Emma Wood State Park, Carpenteria, California

by Pam
(currently Medford, OR)

This is a state park right on the beach along the coast of California. It's dry camping - no hookups at all; and it was close to $50 a night. But you cannot beat the location - literally right on the beach.

We stayed there for one night in early June and it was absolutely beautiful. After talking to our 'neighbors' it seems that a lot of people come here year and year for their week or two get-away.

There is a park ranger at the entrance - very friendly and helpful. And there appeared to be porta-potties up there as well - a bit of a walk from the actual campsites though. They are very particular about extra vehicles - some of the spaces are not very big and I wasn't sure my little car was going to fit. (We did get it in.) There is an extra $10 night charge for your car IF it will fit.

While it was expensive, I love the beach and would probably stay here again for a night or two only as I'm not real big on dry-camping. Like I said, can't beat the location though!

http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=604