Pine Mountain Campground
4.2424 reviewsPine Mountain Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
Standard Nonelectric sites cost $30 per night during peak season, with $2 additional charges for weekends and holidays.
About this campground
Escape to Pine Mountain Campground, where six intimate campsites form a welcoming circle beneath towering pines and rolling hills. This peaceful retreat invites you to disconnect from the world below, offering essential comforts like picnic tables, barbecue grills, and fire rings for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. With just one pit toilet and no water sources, Pine Mountain embraces a back-to-basics camping experience that rewards the prepared traveler with unspoiled tranquility.
Pine Mountain Campground is a small, rustic campground with six tent-only sites, suitable for those seeking a quiet and remote camping experience. It is not equipped for RVs, group camping, or glamping.
Weather and SeasonsAt Pine Mountain, Mother Nature keeps you guessing with dramatic temperature swings and surprise weather events that add adventure to any stay. The high elevation creates a natural air conditioning effect during scorching summer days, while winter can transform the landscape overnight. One November camper captured the magic perfectly: 'We set up camp, went to sleep, and woke up to... snow!' – a reminder that mountain weather writes its own rules.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,650 feet above sea level, Pine Mountain Campground serves as your personal climate refuge. When valley temperatures soar, this elevated sanctuary offers a refreshing retreat where cool mountain breezes replace sweltering heat, making it an ideal summer escape for those seeking natural air conditioning.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living forest gallery where majestic Jeffrey pines, aromatic sugar pines, and stately white firs create a verdant canopy overhead. The understory bursts with character through twisted manzanita branches, fragrant California sage, and hardy scrub oak. Spring and early summer transform the landscape into nature's wildflower showcase, painting the hillsides with vibrant colors. Keep your eyes skyward for circling red-tailed hawks and listen for the rhythmic drumming of woodpeckers. If fortune smiles, you might witness the awe-inspiring silhouette of a rare California condor soaring on thermal currents.
Geological RegionRising majestically above the untamed Sespe Wilderness, Pine Mountain Campground claims its throne at 6,650 feet, where gentle hills cradle ancient pine forests. This elevated perch offers commanding views and a sense of separation from the world below, creating a natural sanctuary where wilderness and sky converge in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the official sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe six campsites are described as nicely sized and spacious, with room for typical camping setups.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level varies by site, with some offering more seclusion than others. Site 6 is noted for being the most private as it is located on its own side of the campground.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #6 is recommended for its privacy and shade. Site #1 has easy access to trails. Avoid site #6 due to a broken bench seat as mentioned in reviews.
Best CampsitesSite #6 offers great privacy and shade; sites #5 and #6 are popular for group camping.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 6 people per site
- $10 fee for each extra person per night.
Groups
No group camping sites are available within Pine Mountain Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSix campsites arranged in a circle with a large open area in the middle.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season dates: May 15 - October 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov and other platforms indicated in the official source.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is limited; site-specific recommendations are advised.
Cancellation PolicyReservations canceled before arrival incur a $10 fee; late cancellations also forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pine Mountain Campground offers limited recreational activities directly within its boundaries, but its surrounding areas provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring natural features. The Boulder Canyon trailhead is accessible nearby. While biking and fishing are available within a 30-minute drive, the campground's primary appeal lies in its quiet, relaxing atmosphere and access to nearby trails.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Boulder Canyon trail (23W03) and trails in the nearby Reyes Peak Campground area, such as Chorro Grande Trail and Raspberry Spring Trail. Hikers are encouraged to explore the surrounding hills for scenic views.Biking
Biking is available within a 30-minute drive from the campground. The nearby Middle Sespe Trail is recommended for mountain biking enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with common sightings including red-tailed hawks, woodpeckers, chickadees, deer, and occasional California condors. Coyotes and bears also inhabit the area.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though user reviews note the possibility of snow during the colder months.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are available directly within the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in provided fire rings except during certain fire restriction periods. "DO make sure that you call ahead about fires."
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife includes bears, coyotes, and deer. Many reviews mention flies and yellow jackets as nuisances, especially during summer.
Active alertsWood fires and barbecues may be prohibited during wildfire season.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency help is miles away; users are advised to avoid hiking alone.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - October 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available; visitors must pack out all their waste.
Proximity to water featuresNo running water is available; visitors should bring ample water.
Common complaintsVault toilets are noted as outdated, smelly, and fly-infested. "The door to the vault toilet is warped and hangs wide open," attracting flies.
HostHosts are available but may charge fees for extra vehicles or people.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTo get to Pine Mountain Campground, follow Highway 33 to the turnoff at Pine Mountain Summit (6N06), mile marker 42.50. Turn right and follow the partially paved road another 4.7 miles. Pine Mountain Campground will be to your right.
The road up and down the mountain to the campgrounds is winding and narrow, with blind turns. "The Pine Mountain Ridge Road is narrow, so take it slow - 15 mph," according to one user review.Nearby places
Nearest stores and gas are located in Ojai, approximately 15 miles south along Hwy 33.
Nearby supplies
Stores and gas are located 15 miles south along Hwy 33, in Ojai.
Camper Reviews
4.2
24 reviews
Pine Mountain Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful and beautiful setting, but also raise significant concerns about the condition of the vault toilet, the prevalence of bugs, and the lack of potable water. The campground is appreciated for its seclusion and scenic views, while its remote location and basic amenities require careful preparation.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised aspects include the quiet and relaxing atmosphere, scenic views, spacious campsites, and access to nearby trails. Many campers enjoy the wildlife sightings and the natural beauty of...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the poor condition of the vault toilet, pervasive issues with flies and yellow jackets, the difficulty of the narrow access road, and the lack of water and trash...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water, bug spray, and packing out all trash. Some suggest bringing a portable toilet due to the vault toilet's poor condition.
Based on 24 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently mention bugs such as flies and yellow jackets as a significant nuisance. Winter reviews occasionally note snow, which adds to the picturesque scenery but requires...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Amazing campground, the only reason I give it four stars is because of the bathroom situation.' - Brigette Thoresen
2. 'Quiet, relaxing, and beautiful. Bring lots of water and trash bags.' - El...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 6 is noted for its privacy and shade, while Site 5 is mentioned for its proximity to a short trail with great views. Some reviews highlight issues with specific sites, such as a broken bench at...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention experiences with pets.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025