Five Notable Historical Sites and Places to See in and Around Ventura County

In the mid 1850s, the area that we call Ventura County was the southern part of Santa Barbara County.  By 1873, Ventura County officially split off from Santa Barbara County and by the turn of the century the cities of San Buenaventura (or Ventura as we know it), Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, Nordhoff (now Ojai), Simi, Somis, Moorpark and Oxnard came on board. Camarillo and Thousand Oaks were late bloomers, incorporating in 1964.

There are hundreds of historical things to see around Ventura County, dozens of which are covered here on Conejo Valley Guide. Let's take a look at five neat places to see Ventura County history to additional information.

Strathearn Historical Park and Museum in Simi Valley has a notable collection of structures and artifacts from Simi's early days. The park is jointly operated by the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District and Simi Valley Historical Society.

The Museum of Ventura County opened its Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula in September 2011. The museum is housed in the historic 1888 restored mill building. In its 12,000 sq ft, you'll find an extensive collection of vintage farm equipment, tools, machines, clothing, photos and artifacts.

Probably my personal favorite local historical venue, just outside the Ventura County border, is the Leonis Adobe Museum in Calabasas, adjacent to Sagebrush Cantina. If you've never been there, do stop by and bring the kids, as you'll be amazed at how much there is to see in this somewhat hidden location. The kids will love visiting with the collection of farmyard animals, there are lots of historical artifacts, including quite an impressive collection of vintages wagons/carriages and much more.

Bull-ying can be a good thing...at the Leonis Adobe in Calabasas.

Bull-ying can be a good thing...at the Leonis Adobe in Calabasas. Fun to watch.

The Camarillo Ranch House is a 6,000 sq ft Victorian home built by Adolfo Camarillo, son of city namesake Juan Camarillo, in 1892. The house is owned by the City of Camarillo and the nonprofit Camarillo Ranch Foundation maintains the property, which has been restored to look how it looked in the 1904 to 1930 time frame. Take a docent-led tour of the house and enjoy one of the most beautiful venues for outdoor weddings and events in Ventura County...immaculate grounds and stunning, mature trees at this peaceful location that is right off the 101.

Last but not least is the Stagecoach Inn Museum in Newbury Park, home to a replica of the 1876 Grand Union Hotel. Take a docent-led tour, check out the quaint gift shop and tour the grounds, which includes a Chumash Indian village, rose garden, nature trails and more. The site is home to a historic Sycamore Tree that is over 250 years old. Adjacent to the museum is a park with some uniquely designed playground equipment.

For hundreds and hundreds of things to do, check out the Do Something section of CVG.

Campgrounds and RV Facilities In Ventura County and Adjacent Areas

Looking to "rough it" locally in the vicinity of Ventura County and surrounding areas? Here's a compilation of local camping facilities run by federal, state and private organizations that may help you make that final push to get off of that sofa and start smelling the fresh air! As you can see, there are literally thousands of campsites available in and within a one hour radius of Ventura County.

There are a number of camping options in the local Santa Monica Mountains, including Leo Carrillo, Point Mugu State Park and Malibu Creek State Park.

Senior Citizen Discount at State Parks!

California state parks offer senior citizen discounts for those age 62 or older with proof of age. Discounts include $1 discount for vehicle day use (except for fees under $2) and $2 discount per night for most campgrounds. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=23800

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Leo Carrillo State Park is located at 35000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. The Canyon Campground has 135 family sites, each with a table and fire ring. Restrooms, drinking water and coin-operated showers are available. "Hike and Bike" campsites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The group campground at the back of the canyon can accommodate up to 50 people. Peak season is March 1 to November 30 and off-peak is the month of December. Campsite is steps away from 1 1/2 miles of beach with tidepools, coastal caves and reefs to explore. Maximum of 8 people per campsite. Fees as of March 2023 are $10/person for Hike and Bike sites, $45 to $60/night for canyon sites and $225/night for the group site, plus $7.99 reservation fee. Visit ReserveCalifornia.com and search for “Leo Carrillo SP” to make reservations. More information about Leo Carrillo State Park at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=616.

Camping at Leo Carrillo State Park is extremely popular. (This was photo was taken before the Woolsey Fire of November 2018.)

Point Mugu State Park is located at 9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, offering a variety of camping options described below.

The Big Sycamore Canyon Family Camp is north of PCH, offering 58 tent/RV spaces along with drinking water, restrooms, showers and fire rings. There is also 4 tent spaces available for "Hike and Bike" camper. Pets are allowed on leash in the campground. Fees as of May 2024 are $45/night and $10/night for Hike and Bike spots. Visit ReserveCalifornia.com and search for “Point Mugu SP” to make reservations.

Thornhill Broome Family Camp offers 68 tent/RV spaces with no hookups, but you're talking literally on the beach camping. No flush toilets; just chemical toilets. Cold outside showers. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings. Pets are allowed on leash in the campground. Fees as of May 2024 are $35/night. Visit ReserveCalifornia.com and search for “Point Mugu SP” to make reservations.

Thornhill Broome RV Park as seen from across PCH.

La Jolla Valley Hike-In camping accommodates up to 3 tent spaces; no water, no fires. $10 per person, per night, payable at the La Jolla Valley/Ray Miller Trail parking area. There is also a group hike-in spot for 10 to 20 people.

There is also a reservable La Jolla Group tent camp for 9 to 50 people available near the entrance to the La Jolla Valley section of Point Mugu State Park that has drinking water, flush toilets, showers and a fire pit. Fees as of May 2024 are $225/night. This is a walk-in group camp for tents only with parking available for up to 12 vehicles, 25 yards from the campground. Located across from Thornhill Broome. Visit www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Point Mugu SP” to reserve the group camp.

