Emma Wood State Beach runs 2 miles along Highway 101 at the western edge of Ventura, where the Ventura River meets the Pacific. The estuary end provides the most interesting habitat — great blue herons, occasional dolphins offshore — and the park's signature is primitive RV camping directly on the water. The North Beach day-use area and camping are closed through June 2026 for construction; the Ventura River Group Camp status should be confirmed separately.
Details
- 🏞️Type
- State Park
- 🏛️Managed by
- California State Parks
- 📍State
- CA
- 🗺️Address
- Ventura, CA, 93001
- 📞Phone
- (805) 585-1850
- 🕐Hours
- 7 am - Sunset
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📡GPS
- 34.28422, -119.32237
The Place
Emma Wood occupies a narrow strip of coastline 2 miles west of downtown Ventura, sandwiched between the ocean and the freeway. WWII coastal artillery ruins are embedded in the beach, and the Ventura River estuary at the southeast end provides a naturalistic counterpoint to the asphalt context. Views of the Channel Islands extend offshore on clear days. The estuary and the bird activity there are the most distinctive features.
Current Status
The North Beach Day Use area has been closed since August 25, 2025 for a multi-phase construction project — roadway repairs, Highway 101 overpass demolition, and traffic control restoration — with a projected reopening in June 2026. Camping at North Beach is also suspended. Confirm the Ventura River Group Camp's status separately before planning a group visit.
When to Go
Ventura's coastal climate is mild year-round. When the park is fully open, fall and spring offer the best combination of weather and lighter crowds. The estuary is active year-round for wildlife.
Getting There
Accessed from Highway 101 northbound; the North Beach entrance is off the freeway. Group camp entrance is at the west end of Main Street in Ventura. Hours: 7 AM to sunset.
What to Do
When open, the beach provides surfing, swimming, and fishing (perch, bass, cabezon, corbina). The Omer Rains Coastal Bike Trail runs through the park. Primitive RV/vehicle camping at North Beach is self-contained only — no tents, no water, no restrooms, no electricity, no fire rings. Sites are uneven and high tides can close them during storms.
The group camping area (four sites, 30 people each; up to 50 people in a primitive RV area) requires reservations year-round through ReserveCalifornia.
Reservations & Fees
Day use is $10. Dogs are allowed in the campground and day-use areas but not on the beach itself.