Middle Lion Campground
4.0943 reviewsMiddle Lion 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
Facility rates are $30 per night for standard nonelectric sites. Additional fees include $2 per weekend and $2 per holiday. The rates shown do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled alongside a babbling creek, Middle Lion Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with its single-loop design that creates a close-knit camping community. This charming retreat welcomes tent campers and small RVs (under 20 feet) to settle into sites equipped with sturdy tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilets and no running water, it rewards visitors with an authentic wilderness experience where the sounds of the creek replace the noise of modern life.
Middle Lion Campground accommodates tent campers and small RVs (up to 20 feet). The sites are primitive, offering a basic, natural camping experience. No group sites, glamping, or cabin accommodations are available.
Historical SignificanceThe campground serves as a gateway to the storied Sespe Wilderness, where geological wonders and ecological treasures await discovery. Trails from the area lead adventurers to the cascading Rose Valley Falls and the otherworldly Piedra Blanca formations—massive white rocks that stand as ancient sentinels, their pale surfaces telling stories of millennia past. This landscape has long captivated naturalists and geologists who recognize its unique role in Southern California's natural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsMiddle Lion transforms with the seasons, offering year-round adventure for those prepared for nature's moods. Winter blankets the campground in crisp mountain air and occasional snow dustings, while spring through fall brings warmer days accompanied by nature's tiny aerial acrobats—gnats and mosquitoes that remind visitors to pack their repellent. As darkness falls, temperatures can plummet dramatically, sometimes dropping below freezing even during fire ban periods, making warm layers essential for comfortable stargazing sessions.
ElevationPerched at 3,250 feet above sea level, Middle Lion Campground offers a refreshing escape from valley heat while delivering the crisp, clean air that only mountain elevations provide. This altitude brings cooler temperatures year-round, with nights that invite cozy campfire conversations and mornings that greet campers with dew-kissed meadows and invigorating mountain air.
Natural Features and SceneryMiddle Lion Campground rests in nature's embrace, where towering cottonwood trees cast dappled shadows across campsites and provide a canopy of golden leaves in fall. The surrounding mountains, cloaked in fragrant chaparral, burst into spectacular wildflower displays each spring, painting the landscape in vibrant purples, yellows, and oranges. Throughout it all, a gentle stream meanders through the campground, its soothing melody providing the perfect soundtrack for relaxation and reflection.
Geological RegionCradled within a scenic canyon where chaparral-covered slopes rise dramatically on all sides, Middle Lion Campground occupies a special pocket of the landscape near the renowned Sespe Wilderness. Here, ancient geological forces have carved a sanctuary where cottonwood groves thrive along the creek banks, wildflowers carpet the hillsides in seasonal waves of color, and the peaceful stream has patiently sculpted its course through countless centuries, creating the perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking connection with California's wild heart.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information explicitly provided about accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites are small, with limited flat areas for pitching tents. Some sites are noted to be uneven or located on inclines.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Sites 1 and 2 are the most private, while others, especially in the middle, are closer together and lack privacy.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #2 is particularly private with creek access and shade. Site #3 also has direct creek access but can be sloped. Site #4 is described as poorly designed and located in the middle of a dirt road.
Best CampsitesSites 1, 2, and 3 are recommended for privacy, creek access, and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out in a circular loop with eight individual sites, some of which are close together.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability exists and is occasionally possible, but there is no guarantee due to high demand and potential claim-jumping by other campers.
Cancellation PolicyThere is a $10 fee for changes to reservations. Cancellations incur a $10 fee and late cancellations are subject to additional penalties, including losing the first night’s recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Middle Lion Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Lion Canyon Trail starts directly from the campground, leading to spectacular views and wilderness areas. A nearby creek provides opportunities for wading and exploring. A variety of other trails, such as the Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail and Rose Valley Falls Trail, are within a short driving distance. Seasonal activities, like snow play in winter, are accessible in higher elevations nearby.
Hiking
The Lion Canyon Trail (22W06) begins at the back of the campground, offering a 1.3-mile hike to the Rose Lion Connector Trail. Hikers can explore additional paths leading to East Fork Lion Camp, West Fork Lion Camp, and Nordhoff Ridge for scenic views. Other nearby trails include the Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail and the Rose Valley Falls Trail.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are accessible within 30 minutes of the campground, though specific details on fish availability were not provided.Swimming
The creek running through the campground offers areas for wading and dipping in the water, providing a refreshing activity during warmer months.Biking
Mountain biking is not allowed in the wilderness trails but is permitted on the Middle Sespe Trail, which extends eight miles upriver.Wildlife viewing
Campers have reported sightings of deer, rabbits, frogs, woodpeckers, and other bird species. The serene natural environment supports diverse wildlife activity.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snow play in nearby higher elevation areas.Water Sports
No mention of specific water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings unless restricted due to high fire danger.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include rough roads, cold temperatures, lack of cell service, overgrown trails with poison ivy, and the possibility of wildlife like deer and hunters. "Avoid hiking alone and tell someone your plans," as stated in guidelines.
Active alertsNo active alerts were mentioned. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.1 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 services require driving back to Wheeler Gorge to call the sheriff due to lack of cell service in the campground. The nearest medical care and supplies can be found in Ojai, 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1–December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available on-site, but there are no recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresNext to a peaceful stream that features swimming holes. Nearby natural attractions include Rose Valley Falls and the Sespe River.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently highlight the rough access road, lack of drinking water, poorly maintained vault toilets, and proximity of sites leading to reduced privacy.
HostNo host is available, making reserved spots vulnerable to claim-jumping.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFollow Highway 33 north of Ojai for 14.7 miles to the Rose Valley Road turnoff (6N31) which is at mile marker 25.84. Turn right and follow the paved road 4.8 miles. Turn right and go 0.8 miles to Middle Lion Campground. Watch out for rough sections of road.
The road to Middle Lion Campground is partially paved and narrow with rough sections, including potholes. It is recommended to use high-clearance vehicles or SUVs for access.Nearby places
Ojai (15 miles south along Highway 33)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and other essentials are located in Ojai, 15 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.1
43 reviews
Middle Lion Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has a mixed reputation, with an average sentiment of 3.81 out of 5 for its overall camping experience. Visitors frequently praise its quiet, remote location, scenic surroundings, and creek access. However, concerns about rough road conditions, campsite size, and lack of water or cell service are commonly mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the beautiful creek running through the campground, proximity to hiking trails, peaceful atmosphere, and nature-rich environment. 'The creek is amazing,' wrote one reviewer,...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the roughness of the road leading to the site, lack of potable water, uneven campsites, and maintenance issues with the vault toilet. Some reviewers also reported...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of drinking water and plan for no cell service. Firewood should be acquired beforehand, as none is available on-site. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended due to rough road...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most recommended seasons due to milder weather and vibrant natural surroundings. Winter camping is possible but can be extremely cold, with some reviewers noting frozen water...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The creek that runs right by the site is beautiful.' - Amy KCkid
2. 'The road was very bad though getting there. You need a high-clearance car.' - R. Joshua Adams
3. 'Bring your own water..(and...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 and #3 are most praised for privacy and creek access, while site #4 is criticized for being located in the middle of a road. Site #7 is noted for its lack of flat areas.
Based on 43 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for disabilities.
Based on 43 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 43 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025