La Jolla Valley Group Camping Area

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The Danielson Group Multi-Use Area is located in Sycamore Canyon within Pt Mugu State Park and is available for groups of 10 to 50 people. There is drinking water, flush toilets, showers, tent spaces and fireplace. Pets allowed on leash in campground. Contact California State Parks to book the reservation at 805.488.5223 or 805.488.1827.

The Sycamore Group Multi-Use Area accommodates 10 to 25 people and includes drinking water, chemical toilets, tent spaces and fire rings. Pets allowed on leash in campground. Contact California State Parks to book the reservation at 805.488.5223 or 805.488.1827.

Malibu Creek State Park at 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas offers a family campground with 62 tent/RV spaces, drinking water, restrooms, showers and fire rings. Pets are allowed in the campground (but not in the back country trails). Fees $45/night + $7.99 reservation fee as of May 2024. There is also a group campground available for 10 to 60 people at $225/night. Reservations at ReserveCalifornia.com by searching for “Malibu Creek SP” or by calling 800-444-PARK.

The National Park Service maintains the Circle X Ranch Group Campground is located at 12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu. There is only one group campsite located here for tent camping only. Pets on leash are allowed. Drinking water and pit toilets available, along with picnic benches and grills. No electricity. Room for 10 to 75 people. Reserve a spot at www.Recreation.gov. Cost as of Summer 2019 was $35/night for 10-25 people, $75/night for 26-50 and $125/night for 51-75. Open year-round. Enjoy hiking Sandstone Peak and the Grotto Trail from Circle X Ranch! (NOTE: CIRCLE X RANCH GROUP CAMPGROUND CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO DAMAGE FROM WOOLSEY FIRE. CHECK FOR UPDATES AT RECREATION.GOV.)

Tent camping is available year round on all five islands in Channel Islands National Park in National Park Service-managed campgrounds. Some of them have water. All have tables and vault toilets. There are a total of approximately 70 campsites. Campgrounds on each island are as follows:

• Anacapa Island: Year-round camping. No water. 7 sites.

• Santa Cruz Island East - Scorpion Anchorage Campground open year-round about 1/4 mile from the beach. Water is available here. 25 campsites and 6 group sites.

• Santa Cruz Island Mid - Del Norte Campground at Prisoners Harbor open year-round. Backcountry camp four miles from the harbor. No water. 4 sites.

• San Miguel Island - Above Cuyler Harbor is back country camping open May through October. No water. 9 sites.

• Santa Rosa Island - At Water Canyon March through November. 15 sites. Water available.

• Santa Barbara Island - Above the Landing Cove April through October. No water. 10 sites.

Advance reservations required by calling 877.444.6777 or through Recreation.gov. Currently $15/night fee as of May 2024 for individual campsites. No fires permitted; you can only use enclosed gas stoves.  More information at www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/camping.htm.

Scorpion Anchorage campground on Santa Cruz Island (Channel Islands National Park)

The 1.75 million acre Los Padres National Forest (LPNF) stretches across almost 220 miles from Monterey County through San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura and Kern Counties. The Ojai Ranger District of LPNF includes the Matilija Wilderness and part of the Sespe Wilderness. There are five campgrounds in the Ojai portion of LPNF, including reservable Wheeler Gorge Campground and first-come, first-served campgrounds, Middle Lion, Pine Mountain, Reyes Peak and Rose Valley.

Wheeler Gorge Campground in Ojai is open year-round with dozens of available spots for tents and RVs. Parking spurs are paved and vary in length, accommodating RVs up to 35 feet. At the top of the campground is the Wheeler Gorge Nature Trail. Rangers at nearby Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center provide informative tours during summer/fall months. The campground is adjacent to Matilija Creek and is bordered by oak and sycamore trees and evergreen shrubbery. Most sites are shaded and summer temperatures reach up to 95 degrees.  Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets are provided, but drinking water is not available. Visitors must bring their own water and remove their trash from the campground. Make reservations on Recreation.gov at THIS LINK.

Photo Credit: Tom Alexander

Rose Valley Campground in Ojai is located at an elevation of 3,450 feet. It is open year-round. There are nine campsites located in a single loop, each with tables, BBQ grills, and/or fire rings. There is one vault toilet in the campground and another across from the lake. Drinking water is not available, so be sure to bring your own. Adventure Pass is required to be displayed on car ($5/day or $30/year). Half a mile hike gets you to the Rose Valley Falls. Directions: Take Highway 33 north from Ojai 14.7 miles to mile marker 25.84.  Turn right at the Rose Valley Road turnoff and follow the paved road for 3.1 miles. Turn right again at the Rose Valley sign and drive 0.6 miles into the campground.

Reservations for 6 of the 9 campsites are available at www.recreation.gov at THIS LINK or by calling 1-877-444-6777. The remaining 3 sites are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Middle Lion Campground is surrounded by chaparral covered mountains, shaded by cottonwood trees and is next to a peaceful stream. It has eight first-come, first-served campsites located along a single loop. Tables, barbecue grills and/or fire rings are provided at each site. There is a vault toilet. No drinking water on site; you must bring your own. Follow Highway 33 north of Ojai for 14.7 miles to the Rose Valley Road turnoff. Turn right and follow the paved road 4.8 miles. Turn right and go 0.8 miles to the campground.

Pine Mountain Campground is nestled in a small valley along the top of Pine Mountain and consists of six campsites in a circle with a large open area in the middle. Opens May 1st. There are tables, BBQ grills and/or fire rings, and one pit toilet at this campground.  Water is not available so be sure to bring your own.  The campground is surrounded by moderate hills and is a quiet place for relaxing. At an elevation of 6,650 feet, it offers cooler temperatures on hot summer days. The campground is closed during winter months, through April. Follow Highway 33 to the turnoff at Pine Mountain Summit (mile marker 42.50).  Turn right and follow partially paved road another 4.7 miles. Campground will be on the right. Reserve a spot at www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273843.

