LA PANZA CAMPGROUND
Los Padres National Forest, CALa Panza sits in a canyon among established oak trees with a seasonal creek running through — a base camp for serious OHV riders and those who don't mind roughing it. This is dry camping for people who bring their own everything and want immediate access to 44 miles of off-road routes, including the notorious Stair Steps section that challenges expert riders.
Campground Details
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 7
- 💵Fee per Night
- $30
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 🏔️Elevation
- 2,212 ft
- 📍GPS
- 35.35330, -120.26000
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📞Phone
- 805 434 1996
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
Seven spacious sites tucked into a canyon setting under oak trees, with a seasonal creek adding to the atmosphere. The campground handles moderate RVs under 16 feet, though most sites work better for tents. The road ends in a cul-de-sac with adequate turnaround space, so you won't be backing out of a narrow canyon.
This is legitimately primitive camping. No potable water, no electricity, no dump station — just vault toilets and fire rings. You'll be sharing the area with fox, coyote, deer, wild pig, and the occasional roadrunner. Black bear visits are noted as "very rare," which means they happen.
What to Know
Reservations required, and the $30 nightly fee reflects the specialized nature of this spot. Open year-round, which matters since the 18,867-acre Pozo La Panza riding area offers different experiences across seasons. The nearest resupply is 29 miles away in Santa Margarita, so pack accordingly.
The campground caters specifically to OHV enthusiasts, but hikers and hunters use it as a jumping-off point for Machesna Mountain Wilderness. If you're not bringing motorized toys, you'll still find hiking and biking options, though the emphasis here is clearly on off-road vehicle recreation.
Nearby
The Pozo La Panza area delivers 44 miles of routes ranging from sandy washes to ridgeline sections. The Stair Steps section has earned its reputation among expert OHV riders — this isn't beginner terrain. Machesna Mountain Wilderness offers hiking and horseback riding for those preferring quieter pursuits.
The diversity runs from technical motorcycle trails to routes suitable for ATVs and four-wheel drive vehicles. Lakes and scenic overlooks are within minutes, though specific details depend on which direction you head from camp.