Bakeries, Cupcake Places and Donut Shops in the Conejo Valley

There’s nothing wrong with enjoying an occasional donut, cupcake or pastry as long as they are consumed in moderation. And moderation for me is a dozen donuts. So on that nutritional note, we’ve compiled a list of local area bakeries and donut shops in Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village and Agoura Hills for those of you looking to expanded your baked good horizons.

Bakeries

Cafe Ficelle Boulangerie & Patisserie open its doors on April 9, 2024 at 1710 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, across from Denino’s Pizzeria in Thousand Oaks. With locations in Ventura and old town Camarillo, Cafe Ficelle offer freshly baked goods, breakfast and lunch items, coffees, teas and more.  www.cafeficelle.com (805) 908-0200

Carrara Pastries is an Italian pastry shop located in the Whizin Market Square, 28914 Roadside Drive, Agoura Hills. Carrara offers fresh cakes, pastries like cannoli, cream puffs, tiramisu and fruit tarts, www.carraras.com (818) 661-9006

Emil’s Bake House is located at the Shops at Kanan Village, 5005 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills (at Agoura Road, where IHOP and Islands are located). Emil’s opened in December 2019, offering freshly-baked pastries, breads, desserts, fruit tarts, cakes, muffins, fresh quiche, Lavazza coffee, fresh juices and more. www.emilscafe.com (818) 532-7664

Francis Bakery Panaderia is located at 1080 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks (next to Cajun Crab Shack), offering Mexican baked goods, pastries and cakes. (805) 241-8682

Historia Bakery Cafe is located at 11 E. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks (at Moorpark Road), in the Grocery Outlet plaza. Historia opened in October 2019, serving a variety of decadent creations, including danish, crepe cakes, pastries, croissants, as well as sandwiches, juices, teas and coffees. www.instagram.com/historiabakerycafe (805) 371-1127

Itala Magdalena Bakery opened on the 2nd floor of The Oaks Mall (east side, top of the escalator, near Macy’s) in July 2021. Offers a variety of fresh pastries and coffee. Open daily. italamagdalena.com (805) 418-4959

La Cereza Cafe & Bakery opened at 280 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks in September 2023, offering fresh baked pastries, bagels, empanadas and other goodies. www.instagram.com/la.cereza.cafe

La Princiere French Bakery, Patisserie and Cafe is now open in the Northstar Plaza in Thousand Oaks, 1321-1345 Thousand Oaks Blvd. La Princiere offers long-fermentation artisanal breads, French baguettes, sourdough and a full French breakfast, lunch and eventually, dinner menu. www.facebook.com/frenchbakerypatisseriecafe.

Le Macaron French Pastries is coming soon to Janss Marketplace, in the small space to the right of Old Navy, across from The Mighty Axe. Le Macaron is a dessert shop serving French macarons, pastries, and gelato, as well as European style coffees. Learn more at lemacaron-us.com.

Le Pain Quotidien opened in March 2015 at the Westlake Plaza, next to Gelson’s, at 2728 Townsgate Road, Westlake Village. They offer croissants, pastries, tarts and other baked items, as well as breakfast and lunch items. Pronounced “Luh Pan Koh-Ti-Dyan.” www.lepainquotidien.com (805) 322-4696

Mercados Guadalajara Tortilleria Y Panaderia is located at 2454 W. Hillcrest Drive, Newbury Park. They offer Mexican cakes, pastries and other baked good as well as tamales and other foods and drinks. (805) 375-2333

Nothing Bundt Cakes is located at 1610 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Suite D, Thousand Oaks. Everything you could ask for in bundt cakes is right here - different sizes, multi-tiered cakes, “bundtlets” and more. www.nothingbundtcakes.com/bakery/ca/thousand-oaks (805) 446-3082

Sarai Bakery Panaderia is located at 2326 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks in the Select Plaza (at Conejo School Road, across from The Lakes at Thousand Oaks). They carry a variety of traditional Mexican baked good specialties as well as other Mexican foods (burritos, tortas, tamales, tacos, etc.) (805) 494-1584

Siblings Bakery opened on January 14, 2021 in the former home of Jaime Cakes at 1625 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks. They offer custom cakes and other goodies…muffins, cupcakes, brownies, etc. www.siblingsbakery.com

Viktor Benês Bakery is located inside Gelson’s Market at 2734 Townsgate Road, Westlake Village. They offer high quality pastries, cakes, bread, danish, cupcakes, cookies, coffee cakes and snacks as well as custom cakes. viktorbenesbakery.com (805) 496-0045

Village Bakery & Cafe is located at 5839 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills in the Agoura Hills City Mall. They offer delicious pastries, cakes, bagels and breads, not to mention a full range of breakfast and lunch items, smoothies and Turkish coffee. www.agouravillagebakery.com (818) 736-9898 Open daily at 7am.

Cupcakes and Cookies

Sweet Arlene’s is located in the Westlake Plaza at 960 S. Westlake Blvd., Westlake Village. Sweet Arleen’s is a 3-time winner of the Food Network Cupcake Wars, offering a wide variety of flavors - red velvet, vanilla, chocolate, lemon, carrot walnut, peanut butter, chocolate marshmallow, strawberry cream, banana caramel, coconut snowball, mocha truffle, pina colada, cookies and cream, Boston cream pie, peach cobbler…the list goes on. sweetarleens.com (805) 373-7373

Cookies, anyone? Crumbl Cookies opened at The Shoppes at Westlake Village, 30768 Russell Ranch Road, on July 14, 2022, offering fresh baked cookies from a rotating weekly menu. crumblcookies.com (805) 601-6653.

Crumbl Cookies also operates a 2nd Conejo Valley location at The Village at Newbury Park, 935 Broadbeck Drive, Unit B.

The Cookie Cafe opened at 30651 Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Agoura Hills in December 2024, serving, among other things, its delicious, old-fashioned chocolate chip cookies in most any quantity. www.thecookie.cafe 747-222-6221

Donut Shops

We are not lacking a variety of donut shops in the Conejo Valley - Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Oak Park and Agoura Hills.

Star Donuts is located in the Smart & Final plaza at 2160 Newbury Road, Newbury Park. Open nearly 24 hours a day and also offering boba drinks and sandwiches. (805) 499-3877

Sugarbox Donuts is located in the Wendy-Kimber Plaza at 3303 Kimber Drive, Newbury Park. Also offers croissant sandwiches and iced drinks. (805) 498-4318

Judy’s Donuts is located at 2393 Michael Drive, Newbury Park. Offering an array of standard donuts but specializing in custom donuts for any occasion. (805) 498-6877

Newbury Donut is located at 766 Wendy Drive, Newbury Park, offering donuts, ice blended drinks and sandwiches. (805) 498-6454

Foster’s Donuts is located at 1398 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, offering donuts, croissant sandwiches and drinks. (805) 495-1174

Best Donuts is located near the Thousand Oaks Auto Mall at 3900 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village, offering mostly donuts, (805) 495-4436

Donut Depot is located in the Select Plaza, just east of the The Lakes at Thousand Oaks at 2354 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks., offering donuts as well as ice blended drinks. (805) 494-9840

Fresh Donuts is located in the Trader Joe’s plaza at 409 E. Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, offering donuts, croissant sandwiches and ice blended drinks. (805) 492-0566

Gladstone Donuts is located at 664 Lindero Canyon Road, Oak Park, offering donuts, breakfast bagels, croissant sandwiches and ice blended drinks. (818) 777-4400

Heart-shaped Valentine’s Day donuts at Dunkin.

Dunkin’ (they removed donuts from their name years ago) operates at 30895 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village (at Lindero), offering donuts, sandwiches, espresso drinks and more. www.dunkindonuts.com (818) 991-5555

Yum Yum Donuts is located at 5833 N. Kanan Road, Agoura Hills, offering donuts, bagels, breakfast sandwiches, croissants and more. yumyumdonuts.com (818) 706-1402 Open 24 hours.