One mile further up from Pine Mountain Campground, at an elevation of 7,000 feet is Reyes Peak Campground. It is situated along the southwest side of a ridge and consists of six campsites, each with a table, BBQ grill and a fire ring. There is one pit toilet located near the first few campsites. No water is available, so be sure to bring your own. Panoramic views! You can see the Cuyama Badlands on one side and the ocean from the other side. Reserve a spot at www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273844.

The Lake Casitas Recreation Area located at 11311 Santa Ana Road in Ventura offers over 400 campsites. Sites can accommodate tents, tent trailers, campers and RVs, all with picnic tables and fire rings and some with playgrounds nearby. Book early as campgrounds sell out on weekends from mid-March through September. Casitas Water Adventure is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Make reservations at reservations.casitaswater.org, in person or over the phone at 805.649.1122. Sites are limited to six campers. Lake Casitas is a drinking water supply, so swimming is not allowed in it. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash no longer than six feet long and are not allowed within 50 feet of the lake. Boating on the lake is allowed.

The 60 acre Lake Piru Recreation Area is located on the western shore of Lake Piru, an artificial lake in the Los Padres National Forest. Lake Piru offers 238 tree-shaded campsites, coin-operated hot showers and a store. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring and grill top. The dam is owned and operated by the United Water Conservation District of Santa Paula and a third party operates the campsite; visit explorelakepiru.com/#reservations for more information and to make reservations. Boat rentals and fishing available. Fees vary and are listed on the website. Or call 805.521.1500.

Other nearby California State Parks with camping are at McGrath State Beach, Emma Wood State Beach, Carpinteria State Beach, El Capitan State Beach, Gaviota State Park and Refugio State Beach as described below.

The McGrath State Beach Campground has 174 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, and restrooms with coin-operated hot showers. A group campsite and a hike-and-bike site are also available. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “McGrath SB” or by calling 800-444-7275. Dogs allowed on leash but not on the beach. The beach is five miles south of Ventura off Highway 101 via Harbor Boulevard. Available March through December. (NOTE: MCGRATH CAMPING AREAS STILL CLOSED - LAST UPDATE MAY 2024.)

Emma Wood State Beach offers camping for self-contained vehicles (e.g. RVs) only (tents not permitted). No water, restrooms, electricity, fire rings, phones or dump stations are available.  There are 90 spaces, with a maximum vehicle length of 40 feet, due to small turnaround areas. Camping at Emma Wood State Beach is reservation only from mid-May through Labor Day. Pricing as of May 2024 is $40/night and $280/week at www.reservecalifornia.com by searching for “Emma Wood SB.”

Four developed group campsites with room for 30 campers are available at Ventura River Group Camp, located two miles south of Emma Wood. Reservations required year-round. There is also primitive RV camping for groups up to 50 people and 20 vehicles.  The maximum length for RV is 45 feet. Railroad tracks and Highway 101 are adjacent to the campground and can be noisy. Dogs on leash are allowed on campground but not on the beach. Chemical toilets available, as are cold showers. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Emma Wood SB”.

Carpinteria State Beach is a mile long beach that is great for swimming, surf fishing, tidepool exploring and camping. Dogs are allowed only at the picnic area. Four campground areas with 216 family campsites and seven group campsites available.  Exit the 101 at Casitas Pass Road, go west to Carpinteria Avenue, make a right at the signal; then turn left on Palm.  The beach is at the end of Palm Avenue near 4th Street. Call 805.968.1033 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=599. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Carpinteria SB.” Family campsites are $45/night as of May 2024 plus reservation fee. There are also some “Hike and Bike” campsites available on a first come, first serve basis for $10 per person, per night, with a two night consecutive limit.

El Capitán State Beach is located off Highway 101, 17 miles west of Santa Barbara at Exit 117. A sandy beach, rocky tide pools, and stands of sycamore and oaks along El Capitán Creek. It’s a perfect setting for swimming, fishing, surfing, picnicking and camping. A 132-site campground is open year-round. A short walk takes you to the beach. Each site has a picnic table and stove or fire ring; restrooms with hot showers are nearby. Several sites are paved for RVs only. Some sites accommodate trailers and RVs up to 42 feet in length. Five group campsites, accommodating 40-100 people, are available. Hike and bike campsites are also available. Dogs allowed on leash but not on the beach. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “El Capitan SB.” Family campsites $45/night as of May 2024. More on El Capitan at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=601.

Gaviota State Park is located about 33 miles west of Santa Barbara on Gaviota Beach Road. Gaviota is popular for swimming, picnicking and surf fishing. This section of the coast was first called "gaviota" (seagull) by soldiers of the Portola Expedition in 1769. A pier on the west end of the beach is used by divers and surfers. A six mile trek up to Gaviota Peak offers a view of the coast and the Channel Islands. There are 41 developed, first-come, first-served campsites available at Gaviota that can accommodate tents, trailers up to 25 feet and RVs up to 27 feet. Between October 1 and March 31, the campground is open Friday through Sunday only. Dogs on leash allowed, but not on the beach. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Gaviota SP.” Family sites $45/night plus reservation fee as of May 2024.

Refugio State Beach is located at 10 Refugio Beach Road in Goleta, about 20 miles west of Santa Barbara. Refugio offers coastal fishing, trails, picnic sites. and palm trees. There are over 60 campsites with an eight camper maximum per campsite. Dogs on leash allowed, but not on the beach. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Refugio SB.” Campsites $45/night plus reservation fee as of March 2023. More information on Refugio State Beach at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=603.

