Thorn Meadows Campground
02 reviewsForest Road 7N03C, approximately eight miles south of the Lockwood Valley Road
Thorn Meadows Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
Camping at Thorn Meadows Campground is free as stated in the authoritative source.
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About this campground
Nestled beneath the towering canopy of ancient Jeffrey Pines, Thorn Meadows Campground beckons adventurers seeking solitude among fascinating rock formations and pristine wilderness. Following storm damage in July 2023, this rustic retreat has transformed into a walk-in sanctuary, where determined campers can still discover its hidden charms. The campground maintains its authentic backcountry character with essential amenities including a pipe corral for equestrian visitors, four cooking stoves with accompanying tables, and vault toilet facilities. Without piped water, visitors should come prepared for a true wilderness experience in this secluded mountain haven.
Thorn Meadows Campground supports primitive camping with three designated campsites, catering to tent and backpacking campers. RV camping is explicitly discouraged due to site size and uneven terrain.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of California history at Thorn Meadows, proudly bearing the name of W. H. Thorn, the intrepid U.S. Geological Survey surveyor who mapped these rugged mountains in 1905. This storied landscape has witnessed the ebb and flow of human endeavor, from hardy cattle ranchers who grazed their herds during desperate drought years to vigilant fire lookouts who once scanned the horizon for smoke from the nearby watchtower. Each weathered rock and ancient tree holds stories of survival, perseverance, and the enduring relationship between people and this remarkable wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations at Thorn Meadows, where each season paints the landscape with its own palette. Winter brings a crystalline wonderland with very cold temperatures that blanket the meadows in serene stillness. As spring emerges, cool breezes awaken the wildflowers while fall's crisp air creates perfect hiking conditions amid golden light. Summer arrives as nature's sweet spot, offering comfortable temperatures ideal for stargazing and exploring the surrounding wilderness without the crowds found at lower elevations.
ElevationPerched at 5,000 feet above sea level, Thorn Meadows offers a refreshing escape into the crisp mountain air where temperatures drop delightfully below the valley heat. This elevated paradise rewards visitors with cooler conditions perfect for summer camping, though the altitude demands respect and preparation. The terrain here tells its own story of geological forces, creating natural challenges that make every arrival feel like an achievement and every sunrise more spectacular than the last.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a natural amphitheater where massive Jeffrey Pines stand as ancient sentinels, their vanilla-scented bark and twisted branches creating living sculptures against the sky. The campground's shaded meadows provide cool respite while dramatic rock formations invite exploration and photography. For those willing to venture further, the iconic Thorn Point Fire Lookout rewards hikers with sweeping 360-degree vistas that stretch across the Los Padres wilderness, revealing layer upon layer of mountain ridges fading into the horizon.
Geological RegionDeep within the legendary Sespe Wilderness of Los Padres National Forest lies a geological wonderland where time has sculpted extraordinary rock formations from ancient seafloors. This protected wilderness showcases nature's artistry through weathered sandstone outcroppings and granite boulders that create a dramatic backdrop for camping. The majestic Jeffrey Pines, some centuries old, have adapted to this unique terrain, growing in fascinating twisted patterns that photographer's dream about. Here, the forces that shaped California's coastal ranges are written in stone, creating a landscape that feels both timeless and ever-changing.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not described in the sources.
Sites SizeThe campground has three campsites, including one across the creek, as confirmed by authoritative sources.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer varying levels of privacy, with one located across the creek providing potentially more seclusion.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the trailhead are recommended for tent and backpacking camping.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite numbers are identified as 'best,' but the campsite near Thorn Point Trailhead is highlighted in reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No explicit check-in times provided.
Check-out
No explicit check-out times provided.
Stay Limit
No specific stay limits mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limits mentioned.
Groups
Group site details are not mentioned in the sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout3 campsites available; one is across the creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen between May and December.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not required or applicable.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is available on a walk-in basis, especially due to the temporary closure to vehicle access.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policies are applicable as reservations are not required.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Thorn Meadows Campground provides opportunities for hiking, horse riding, and primitive camping. Hiking trails include Thorn Point Trail, which spans 3.46 miles and offers features such as rock formations, large pine trees, and expansive views. Horse camping is supported by a public horse corral and trail access.
Hiking
The Thorn Point Trail is 3.46 miles long and leads to an abandoned fire lookout tower, providing 360-degree views, rock formations, and large pine trees. The trail is described as being in good condition and easy to follow. The lookout tower, although weathered, is accessible via a small ladder.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described in the provided sources.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Current fire restrictions apply, with regulations likely influenced by seasonal conditions.
- Quiet hours are No explicit quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include storm damage restricting road access and lack of potable water.
Active alertsThe campground is temporarily closed to vehicle access due to storm damage as of July 1, 2023.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Details about the nearest emergency services are not provided. Likely accessible in Frazier Park, approximately 23 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesThe campground is open May-December; no specific peak seasons defined.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned, and their availability is unclear.
Proximity to water featuresNo piped water or natural water sources directly mentioned; Piru Creek is nearby but specifics are unavailable.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight the lack of level ground for RV camping and the absence of potable water.
HostNo campground host information provided.
Campground Map
Forest Road 7N03C, approximately eight miles south of the Lockwood Valley Road
Driving directionsTake Forest Road 7N03C for approximately eight miles south of Lockwood Valley Road.
Access to the campground is currently restricted to walk-in only due to storm damage as of July 1, 2023. High clearance vehicles are recommended when road access is restored.Nearby places
Lockwood Valley (9 miles, south), Frazier Park (23 miles, west), Los Angeles (90 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies would likely be found in Frazier Park (23 miles west). No further information provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Thorn Meadows Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the suitability of Thorn Meadows Campground for primitive tent and backpacking camping, emphasizing its proximity to trailheads and scenic views. RV camping is discouraged due to small and uneven sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
User reviews appreciate the campground's proximity to hiking trails, particularly the Thorn Point trailhead located directly within the camp. Campers also value its quiet and remote location for tent...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers note the lack of water and uneven terrain as drawbacks, particularly for those considering RV camping.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Not for any sort of RV camping!" is a common reminder in user reviews due to small and uneven sites. Campers should bring water as none is available on-site. High-clearance vehicles are recommended...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is best suited for use during warmer months due to accessibility challenges during winter conditions.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Awesome small site next to two trailheads." - Scott Beutel. "If you are looking for a camp that really is for tent and backpacking camping, it looks good." - Sig Hilke.
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews note that the site across the creek may offer more privacy. No explicit numbering of campsites is available.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are not provided or mentioned.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related reviews are absent, and policies regarding pets are unclear.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025