About this campground
La Panza Campground is full of opportunities to relax or explore the forest. Nearby is Machesna Mountain Wilderness where hiking, hunting and horseback riding are popular. Off-high vehicle (OHV) recreation is also plentiful in the area.
This campground is open daily and year-round. There are 15 single and spaciously situated campsites ideal for tenting, and moderate RVs under 16 ft. Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. You should plan to be completely self-sustainable for the duration of your trip. There is no potable water (drinking water) or electricity onsite. There is no dump station. This is a "dry" campground with five vault toilets. The road into the campground ends cul-de-sac style, but with adequate turn around.
What campers say
La Panza Campground is a remote, scenic spot in Los Padres with roomy sites, fire rings and dry pit toilets. It offers solitude and wildlife viewing, but facilities are very primitive: there is no potable water, not all sites have picnic tables, and toilets are basic. The access road is rough and rocky — higher clearance or 4x4 is recommended — and off-road vehicle activity can create daytime noise. Bugs and poison oak have been reported. Bring all water, supplies and insect repellent, pack out your trash. An adventure pass/reservations exist but enforcement appears sporadic.
Our summary of 26 traveler reviews.
Amenities
Sites
- Back-In
More
- .GOV
- .RECREATION
- Bathrooms
- Biking
- Campfire
- Dirt
- Dogs
- Family Friendly
- Firepits
- First Come First Served
- Pets
- Primitive
- Public Park
- Pull-In
- Tents
- US Forest Service
- Wildlife
26 reviews
Photos
Location
- Address
- Pozo Rd., Santa Margarita, CA 93453
- GPS
- 35.3538° N, 120.2624° W
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