The County of Ventura maintains campsites at Camp Comfort and Dennison Park in Ojai, Foster Park in Ventura, Kenney Grove Park in Fillmore, Oak Park in Simi Valley, Steckel Park in Santa Paula, Tapo Canyon, Simi Valley and Toland Park, Santa Paula. To make reservations, visit www.venturaparks.org or call 805.654.3951 for more information. Maximum stay in Ventura County parks is 14 nights per ordinance.

Camp Comfort is located about a mile from Downtown Ojai at 11969 North Creek Road, Ojai. Hwy 33, S.E. on Hermosa Road. San Antonio Creek runs through this tree-lined park. Individual and group campsites are available at www.ventura.org/parks-department/inland-parks/camp-comfort-ojai. There are 15 campsites. There are restrooms, drinking water, a playground, picnic tables, BBQs and fire rings. Showers, full hook-ups and laundry available. Dogs are allowed on up to 6 foot leash for a $1/night fee (2 dog maximum). Sites $46 to $48 per night plus $8 reservation fee as of May 2024.

Dennison Park is located at 7250 Santa Paula-Ojai Road in Ojai, on Hwy 150, south of Nordhoff Road. This is a quiet park with views of the Ojai Valley, offering a feeling of seclusion. There are covered family/group barbecue areas near the entrance of the park available by reservation only. Fees are $25-$27 per night plus an $8 reservation fee as of May 2024. There are 31 campsites. RV camping in lower portion of park only with 35 foot maximum length; no hook ups. Dogs allowed on leash for $1/night fee (2 dog maximum). Individual and group campsites are available at www.ventura.org/parks-department/inland-parks/dennison-park-ojai.

Foster Park is located at 438 Casitas Vista Road, Ventura, off of Highway 33. The park is lush with plenty of trees and two separate campgrounds, Residence Campground (14 campsites) and Red Mountain Campground (23 campsites). The Ojai Valley Trail runs through the park, which is great for cycling, walking and running. Maximum of 6 campers per site. Dogs allowed on leash for $1/night fee (2 dog maximum). Individual and group campsites are available at www.venturaparks.org. $28 or $49/night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024.

Kenney Grove Park at 823 North Oak Avenue, Fillmore is a developed RV campground with over 50 campsites for RVs and tents. It is owned by the county but is leased to a private party that manages the campground. Most sites have water and electrical hookups and some have fire rings and tables. Park use is by reservation only. There is a playground, restrooms, softball field, horseshoe pits, hot showers and other amenities. Dogs allowed on 6 foot leash in campground only ($1/night fee, 2 dog maximum). Ten full hookups available. Call 805-524-0750 for information. Make reservations at www.venturaparks.org.$40/night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024.

Oak Park Campground in Simi Valley is just off of the 118 freeway at 901 Quimsa Drive. There are approximately 30 campsites in this rustic, 100.5 acre open space park. Available for $40/night plus $10 reservation fee (as of May 2024). There are two playgrounds, amphitheater area, fire pits, restrooms and more. Maximum of 6 campers per site. Dogs allowed on leash for $1/night fee (2 dog maximum). Individual and group campsites are available at www.venturaparks.org.

There's a county-run 50 site campground at Steckel Park, 8080 Mistletoe Road, Santa Paula. Santa Paula Creek runs through this campground surrounded by rolling hills, mountains and trees. There's a playground, horseshoe pits, picnic tables, restrooms, etc. $28 or $49 per night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024. Dogs allowed on a 6 foot leash. Individual and group campsites are available at www.venturaparks.org.

Tapo Canyon Regional Park is located in the midst of the rolling hills and canyons of the Santa Susana Mountains north of Simi Valley at 4651 Tapo Canyon Road. Hikers, equestrian riders, and mountain bikers enjoy this rugged and rural park, which features picnic areas, an equestrian arena and a RV campground with 16 full hook ups. Dogs allowed on a 6 foot leash. Individual and group campsites are available at www.venturaparks.org. $49 per night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024.

Rincon Parkway is located between Faria Beach Park and Hobson Beach Park on Highway 1 off the Ventura Freeway. 127 RV use only parking spaces are available. Tent camping is not allowed. All RVs must be fully self-contained, as there are no electrical hook ups, dump stations, shower/bathroom facilities or water onsite, although there are a handful of porta-johns. There is a 5 day parking limit from April 1 to October 31 and a 14 day limit from November 1 to March 31. Dogs allowed on 6 foot leash. There is a $1 charge per dog. Book a spot at venturaparks.org/rincon/camping. Prices are $47 per night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024.

(There is no day use at Rincon Parkway.)

Hobson Beach Park at 5210 W. Pacific Coast Highway in Ventura is north of Faria Beach Park and the Rincon Parkway. Similar to Faria Park, Hobson Park is wedged between the Pacific Ocean and the base of the Santa Ynez mountains along Highway 1 off the Ventura Freeway. There are 31 first come, first served sites available, 10 with hookups and the rest without. The beach is steps away and there are showers and a concession stand. Dogs allowed on a 6 foot leash ($1/night fee; 2 dog maximum). Book sites at THIS LINK. Sites range from $48 to $69 as of May 2024.

Faria Beach Park at 4350 W. Pacific Coast Highway in Ventura is south of Hobson Beach Park. Another popular beachfront spot with 42 spaces available on a first come, first served basis. Tent and RV camping available. There are showers and a concession stand. Dogs allowed on a 6 foot leash ($1/night fee; 2 dog maximum). Book sites at THIS LINK. Fees range from $42 to $69 per night as of May 2024.

Mount Pinos in the Los Padres National Forest is the tallest peak in Ventura County, located about 1 hour, 45 minutes away from the heart of Thousand Oaks, adjacent to Kern County.