Donut hesitate to CONTACT US with any updates to this list.

And How About Some Bagels

Here are places in the Conejo Valley serving up fresh bagels:

Western Bagel at 3825 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Suite G, Westlake Village has been a popular bagel place for decades. westernbagel.com (805) 496-0344

East Coast Bagel in the Westlake Plaza (next to Sea Casa) at 1014 S. Westlake Blvd, Suite 2, Westlake Village is another long-time bagel standby. eastcoastbagelco.com (805) 494-9099

Noah’s NY Bagels is an old standby at 33 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks. Next to Jamba Juice. locations.noahs.com/us/ca/thousand-oaks/33-n-moorpark-rd (805) 381-9893

Baking No More

E. T. Donuts in the Oakbrook Plaza in Thousand Oaks closed its doors 3/1/21.

Flatiron Bagel at 1817 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks in the Oak Leaf Square is officially closed as of April 2021.

The beloved Chocolatine French Cafe at 2955 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, served its last croissant on Sunday, August 27, 2023.

Karma Baker opened in the Pavilions Plaza at the southwest corner of Lindero and Kanan in October 2014 and closed its doors on March 30, 2024.

Sprinkles Cupcakes was located at The Promenade at Westlake from October 2013 until it closed its doors in late January 2025. One of my favorite treat places when the kids were little.

Stay Cool in the Pool! Community Swimming Throughout Ventura County

Stay cool this summer and year-round at some of these community swimming pools, water parks and splash pads in Ventura County and surrounding areas. For updates and additions, contact us!

Conejo Valley (Conejo Recreation & Park District)

Community Pool at Cal Lutheran University Samuelson Aquatics Center is a year-round facility, offering recreational and lap swimming 7 days a week during the summer months. Call 805.241.0894 or visit www.crpd.org. General admission is $4 ($3 for 62+ with ID). Water is heated 80 to 84 degrees year round.  www.crpd.org/aquatics.

Newbury Park High School Community Swimming Pool is at 456 Reino Road. Open during the summer only. Entry fee $4 per person. Call 805.498.6906 or visit www.crpd.org/facilities/community-pools.

Thousand Oaks High School Community Swimming Pool is at 2323 N. Moorpark Road is open during the summer only. Call 805.496.8564 or visit www.crpd.org/facilities/community-pools.

Conejo Valley/Agoura - Other

• Daland Swim School in Thousand Oaks offers group and individual lessons.

• Daland Swim School also offers summer swimming lessons at the Lindero County Club beginning in May 2025.

• Conejo Valley YMCA in Thousand Oaks heated indoor swimming pool open 7 days/week.

• Water Wings Swim School in Agoura Hills offers group and individual lessons

Children’s Splash Pad/Water Area at Oak Canyon Community Park, 5600 Hollytree Drive, Oak Park. Hours of operation are 10am to 7pm. Splash Pad season is Memorial Day to Labor Day. Free of charge. 818.865.9304

Kids love the Interactive Fountain at Janss Marketplace.

Moorpark/Simi Valley

Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District offers a large community swimming pool at Rancho Simi Community Park, 1765 Royal Avenue. Pool hours at www.rsrpd.org/recreation/aquatics.php. 2025 open recreation hours are 1-3pm M-F 6/19 to 8/13 and 1-4pm Sat/Sun 6/7 to 9/14 . Admission $4 for ages 2 to 49 and $2 ages 50+.

Rancho Tapo Splash Pad

Childrens' Splash Pad Area at Rancho Tapo Community Park, 3700 Avenida Simi. Free. Opens Saturday, May 25, 2024 and closes on Monday, September 2nd. Hours are 11am to 2pm and 3-7pm daily. www.rsrpd.org/business_detail_T9_R45.php

Simi Valley Aquatics is available for swim lessons and birthday parties only.

Simi Valley Family YMCA heated indoor swimming pool open 7 days/week.

Camarillo/Oxnard

Pleasant Valley Aquatic Center offers an indoor swimming pool with eight swimming lanes, a one meter diving board, 65 foot spiral water slide and more. Pool heated between 81 and 83 degrees. Open Tues/Thur/Fri/Sat for recreational swim from 1:30-4pm 6/16/25 to 8/24/25. $4 for ages 4+, free to ages 3 and under and $3 ages 60+. Visit www.pvrpd.org/aquatics or call 805.987.8198. 

Camarillo Family YMCA swimming pool open Mon-Sat. Call 805.484.0423 or visit www.ciymca.org/locations/camarillo-family-ymca

There's a "Pop Jet Fountain" at The Collection at Riverpark in Oxnard, on Town Center Drive in front of the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar and adjacent to Larsen's Grill.

Ventura and Up the Coast

Ventura Aquatic Center has a 25 meter recreational pool, 50 meter competition pool, playground pool, two slides, and more! Open swim free for age 2 and under, $10 for ages 3 and up. Visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/612/Aquatics or call 805.654.7511 for details. BEST TO RESERVE A SPOT IN ADVANCE AS CAPACITY IS LIMITED.

Casitas Water Adventure features a Lazy River, Mega Play Unit Structure with 2 water buckets and 5 slides (2 for children; 3 for teens/adults), Splash Pad and Lagoon. 2025 season runs from May 25 to August 12 (weekdays); September 13 (for weekends). Weekend morning sessions 10:30 am to 2 pm and afternoon sessions 3 to 6:30 pm. Weekday hours are 11am to 6pm.

Call 805.649.2233 or visit www.casitaswater.org/casitas-water-adventure to learn more and reserve a spot. Cost is $20 per person on weekdays and $28 for weekends. Free entry for under two years of age.

Ventura Family YMCA has 2 indoor heated swimming pools and is open 7 days/week.

Carpinteria Community Pool is located at 5305 Carpinteria Avenue. Day passes are $5 for 12 and under, $7.00 for ages 13-64, $5 for seniors. Recreational swimming on weekdays varies; Saturdays from 11am to 3pm. Visit carpinteriaca.gov/parks-and-recreation/carpinteria-community-pool for more information.

The Leo Robbins Community Sailing Center at Marina Park in Ventura is a U.S. Sailing Association certified facility for lessons in sailing, kayaking and navigation for all ages.

Other Places Around Town

The Calabasas Tennis & Swim Center located at 23400 Park Sorrento is open 7 days/week. $7 for adults, $4 for seniors $1 for kids under 13. (3 and under are free). Pool hours vary. Visit www.cityofcalabasas.com/government/community-services-parks-recreation/tennis-swim-center or call 818.222.2782. Pools heated to 82 degrees year-round.

The Splash Pad at De Anza Park at 3701 Lost Hills Road, Calabasas is usually open during the summer Mon-Fri 11am to 5pm

Malibu Community Pool at Malibu High School, 30215 Morning View Drive. Outdoor pool heated to 82 degrees. $3 per person. Visit www.malibucity.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Malibu-Community-Pool-7 or call 310.589.1933 for details.

The Fillmore Aquatics Center at 575 1st Street opens Memorial Day through Labor Day each year for recreational swimming Monday through Friday from 11:30am-3:45pm and Saturdays 10am to 4pm. More information and fees at www.fillmoreca.com/176/Parks-Recreation or 805.524.4902. 

And let's not forget the incredible BEACHES close by! CLICK HERE for links to over 40 public beaches throughout Ventura County, stretching north to Carpinteria and south to Malibu.

Water Parks Outside of Ventura County

Knott's Soak City in Buena Park (about 70 miles from Thousand Oaks)

Legoland California Water Park in Carlsbad (135 miles from Thousand Oaks)

Raging Waters Water Park in San Dimas (75 miles from Thousand Oaks)

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Valencia (50 miles from Thousand Oaks)

Hansen Dam Aquatic Center in Lakeview Terrace with a large pool, cabanas and two water slides. 

