Kind Reader, are you looking for a picturesque camping destination? Look no further than Lake Casitas Recreation Area Camping. This gem located in southern California offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re an experienced camper or just starting out, Lake Casitas offers a variety of campsites to suit every need and level of experience. With over 400 campsites to choose from, you’ll be able to find the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature.
Camping at Lake Casitas Recreation Area
Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers a fantastic opportunity to camp in the beautiful surroundings of the Ojai Valley. The camping facilities are spread across two sites – the lower camp and the upper camp. Both campsites come equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and access to restrooms and showers. The lower camp is situated near the lake and is perfect for families and groups looking to enjoy water activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The upper camp is situated on a hill and is more secluded, making it perfect for those who want a more peaceful camping experience.
Lower Camp
The lower campsite is great for families and groups as it has a playground, horseshoe pit, and volleyball court. In addition to these amenities, guests also have access to a general store, boat rentals, and a marina. The campsite has 189 sites, all equipped with picnic tables and fire pits. It is important to note that some sites have electrical hookups while others do not. The lower camp is also located within walking distance to the lake.
Upper Camp
The upper campsite, also known as the Oak View campsite, is situated on a hill and is more secluded than the lower campsite. It is designed for guests who want to enjoy a quiet camping experience. The campsite has 52 sites, all equipped with fire pits and picnic tables. Unlike the lower campsite, only a few upper campsites have electrical hookups.
RV Camping at Lake Casitas Recreation Area
If you are planning to bring your RV to Lake Casitas Recreation Area, there are great camping options for RVers. Lake Casitas Recreation Area has 406 campsites that are suitable for RVs, with 30 and 50-amp electrical hookups available. The campgrounds are well-maintained and offer an array of amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, drinking water, showers, restrooms and dump stations. It is important to note that there are specific RV sites allocated in the campsites so it is important to choose the right site when making a booking.
Things to Consider
It is essential to be mindful of RV length restrictions at Lake Casitas Recreation Area. The maximum vehicle length allowed in the campground is 35 feet, and if your vehicle exceeds this length, you may need to reserve a double site. It is also important to remember that only one camping unit per site is allowed, and each site can accommodate up to eight people. Reservations for RV camping can be made online or by phone.
Pet-friendly Camping at Lake Casitas Recreation Area
For pet lovers, camping at Lake Casitas Recreation Area with your furry friends is possible. The campsites welcome well-behaved pets, and there are pet-friendly hiking trails to explore. There are some rules and regulations that visitors must follow while camping with pets at the recreation area. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and should not be left unattended in campsites. Pets are also not allowed in park buildings or beaches. Visitors are also required to pick up after their pets and dispose of waste properly.
The Best Pet-friendly Campsites
| No | RV Sites | Pet-friendly |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 77-82, 84, 86-89 | Yes |
| 2 | 101-104, 106-112, 114-119 | No |
| 3 | 121-126, 128, 130-136, 138-142 | Yes |
Note: It is important to notify the campground of the pet when making a reservation. Some campsites require an additional fee for pets.
Camping options at Lake Casitas Recreation Area
For those planning to stay at Lake Casitas Recreation Area, there are a number of camping options available, providing a range of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re looking for a more rugged backpacking adventure or prefer more traditional camping amenities, Lake Casitas has something to offer.
RV Camping
Lake Casitas has two distinct RV campgrounds, both with full hookups for water, electric, and sewer. The campgrounds are situated among sprawling oak trees, and several of the sites offer sweeping views of the lake. Ventura Oaks RV Park and Campground is located on the east end of the lake and offers 40 RV sites, including 24 pull-thru sites. Meanwhile, the Lake Casitas Recreation Area campground is located near the marina on the west side of the lake and offers 110 RV sites, including 10 pull-thru sites.
Tent and Trailer Camping
For those camping with either a trailer or tent, there are a number of campsites available throughout the park. These sites offer access to a number of restrooms with hot showers, barbeques, fire rings, and picnic tables. There are over 400 campsites in total at Lake Casitas, and many are located in picturesque spots with views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
Group Camping
The group camping areas at Lake Casitas Recreation Area are perfect for those traveling with extended family or a large group of friends. There are three different group areas, each with a capacity of up to 50 campers. These areas offer water and fire pits, picnic tables, and are located in beautiful, secluded areas of the park.