• Mt. Pinos Campground is available in the summer/fall months for $30/night at recreation.gov at THIS LINK. 19 sites. Dogs allowed.

• The McGill Campground is a reservable campground with 78 family sites and 2 group sites at THIS LINK.

• The walk-in Chula Vista Campground is located adjacent to the Nordic Base area. See www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lpnf/recarea/?recid=10982.

Directions to Mount Pinos: From I-5, take Frazier Park exit (Frazier Mountain Park Road). Go west approximately 6 miles. The road name changes to Cuddy Valley Road. Continue on it up Mt. Pinos. The road name changes to Mt. Pinos Highway.

The County of Santa Barbara runs two popular camping parks, Cachuma Lake and Jalama Beach. Both accept online reservations, but 40 sites at Cachuma and 20 sites at Jalama are first come, first served for walk-in customers. 

Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is located at 2225 Highway 154, Santa Barbara, midway between the beach and the town of Solvang. Tent sites, hookups, cabins, yurts and group area available. As Cachuma Lake is a domestic water supply, swimming, water skiing, windsurfing, or any other body contact with the water is prohibited. Fishing is allowed. Detailed list of fees at www.countyofsb.org/788/Cabins.

Jalama Beach County Park is located at 9999 Jalama Road in Lompoc, an hour drive from Santa Barbara. Named after what used to be a Chumash Indian settlement named Halama. ARCO donated 23.5 acres of land to the County of Santa Barbara in 1943. There are 109 campsites, all overlooking the ocean or beachfront, each with a picnic table and BBQ pit, with hot showers, restrooms and water nearby. 31 sites offer electrical hookups and dump stations are available. Detailed list of fees at www.countyofsb.org/788/Cabins.

Privately Operated Campgrounds In the Area

Ventura Oaks RV Park is located at 255 Burnham Road in Oak View, offering 60 full hookup sites just two miles from Lake Casitas. Park-like setting with picnic tables, fully furnished laundry area, picnic tables and WiFi throughout. Long-term rentals available. Visit www.venturaoaks.com for more information.

Santa Barbara RV Park is located at 516 S. Salinas Street. It is adjacent to the highway, so there will be some noise, but it is also located within a couple miles of the beach, the Santa Barbara Zoo and downtown area. There are 30 sites. Site has bathrooms, showers and a laundry room.  Free WiFi. Dogs allowed. Visit www.santabarbararv.com.

Ventura Beach RV Resort is located at 800 West Main Street in Ventura. The 14 acre park has 180 spots and is just a short walk to the ocean. Amenities include a pool, hot tub, recreation room, small playground, onsite general store, and half basketball court. Visit www.vbrvresort.com for more information.

Prospector Ranch in Westlake Village is nestled in the hills of the Santa Monica Mountains, offering camping options here in the Conejo Valley, including a luxury safari tent, an Airstream or bring your own RV. www.prospectorranch.com/glamping

Rancho Oso Resort is located at 3750 Paradise Road, Santa Barbara, 8 miles east of Cachuma Lake. Accommodations include RV camping, horse camping, covered wagons, resort cabins and Tipi camping. rvonthego.com/california/rancho-oso-rv-camping-resort.

El Capitan Canyon Resort is located at 11560 Calle Real, Goleta, adjacent to El Capitan State Beach. This is luxury camping, with nicely appointed cedar cabins with beds, kitchens and restroom, as well as yurts that are spacious with bedding and nearby restroom/shower facilities. There’s also picnic tables, fire pits, and a store with all the stuff you need to "rough it." Activities include a pool, small playground, bike rentals, hiking, of course the nearby beach. www.elcapitancanyon.com.

Next door to El Capitan Canyon Resort is Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara (formerly Ocean Mesa RV Resort), at 100 El Capitan Terrace Lane, Goleta. This resort has 20 tent camping sites and 80 RV sites. Amenities include heated pool and spa, wife, TV, convenience store, hiking, snack bar, horseback riding and more. Rates start at $90 per night. www.sunoutdoors.com/california/sun-outdoors-santa-barbara

How cool is this...a llama farm is walking distance from El Capitan Canyon Resort.

Evergreen RV Park at 2135 N. Oxnard Blvd in Oxnard has 94 full hookup RV spaces. Facility includes restrooms, showers, free WiFi, laundry room, BBQs, picnic tables and more. Visit www.evergreenrvpark.com.

Flying Flags RV Resort and Campground is located at 180 Ave Of The Flags in Buellton, just an hour and a half northwest of Thousand Oaks. Here you’ll find vintage trailer and airstream rentals, cottages, luxury tents or your own RV or tent camping. Amenities include pool, playground, WiFi and more. And less than half a mile away from Pea Soup Andersen’s! flyingflags.com

Malibu Beach RV Park is located at 25801 Pacific Coast Highway, just east of Malibu Seafood. The park has 142 RV spots and up to 35 tent sites, all with a view of the Pacific. Open 365 days a year. Amenities include store, game room, restrooms with heated showers, laundry and more. Visit www.maliburv.com.

Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday is located at 7400 Pine Grove Road in Santa Paula. This 76 acre campground is located at the foot of the Topa Topa mountains, offering tent sites, RV sites, teepees, Conestoga Wagons, safari tents and cabins. Amenities include trails, climbing wall, ropes course, labyrinth and more. koa.com/campgrounds/ventura-ranch

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Vegetarian & Vegan Eateries in the Conejo Valley and Neighboring Areas

According to a 2018 Gallup poll, 5% of U.S. adults consider themselves to be vegetarian and 3% say they are vegan. With a population of 840,000, that translates to 42,000 vegetarians in Ventura County. But there are a number of great vegetarian and vegan dining options in the Conejo Valley and greater Ventura County that attract vegetarians and their meat-eating friends alike. Here’s a list of such eateries.

