Overview

Tucked away in the high desert, surrounded by scenic views of the badlands in the Los Padres National Forest, Ballinger Campground and day use area offers the perfect getaway for those looking to access off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails. Explore 11 four-wheel drive roads, 12 all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails, and 14 motorcycle trails, which include loose dirt, hard pack, sand, steep hills, and a few jumps and berms.

Facilities

Open daily and year-round, the campground includes 13 campsites each with a picnic table and fire ring. Two vault toilets are located near the campsites. You should plan to be completely self-sustainable for the duration of your trip. There is no potable water onsite. To the left of the fee/information boards is a "staging area" to offload gear. There is no dump station.

The campsites have no barriers or boulders, so all sizes of toy haulers, trailers and campers do well here.

Natural Features

Junipers, lupine and tall scrub and brush surround Ballinger Canyon, just inland of California's Central Coast and regionally bound by the Sierra Madre and Caliente Mountain Ranges.

Recreation

The Ballinger Campground and day use areas are best appreciated by OHV enthusiasts. ATVs/Quad Runners/Dual Sports/Single track, will find access to 68 miles of marked and rated trails that range from novice-friendly hard packed trails, twisty sand washes, open play areas to steep and rugged black diamond, all accessed from your scenic high desert camping spot.

Nearby Attractions

Hiking trails, biking and fishing are easily accessed within 30 minutes from Ballinger Campground. Day trips to the higher elevation mountains for snow play in the winter.

Contact Info

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 or public showers. Sporadic cell service; a connection can be made at Hwy 33, a few miles from the entrance. Nearest stores and gas are 15 miles away in New Cuyama or 25 miles in Maricopa.

  • Pack It In, Pack It Out: No trash service; please bring garbage bags.

  • Campfires: Allowed only in designated fire rings. Check fire restrictions before you visit.

  • Pets: Allowed; keep dogs on a leash at all times.

  • OHV Rules: Spark arrestors and OHV registration (green or red sticker) required. Red sticker riding season is Nov 1 – Mar 15. Don’t ride alone; tell someone your plans and carry a first aid kit.

  • Insects: 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

<p>From Los Angeles: Take I-5 north to 126 west to Santa Paula Hwy 150 exit. Go north on Hwy 150 for 20 miles to the intersection of highway 33. Go north over the mountain, 55 miles to Ballinger Cyn rd. Turn right and proceed 2 miles to the entrance.</p>

Contact Information

Phone: 805-434-1996

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip