Lake Piru Recreation Area

  Nestled in Ventura County, California—just under an hour from Los Angeles—Lake Piru Recreation Area offers a stunning retreat in the Los Padres National Forest with panoramic views of the Topatopa Mountains . History & Geography Created in 1955 by building the Santa Felicia Dam on Piru Creek, this 1,240-acre reservoir lies at approximately 1,043 ft above sea level and reaches depths of 130 ft . Managed by the United Water Conservation District, the reservoir serves both flood control and recreational purposes for Ventura County and the Santa Clara River Valley . The name “Piru” is derived from native reeds historically used by local Indigenous peoples . Camping & Facilities The campground features 236 tree-shaded campsites, accommodating tents, RVs, and trailers, including full‑hookup, electric-only, and primitive sites, as well as two group campsites . Amenities include modern restrooms, hot pay showers, laundry, dump station, picnic tables, fire rings, and Wi‑Fi access ...