(Note that this particular list includes places that only serve 100% plant-based food.)

In the Conejo Valley

Vegan Thyme is located in the Park Plaza Shopping Center in Newbury Park at 2247 Michael Drive. This popular eatery opened its doors in March 2019. Vegan Thyme’s menu is 100% vegan, with primarily an Asian/Fusion theme. Their meat replacement options include organic tofu, soy chicken, soy beef, soy fish, soy shrimp and vegetables. Their menu also includes burger, wraps and Mexican cuisine. Open 11:30AM - 9PM Tuesdays through Fridays and 12 - 9PM on weekends. www.veganthymecafe.com (805) 716-3088

Namaste Spiceland is located at 821 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks. This popular Indian grocery market also offers hot vegetarian Indian cuisine for takeout or onsite. Inexpensive, large portions and delicious! Open daily from 10AM - 9PM. namastespicelandthousandoaks.com (805) 373-6761

JOi Café opened in late summer 2014 at 2855 Agoura Road, Westlake Village. JOi, named after co-owner Joi Stearns, offers a broad menu of organic, plant-based and gluten-free items for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They offer a wide range of coffee drinks, matcha drinks, other drinks, smoothies, toasts, salads, breakfast goodies, plates and more Open daily from 7AM to 5PM. www.joicafe.com

Ma-Kin Vegan Sushi opened in August 2021 at 30313 Canwood St # 35, Agoura Hills in the Reyes Adobe Plaza. Ma-Kin offers unique plant-based, 100% vegan sushi dishes, along with gluten-free options. Open Tuesday through Thursday 2PM - 9PM and Friday through Sunday 11:30AM - 9PM. www.makinvegan.com (818) 699-6716

Crossroads Kitchen opened in October 2022 at The Commons at Calabasas, 4776 Commons Way Suite A, Calabasas. Crossroads offers an upscale selection of plant-based lunch and dinner items - salads, pastas, pizza, proteins and more. See website for hours. www.crossroadscalabasas.com (747) 230-4210

Jugo Wellness Bar is located in the Oakbrook Plaza in Thousand Oaks at 1772 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, Suite I. Jugo offers organic smoothies, acai, toasts and more. jugowellnessbar.com

Other Parts of Ventura County

Vegiterranean Kitchen, located at Moorpark at 481 E High Street, offers fully vegan Mediterranean cuisine, including soups, salads, appetizers, pita wraps, entrees and desserts. Open Monday through Saturday from 11AM to 8PM. vegiterraneankitchen.com (805) 523-2209

Seed Ranger, located at 2950 Johnson Drive, Ventura, offers a vegan only memo that includes sushi, all-day breakfast entrees, burgers, pizzas and more, . Open daily 8AM - 8PM. www.seedranger.com (805) 765-4157

La Jenelle Natural Cafe is located at 2323 Roosevelt Boulevard #1, Oxnard at Silverstrand Beach. Open Monday through Friday 9AM - 5:30PM and 8:30AM - 5:30PM on weekends. Their menu offers only vegetarian/vegan options, including salads, a burrito, burger and more.. lajenelle.com (805) 263-6771

Hip Vegan is located 201 N Montgomery Street, Ojai. Open everyday 11AM - 8PM. They offer exclusively 100% plant-based items such as wraps, salads, bowls, sandwiches and more. hipvgn.com (805) 669-6363

Harvest Cafe is located 175 S.Ventura Avenue, Ventura, offering an organic, vegetarian, gluten-free menu that includes smoothies, breakfast items, pizzas, salads, and various entrees. Opens at 8AM daily (9AM on Sundays). www.harvestcafeventura.com (805) 667-8386

Café BōKU is located at 987 W Ojai Avenue, Ojai. Open daily from 8AM - 5PM. Their menu includes smoothies, breakfast items, sandwiches and more. www.bokusuperfood.com/pages/cafe (805) 650-2658

Farmer and the Cook is located at 339 W El Roblar Drive, Ojai, offering smoothies, breakfast items, lunch/dinner entrees and more. Opens at 8AM daily. www.farmer-and-the-cook.com (805) 640-9608

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Vegan No More

Amy’s Drive Thru opened on June 15, 2023 at 400 N Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks but closed its doors after a brief stint on February 9, 2024.

Veggie Grill Westlake Village closed its doors after a nine year stint in the North Ranch Shopping Center in May 2023.

Sage Vegan Bistro at the Whizin Market Square in Agoura Hills opened in May 2020 and closed in June 2023.

Provisional Driver License Permit Restrictions In the State of California

According to a 2012 Pew Research Center World Fertility Report, when it comes to women nearing the end of their childbearing years (age 40-44), the U.S. ranks near the top of the list. Of 118 countries providing data, only six had a higher "childlessness" rate than the U.S. rate of 19%.

But inversely, that means 81% of women at the age have indeed had children, and according to that study, U.S. women have an average of 1.9 kids. And this of course means that eventually, these women and their spouses have to deal with the topic of...DRIVERS' PERMITS for their teens!

Provisional Driver Permit Requirements

So what are the rules for provisional permits in the state of California? According to the California DMV website, to apply for a provisional permit, you must be at least 15 1/2 but under 18, make an appointment with the DMV, complete a driver license application (DL 44 form), provide a fingerprint, pay a fee, pass a vision exam (you must have 20/40 with or without glasses in both eyes and each eye individually), get a passing score of at least 38 out of 46 questions on a traffic laws test* and submit certification of proper driver education programs. Oh, and your parent(s) or guardian(s) must sign your DL 44 form.

The provisional permit is not valid until you start your behind-the-wheel driver training with an instructor or reach age 17 1/2.

* If you fail the test, you must wait 7 days, not including the day the test was failed, before retaking the test.