Laugh it Up! Live Comedy in and Around Ventura County

Looking for laughs around Ventura County? Here are some great options to consider.

Levity Live Comedy Club at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard offers a weekly lineup of stand-up comedy. oxnard.levitylive.com

The Hillcrest Center for the Arts hosts “Stand-Up Comedy on the Hill” on designated Saturday nights, hosted by Jason Love. Visit www.hillcrestarts.com for upcoming shows.

The Canyon Club in Agoura Hills is known primarily for music also hosts top-notch comedians. Reserve a dinner table and get guaranteed seating! www.canyonclub.net

The Bank of America Performing Arts Center Thousand Oaks hosts all types of performances...musicals, concerts, lecture, ballet, dances, plays and comedy! bapacthousandoaks.com

Giggles Santa Paula - Live comedy shows with top talent at the Glen Tavern Inn in Santa Paula. www.giggleslive.com/santa-paula

Comedy Nights at the High Street Arts Center in Moorpark on designated Saturday nights posted at highstreetartscenter.com.

Ventura Improv Company has brought made up on the spot laughs to Ventura County since 1989, include monthly live shows and more. www.venturaimprov.com

Jest Improv is a Ventura-based comedy school that offers shows at the Bunker Theater in Ventura, improv classes, workshops and more. www.jestimprov.com

Funny Girl Events - Local comedian Steph Clark hosts events at various local are venues. More info at www.funnygirlevents.com.

Free Range Comedy is a comedy improv troupe that performs periodic comedy shows throughout Ventura County. www.instagram.com/freerangecomedysocal

Humor No More

The Copa Comedy Club (formerly Ventura Harbor Comedy Club), at Ventura Harbor Village), closed its doors on December 19, 2023.

Tell Me a Little Bit About Newbury Park

Newbury Park is a community located in the western portion of Thousand Oaks. Most of Newbury Park became part of Thousand Oaks by community vote sometime in the 1960s and 1970s. Thousand Oaks became a city in October 1964.

A view of Newbury Park from Boney Peak in October 2021. (Feet Model: Conejo Joe)

Egbert Starr Newbury (Photo Courtesy Conejo Valley Historical Society)

Newbury Park is named after Egbert Starr Newbury, who owned thousands of acres of land in the Conejo Valley after moving to California from Michigan for health reasons in 1871.  Newbury was one of the three largest Conejo Valley landowners of his time. He and his wife Fannie became the first postmasters in the Conejo Valley in 1875.  The post office was located in a small compound near their house, which was located at the current location of the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. 

The other major landowners at that time were John Edwards, who owned much of the current Newbury Park/Thousand Oaks area north of the 101, and Howard Mills, who owned much of what today is Westlake Village and Hidden Valley.

Edwards sold 10,000 acres of what is now central Thousand Oaks to Edwin and Harold Janss in 1893.  The Janss Corporation also bought thousands of acres of land in Newbury Park (Friedrich, Running Springs and Borchard Ranches) in 1962. 

There were efforts to incorporate Newbury Park in 1961 and 1963 that failed due to a lack of sufficient votes.

Over a 30 month period beginning in the Fall of 1876, only 6 inches of rain fell in the Conejo Valley.  This drought brought devastation to landowners, most of whom lost their crops and livestock and had to sell at a loss or went bankrupt.  The Newburys were no exception; they moved back to the midwest in 1877.  Egbert fell ill to pneumonia in 1880 and passed away at the young age of 36.

The Newburys lived here only six years, so why is it still called Newbury Park? Because the name of the Newburys' post office never changed! The Newbury Park Post Office has changed locations a number of times (including 1602 Newbury Road from May 1968 until it moved to its current location at 3401 Grande Vista Drive in 2013). So the Newbury name and legacy live on here in the Conejo Valley.

Horse tied to a sign indicating the Newbury Park Post Office, in 1909. The location was near modern-day Lynn Ranch. (Courtesy of the Thousand Oaks Library Local History Photo Collection).

Sources: "The Conejo Valley - Old and New Frontiers" by Carol A. Bidwell and "The Newburys of Newbury Park" by Miriam Sprankling

But wait...there's more to Newbury Park! Casa Conejo is also part of the Newbury Park community but is not an incorporated part of Thousand Oaks. It is considered a census-designated place in Ventura County, with its own Municipal Advisory Council. Casa Conejo is the first planned community in Newbury Park and was built in the early 1960s. It has an area of .5 square mile and is bound by Borchard to the south, Old Conejo Road to the north, Jenny Drive (east of Newbury Park High School) to the west and Sequoia Middle School to the east.

TELL ME ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THE STREET NAMES IN THE CASA CONEJO NEIGHBORHOOD

Interested in historical pictures of the area going back to the 1950s?  Click here to read about the work of prolific Conejo Valley photographer, Ed Lawrence. 

Click here for a history of Thousand Oaks. Thousand Oaks is over 56 square miles and Newbury Park represents about 40% of that square footage. Thousand Oaks was incorporated as a city on October 7, 1964.

Three dozen or so things to do in Newbury Park

Another three dozen or so kids' activities in Newbury Park

Yet another three dozen or so sports and fitness activities in Newbury Park

Breakfast Eateries In and Around the Conejo Valley

Breakfast. Is it the most important meal of the day? Perhaps. But who cares, we’re just hungry and want to eat something delicious for breakfast right here in the Conejo Valley. And to that end, we’ve compiled a list, in no particular order, of eateries in the Conejo Valley that are known for their breakfast options.

(While hours of operation are listed, they are subject to change, so check with the eatery to confirm. Contact us with updates, addition and edits.)

Country Harvest is located at 3345 Kimber Drive in Newbury Park and has served the community since May 2002. Country Harvest opens at 7:30 a.m. daily for traditional breakfast options like Corned Beef Hash & Eggs, Three-Egg Omelets, eight different Benedict (open-faced English muffin) options, favorites like Chicken & Waffles, pancakes and more. They also have locations in Camarillo and Moorpark. countryharvest.restaurant (805) 375-4598.

Honey & Herb Belgian Waffle House is located in the Conejo Gateway Plaza at 765 Wendy Drive, Newbury Park Dr. Here you will find a unique array of savory and sweet waffle options. Open for breakfast and lunch Mon to Thu at 8 a.m. and Sat/Sun at 7:30 a.m. honey-and-herb.com (805) 375-9998

CiCi’s Cafe is located at 30990 Russell Ranch Road in Westlake Village, across the parking lot from Lure Fish House. CiCi’s, which originated in 2006 and opened this location in December 2016, is known for its incredible selection of unique pancakes, waffles, and crepes as well as savory breakfast and lunch items. The menu is over 30 pages long! Open at 7:30 a.m. daily. ciciscafe.com (818) 874-3391

Side Street Cafe is located at 996 Lawrence Drive, #103 in Newbury Park, tucked into an industrial park, but well worth going slightly out of your way for. Open Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sat/Sun 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Specializes in an all day breakfast menu featuring egg breakfasts, egg scramblers, egg benedicts, omelettes, waffles, pancakes, French toast and other specialties. sidestreetcafenp.com (805) 499-9323

Zooza Cafe is located in the Paseo Market Place at 3687 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks. Open 8am to 5pm daily with a breakfast menu that includes omelets, egg sandwiches, oatmeal and more. zoozacafe.com (805) 496-9669

The Royal Egg Cafe at 30815 E Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Westlake Village (in the North Ranch Gateway Plaza) offers a variety of organic breakfast items, including savory favorites, avocado toasts, breakfast burritos and much more . Opens daily at 8 a.m. theroyaleggcafe.com (818) 532-7710

Mikey’s Restaurant opened in the former home of The Nook Restaurant at 579 Ventu Park Road, Suite D, Newbury Park in mid-January 2024. Similar menu to The Nook, with a wide range of breakfast specialties. Open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. mikeysrestaurants.com

