. However, weather conditions can sometimes cause muddy roads, and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is recommended during wet conditions to ensure safe access.

Whether you're looking to camp beside the tranquil waters of Piru Creek or enjoy the shade of the Jeffrey Pine trees, Half Moon Campground offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Los Padres National Forest.

Kings Campground – Hungry Valley OHV Park

Kings Campground is located on Kings C.G. (8N01A), off Gold Hill Road, inside the Hungry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Park in California. This campground provides an ideal spot for visitors looking to enjoy camping and recreational activities in the heart of Hungry Valley OHV Park.

The road leading to Kings Campground is a dirt path, and high-clearance 4x4 vehicles are recommended for access, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey into the campground. Kings Campground offers a peaceful retreat while still being centrally located for those who want to explore the park's off-highway vehicle trails.

Hungry Valley OHV Park, one of California's largest off-road recreation areas, is right at your doorstep, making Kings Campground the perfect destination for OHV riders, campers, and nature enthusiasts. Spend your days riding off-road trails and your evenings relaxing in a tranquil, scenic campground.

Marian Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Marian Campground is located on Hudson Ranch Road, approximately 3 miles west of Pine Mountain Club in the stunning Los Padres National Forest. The road leading to the campground is dirt, steep, and narrow, and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for access.

Situated along a ridgeline, Marian Campground offers campers a unique setting with spectacular views and is shaded by Jeffrey Pine trees, creating a peaceful and cool environment for outdoor relaxation. Whether you're seeking a scenic retreat or a starting point for hiking in the Los Padres National Forest, Marian Campground provides an excellent base for your adventure.

McGill Campground – Los Padres National Forest – Mt. Pinos

McGill Campground is located along Mt. Pinos Highway, just past the transition from Cuddy Valley Road. Frazier Mountain Park Road becomes Cuddy Valley Road at the intersection of Lockwood Valley Road, eventually leading to Mt. Pinos Highway.

To reach McGill Campground, exit I-5 at Frazier Mountain Park Road and follow it as it winds up the mountain. The campground entrance will be on your right, with no additional turns required.

This scenic campground features 73 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, barbecue, and fire ring. Shaded by a mix of conifer trees, it offers a peaceful outdoor retreat ideal for camping, hiking, and enjoying nature.

McGill Group Campground – Los Padres National Forest – Mt. Pinos

McGill Group Campground is located along Mt. Pinos Highway, just past the transition from Cuddy Valley Road. Frazier Mountain Park Road becomes Cuddy Valley Road at the intersection of Lockwood Valley Road, eventually leading to Mt. Pinos Highway.

To reach McGill Group Campground, exit I-5 at Frazier Mountain Park Road and follow it as it winds up the mountain. The campground entrance will be on your right, with no additional turns required.

This group-friendly campground features two large campsites—one accommodating up to 60 people and the other up to 80 people. Shaded by a mix of conifer trees, it provides a scenic and spacious setting for large gatherings, group camping, and outdoor activities.

Mt. Pinos Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Mt. Pinos Campground is located along Mt. Pinos Highway, just past the transition from Cuddy Valley Road. Frazier Mountain Park Road becomes Cuddy Valley Road at the intersection of Lockwood Valley Road, eventually leading to Mt. Pinos Highway.

To reach Mt. Pinos Campground, exit I-5 at Frazier Mountain Park Road and follow it as it winds up the mountain. The campground entrance will be on your left, with no additional turns required.

This scenic campground features 19 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, barbecue, and fire ring. It can accommodate recreational vehicles (RVs) up to 26 feet in length. Shaded by Jeffrey Pine trees, Mt. Pinos Campground offers a peaceful retreat for camping, hiking, and nature exploration.

Nettle Springs Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Nettle Springs Campground is located on Apache Canyon Road (8N06), approximately 9 miles from Highway 33 (also known as Maricopa Highway) in the scenic Los Padres National Forest. This campground offers first-come, first-served campsites and can accommodate small Recreational Vehicles (RVs).

The road to Nettle Springs Campground is a dirt path, typically accessible by 2-wheel drive vehicles, though it's always recommended to check the area's weather forecast before your trip, as road conditions can change. Once there, the campground is shaded by pinyon pine trees, providing a cool and tranquil environment for camping and outdoor relaxation.

Whether you're looking to explore the beauty of Los Padres National Forest or simply enjoy a peaceful getaway, Nettle Springs Campground offers a great base for your adventure.

Pine Springs Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Pine Springs Campground is located off Grade Valley Road (FS 7N03), approximately 3 miles south of Lockwood Valley Road on an unnamed road just past San Guillermo Road in the beautiful Los Padres National Forest. This campground offers 12 campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of pinyon pine trees, Pine Springs Campground provides a peaceful and shaded environment, ideal for camping and outdoor relaxation. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a base for exploring the surrounding forest, Pine Springs Campground offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of California's wilderness.

