National Forest
Abel Canyon Campground
Santa Barbara, California
Campground in California.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Ward Mountain Campground
Campground in California.
Ward Mountain Campground offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of California's natural landscape, where towering pines and mountain vistas create an ideal setting for RV camping. Located within a national forest, this intimate 33-site campground provides the perfect balance of accessibility and backcountry charm that many RV enthusiasts seek when escaping the hustle of daily life.
The campground's setting makes it an excellent base for exploring the diverse outdoor opportunities that characterize California's mountain regions. The surrounding national forest lands invite visitors to venture out on hiking trails, discover scenic viewpoints, and experience the quiet majesty of the Sierra Nevada ecosystem. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the restorative power of mountain air, Ward Mountain Campground delivers an authentic camping experience without overwhelming crowds.
The moderate size of this campground with 33 sites means you'll enjoy a more intimate camping atmosphere compared to larger commercial facilities. This allows for a genuine connection with the natural surroundings while still providing the practical infrastructure that RV travelers need. The national forest location typically ensures reasonable rates and a genuine outdoor experience that appeals to budget-conscious travelers who refuse to compromise on scenery and tranquility.
The area surrounding Ward Mountain is rich with opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore alpine meadows during warmer months, photograph dramatic mountain scenery, or simply unwind beside a crackling campfire while stargazing in the clear mountain sky. The elevation and forest cover create naturally cooler temperatures, making this an especially appealing destination during California's hot summer months.
This campground attracts RV campers who value authenticity and natural beauty over developed resort amenities. Families seeking educational outdoor experiences, couples looking for romantic mountain retreats, and solo travelers pursuing adventure and solitude all find something special at Ward Mountain Campground. The combination of forest setting, mountain air, and genuine outdoor atmosphere makes this national forest campground a cherished destination for those seeking to disconnect and reconnect with nature.
The campground's setting makes it an excellent base for exploring the diverse outdoor opportunities that characterize California's mountain regions. The surrounding national forest lands invite visitors to venture out on hiking trails, discover scenic viewpoints, and experience the quiet majesty of the Sierra Nevada ecosystem. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the restorative power of mountain air, Ward Mountain Campground delivers an authentic camping experience without overwhelming crowds.
The moderate size of this campground with 33 sites means you'll enjoy a more intimate camping atmosphere compared to larger commercial facilities. This allows for a genuine connection with the natural surroundings while still providing the practical infrastructure that RV travelers need. The national forest location typically ensures reasonable rates and a genuine outdoor experience that appeals to budget-conscious travelers who refuse to compromise on scenery and tranquility.
The area surrounding Ward Mountain is rich with opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore alpine meadows during warmer months, photograph dramatic mountain scenery, or simply unwind beside a crackling campfire while stargazing in the clear mountain sky. The elevation and forest cover create naturally cooler temperatures, making this an especially appealing destination during California's hot summer months.
This campground attracts RV campers who value authenticity and natural beauty over developed resort amenities. Families seeking educational outdoor experiences, couples looking for romantic mountain retreats, and solo travelers pursuing adventure and solitude all find something special at Ward Mountain Campground. The combination of forest setting, mountain air, and genuine outdoor atmosphere makes this national forest campground a cherished destination for those seeking to disconnect and reconnect with nature.
33
Total Sites
4.6
Rating
207
Reviews
Park Details
Total Sites
33
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
This area is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for the area.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near the park. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Ward Mountain Campground Reviews
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R Trussell
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by R Trussell
Great place to camp! Spaces are spread out so you're not atop other campsites. I carcamped there during the government shutdown, and expected it to be packed. Instead there were only four other sites taken. The place was spotless, the tent site were immaculate, and the bathrooms pristine. Somebody must've been picking up the trash in spite of the shutdown too. You could hear cars on the highway if... Great place to camp! Spaces are spread out so you're not atop other campsites. I carcamped there during the government shutdown, and expected it to be packed. Instead there were only four other sites taken. The place was spotless, the tent site were immaculate, and the bathrooms pristine. Somebody must've been picking up the trash in spite of the shutdown too. You could hear cars on the highway if there was no wind, but it wasn't noisy at all. 10 out of ten - would camp again!!
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Andrew Erickson
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Andrew Erickson
Really nice dry campground, fresh gravel in the spaces. Enough room in our first come campsite for our 34 foot fith wheel and truck. No water at this time. Higher altitude, (7K) so cold overnight but that is what the furnace is for. Some trails for horses and hiking. Tables, grills and fire pits at each site.
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susan clark
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by susan clark
A great campground with trees, the sites were beautiful. There were three loops and sites were well spaced so you wouldn’t feel you had a neighbor. I tent camped, there was a tent pad at every site . (It was fly season which can’t be helped. No host has control over that!) I camped here quite a few years before and I’d camp here again. Love it here!
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Martha Pearson
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Martha Pearson
This campground has been completely overhauled and boy is it nice. Sitting at about 7500’ off hiway 6 just outside ely, nv. Great trail system, super quiet even though well subscribed when we overnighted. Sites were well spaced and most had good screening from neighbors. All new fire pits, tables, grill platforms, level parking and good gravel roads. Great infrastructure, but no water available at... This campground has been completely overhauled and boy is it nice. Sitting at about 7500’ off hiway 6 just outside ely, nv. Great trail system, super quiet even though well subscribed when we overnighted. Sites were well spaced and most had good screening from neighbors. All new fire pits, tables, grill platforms, level parking and good gravel roads. Great infrastructure, but no water available at this time. You can reserve on rec.gov but there were a number of FF sites too.
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James Boyle
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by James Boyle
Clean modern US Forest Service Campground. Has reservable and non reservable sites. Easy access off US 93 out of Ely. The sites have new picnic tables, charcoal grills, camp stove stands, and fire rings. We'll packed gravel for RV or Tent camping. Some of the cleanest Pit Toilets I've seen.
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