Family-friendly beach camping in Lake Casitas

Just outside of Ojai in the hills of Ventura County, Lake Casitas is a massive reservoir that provides drinking water to residents of the region while offering excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and shorefront camping. Run by the municipal water board, the Lake Casitas Recreation Area has 13 campgrounds with a mix of simple tent sites, electric sites, and full hook-up sites, plus two group camps, a bike rental shop, a bait shop, a cafe, and two boat ramps. While visitors aren't allowed to swim in the lake, there is a water park right by the lake with a lazy river and splash playgrounds for kids. 

• Best for RV campers: Fox Campground (Campground F) has sites with full hookups and 40-foot concrete parking pads.
• Best for anglers: Angler Campground (Campground A) is situated right next to a boat ramp and bait-and-tackle store.
• Best for families: Mallard Campground (Campground M) has a playground and is right by the model airstrip.

1. You can reserve your campsite up to 90 days before your departure date either online through the Casitas Municipal Water District, over the phone, by email, or even in person.
2. Summer weekends fill up early, so book as soon as you can to guarantee a spot.
3. A two-night minimum applies on weekends, and a three- or four-night minimum applies during public holidays.
4. If campsites are sold out for your preferred date, plenty of options sit in the immediate area, including Ventura County-run campgrounds, campsites in Los Padres National Forest, and privately owned Hipcamps.

Lake Casitas is a year-round destination, but the best months for camping are from April through October, when there's little chance of rain and temperatures are pleasant. Note that the campgrounds are often at capacity during the summer, so visit before Memorial Day Weekend or after Labor Day to avoid crowds. Anglers should note that the lake is stocked with Rainbow Trout at various points throughout the year. Night fishing is allowed on select evenings every month, weather permitting.

• The lake is used as a source of drinking water. Therefore, swimming and other body-contact activities aren't allowed.
• You can pick up groceries and other supplies in Ojai, a 10-minute drive from the park entrance.
• You can buy shower tokens through a machine at the guest services building. Bring cash (bills only).
• Due to droughts in the area, many of the trees in the lake are dry, which increases the likelihood of branches falling. Make sure to camp away from any potential limbs.
• Bears have been spotted in the Lake Casitas Recreation Area, so it's vital that you secure your food and cookware in your car when not using it.