Pleito Creek Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Pleito Creek Campground is located on West Tecuya Road (9N19), off Cuddy Valley Road, approximately 2 miles from Cuddy Valley Road and 9 miles east of Pine Mountain Club in the scenic Los Padres National Forest. This no-reservations car campground offers a peaceful camping experience in a natural setting.

The road to Pleito Creek Campground is a dirt path, and high-clearance 4x4 vehicles are recommended for access, especially in some areas. The campground is shaded by pinyon pine trees, providing a cool and relaxing environment for campers to enjoy.

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a secluded spot, Pleito Creek Campground offers an excellent base for exploring the beauty of the Los Padres National Forest.

Rancho Nuevo Creek Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Rancho Nuevo Creek Campground is located on Rancho Nuevo Creek/Tinta Road (FS 7N04), off Highway 33 in the scenic Los Padres National Forest. From the Mt. Pinos area, take Lockwood Valley Road to Highway 33 and travel east. From Pine Mountain Club, take Hudson Ranch Road west to Highway 166, then turn left onto Highway 33 and follow the road to the campground entrance.

This no-reservations primitive campground offers 2 grassy bottom campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tucked in a quiet canyon, Rancho Nuevo Creek Campground provides a peaceful outdoor experience. The campground is accessible by high-clearance 4x4 vehicles only, with Rancho Nuevo Creek Road being subject to closures during the winter months.

Important Alert: As of October 1, 2024, Rancho Nuevo Creek Road is washed out, adding additional hiking time and mileage to reach the campground. Plan accordingly when visiting.

Reyes Creek Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Reyes Creek Campground is located off Camp Scheideck Road in the beautiful Los Padres National Forest. To reach the campground, take Lockwood Valley Road and exit onto Camp Scheideck Road, heading south to the campground.

This scenic campground offers 26 campsites and can accommodate recreational vehicles (RVs) up to 22 feet in length. Out of the 26 campsites, 20 are available for reservations through the online reservation system, while 6 campsites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Surrounded by oak and cottonwood trees, Reyes Creek Campground provides a peaceful, shaded retreat for campers looking to enjoy nature in a serene environment.

Salt Creek Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Salt Creek Campground is located off West Tecuya Road (9N22), just 2 miles from Cuddy Valley Road in the beautiful Los Padres National Forest. This no-reservations car campground offers a rustic and secluded camping experience, making it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The campground is accessible via a dirt road, with certain sections requiring a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. If you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path camping adventure, Salt Creek Campground provides a perfect getaway for those looking for quiet, remote camping in California's Central Coast.

Sunset Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Sunset Campground is located off Lockwood Valley Road, accessible via Lockwood Creek Road (Forest Road 8N12) in the stunning Los Padres National Forest. This peaceful campground offers 2 campsites located stream-side, providing a tranquil setting for those seeking a more serene camping experience.

The road to Sunset Campground is a dirt path with stream crossings, and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is recommended for access. The campground is surrounded by oak and pine trees, offering plenty of shade for a cool, relaxing outdoor retreat.

Whether you're looking to relax by the stream or explore the beauty of the Los Padres National Forest, Sunset Campground is the perfect destination for nature lovers and off-road camping enthusiasts.

Thorn Meadows Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Thorn Meadows Campground is located at the start of the steep Horse Trail 21W07, which begins at the end of the right fork of Grade Valley Road within the stunning Sespe Wilderness area of the Los Padres National Forest, southwest of Pine Mountain Club.

This secluded campground offers access to hiking and outdoor adventure, including the Throne Point Lookout, which provides a unique experience. The lookout tower can be reached by a small ladder and offers spectacular 360° panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.

Ideal for campers and outdoor enthusiasts, Thorn Meadows Campground is the perfect destination for those seeking solitude and breathtaking natural beauty.

Toad Springs Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Toad Springs Campground is located at the intersection of Hudson Ranch Road and Quatal Canyon Forest Road 9N09, approximately 5 miles west of Pine Mountain Club in the picturesque Los Padres National Forest. This small, secluded campground offers a peaceful retreat with 5 campsites nestled in a canyon and shaded by cottonwood trees and pinyon pines.

Ideal for those seeking a quiet, nature-filled getaway, Toad Springs Campground provides an intimate camping experience surrounded by the beauty of the forest. Perfect for campers looking for solitude and a chance to connect with nature.

Valle Vista Campground – Los Padres National Forest

Valle Vista Campground is located on Hudson Ranch Road via Forest Route 9N06, approximately 10 miles south of Highway 166 and 12 miles west of Pine Mountain Club in the Los Padres National Forest. This scenic campground offers open campsites shaded by pinyon pine and oak trees, making it a perfect spot for camping and outdoor relaxation.

Guests at Valle Vista Campground can enjoy spectacular views of the San Joaquin Valley, stretching as far north as Bakersfield. On clear days, the view provides a breathtaking natural light show, making it an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.