LA Panza Campground

LA PANZA CAMPGROUND

Part of Los Padres National Forest

Overview

La Panza Campground is full of opportunities to relax or explore the forest. Nearby is Machesna Mountain Wilderness where hiking, hunting and horseback riding are popular. Off-high vehicle (OHV) recreation is also plentiful in the area.

Facilities

This campground is open daily and year-round. There are 15 single and spaciously situated campsites ideal for tenting, and moderate RVs under 16 ft. Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. You should plan to be completely self-sustainable for the duration of your trip. There is no potable water (drinking water) or electricity onsite. There is no dump station. This is a "dry" campground with five vault toilets. The road into the campground ends cul-de-sac style, but with adequate turn around.

Natural Features

La Panza Campground is situated in a canyon setting, encompassed by a gathering of established oak trees, and accented by a seasonal creek. Fox, coyote, road runner, deer, wild pig, jack rabbit, quail, and very rare black bear, all visit this area.

Recreation

La Panza Campground is best enjoyed by campers who prefer a rugged outdoor experience. The Pozo La Panza 18,867-acre area has approximately 44 miles of routes that vary from sandy washes to a ridgeline route including a section known to expert OHV riders as the Stair Steps. With proximity to OHV trails, this spot will keep the adrenaline junkies enthused as well as the avid hiker. Bring your bikes, motorcycles, ATVs and four-wheel drive vehicles to enjoy the amazing trail experience!

Nearby Attractions

Lakes, trails, beautiful views, biking, hiking and off-road vehicle riding are all within minutes of the campground. The nearest shopping is 29 miles in Santa Margarita.

Important Notices

  • In order to contact our offices, please use the email: customerservice@pmcparks.com or view our website: CampOne.Com for answers to frequently asked questions.

  • No public showers in the region.
  • Please bring garbage bags. This facility is 'Pack it in. Pack it out.'
  • Quiet hours are 10 p.m. - 8 a.m.
  • Fireworks are prohibited at all times.
  • Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating.
  • Be cautious of snakes in the area. Use a 'walking stick' when hiking in this area.
  • No cell service in or near this campground.
  • Avoid hiking alone.
  • Make sure you have a first aid kit and other safety needs with you.
  • Bring your gnat/mosquito repellent in Spring/Summer/Fall
  • 2 night minimum stay on weekends
  • 3 night minimum stay on holidays
  • Click here for more information on Los Padres National Forest
  • Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

Notifications and Alerts

  • CAUTION: ROAD EROSION! HIGH CLEARENCE VEHICLES ONLY, NO CARS OR TRAILERS. TRUCKS AND LARGER SUVS RECOMMENDED

Available Activities

  • CAMPING - Camping
  • BIKING - Biking

Directions

Directions from Santa Margarita, CA: Travel Highway 58, 3 miles east, Pozo Road approximately 26 miles east, Forest Road 29S18, 1.5 miles east. Alternate route: Highway 58, 26 miles east, Navajo Road 3 miles south, Pozo Road half a mile east.

Contact Information

Phone: 805 434 1996

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery