Middle Lion Campground
MIDDLE LION CAMPGROUND
Part of Los Padres National Forest
Overview
Leave the city vibe behind as you meander down a winding, partially paved, narrow road that leads you into wooded Middle Lion Campground and day use area. Relax next to the running creek, take a refreshing dip, or hike the nearby trails. Tucked away in a canyon encased by chaparral and wildflower covered mountains, Middle Lion Campground is particularly beautiful in the spring and fall, but camping is great year-round.Facilities
Middle Lion has eight campsites. They are located along a single loop, close to a creek. While tent camping is best enjoyed in this cozy campground, there is room for RVs under 20 feet. Tables and fire rings are provided in each site. There is a vault toilet in the campground. There is no drinking water at this site, so bring your own water.Natural Features
Middle Lion Campground is surrounded by chaparral covered mountains, shaded by cottonwood trees and is next to a peaceful stream near the Sespe Wilderness area. As the trees seasonally change color, you will find yourself surrounded by vibrant yellow hues!Recreation
The Lion Canyon Trail (22W06) starts at the back of the campground. After 1.3 miles you will reach the Rose Lion Connector Trail (22W16) on the right. After 0.6 miles you can take side trails to East Fork Lion Camp, which is within the Sespe Wilderness, or West Fork Lion Camp. The main trail continues 3.6 miles to Nordhoff Ridge for spectacular views. No mountain bikes are allowed in the wilderness.Nearby Attractions
Hiking trails, biking, fishing are all within 30 minutes from the campground. Day trips to the higher elevation mountains for snow play are an opportunity in the winter. One mile away on the Rose Valley Road (6N31) is the Piedra Blanca trailhead where there are three trails to explore. All trails are located across Sespe Creek. The Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail (22W03) in the Sespe Wilderness will lead you to nearby massive white rocks, called Piedra Blanca! It is an easy walk for the first three miles.A principal attraction to this section of the Sespe is Rose Valley Falls. This trail to the falls begins just before you enter Rose Valley Campground. Follow it for a short half-mile and you will be at the base of the falls. The cliffs at the falls are arkosic sandstone and crumble easily, so tread lightly. Rose Valley Falls is the tallest waterfall in the range and while it is an easy hike to the base of the 100-foot tall lower tier of the waterfall (0.8 miles round trip with 150 feet of elevation gain), it is adventure to reach the more impressive upper tier. Please do not climb around on steep sections or get close to the edge. You will need to park outside Rose Valley Campground to hike the trails.
Another trail, the Sespe River Trail (20W13) will lead you downstream into the Sespe Wilderness. You will find some swimming holes along this walk. Remember, no mountain bicycles allowed on wilderness trails. If you would like to go on a mountain bicycle ride, take the Middle Sespe Trail (22W04) that leads up river eight miles to the west to Middle Sespe Trailhead.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (820) 500-1099.Important Notices
Contact: Camp Los Padres manages this campground. For questions, email info@camplospadres.com or call 820-500-1099.
Single sites: Site Capacity: Each campsite allows up to 8 people and 2 vehicles. Additional vehicles are $10 per vehicle per night, if space is available, and are paid at the campground. Groups of more than 8 must reserve a second site.
Water & Services: No drinking water, public showers or cell service. Nearest stores and gas are 15 miles south in Ojai.
Campfires: Normally allowed year-round in Forest Service fire rings without a California Campfire Permit. Forest-wide restrictions can still ban fires; check before you arrive.
Fireworks: Prohibited at all times.
Safety: Help for emergencies is miles away. Avoid hiking alone, tell someone your plans, and carry a first aid kit. Bring gnat/mosquito repellent in spring, summer and fall.
Minimum Stay: 2 nights on weekends, 3 nights on holidays.
Trees: All trees, even when healthy and well-maintained, can pose a natural hazard of falling limbs. Visitors assume responsibility for any property damage, injury or other circumstances that may result from these hazards.
Lost, Stolen or Damaged Property: Camp Los Padres is not responsible for loss or damages to property due to fire, theft, accident or any other cause.
Preparation for your trip: Please watch this Leave No Trace 7 Principles video prior to your arrival to help protect our National Forests.
Firewood Policy: Help protect Los Padres National Forest: Buy It Where You Burn It. Don't Move Firewood. Firewood must meet applicable local-origin (purchased within the same county) or approved treatment requirements (certified heat treated) to reduce invasive pest risks. Firewood brought into the campground may be subject to inspection, and if not purchased locally or found to be compliant with requirements it can be confiscated to prevent the spread of the Goldspotted Oak Borer. By completing your reservation, you acknowledge that you have been informed of the campground's firewood requirements and agree to comply with applicable restrictions. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
More Information: Visit Los Padres National Forest for forest alerts, fire restrictions and road conditions.
Available Activities
- CAMPING - Camping
- BIKING - Biking
Directions
Follow Highway 33 north of Ojai for 14.7 miles to the Rose Valley Road turnoff (6N31) which is at mile marker 25.84. Turn right and follow the paved road 4.8 miles. Turn right and go 0.8 miles to Middle Lion Campground. The elevation is 3250 feet. Watch out for the rough sections of road.
Contact Information
Phone: 805 434 1996
Rental Options
Available Campsites
- Site 01, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 07, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 06, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 04, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 08, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 02, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 03, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 05, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