CLICK HERE TO TRY A SAMPLE DRIVER’S LICENSE TEST

This is one place you don’t want to drive your car - into the Hillcrest Open Space in Thousand Oaks.

Minors' Provisional License Requirements

To get a provisional driver license as a minor, you must be at least 16 years old, prove that you have finished both driver education and behind the wheel training, have held an instruction permit for at least six months, and have parents' signatures that you completed at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night), and pass the driving test.**

** If you fail the driving test, you must wait 2 weeks, not including the day the test was failed, before retaking the test. If you fail the driving test 3 times, you must reapply and pay all applicable fees. Do not pass Go. Do not collect $100.

Provisional Driver License Restrictions

After you receive your provisional permit, for 12 months you cannot transport people under age 20 or drive between 11 pm and 5 am without a licensed parent or guardian, California driver 25 years old or older, or certified driving instructor accompanying you. Put another way, a provisional driver can drive alone only the hours of 5 am and 11 pm. There are some exceptions that can be made for medical, school/school activities, employment or other necessities. 

Since July 1, 2008, drivers under age 18 cannot use cell phones or other electronic devices while driving, even in hands-free mode.

Visit www.dmv.ca.gov for more information.

Holding cell phone while driving is definitely a no no.

The Fillmore State Fish Hatchery Is a Fun Place to Visit With the Kids

Hours are now 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Fillmore Fish Hatchery was dedicated as a state hatchery in 1932. It is one of 21 hatcheries operated by the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG). The Fillmore Hatchery produces about 1 million rainbow trout, or about 400,000 lbs of fish, each year.

Fertile trout eggs are shipped to Fillmore from DFG broodstock hatcheries at Mount Whitney and Hot Creek, located in the eastern High Sierra. The fish are stocked in southern California lakes, reservoirs and streams accessible to the public for fishing. The hatchery operates year-round, 365 days a year. Through selective breeding, DFG has developed strains of rainbow trout that spawn during different months of the year.

There is netting over the pond to keep birds from pilfering the fish (before the netting they nabbed as much as 30% of the fish each year). The hatchery is run using funds raised from fishing licenses and taxes on sporting equipment.

Kids and parents alike will be wowed by the number of fish in the hatchery.

The hatchery is located off Highway 126, about a mile east of downtown Fillmore. It is open 365 days a year, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is quite a fun place to bring the kids for a brief encounter with thousands of hungry fishies. 

Fish feed is provided for free to the public in limited supply. Feed machines are filled no more than at 8 am and noon daily. 

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Options for Thousand Oaks Residents

The City of Thousand Oaks Public Works Department's "GoGreen" website has hundreds of conservation tips relating to composting, energy conservation, hazardous waste disposal, recycling and trash, reuse programs, water conservation, living green advice, and much more. Check it out at www.toaks.org/GoGreen.

Like me, you may have a lot of junk lying around the house that you'd like to get rid of but are not allowed to place in the trash. 

Since May 2014, the City has run a permanent Household Hazardous Waste Facility located next to the Service Center at 2010 Conejo Center Drive, Newbury Park.

Residents of Thousand Oaks and unincorporated areas of Ventura County may sign up to drop off items at this facility on Fridays/Saturdays from 9am to 1pm, except certain holiday weekends, at THIS LINK. Advance registration is required.

Items accepted at these monthly collection events include acids, motor oil, antifreeze, asbestos, nail polish/remover, automatic switches, oil filters, batteries, paints, cement, paint thinners, chlorine, fertilizers, pool chemicals, fluorescent lights, propane cylinders, fire extinguishers, rodent poison, garden chemicals, smoke detectors, gasoline, solvents, used frying oil, household cleaners, weed killers and more. They do not accept tires, medications. business waste and other items.

One person's hazardous waste is another's gold! The City's Hazardous Waste Material Reuse Program allows residents to take away certain items previously disposed of, such as cleaners, paint, pool chemicals, motor oils, adhesives, etc. Selection obviously will vary. No appointment needed. Just stop by ReUse Store (same location as waste collection facility) on Friday/Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The ReUse store will be closed weekends associated with the following holidays: President's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day

There are also convenient hazardous waste disposal for other items:

Batteries: Community Centers at Borchard Park, Dos Vientos and Thousand Oaks (next to TOHS), Goebel Senior Center, Thousand Oaks/Newbury Park Libraries, City Hall and Thousand Oaks Transportation Center.

Motor Oil/Filters: See THIS LINK.

Electronic Waste: Best Buy, Goodwill Industries, PC Recycle, Waste Management and Gold Coast Recycling Center. More info at THIS LINK.

Fluorescent Lights/CFL's: You may bring any size or type of fluorescent and LED bulbs to the City's Hazardous Waste Facility.

(See www.homedepot.com/c/ab/how-to-dispose-of-lightbulbs/9ba683603be9fa5395fab901b263d806 for more information on what to do with light bulbs of various types.)

Unwanted and/or expired medications can be dropped off throughout Ventura County at designated police stations, such as the East Valley Police Station Lobby at 2101 E. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks. Open Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm.

Visit toaks.org/GoGreen for updates.

Public Beaches In and Around Santa Barbara

We've compiled highlights of public beaches ranging from Malibu to Carpinteria. so how about if we stretch the boundaries of that list further west a bit to include some of the popular beaches of Santa Barbara.

The City of Santa Barbara maintains four miles of beaches, including East Beach, West Beach, Leadbetter Beach, Shoreline Park and the Mesa neighborhood. The city offers a number of parking lots along the waterfront. Dogs not allowed on city beaches from East Beach to Leadbetter.