Backpacking and Equestrian Camping
For those looking to explore the wilderness beyond the park’s campsites, Lake Casitas offers a number of backcountry camping options in its adjacent Los Padres National Forest. These camping areas can only be accessed by foot or horseback and offer a more rugged camping experience for visitors.
Important Notes
Note that all campsites at Lake Casitas Recreation Area are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved in advance, so it’s best to arrive early to secure your spot. Additionally, campsites are limited to a maximum of eight people and two vehicles each. Keep in mind that quiet hours are enforced between 10 pm and 6 am, and be sure to pack out all of your trash as there is no garbage service at the campsites.
| No | Information |
|---|---|
| 1 | Lake Casitas Recreation Area is located in Ventura County. |
| 2 | The recreation area offers camping, fishing, boating, and hiking activities. |
| 3 | The camping area has 441 campsites, including 96 RV sites with hook-ups. |
| 4 | The camping area has two main camping loops, Willow and Lakeside, with different site amenities and sizes. |
| 5 | The camping area is open year-round, but reservations are required from May to September. |
| 6 | The cost of camping ranges from $25 to $70 per night, depending on the site and season. |
| 7 | Campground amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, showers, restrooms, and a store. |
| 8 | Dogs are allowed in the campground, but they must be on a leash and attended at all times. |
| 9 | Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, but only during certain hours and with caution. |
| 10 | Visitors can reserve campsites online or by phone, up to six months in advance. |
Camping Options at Lake Casitas Recreation Area
If you want to enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Casitas for an extended period, camping is the best option. There are different types of camping sites available in the recreational area. Whether you are camping with family or friends, below are the different camping options you can take advantage of:
1. Recreational Vehicles (RV) Camping
The RV campsites here accommodate vehicles and have electrical and water hookups. They come in different sizes like 30′ or 50′. There are 445 RV campsites available, and reservations can be made year-round. Most of the sites have two parking spaces and can accommodate up to eight people. Whether you are driving a motorhome or have a travel trailer, the RV campsites provide everything you need for a comfortable camping experience.
2. Group Camping
If you are traveling with a group, group campsites will be the best option. The Lake Casitas Recreational Area offers two group campsites, “Oak” and “Sycamore.” Both sites come with picnic tables, barbeque grills, fire pits, water spigots, and have parking options for recreation vehicles. The “Oak” group campsite can accommodate up to 60 people, while the “Sycamore” group campsite can accommodate up to 100 people. These sites are available year-round, and online reservations are also acceptable.
3. Tent Camping
For those who like to go camping in a tent, Lake Casitas Recreational Area provides nine campgrounds to pitch your tent. These sites may not provide electrical and water hookups, but they offer a more rustic and authentic camping experience. The campgrounds provided by the Lake Casitas Recreation Area are equipped with a fire pit, picnic table, and access to vault restrooms. There are over 400 campsites spread among nine campgrounds, and online reservations are also available for these sites.
4. Yurts
If you don’t have a tent but would like a unique camping experience, book a stay at one of the yurts at Lake Casitas Recreational Area. A Yurt is a circular, insulated, tent-like structure with a lattice frame and felt outer covering. It includes a deck, picnic table, and propane barbeque station. It can accommodate up to six people with a queen-size bed, two bunk beds, and a rollaway. There are three yurts available, and reservations can be made year-round.
5. Cabins
The Lake Casitas Recreation Area provides ten cabins for visitors who prefer a cozier and more secure camping experience. Each cabin is equipped with a kitchenette, a full-size bed, and a set of bunk beds. They also have heating and air conditioning, and one cabin is designed to be handicap accessible. There are ten cabins available, and reservations can be made year-round.
6. Bell Tents
If you’re looking for a camping experience that’s in between camping and glamping, try booking one of the bell tents. Ideal for travelers who want to experience camping without committing to a tent. Bell tents come furnished with a queen-sized bed, a propane fire pit, a BBQ grill, and a picnic table. The tent can accommodate up to four people and should be booked in advance.
7. Equestrian Camping
For horse lovers, Lake Casitas provides six equestrian campsites that can accommodate up to six horses in each campsite. Horse owners are required to clean up after their animals. Vault toilets, fire rings, and access to potable water are provided at these sites. Reservations for these sites can be made year-round and must be made by calling the recreation area office.