Pickles Deli & Restaurant originally opened in 2006 at 1940 Newbury Road in Newbury Park. Open daily at 9 a.m. until 8 p.m., this traditional Jewish deli serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their breakfast menu is served all day includes egg dishes, lox, omelettes, Mexican specialties, French toast, pancakes and much more. picklesdeli.com (805) 480-4800

Brent’s Delicatessen & Restaurant at 2799 Townsgate Road in Westlake Village offers a large number of breakfast items - pancakes, French toast, fish plates, omelets, benedicts, egg specialties and more. Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. brentsdeli.com (805) 557-1882

Agoura’s Famous Deli is located at 5915 Kanan Road in Agoura Hills in the Agoura Hills City Mall. You’re in luck for breakfast - pancakes, egg dishes, omelettes, waffles and more are offered . Open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.. agourasfamousdeli.com (818) 889-9113

Eggs ‘n’ Things in the Ralphs’s shopping center at 1542 Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks is one of four Eggs ‘n’ Things in Ventura County. Their extensive breakfast menu includes omelettes, French toast, pancakes, their special Swedish Pancakes, scrambles, benedicts and more. Open for breakfast at 6 a.m. weekdays and 7 a.m. weekends. eggsnthings.net (805) 497-1711

Cafe ViVi (new in 2025; previously Jinky’s Cafe) is located at 1724 E. Avenida De Los Árboles, Thousand Oaks (805) 493-8809 Opens at 8am daily. Similar menu to Jinky’s; website to be added when available.

Corner Bakery Cafe is located at 111 S. Westlake Boulevard in Thousand Oaks. Open daily at 7:30 a.m., Corner Bakery offers pancakes, scramblers, egg bowls, breakfast sandwiches, breakfast wraps, oatmeal, yogurt and more. cornerbakerycafe.com/location/thousand-oaks (805) 496-6993

Denny’s is located at 2830 Camino Del Rios in Newbury Park, serving breakfast 24/7. Who doesn’t love a Grand Slam? And of course pancakes, crepes, omelettes and classic breakfast that Denny’s offers. (805) 498-4440 dennys.com

IHOP is located at 5031 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills (open 24/7) (818) 991-4957 IHOP offers, if you can believe it, pancakes! Plus omelettes, crepes, Belgian waffles, French toast and breakfast combos. The chain’s name was officially shortened from International House of Pancakes to IHOP in 1979. restaurants.ihop.com

JOi Cafe, located at 2855 Agoura Road in Westlake Village in the Westlake Commons, is a fantastic plant-based eatery that’s open for breakfast daily at 7 a.m. You’ll find unique choices on their breakfast menu, such as Superfood Pancakes, The JOi Scramble (no eggs involved), JOi Breakfast Burrito and more. www.joicafe.com

Sunrose California Eatery opened on October 24, 2023 in the Whizin Market Square in Agoura Hills. Their breakfast and brunch is served all day, featuring a variety of options including toasts, burrito, omelet, pancake, egg dishes and more. Opens for breakfast at 8 a.m. daily. www.thesunroseca.com

The Galloping Hen opened its Thousand Oaks location at 3085 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd (at Hampshire) in November 2024 They serve breakfast and lunch, including omelettes, eggs benedicts, other breakfast dishes, burgers, salads and more. Learn more at thegallopinghen.com.

Marmalade Cafe at The Promenade at Westlake, opens daily at 7:30 a.m. for breakfast. You know, I’ve eaten there dozens of times, but never for breakfast, but their menu looks great! Southern Fried Chicken & Waffles, Chorizo & Eggs, frittatas, benedicts, pancakes, combos and much more. I’ll have to check it out. www.marmaladecafe.com/locations#WestlakeVillage-Location (805) 370-1331

Justine’s Cafe is located in the Westlake Village Industrial Park, 31356 Via Colinas #103 in Westlake Village. Open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Justine’s offers a full breakfast menu that includes egg dishes, omelets, breakfast burritos, French toast and more. www.justinescafe.com (818) 879-8786

The Cookie Cafe opened in December 2024 at 30651 Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Agoura Hills. Open daily for breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner, they offer omelettes, breakfast burritos, quiche, waffles, eggs, sweet crepes, and more. www.thecookie.cafe (747) 222-6221

Bo’s House of Omelettes & Waffles (formerly the iconic Harold’s House of Omelettes), has served the Conejo Valley since 1961. Located at 2440 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks and open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, Bo’s serves Belgian waffles, omelettes (well duh), eggs Benedict, huevos rancheros, scrambles, pancakes, combos and more. houseofomelettesto.com (805) 906-2138

The Breakfast Cafe, believe it or not, serves breakfast, of all things, daily, starting at 7 a.m., at 686 Lindero Canyon Road in Oak Park. You will find all of the standard breakfast favorites here…pancakes, French toast, waffles, omelettes, breakfast burritos, egg combos and more. www.breakfastcafe.online (818) 865-8807

P & L Burgers is located at 2000-A East Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks in the Oakbrook Plaza. So what is a place named after burgers on this breakfast eateries list? Because they serve a great breakfast daily starting at 7 a.m. - egg dishes, omelettes, pancakes, French toast and more. pandlburgers.com/BreakfastMenu.html (805) 493-5336

There is a separate list of COFFEE SHOPS IN THE CONEJO VALLEY and all of these coffee shops serve some form of breakfast - Five07 Coffee Bar and Eatery, Honeycup Coffeehouse, Longevity Coffee, Caffe Aroma, Ragamuffin Coffee Roasters, Conejo Coffee, Cafe Sapientia, and others are on this list.

Novo Cafe in The Shoppes at Westlake Village has a nice breakfast menu that includes all your favorites - benedicts, French toast, egg dishes, omelettes and more. But geared towards late sleepers - they open at 11 a.m. Tue-Sat and 10:30 a.m. Sun. www.novocafe.com/westlake (818) 318-1466 (updated 12/14/23)

There is a separate list of BAKERIES IN THE CONEJO VALLEY, many of which offer up more than pastries for breakfast -Village Bakery & Cafe in Agoura Hills, Le Pain Quotidien in Westlake Village, Emil’s Bake House in Agoura Hills, Historia Bakery Cafe in Thousand Oaks, La Cereza Bakery and Cafe, Furn Saj Bakery in Calabasas, Cafe Ficelle and others.

Agoura Village Bakery is located in the Twin Oaks Shopping Center at 5839 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills. In addition to a fantastic array of decadent pastries and other baked goods, they offer omelettes, scrambles, French toast, pancakes, protein shakes and more. Opens at 8 a.m. daily. www.agouravillagebakery.com (818) 736-9898

You may not be aware that Cronies Sports Grill is open daily for breakfast at 9 a.m. Mon-Fri and 8 a.m. Sat/Sun at 1620 Newbury Road in Newbury Park (805) 498-7888 and 8 a.m. Mon-Fri and 7 a.m. Sat/Sun at 5687 Kanan Road in Agoura Hills (818) 889-0889. Cronies’ breakfast menu includes pancakes, waffles, eggs, breakfast sandwiches, omelets and more. www.cronies.com/menu?menu=breakfast-menu#1

Panera Bread’s Conejo Valley locations in Thousand Oaks (Janss Marketplace) (opens at 7 a.m. daily) and Westlake Village (5784 Lindero Canyon Road) (opens at 7 a.m. Mon-Sat and 8 a.m. Sun) serve breakfast sandwiches, baked egg soufflés, oatmeal and more. www.panerabread.com

Rise Southern Biscuits Righteous Chicken opened in the summer of 2022 in the Conejo Valley Plaza at 1408 N Moorpark Road in Thousand Oaks. Rise specializes in chicken, biscuits, donuts and other southern specialties. Very limited outdoor seating. Open 7 am - 2 pm risebiscuitschicken.com/locations/thousand-oaks (805) 291-4274

The Goebel Cafe is open to the general public (not just seniors) at the Goebel Adult Community Center, 1385 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. If you’re looking for a low cost meal, this is the place to go. Cash and checks only. See www.crpd.org/programs-sports/adults-seniors and scroll down to Breakfast at the GACC for the menu.

On a side note, something I’ve found interesting in compiling this list is that most eateries offer omelettes, while a few offer omelets. According to Grammarly.com, omelet is the American English spelling whereas omelette is the British English spelling. Thus, I regret to inform you that most Conejo Valley breakfast eateries are not using proper American English. But I guess as long as the omelette is delicious, we’ll give them a pass.

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Breakfast No More

Chocolatine French Cafe was located at 2955 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks, but closed its doors in August 2023.

The Newbury Park IHOP closed its doors on November 19, 2023.)

Jinky’s Kanan Cafe at 29001 Canwood St in Agoura Hills closed its doors on 12/12/23 but they indicate that they plan to reopen elsewhere in Agoura Hills.)

Stella’s Gourmet Restaurant at 2385 Michael Drive, Newbury Park, which served the local community, since 1981, closed its doors in December 2023.

The Nook Restaurant in Newbury Park closed in December 2023 but reopened under new ownership as Mikey’s Restaurant in mid-January 2024. It originally opened in September 2019.

JOiBIRDS Cafe at 299 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd in Thousand Oaks opened in November 2023 but closed in October 2024.

Jinky’s Cafe Thousand Oaks is now Cafe ViVi as of January 2025.

Compilation of Italian Eateries in the Conejo Valley

Where can you sit down and be served a plate of pasta and other delicious Italian food in the Conejo Valley (including Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Oak Park, Agoura Hills and portions of Calabasas)? Here goes, in alphabetical order, starting with M, for manicotti.

Made in Italy Bistro, 3825 East Thousand Oaks Blvd., Unit F, Westlake Village (in the North Ranch Shopping Plaza) opened its doors on March 4, 2019 by chef Antonio Sessa. www.madeinitalybistro.com 805-370-8667

Marcello Ristorante at 140 West Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks has served fine Italian food in the Conejo Valley for well over 30 years. www.marcelloristorante.com 805-371-4367

Maria’s Italian Kitchen, 29035 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Agoura Hills originated in the Los Angeles area in 1968 and now operates in eight locations, including this one in the Conejo Valley. www.mariasitaliankitchen.com/agoura-hills 818-865-8999

Noi Due Trattoria and Pizzeria is located in the Agoura Village Center, 29020 Agoura Road and opened in February 2019. No website. 818-852-7090 Noi Due means “the two of us.”

Nonna Ristorante, 951 S. Westlake Blvd., #102, Westlake Village nonna.restaurant 805-497-8482

Novo Cafe, 30770 Russell Ranch Road, Westlake Village opened at The Shoppes at Westlake in June 2019. Novo also serves its authentic regional Italian cuisine at its original location in Burbank. www.novocafe.com 818-318-1466

Rustico Ristorante, 1125 Lindero Canyon Road, Ste A1, Westlake Village serves the cuisine of central Italy. tuscany-restaurant.com/rustico/index.html 818-899-0191

Spumoni Italian Cafe, Pizzeria & Bar, 1714 Newbury Road, Ste E, Newbury Park has served delicious Italian cuisine since 2007. www.spumoninewburypark.com 805-499-6200

The Original Pizza Cookery, 75 West Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, has been operating since 1975 - it relocated from Woodland Hills to the Conejo Valley in June 2019. www.pizzacookery.com 818-887-4770

Tuscany il Ristorante is located in the Westlake Plaza at 968 S. Westlake Blvd, Suite 4, Westlake Village, where it has operated since 1987. tuscany-restaurant.com 805-495-2768

Vincitore Italian Restaurant is located in the Agoura Hills City Mall at 5869 Kanan Road. The name Vincitore means “winner” in Italian. www.vincitorerestaurant.com 818-706-2200

Basta is located in the Whizin Market Square at 28863 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills (it opened in Fall 2019) and the grand opening of its 2nd location at 299 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks is Thursday, December 5, 2024. www.bastaagoura.com 818-865-2019

WeVINO Restaurant & Wine Lounge opens April 15, 2025 at 31149 Via Colinas, #601, Westlake Village, serving modern, refined interpretations of Italian classics, along with a selection of over 5,000 wines in its cellar. Learn more at www.we-vino.com.

Boccaccio’s Restaurant is located at The Landing at Westlake Lake, 32123 Lindero Canyon Road, #110, Westlake Village, operating since 1968. www.boccacciosrestaurant.com 818-889-8300

Buca di Beppo Thousand Oaks is located in the Janss Marketplace, 205 N. Moorpark Road. www.bucadibeppo.com/locations/thousand-oaks 805-449-3688

Casa Nostra Ristorante, 717 Lakefield Road, Ste H, Westlake Village is located in an industrial park but has a beautiful indoor/outdoor seating arrangement. casanostrala.com/westlake-village 805-495-0053

Cedro Italian Restaurant, 2385 Michael Drive, Newbury Park opened by three Italian friends in January 2024 and in May has been added to the Michelin Guide California. www.cedrorestaurant.com 805-498-7035

Farfalla Trattoria is located at The Promenade at Westlake, 160 Promenade Way, Westlake Village. It opened in 2008, serving authentic dishes by chef/co-owner Santino Coccia, who is originally from Milan. www.trattoriafarfalla.com/location/westlake-village 805-497-2283

Campgrounds and RV Facilities In Ventura County and Adjacent Areas

Looking to "rough it" locally in the vicinity of Ventura County and surrounding areas? Here's a compilation of local camping facilities run by federal, state and private organizations that may help you make that final push to get off of that sofa and start smelling the fresh air! As you can see, there are literally thousands of campsites available in and within a one hour radius of Ventura County.

There are a number of camping options in the local Santa Monica Mountains, including Leo Carrillo, Point Mugu State Park and Malibu Creek State Park.

Senior Citizen Discount at State Parks!

California state parks offer senior citizen discounts for those age 62 or older with proof of age. Discounts include $1 discount for vehicle day use (except for fees under $2) and $2 discount per night for most campgrounds. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=23800

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Leo Carrillo State Park is located at 35000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. The Canyon Campground has 135 family sites, each with a table and fire ring. Restrooms, drinking water and coin-operated showers are available. "Hike and Bike" campsites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The group campground at the back of the canyon can accommodate up to 50 people. Peak season is March 1 to November 30 and off-peak is the month of December. Campsite is steps away from 1 1/2 miles of beach with tidepools, coastal caves and reefs to explore. Maximum of 8 people per campsite. Fees as of March 2023 are $10/person for Hike and Bike sites, $45 to $60/night for canyon sites and $225/night for the group site, plus $7.99 reservation fee. Visit ReserveCalifornia.com and search for “Leo Carrillo SP” to make reservations. More information about Leo Carrillo State Park at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=616.

Camping at Leo Carrillo State Park is extremely popular. (This was photo was taken before the Woolsey Fire of November 2018.)

Point Mugu State Park is located at 9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, offering a variety of camping options described below.

The Big Sycamore Canyon Family Camp is north of PCH, offering 58 tent/RV spaces along with drinking water, restrooms, showers and fire rings. There is also 4 tent spaces available for "Hike and Bike" camper. Pets are allowed on leash in the campground. Fees as of March 2025 are $45/night and $10/night for Hike and Bike spots. Visit ReserveCalifornia.com and search for “Point Mugu SP” to make reservations.

Thornhill Broome Family Camp offers 68 tent/RV spaces with no hookups, but you're talking literally on the beach camping. No flush toilets; just chemical toilets. Cold outside showers. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings. Pets are allowed on leash in the campground. Fees as of March 2025 are $35/night. Visit ReserveCalifornia.com and search for “Point Mugu SP” to make reservations.

Thornhill Broome RV Park as seen from across PCH.

La Jolla Valley Hike-In camping accommodates up to 3 tent spaces; no water, no fires. $10 per person, per night, payable at the La Jolla Valley/Ray Miller Trail parking area. There is also a group hike-in spot for 10 to 20 people.

There is also a reservable La Jolla Group tent camp for 9 to 50 people available near the entrance to the La Jolla Valley section of Point Mugu State Park that has drinking water, flush toilets, showers and a fire pit. Fees as of March 2025 are $225/night. This is a walk-in group camp for tents only with parking available for up to 12 vehicles, 25 yards from the campground. Located across from Thornhill Broome. Visit www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Point Mugu SP” to reserve the group camp.

La Jolla Valley Group Camping Area

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The Danielson Group Multi-Use Area is located in Sycamore Canyon within Pt Mugu State Park and is available for groups of 10 to 50 people. There is drinking water, flush toilets, showers, tent spaces and fireplace. Pets allowed on leash in campground. Contact California State Parks to book the reservation at 805.488.5223 or 805.488.1827.

The Sycamore Group Multi-Use Area accommodates 10 to 25 people and includes drinking water, chemical toilets, tent spaces and fire rings. Pets allowed on leash in campground. Contact California State Parks to book the reservation at 805.488.5223 or 805.488.1827.

Malibu Creek State Park at 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas offers a family campground with 62 tent/RV spaces, drinking water, restrooms, showers and fire rings. Pets are allowed in the campground (but not in the back country trails). Fees $45/night + $7.99 reservation fee as of March 2025. There is also a group campground available for 10 to 60 people at $225/night. Reservations at ReserveCalifornia.com by searching for “Malibu Creek SP” or by calling 800-444-PARK.

The National Park Service maintains the Circle X Ranch Group Campground is located at 12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu. There is only one group campsite located here for tent camping only. Pets on leash are allowed. Drinking water and pit toilets available, along with picnic benches and grills. No electricity. Room for 10 to 75 people. Reserve a spot at www.Recreation.gov. Cost as of Summer 2019 was $35/night for 10-25 people, $75/night for 26-50 and $125/night for 51-75. Open year-round. Enjoy hiking Sandstone Peak and the Grotto Trail from Circle X Ranch! (NOTE: CIRCLE X RANCH GROUP CAMPGROUND CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO DAMAGE FROM WOOLSEY FIRE. CHECK FOR UPDATES AT RECREATION.GOV.)

Tent camping is available year round on all five islands in Channel Islands National Park in National Park Service-managed campgrounds. Some of them have water. All have tables and vault toilets. There are a total of approximately 70 campsites. Campgrounds on each island are as follows:

• Anacapa Island: Year-round camping. No water. 7 sites.

• Santa Cruz Island East - Scorpion Anchorage Campground open year-round about 1/4 mile from the beach. Water is available here. 25 campsites and 6 group sites.

• Santa Cruz Island Mid - Del Norte Campground at Prisoners Harbor open year-round. Backcountry camp four miles from the harbor. No water. 4 sites.

• San Miguel Island - Above Cuyler Harbor is back country camping open May through October. No water. 9 sites.

• Santa Rosa Island - At Water Canyon March through November. 15 sites. Water available.

• Santa Barbara Island - Above the Landing Cove April through October. No water. 10 sites.

Advance reservations required by calling 877.444.6777 or through Recreation.gov. Currently $15/night fee as of March 2025 for individual campsites. No fires permitted; you can only use enclosed gas stoves.  More information at www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/camping.htm.

Scorpion Anchorage campground on Santa Cruz Island (Channel Islands National Park)

The 1.75 million acre Los Padres National Forest (LPNF) stretches across almost 220 miles from Monterey County through San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura and Kern Counties. The Ojai Ranger District of LPNF includes the Matilija Wilderness and part of the Sespe Wilderness. There are five campgrounds in the Ojai portion of LPNF, including reservable Wheeler Gorge Campground and first-come, first-served campgrounds, Middle Lion, Pine Mountain, Reyes Peak and Rose Valley.

Wheeler Gorge Campground in Ojai is open year-round with dozens of available spots for tents and RVs. Parking spurs are paved and vary in length, accommodating RVs up to 35 feet. At the top of the campground is the Wheeler Gorge Nature Trail. Rangers at nearby Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center provide informative tours during summer/fall months. The campground is adjacent to Matilija Creek and is bordered by oak and sycamore trees and evergreen shrubbery. Most sites are shaded and summer temperatures reach up to 95 degrees.  Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets are provided, but drinking water is not available. Visitors must bring their own water and remove their trash from the campground. Make reservations on Recreation.gov at THIS LINK.

Photo Credit: Tom Alexander

Rose Valley Campground in Ojai is located at an elevation of 3,450 feet. It is open year-round. There are nine campsites located in a single loop, each with tables, BBQ grills, and/or fire rings. There is one vault toilet in the campground and another across from the lake. Drinking water is not available, so be sure to bring your own. An Adventure Pass is required to be displayed on car ($5/day or $30/year). Half a mile hike gets you to the Rose Valley Falls. Directions: Take Highway 33 north from Ojai 14.7 miles to mile marker 25.84.  Turn right at the Rose Valley Road turnoff and follow the paved road for 3.1 miles. Turn right again at the Rose Valley sign and drive 0.6 miles into the campground.

Reservations for 6 of the 9 campsites are available at www.recreation.gov at THIS LINK or by calling 1-877-444-6777. The remaining 3 sites are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Middle Lion Campground is surrounded by chaparral covered mountains, shaded by cottonwood trees and is next to a peaceful stream. It has eight first-come, first-served campsites located along a single loop. Tables, barbecue grills and/or fire rings are provided at each site. There is a vault toilet. No drinking water on site; you must bring your own. Follow Highway 33 north of Ojai for 14.7 miles to the Rose Valley Road turnoff. Turn right and follow the paved road 4.8 miles. Turn right and go 0.8 miles to the campground.

Pine Mountain Campground is nestled in a small valley along the top of Pine Mountain and consists of six campsites in a circle with a large open area in the middle. Opens May 1st. There are tables, BBQ grills and/or fire rings, and one pit toilet at this campground.  Water is not available so be sure to bring your own.  The campground is surrounded by moderate hills and is a quiet place for relaxing. At an elevation of 6,650 feet, it offers cooler temperatures on hot summer days. The campground is closed during winter months, through April. Follow Highway 33 to the turnoff at Pine Mountain Summit (mile marker 42.50).  Turn right and follow partially paved road another 4.7 miles. Campground will be on the right. Reserve a spot at www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273843.

One mile further up from Pine Mountain Campground, at an elevation of 7,000 feet is Reyes Peak Campground. It is situated along the southwest side of a ridge and consists of six campsites, each with a table, BBQ grill and a fire ring. There is one pit toilet located near the first few campsites. No water is available, so be sure to bring your own. Panoramic views! You can see the Cuyama Badlands on one side and the ocean from the other side. Reserve a spot at www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273844.

The Lake Casitas Recreation Area located at 11311 Santa Ana Road in Ventura offers over 600 campsites. Sites can accommodate tents, tent trailers, campers and RVs, all with picnic tables and fire rings and some with playgrounds nearby. Book early as campgrounds sell out on weekends from mid-March through September. Casitas Water Adventure is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Make reservations at reservations.casitaswater.org.. Sites are limited to six campers. Lake Casitas is a drinking water supply, so swimming is not allowed in it. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash no longer than six feet long and are not allowed within 50 feet of the lake. Boating on the lake is allowed.

