Emma Wood State Beach

Few campgrounds offer the unique combination of raw coastal proximity and historic intrigue like Emma Wood State Beach in Ventura, California. Located along the Santa Barbara Channel, the campground's defining qualities include immediate waterfront access, spectacular channel views, and remnants of World War II coastal artillery installations, all set against the backdrop of the Ventura River estuary's vibrant wildlife habitat.

Primarily catering to self-contained RVs and trailers, Emma Wood State Beach features primitive camping with no hookups, showers, or potable water, ensuring an unplugged, oceanfront adventure. The North Beach Campground, with its 90 uneven sites of dirt and asphalt, is a no-frills choice where campers can park just steps from the sand, waking to the sound of crashing waves. For group campers, the Ventura River Group Camp offers space for tents and RVs in a more secluded setting with amenities like chemical toilets and cold-water outdoor showers. The beach is perfect for activities like surfing, fishing for species like perch and bass, and birdwatching along the estuary, where great blue herons and other seabirds are plentiful.

Conveniently situated just two miles west of downtown Ventura, the campground provides easy access to the area's bike paths, including a scenic coastal trail connecting to the city. Dolphins can often be spotted offshore, enhancing its appeal to nature enthusiasts. With its rustic charm and direct connection to both history and nature, Emma Wood State Beach is an ideal destination for a peaceful stopover, an extended waterfront escape, or a back-to-basics group outing.