Rancho Nuevo Campground

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Rancho Nuevo Campground
$3.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Recreation use fees and reservation fees vary by activity and location. Reservation fees are $8 online or through the app, $9 through the contact center, and $3 in person. Additional fees may apply for changes and cancellations.
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About this campground

Tucked away in a serene grassy canyon, Rancho Nuevo Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This hidden gem features just two intimate campsites, ensuring a peaceful retreat far from the crowds. The journey here requires a capable 4-wheel drive vehicle navigating rugged terrain, making this destination a true adventurer's sanctuary. While winter conditions may temporarily close access roads, those who make the trek during open seasons are rewarded with an unspoiled camping experience that few ever discover.
Rancho Nuevo Campground is a primitive camping site accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Weather and SeasonsRancho Nuevo enjoys a gentle climate that perfectly complements its tranquil setting. Recent conditions have showcased comfortable temperatures ranging from crisp 41.6°F mornings that invite cozy campfire gatherings to pleasant 59.5°F afternoons ideal for exploration. The area basks in abundant sunshine, with crystal-clear skies gracing visitors nearly two-thirds of the time. Winter months bring seasonal road closures as nature reclaims the access routes, adding to the campground's remote charm and ensuring its pristine condition for spring arrivals.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within the protective embrace of Los Padres National Forest, Rancho Nuevo rests in a picturesque grass-carpeted canyon that feels like nature's own amphitheater. The surrounding landscape showcases the diverse vegetation of Southern California's backcountry, where native grasses sway in gentle breezes and the canyon walls create a natural sanctuary. This intimate setting offers campers an immersive experience in one of California's most treasured forest ecosystems.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic topography of Los Padres National Forest, this campground occupies a distinctive grass canyon bottom carved by centuries of natural forces. The geological features create a unique microenvironment where meadow-like grasslands flourish between protective canyon walls, offering a rare glimpse into the diverse landscapes that characterize this vast wilderness area.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground can only be accessed with a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and access may be restricted during winter due to the road closing.
Sites SizeThe campground has two primitive campsites. Size details are not specified.
Sites PrivacyNo specific details about the level of privacy provided at the sites are available.
Total Campsites2 campsites

Reserving a campsite

Groups
No details available about group camping.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations made via Recreation.gov app, website, contact center, or in person.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to the check-in date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations may forfeit additional fees, including the first night's fees.

Activities you can enjoy

The campground's isolated location and natural surroundings suggest opportunities for activities like hiking and wildlife observation, but specific recreational activities are not detailed.
Hiking
The campground is located in a grassy canyon, which may provide hiking opportunities, but no specific trails or difficulty levels are mentioned.
Winter Activities
The road to the campground is subject to closure during winter, limiting winter activities.
Water Sports
No details about water sports are available.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed

Hazards

General hazardsPrimitive road access, only suitable for 4-wheel drive vehicles; road closures during winter.

Weather forecast

83
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 24%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 9.7 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky
7-Day Forecast

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Temperature Trends

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Precipitation Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Good to know

Trash and recyclingNo information available about trash and recycling facilities.

Campground Map

Driving directionsTake the Lockwood-Ozena Road, travel north on Highway 33 for approximately two miles to the Rancho Nuevo Creek/Tinta Road (FS 7N04).
Accessible only through 4-wheel drive vehicles. Road access is primitive and subject to winter closures.

Camper Reviews

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0 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Rancho Nuevo Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews are available for Rancho Nuevo Campground.
Review Summaries

What Campers Love

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Common Concerns

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Pro Tips & Recommendations

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Seasonal Insights

No seasonal trends are identified in the absence of user reviews.

Camper Quotes

No direct user quotes are available.

Site-Specific Reviews

No site-specific reviews are available.

Accessibility Features

No accessibility reviews are present.

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews discussing pet policies or experiences are available.

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Los Padres National Forest
Rancho Nuevo Campground