The 60 acre Lake Piru Recreation Area is located on the western shore of Lake Piru, a reservoir in the Los Padres National Forest. Lake Piru offers 238 tree-shaded campsites, coin-operated hot showers and a store. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring and grill top. The dam is owned and operated by the United Water Conservation District of Santa Paula and a third party operates the campsite; visit explorelakepiru.com/#reservations for more information and to make reservations. Boat rentals and fishing available. Fees vary and are listed on the website. Or call 805.521.1500.

Other nearby California State Parks with camping are at McGrath State Beach, Emma Wood State Beach, Carpinteria State Beach, El Capitan State Beach, Gaviota State Park and Refugio State Beach as described below.

The McGrath State Beach Campground has 174 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, and restrooms with coin-operated hot showers. A group campsite and a hike-and-bike site are also available. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “McGrath SB” or by calling 800-444-7275. Dogs allowed on leash but not on the beach. The beach is five miles south of Ventura off Highway 101 via Harbor Boulevard. Available March through December. (NOTE: MCGRATH CAMPING AREAS STILL CLOSED - LAST UPDATE MARCH 2025.)

Emma Wood State Beach offers camping for self-contained vehicles (e.g. RVs) only (tents not permitted). No water, restrooms, electricity, fire rings, phones or dump stations are available.  There are 90 spaces, with a maximum vehicle length of 40 feet, due to small turnaround areas. Camping at Emma Wood State Beach is reservation only from mid-May through Labor Day. Pricing as of March 2025 is $40/night and $280/week at www.reservecalifornia.com by searching for “Emma Wood SB.”

Four developed group campsites with room for 30 campers are available at Ventura River Group Camp, located two miles south of Emma Wood. Reservations required year-round. There is also primitive RV camping for groups up to 50 people and 20 vehicles.  The maximum length for RV is 45 feet. Railroad tracks and Highway 101 are adjacent to the campground and can be noisy. Dogs on leash are allowed on campground but not on the beach. Chemical toilets available, as are cold showers. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Emma Wood SB”.

Carpinteria State Beach is a mile long beach that is great for swimming, surf fishing, tidepool exploring and camping. Dogs are allowed only at the picnic area. Four campground areas with 216 family campsites and seven group campsites available.  Exit the 101 at Casitas Pass Road, go west to Carpinteria Avenue, make a right at the signal; then turn left on Palm.  The beach is at the end of Palm Avenue near 4th Street. Call 805.968.1033 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=599. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Carpinteria SB.” Family campsites are $45/night as of March 2025 plus reservation fee. There are also some “Hike and Bike” campsites available on a first come, first serve basis for $10 per person, per night, with a two night consecutive limit.

El Capitán State Beach is located off Highway 101, 17 miles west of Santa Barbara at Exit 117. A sandy beach, rocky tide pools, and stands of sycamore and oaks along El Capitán Creek. It’s a perfect setting for swimming, fishing, surfing, picnicking and camping. A 132-site campground is open year-round. A short walk takes you to the beach. Each site has a picnic table and stove or fire ring; restrooms with hot showers are nearby. Several sites are paved for RVs only. Some sites accommodate trailers and RVs up to 42 feet in length. Five group campsites, accommodating 40-100 people, are available. Hike and bike campsites are also available. Dogs allowed on leash but not on the beach. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “El Capitan SB.” Family campsites $45/night as of March 2025. More on El Capitan at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=601. (2/13/25: EL CAPITAN CLOSED TO VEHICLES AND CAMPING FOR ENTRANCE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.; UPDATES AT www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=601.

Gaviota State Park is located about 33 miles west of Santa Barbara on Gaviota Beach Road. Gaviota is popular for swimming, picnicking and surf fishing. This section of the coast was first called "gaviota" (seagull) by soldiers of the Portola Expedition in 1769. A pier on the west end of the beach is used by divers and surfers. A six mile trek up to Gaviota Peak offers a view of the coast and the Channel Islands. There are 41 developed, first-come, first-served campsites available at Gaviota that can accommodate tents, trailers up to 25 feet and RVs up to 27 feet. Campground closed between October 1 and March 31, the campground is open Friday through Sunday only. Dogs on leash allowed, but not on the beach. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Gaviota SP.” Family sites $45/night plus reservation fee as of March 2025.

Refugio State Beach is located at 10 Refugio Beach Road in Goleta, about 20 miles west of Santa Barbara. Refugio offers coastal fishing, trails, picnic sites. and palm trees. There are over 60 campsites with an eight camper maximum per campsite. Dogs on leash allowed, but not on the beach. Reserve campsites at www.reservecalifornia.com and search for “Refugio SB.” Campsites $45/night plus reservation fee as of March 2025. More information on Refugio State Beach at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=603.

The County of Ventura maintains campsites at Camp Comfort and Dennison Park in Ojai, Foster Park in Ventura, Kenney Grove Park in Fillmore, Oak Park in Simi Valley, Steckel Park in Santa Paula, Tapo Canyon, Simi Valley and Toland Park, Santa Paula. To make reservations, visit www.venturaparks.org or call 805.654.3951 for more information. Maximum stay in Ventura County parks is 14 nights per ordinance.

Camp Comfort is located about a mile from Downtown Ojai at 11969 North Creek Road, Ojai. Hwy 33, S.E. on Hermosa Road. San Antonio Creek runs through this tree-lined park. Individual and group campsites are available at www.ventura.org/parks-department/inland-parks/camp-comfort-ojai. There are 15 campsites. There are restrooms, drinking water, a playground, picnic tables, BBQs and fire rings. Showers, full hook-ups and laundry available. Dogs are allowed on up to 6 foot leash for a $1/night fee (2 dog maximum). Sites $46 to $48 per night plus $8 reservation fee as of March 2025.

Dennison Park is located at 7250 Santa Paula-Ojai Road in Ojai, on Hwy 150, south of Nordhoff Road. This is a quiet park with views of the Ojai Valley, offering a feeling of seclusion. There are covered family/group barbecue areas near the entrance of the park available by reservation only. Fees are $25-$27 per night plus an $8 reservation fee as of March 2025. There are 31 campsites. RV camping in lower portion of park only with 35 foot maximum length; no hook ups. Dogs allowed on leash for $1/night fee (2 dog maximum). Individual and group campsites are available at www.ventura.org/parks-department/inland-parks/dennison-park-ojai.

Foster Park is located at 438 Casitas Vista Road, Ventura, off of Highway 33. The park is lush with plenty of trees and two separate campgrounds, Residence Campground (14 campsites) and Red Mountain Campground (23 campsites). The Ojai Valley Trail runs through the park, which is great for cycling, walking and running. Maximum of 6 campers per site. Dogs allowed on leash for $1/night fee (2 dog maximum). Individual and group campsites are available at www.venturaparks.org. $28 or $49/night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024.

Kenney Grove Park at 823 North Oak Avenue, Fillmore is a developed RV campground with over 50 campsites for RVs and tents. It is owned by the county but is leased to a private party that manages the campground. Most sites have water and electrical hookups and some have fire rings and tables. Park use is by reservation only. There is a playground, restrooms, softball field, horseshoe pits, hot showers and other amenities. Dogs allowed on 6 foot leash in campground only ($1/night fee, 2 dog maximum). Ten full hookups available. Call 805-524-0750 for information. Make reservations at www.venturaparks.org.$40/night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024.

Oak Park Campground in Simi Valley is just off of the 118 freeway at 901 Quimsa Drive. There are approximately 30 campsites in this rustic, 100.5 acre open space park. Available for $40/night plus $10 reservation fee (as of May 2024). There are two playgrounds, amphitheater area, fire pits, restrooms and more. Maximum of 6 campers per site. Dogs allowed on leash for $1/night fee (2 dog maximum). Individual and group campsites are available at www.venturaparks.org.