How to Reserve a Campsite
If you’re planning to camp at Lake Casitas Recreation Area, it’s important to make a reservation in advance. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Check Availability
Before making a reservation, you can check the campsites and cabins that are available at Lake Casitas Recreation Area. You can check the availability online or by calling the park office.
Step 2: Choose Your Campsite
After checking availability, choose the campsite or cabin you want to reserve. Keep in mind that different sites have different amenities, and some may be more popular than others.
Step 3: Make a Reservation
You can make a reservation for a campsite or cabin online, by phone, or in person at the park office. During peak season, it’s recommended to make a reservation well in advance as campsites tend to fill up quickly.
Note that reservations for campsites and cabins can be made up to 180 days in advance.
Step 4: Pay for Your Reservation
After you’ve made a reservation, you’ll need to pay for it within 10 days to confirm your spot. You can either pay online or by mail with a check or money order.
A non-refundable reservation fee of $9 will be charged.
Step 5: Check-In
On the day of your arrival, check-in at the park office to receive your camping permit and any other information you need for your stay.
Camping Reservations and Fees
If you want to experience camping at Lake Casitas Recreation area, you need to make a reservation. You can book a camping site up to six months in advance, though some sites might have longer waiting periods. The reservation fee is relatively low, usually costing between $10-15. There is also an entry fee per vehicle, which ranges depending on the time of the year and the length of your stay. You will be charged an additional fee if you want to use electric and water hookups.
Reservation Process
There are two ways to make a reservation. First, you can book online by visiting Reserve California and looking for Lake Casitas Recreation area’s camping options. You will need to create an account to complete the booking process. The second option is to call the park’s reservation hotline at (800) 444-PARK (7275). The line is open from 8 am to 6 pm, seven days a week. Make sure to have your credit card ready, as you will need to pay a deposit for your reservation.
Fees and Cancellation Policy
The fee for camping at Lake Casitas Recreation area varies depending on the time of year and your specific camping location. Generally, camping fees range from $25 to $50 per day. However, there is a special winter rate of $19 per night. You will also be charged a $2 reservation fee. The park has a 48-hour cancellation policy. If you cancel at least 48 hours before your check-in date, you will receive a full refund, minus the reservation fee. Be sure to cancel your reservation if you cannot make it so that other visitors can enjoy the park.
Camping Facilities
Lake Casitas Recreation Area is a popular camping destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The camping facilities at Lake Casitas Recreation Area are well-maintained and cater to all types of campers. There are over 400 campsites available for campers, with various options to choose from, including:
RV Camping
If you are looking for a comfortable camping experience, Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers RV camping facilities. The RV campsites are provided with water and electric hook-ups, and there are dump stations available for RV wastewater disposal. The RV campsites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and barbeque grills.
Tent Camping
Tent camping is available at Lake Casitas Recreation Area, providing a true camping experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The campsites are located in a beautiful wooded area and are equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. Water and restrooms are close by for your convenience. Whether you are camping with family or friends, the tent sites are spacious and comfortable.
| No | RV Camping Facilities Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Water hook-ups |
| 2 | Electric hook-ups |
| 3 | Dump stations available for RV wastewater disposal |
| 4 | Equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and barbeque grills |
| No | Tent Camping Facilities Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Equipped with a fire ring and picnic table |
| 2 | Close proximity to water and restrooms |
| 3 | Spacious and comfortable |
No matter what your preferred camping style is, Lake Casitas Recreation Area has something for everyone. Book your campsite today to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the great outdoors.
Camping Sites and Reservations
Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers a variety of camping options for visitors who want an extended stay. Set up your tent or RV at one of the campgrounds and you’ll be surrounded by nature in no time. Lake Casitas camping offers three different campgrounds to choose from:
Campgrounds
1. WHEELER GORGE
Wheeler Gorge campground, which is located near the town of Ojai, features picnic tables, fire rings, designated campfire areas, and restrooms. Drinking water is also available. There are a total of 69 campsites, and sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Make sure to arrive early to snag a good spot!
2. SANTA ANA
The Santa Ana campground offers more than 60 campsites, each with picnic tables, fire rings, and designated campfire areas. This location is also first-come, first-served. Drinking water and restrooms are available on-site.
