Cross Campground

For Californians with an adventurous spirit and a love for the rugged beauty of our state's wilderness, Cross Campground in Santa Paula offers an exhilarating and deeply rewarding experience. This isn't your typical drive-up family campground; it's a backcountry gem nestled within the stunning Los Padres National Forest, promising a true escape for those willing to earn it. As locals, we often seek out those extraordinary places that challenge us physically while offering unparalleled natural wonders, and Cross Campground delivers on both fronts, making it a beloved destination for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Cross Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to an outdoor playground. Visitors rave about the "cool stuff to do," including natural water slides, thrilling cliff jumps, and engaging bouldering opportunities. The vibe here is undeniably "chill," with a friendly community of fellow adventurers. While the journey to the campground involves a challenging uphill hike with some "sketchy" spots that demand good balance and mobility, the rewards are immense. If you're prepared for a strenuous but incredibly scenic trek and ready to embrace the wild side of California, Cross Campground might just become your ultimate outdoor addiction.

Cross Campground is located in the backcountry near Santa Paula, CA 93060, USA, specifically within the Los Padres National Forest. It's crucial to understand that this is a trail camp, meaning it is not accessible by vehicle. Reaching Cross Campground requires a significant hike, often along the Santa Paula Canyon Trail, which is known for its challenging terrain.

The journey to Cross Campground is an adventure in itself. The hike is described as "uphill" and can be "sketchy at times," with "spots where you need to hold on to rocks and climb on the edge of a big 10 foot drop." This indicates that good mobility, balance, and a reasonable level of fitness are essential. It's strongly advised not to undertake this hike if you have balance issues or are not very mobile. While the return trip "back down is a breeze," the initial ascent and navigation of certain sections demand careful attention and preparedness.

The campground is approximately "35 minutes from the water slide" (referring to the Santa Paula Punch Bowls), implying that even these natural features require additional hiking beyond reaching the main camp. Access points typically involve trailheads from the Santa Paula area, leading into the Los Padres National Forest. Due to the demanding nature of the hike, packing light is highly recommended, as heavy packs can make the precarious sections even more challenging. The remote nature also means that rangers or official vehicles may not be frequently present, reinforcing the need for self-reliance and awareness of your surroundings.

As a backcountry trail camp within a National Forest, Cross Campground offers very limited, primitive services. Campers must be self-sufficient and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

• Primitive Campsites: The campground offers designated areas for pitching tents. Reviews mention "fire pits" at "all 3" sites and "plenty of room for tents." Some sites might have "good size rocks for chairs."
• Natural Water Source: Water is available from Santa Paula Creek, which runs near the camp. Reviewers confirm "good flow in Santa Paula Creek" and "water next to camping is flowing good & tastes great. Plenty of spots to filter from." However, all water must be filtered or treated before consumption, as it is not potable. Water levels are seasonal and can vary.
• Fire Rings: Campsites are equipped with "nice fire rings" and some have "grill/firerings." However, users must always check current fire restrictions in Los Padres National Forest, as fires are frequently banned, especially during dry seasons. A California Campfire Permit is required when fires are allowed.
• No Developed Restrooms: There are no flush toilets or vault toilets at Cross Campground. Campers must practice proper wilderness sanitation, burying human waste at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites.
• No Trash Services: It is emphasized that "people leaving trash behind" is a problem and campers are urged to "PICK UP YOUR TRASH!!!" This confirms that there are no trash receptacles, and a strict "pack it in, pack it out" policy is in effect for all waste.
• No Picnic Tables or Grills: Beyond simple fire rings, there are no developed picnic tables or grills. Campers must bring all their own cooking and seating equipment.
• No Potable Water: As mentioned, natural water sources require purification. There are no spigots or sources of treated drinking water.

• Natural Water Slides and Cliff Jumps: A major draw and highlight are the "natural water slides" and "cliff jumps" in the Santa Paula Punch Bowls area, located within hiking distance of the campground. These offer exhilarating opportunities for swimming and recreation in natural pools.
• Bouldering Opportunities: The rugged terrain around Santa Paula Creek provides excellent bouldering opportunities for those interested in rock climbing without ropes.
• Challenging Hiking: The hike to Cross Campground is a significant feature, known for being "uphill" with "sketchy" sections that require scrambling and careful footing. This makes it a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers and backpackers.
• Scenic Beauty: The Los Padres National Forest offers stunning natural landscapes, including canyons, creeks, and rugged mountain views, providing a picturesque backdrop for the camping experience.
• Peaceful and Chill Vibe: Despite the challenging access, the campground itself is described as having a "chill vibe" and being "very quiet, beautiful and peaceful," making it a serene retreat.
• Remote and Secluded: With limited cell service ("spotty" or "zero signal") and infrequent ranger presence, Cross Campground offers a true sense of disconnection and solitude, appealing to those seeking an off-grid experience.
• Wildlife Viewing: As a wilderness area, there are opportunities to observe various wildlife species, contributing to the immersive natural experience.
• Sense of Accomplishment: Successfully completing the challenging hike to the campground and enjoying its unique features provides a strong sense of achievement.
• Seasonal Water Flow: Santa Paula Creek provides a reliable water source for filtering, offering continuous sound and visual appeal (though flow varies seasonally).

As Cross Campground is a primitive trail camp within the Los Padres National Forest, there is no direct contact number for the campsite itself. All inquiries and essential information must be obtained through the managing authority, the Los Padres National Forest, specifically the Ojai Ranger District, which oversees this area.

Address: Santa Paula, CA 93060, USA (This refers to the general area where trailheads for Cross Campground are located, not a physical office or direct camp address).

For critical information regarding Cross Campground, current trail conditions, fire restrictions, or any necessary permits, please contact the Ojai Ranger District:

Ojai Ranger District:

Phone: (805) 646-4348

Los Padres National Forest Headquarters (General Information):

Phone: (805) 968-6640

Before embarking on your trip, it is absolutely essential to call the Ranger District. They can provide the most up-to-date details on trail safety, water availability in the creek, specific fire regulations (which are frequently updated in California, especially during dry periods), and any warnings regarding wildlife or trail closures. Given the challenging nature of the hike, being well-informed is paramount for a safe and enjoyable trip.

For Californians, Cross Campground represents an authentic, challenging, and profoundly rewarding wilderness experience right in our own backyard. It is perfectly suited for locals who have already explored many of our more accessible state and national parks and are now seeking a deeper, more immersive connection with nature, combined with an exhilarating physical adventure.

The allure of "natural water slides, cliff jumps, and bouldering" offers a unique draw, providing exciting recreational opportunities that go beyond typical camping activities. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking an adrenaline rush within a natural setting. The "chill vibe" and friendly community of fellow adventurers also appeal to Californians who appreciate a supportive and like-minded outdoor community.

While the "uphill" and "sketchy" hike with sections requiring careful foot and hand placement is a significant barrier for some, for experienced and mobile locals, it transforms the journey into a vital part of the adventure. It creates a sense of accomplishment and ensures that the campground remains relatively uncrowded, preserving its peaceful and pristine atmosphere. This remoteness, coupled with limited cell service, provides a much-needed digital detox, allowing for true relaxation and rejuvenation away from daily distractions.

Ultimately, Cross Campground embodies the spirit of self-reliance and respect for the wilderness, values that resonate strongly with many outdoor-loving Californians. It’s not a place for casual visitors, but for those prepared for a genuine backcountry challenge, it offers an unforgettable experience, rich in natural beauty and thrilling activities, confirming its status as a local treasure for the adventurous at heart.

Cross Campground

Santa Paula, CA 93060, USA