Rincon Parkway is actually a path, not a park. It is a road that runs right next to the Pacific Ocean near Ventura. If you have an autonomous RV, you can camp there and your caravan door will be a literal stone’s throw from the ocean.
The campgrounds on Rincon Parkway are basically parallel parking spaces established between the road and the ocean. Those in the extreme south are the most beautiful. Near the north end, a concrete wall partially obscures the view. There is a narrow, sandy beach on the other side of large rocks lined up along the path. You have to climb up those big rocks to get to the water. But the views of the ocean, the Channel Islands, and the sunset are excellent. You can also see dolphins playing in the surf and human surfers too when the waves are good.
The camp is wedged between the ocean and the railroad track. The railway is active and you can expect to hear several trains passing by every day. It is also close to the freeway and you may hear passing traffic.
Despite its negatives including lack of shade, noise, and lack of facilities, most of the people who camp there seem to love Rincón. They especially love the views and the fact that the spots are right next to the water, and they think the sounds of ocean waves outweigh the annoyance of man-made noise.
What facilities are there on Rincon Parkway?
This campground is for fully autonomous RVs only. Tents or motorhomes are not allowed. It has 127 RV sites that are 45 feet long.
The only toilets are vault style (urinal holder) and there are no other amenities, such as running water. Campfires are not allowed, but you can bring a portable fire pit to use. If you want electricity, you will use the generator in your camper.
What you need to know before going to Rincon Parkway
All campsites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. They do not accept reservations. If you arrive late in the day during a weekend, vacation, or in the summer season, you will definitely need to have an alternate location in case it is crowded.
Bring cash to pay for your spot, which you put in an envelope and drop off at the self check-in locations.
One car and one RV are allowed per location, and a maximum of six people. There is an additional fee if you have more vehicles. There is a five-day limit on your stay from April to October and a fourteen-day limit from November to March.
The fines for parking in restricted areas are steep. The application is strict. Your budget will be better if you avoid getting a ticket by parking where it shouldn’t.
Dogs are allowed for a small fee per animal.
How to get to the Rincón Parkway campground
The Rincon Parkway Campground is located on Pacific Coast Hwy, between Faria and Hobson Beaches. It is between the cities of Ventura and Carpinteria (or having a broader view, between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara).
Get more details on their website
To get to Rincon Parkway from Ventura, head north on US Hwy 101 and take Exit 78. From there, drive south on CA Hwy 1.