3. OAK GROVE
The Oak Grove campground is the largest of the three and offers both first-come, first-served and reservation-only sites. There are more than 400 campsites, each with a picnic table, fire ring, and designated campfire area. Drinking water and restrooms are also on-site for your convenience.
Reservations
Reservations are recommended for Oak Grove campground, especially during peak season. You can reserve a campsite up to 180 days in advance, and reservations can be made online or by calling the Lake Casitas Recreation Area office.
Please keep in mind that there is a two-night minimum stay for all reservations and a maximum stay of 14 nights. Late check-ins are available but should be arranged in advance.
| No | Important Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wheeler Gorge and Santa Ana campgrounds are first-come, first-served |
| 2 | Reservations are recommended for Oak Grove campground during peak season |
| 3 | Two-night minimum stay for all reservations |
| 4 | Maximum stay of 14 nights |
Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Casitas Recreation Area Camping
1. Can I bring my RV to the campsite?
Yes, RVs and trailers are allowed at designated campsites in the park.
2. Are there any restrictions on the size of the RV or trailer that I can bring?
Yes, the campsite must be able to accommodate the size of your RV or trailer. Check with the park before your visit for specific size restrictions.
3. What types of campsites are available?
The park offers tent camping, RV/trailer camping, and group camping sites.
4. Can I make a reservation for a campsite?
Yes, it is recommended that you make a reservation ahead of time as campsites can fill up quickly.
5. Is there electricity available at the campsites?
Some campsites have electrical hookups, but not all. Check with the park before your visit for more information.
6. Are campfires allowed?
Yes, campfires are allowed in designated fire rings or grills.
7. Can I bring my dog camping with me?
Yes, dogs are allowed on campsites, but must be on a leash at all times.
8. What amenities are available at the campgrounds?
The park offers restrooms, showers, drinking water, and picnic tables at the campsites.
9. Is there a maximum length for camping stays?
Yes, the maximum length for camping stays is 14 days.
10. Are there hiking trails in the park?
Yes, there are several hiking trails in the park.
11. Can I go fishing at Lake Casitas?
Yes, fishing is allowed at the lake. A fishing license is required.
12. Are there boat rentals available at the lake?
Yes, boat rentals are available at the lake.
13. Can I swim in the lake?
Yes, swimming is allowed in designated swimming areas.
14. Is there a limit on the number of people allowed at a campsite?
Yes, the maximum number of people allowed at a campsite is 8.
15. Is there a limit on the number of vehicles allowed at a campsite?
Yes, the maximum number of vehicles allowed at a campsite is 2.
16. Is there a quiet time for the campsites?
Yes, there is a quiet time from 10pm to 7am.
17. What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Lake Casitas?
You may see birds, deer, and other wildlife while camping at Lake Casitas.
18. Is there a fee to use the showers and restrooms at the campsites?
No, the use of showers and restrooms is included in the camping fee.
19. Can I bring my own firewood?
Yes, you may bring your own firewood. However, all firewood must be purchased within 50 miles of the park to prevent the spread of harmful insects.
20. Are there any park rules regarding noise levels?
Yes, all visitors must comply with noise level regulations to ensure a peaceful environment for all campers.
21. Can I have alcohol at my campsite?
Yes, alcohol is allowed at the campsites, but all state and park rules regarding alcohol must be followed.
22. Are there any restrictions on the use of generators at the campsite?
Yes, generators may only be used during specific hours and in designated areas.
23. Is there a dump station for RVs in the park?
Yes, there is a dump station available for RVs.
24. What should I do if I encounter a wild animal while camping?
Remain calm and keep a safe distance from the animal. Do not approach or feed the animal. Contact park staff if necessary.
25. What is the cancellation policy for campsite reservations?
Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance of the reservation date to avoid a cancellation fee.
For those interested in camping at Lake Casitas Recreation Area, check out this list of campground options that includes amenities and descriptions of each site.
Come Back to Nature at Lake Casitas
Kind Reader, we hope this article has been helpful in your search for the perfect camping adventure. Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers a beautiful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With plenty of activities for all ages, you can spend your days fishing, boating, or simply lounging by the lake. As the sun sets, gather around the campfire with loved ones and enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors. We thank you for reading and look forward to having you visit again soon. Until next time, happy camping!