There's a county-run 50 site campground at Steckel Park, 8080 Mistletoe Road, Santa Paula. Santa Paula Creek runs through this campground surrounded by rolling hills, mountains and trees. There's a playground, horseshoe pits, picnic tables, restrooms, etc. $28 or $49 per night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024. Dogs allowed on a 6 foot leash. Individual and group campsites are available at www.venturaparks.org.

Tapo Canyon Regional Park is located in the midst of the rolling hills and canyons of the Santa Susana Mountains north of Simi Valley at 4651 Tapo Canyon Road. Hikers, equestrian riders, and mountain bikers enjoy this rugged and rural park, which features picnic areas, an equestrian arena and a RV campground with 16 full hook ups. Dogs allowed on a 6 foot leash. Individual and group campsites are available at www.venturaparks.org. $49 per night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024.

Rincon Parkway is located between Faria Beach Park and Hobson Beach Park on Highway 1 off the Ventura Freeway. 127 RV use only parking spaces are available. Tent camping is not allowed. All RVs must be fully self-contained, as there are no electrical hook ups, dump stations, shower/bathroom facilities or water onsite, although there are a handful of porta-johns. There is a 5 day parking limit from April 1 to October 31 and a 14 day limit from November 1 to March 31. Dogs allowed on 6 foot leash. There is a $1 charge per dog. Book a spot at venturaparks.org/rincon/camping. Prices are $47 per night plus $10 reservation fee as of May 2024.

(There is no day use at Rincon Parkway.)

Hobson Beach Park at 5210 W. Pacific Coast Highway in Ventura is north of Faria Beach Park and the Rincon Parkway. Similar to Faria Park, Hobson Park is wedged between the Pacific Ocean and the base of the Santa Ynez mountains along Highway 1 off the Ventura Freeway. There are 31 first come, first served sites available, 10 with hookups and the rest without. The beach is steps away and there are showers and a concession stand. Dogs allowed on a 6 foot leash ($1/night fee; 2 dog maximum). Book sites at THIS LINK. Sites range from $48 to $69 as of May 2024.

Faria Beach Park at 4350 W. Pacific Coast Highway in Ventura is south of Hobson Beach Park. Another popular beachfront spot with 42 spaces available on a first come, first served basis. Tent and RV camping available. There are showers and a concession stand. Dogs allowed on a 6 foot leash ($1/night fee; 2 dog maximum). Book sites at THIS LINK. Fees range from $42 to $69 per night as of May 2024.

Mount Pinos in the Los Padres National Forest is the tallest peak in Ventura County, located about 1 hour, 45 minutes away from the heart of Thousand Oaks, adjacent to Kern County.

• Mt. Pinos Campground is available in the summer/fall months for $30/night at recreation.gov at THIS LINK. 19 sites. Dogs allowed.

• The McGill Campground is a reservable campground with 78 family sites and 2 group sites at THIS LINK.

• The walk-in Chula Vista Campground is located adjacent to the Nordic Base area. See www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lpnf/recarea/?recid=10982.

Directions to Mount Pinos: From I-5, take Frazier Park exit (Frazier Mountain Park Road). Go west approximately 6 miles. The road name changes to Cuddy Valley Road. Continue on it up Mt. Pinos. The road name changes to Mt. Pinos Highway.

The County of Santa Barbara runs two popular camping parks, Cachuma Lake and Jalama Beach. Both accept online reservations, but 40 sites at Cachuma and 20 sites at Jalama are first come, first served for walk-in customers. 

Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is located at 2225 Highway 154, Santa Barbara, midway between the beach and the town of Solvang. Tent sites, hookups, cabins, yurts and group area available. As Cachuma Lake is a domestic water supply, swimming, water skiing, windsurfing, or any other body contact with the water is prohibited. Fishing is allowed. Detailed list of fees at www.countyofsb.org/788/Cabins.

Jalama Beach County Park is located at 9999 Jalama Road in Lompoc, an hour drive from Santa Barbara. Named after what used to be a Chumash Indian settlement named Halama. ARCO donated 23.5 acres of land to the County of Santa Barbara in 1943. There are 109 campsites, all overlooking the ocean or beachfront, each with a picnic table and BBQ pit, with hot showers, restrooms and water nearby. 31 sites offer electrical hookups and dump stations are available. Detailed list of fees at www.countyofsb.org/788/Cabins.

Privately Operated Campgrounds In the Area

Ventura Oaks RV Park is located at 255 Burnham Road in Oak View, offering 60 full hookup sites just two miles from Lake Casitas. Park-like setting with picnic tables, fully furnished laundry area, picnic tables and WiFi throughout. Long-term rentals available. Visit www.venturaoaks.com for more information.

Santa Barbara RV Park is located at 516 S. Salinas Street. It is adjacent to the highway, so there will be some noise, but it is also located within a couple miles of the beach, the Santa Barbara Zoo and downtown area. There are 30 sites. Site has bathrooms, showers and a laundry room.  Free WiFi. Dogs allowed. Visit www.santabarbararv.com.

Ventura Beach RV Resort is located at 800 West Main Street in Ventura. The 14 acre park has 180 spots and is just a short walk to the ocean. Amenities include a pool, hot tub, recreation room, small playground, onsite general store, and half basketball court. Visit www.vbrvresort.com for more information.

Prospector Ranch in Westlake Village is nestled in the hills of the Santa Monica Mountains, offering camping options here in the Conejo Valley, including a luxury safari tent, an Airstream or bring your own RV. www.prospectorranch.com/glamping

Rancho Oso Resort is located at 3750 Paradise Road, Santa Barbara, 8 miles east of Cachuma Lake. Accommodations include RV camping, horse camping, covered wagons, resort cabins and Tipi camping. rvonthego.com/california/rancho-oso-rv-camping-resort.

El Capitan Canyon Resort is located at 11560 Calle Real, Goleta, adjacent to El Capitan State Beach. This is luxury camping, with nicely appointed cedar cabins with beds, kitchens and restroom, as well as yurts that are spacious with bedding and nearby restroom/shower facilities. There’s also picnic tables, fire pits, and a store with all the stuff you need to "rough it." Activities include a pool, small playground, bike rentals, hiking, of course the nearby beach. www.elcapitancanyon.com.

Next door to El Capitan Canyon Resort is Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara (formerly Ocean Mesa RV Resort), at 100 El Capitan Terrace Lane, Goleta. This resort has 20 tent camping sites and 80 RV sites. Amenities include heated pool and spa, wife, TV, convenience store, hiking, snack bar, horseback riding and more. Rates start at $90 per night. www.sunoutdoors.com/california/sun-outdoors-santa-barbara

How cool is this...a llama farm is walking distance from El Capitan Canyon Resort.

Evergreen RV Park at 2135 N. Oxnard Blvd in Oxnard has 94 full hookup RV spaces. Facility includes restrooms, showers, free WiFi, laundry room, BBQs, picnic tables and more. Visit www.evergreenrvpark.com.

Flying Flags RV Resort and Campground is located at 180 Ave Of The Flags in Buellton, just an hour and a half northwest of Thousand Oaks. Here you’ll find vintage trailer and airstream rentals, cottages, luxury tents or your own RV or tent camping. Amenities include pool, playground, WiFi and more. And less than half a mile away from Pea Soup Andersen’s! flyingflags.com

Malibu Beach RV Park is located at 25801 Pacific Coast Highway, just east of Malibu Seafood. The park has 142 RV spots and up to 35 tent sites, all with a view of the Pacific. Open 365 days a year. Amenities include store, game room, restrooms with heated showers, laundry and more. Visit www.maliburv.com.

Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday is located at 7400 Pine Grove Road in Santa Paula. This 76 acre campground is located at the foot of the Topa Topa mountains, offering tent sites, RV sites, teepees, Conestoga Wagons, safari tents and cabins. Amenities include trails, climbing wall, ropes course, labyrinth and more. koa.com/campgrounds/ventura-ranch

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