East Beach stretches from Stearns Wharf on the west to roughly across the street from the Santa Barbara Zoo. There are over a dozen volleyball courts, a play area, the full service East Beach Grill and picnic facilities. The Cabrillo Pavilion Bathhouse at 1118 East Cabrillo Boulevard is open M-F from 8am to 5pm and has showers, lockers, a weight room, beach wheelchairs and volleyball rental.

West side of East Beach looking towards Stearns Wharf.

There's a also a fun bike path stretching from here to West Beach and Leadbetter. Bring your bikes or rent them across the street on Cabrillo Boulevard near State Street. And on Sundays year-round is the Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show.

West Beach is located on the west side of Stearns Wharf to the Santa Barbara Harbor. Good for sunbathing, swimming, picnics, kayaking, volleyball and other fun. West Beach is easily accessible and family-friendly, with a wide walkway/bike path. There's also a wading pool, playground and the Los Baños Pool nearby. The beach is adjacent to the Santa Barbara Harbor, where among other things you'll find the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum.

It definitely doesn't suck to be at the beach next to the Santa Barbara Harbor at sunset!

Leadbetter Beach and park is between the Santa Barbara Harbor and Shoreline Park, across from Santa Barbara City College. The area has reservable picnic and barbecue sites, outdoor showers, restrooms and a grassy lawn. Popular for beginning surfers and sailboats, as well as sunbathers and fitness enthusiasts.

Shoreline Park is a 14.6-acre coastal bluff park west of Leadbetter Beach that has a playground, restrooms, picnic tables, barbeques, a group picnic area, benches and beach access stairs.  The park has sweeping views of the coastline, city, and Santa Ynez Mountains. The Torii Gate at the center of the park takes you to a staircase down the bluff to the beach below, where you'll find a narrow and rocky beach area.

View from Shoreline Park looking east towards Leadbetter Beach.

The Mesa beach area between Shoreline Park on the west and Arroyo Burro Beach is accessible via the Mesa Lane Steps near the corner of Mesa Lane and Edgewater Way. This is a residential area where primarily locals access the relatively narrow and rocky beach area below. About a mile away on the east is another beach access point at the eastern end of Camino Al Mar.

Arroyo Burro Beach is a beach park managed by the County of Santa Barbara. It is also referred to as Hendry's Beach, as the Boathouse at Hendry's Beach is located here at 2981 Cliff Drive. Decent sized parking lot with restaurant serving up moderately priced meals and drinks indoors/outdoors, seven days a week from 7:30am to 9pm. Arroyo Burro Beach is a sandy beach, good for surfing, boogie boarding and fishing, with an adjoining park with grassy areas and picnic tables. Restrooms available. From the 101 take Las Positas Road south to Cliff Drive. Turn right and travel 1/2 mile to the park entrance.

Arroyo Burro Beach also welcomes dogs! Dogs must be leashed but the Douglas Family Preserve next door at 2551 Medcliff Road allows dogs to be off leash.

Arroyo Burro Beach

Goleta Beach Park is a 29 acre Santa Barbara County park known for its 1,500 foot fishing pier and sunbathing beaches. Great destination for bicyclists on the area's paved trail system. There are also BBQ picnic areas, volleyball, horseshoes and children's playgrounds as well as the Beachside Bar Cafe. Find your way to Sandspit Road and you're there. Learn more at www.countyofsb.org/parks/parks02.aspx?id=7682.

For beachside parks in Isla Vista, including beach access points at Camino Pescadero Park, El Embarcadero, Camino Corto, Escondido Pass and Camino Majorca, visit www.ivparks.org/parks/descriptions.

El Capitan State Beach is located in Goleta, 17 miles west of Santa Barbara, Exit 117 off of Highway 101. south and you'll see the entrance to the park. A great place for camping, hiking, surfing, picnicking and beach walking. There are rocky tidepools and fun hikes galore here. There's also a 132 site campground open year-round with easy walking access to the beach. Restrooms and showers are nearby. For those into "glamping" (e.g. luxury camping), nearby El Capitan Canyon offers awesome cabins decked out with bedding, kitchenettes and bathrooms as well as deluxe canvas tents and yurts. Visit www.elcapitancanyon.com for more information. Learn more about El Capitan State Beach at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=601.

El Capitan State Beach at sundown.

Tree lined trails in El Capitan State Beach Park.

Refugio State Beach is located at 10 Refugio Beach Road in Goleta, about 2 1/2 miles west of El Capitan State Beach. Refugio offers great fishing,  trails and picnic sites. Palm trees planted near Refugio Creek give a distinctive look to the beach and camping area. There are 61 campsites available. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=603 for more information.

Jalama Beach County Park is an hour drive from Santa Barbara and a 45-minute drive from Lompoc at 9999 Jalama Road.  It is maintained by the County of Santa Barbara. Have fun at the beach with surfing, whale watching, fishing, horseshoes, picnic areas and more. There's also a popular camping area with over 100 sites as well as seven cabins available. Visit www.countyofsb.org/parks/parks06.aspx?id=9186 or call 805.736.6316.

Butterfly Beach is on the east side of town in Montecito, accessible off of Channel Drive near, of course, Butterfly Lane, across from the Four Seasons Biltmore. No amenities but nice sand, a few benches and dog access. You'll most likely have to find a parking spot on the street. Mainly geared towards locals. You can catch a beautiful sunset from here.

Butterfly Beach in Montecito

Lookout Park is a County of Santa Barbara managed park located on four acres on the cliffs of Summerland. Take the Summerland exit off Highway 101 and turn south into the park. Dogs are allowed on leash at this park. There access to a decent strip of beach, Summerland Beach. Also a small playground, restrooms, picnic areas, BBQ grills and more. Visit www.countyofsb.org/parks/parks02.aspx?id=7946 for more info.

Carpinteria area beaches, including Carpinteria State Beach, Tar Pits Park, Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and Rincon Beach Park, are highlighted at this link.

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