Camping on a Dime: Matilija Canyon with My Mini-Me

The setting sun cast long, dramatic shadows across the canyon walls as Lily and I pulled into Matilija Canyon Campground. After a long week and an even longer drive, the air smelled of pine and adventure. A little trepidation mixed with the excitement; setting up camp as a single mom can feel like a Herculean task sometimes. But Lily, my amazing 10-year-old, was ready to be my trusty assistant. This was our escape, our chance to reconnect with nature and each other – all while sticking to a tight budget. Welcome to another installment of "Camping on a Dime"!

Getting There: A Road Trip with a View

The drive to Matilija Canyon along Highway 33 is an experience in itself. The road felt like a ribbon draped across the mountainside, with breathtaking views that Sarah had to carefully glance at, prioritizing safety. It's narrow and winding, so be prepared for some slow going. I definitely recommend taking it easy and enjoying the scenery. Keep an eye out for potential rock slides, especially after rain. Cell service is spotty at best, so download your maps and directions beforehand. While a high-clearance vehicle is often recommended, I managed just fine in my trusty Subaru Crosstrek. Just take it slow and steady!

Setting Up Camp: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

We arrived at our campsite around 5:00 PM. Lily held the flashlight as I fumbled with the tent poles, the golden hour light quickly fading to a cool, purple dusk. Our faithful Coleman Sundome 2-Person tent is a breeze to set up, even for a slightly-out-of-practice mom. My biggest budget tip? Always use a blue tarp underneath your tent! This $10 investment has saved my tent from countless tears and abrasions from rocky ground on many trips.

Campground Rules: Leave No Trace

Respecting the environment is paramount, especially when camping on a budget. We’re guests in nature's home, and it's up to us to leave it better than we found it. That means adhering to Leave No Trace principles:

• Pack it in, pack it out: This is non-negotiable. Everything you bring in, you must take out – including all trash! I always bring extra trash bags and make it a point to pick up any litter left by others.

• Minimize campfire impact: Check for fire restrictions before you go. If campfires are allowed, use established fire rings whenever possible. Keep your fire small and contained, and never leave it unattended. Make sure it's completely extinguished before leaving your campsite.
• Respect wildlife: Matilija Canyon is home to bears and mountain lions. Store your food properly in a bear canister (if required) or hang it from a tree, at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk. Never feed the animals.

Bathroom Situation: Prepare Yourself

Let's be honest, campground bathrooms are rarely a highlight. Matilija Canyon has vault toilets, which are basically glorified outhouses. Cleanliness can be…variable. My advice? Come prepared! Bring your own toilet paper, plenty of hand sanitizer (Purell is my go-to), and portable toilet seat covers. A little preparation goes a long way in making the experience less…rustic.

Showering: Solar Power to the Rescue!

No showers at the campground? No problem! My secret weapon is an Advanced Elements solar shower bag. I fill it with water in the morning and let it heat up in the sun throughout the day. Then, I find a secluded spot (behind a large boulder, in this case) and enjoy a quick, refreshing (albeit sometimes chilly!) shower. Biodegradable soap like Dr. Bronner's is a must. We also rely on wet wipes for quick clean-ups throughout the day. We used less than 3 gallons for both of our showers, saving precious water and minimizing our impact!

Activities: Exploring Matilija Canyon on Foot (and Under the Stars)

Matilija Canyon offers a ton of opportunities for outdoor fun, all without breaking the bank:

• Hiking: The Matilija Falls Trail is a popular choice. It's a moderate hike with some steep sections and stream crossings. Be prepared for potential hazards like poison oak and wear sturdy hiking boots. The path snaked along the river, surrounded by towering sycamore trees, their white bark gleaming in the afternoon sun.

• Nature Photography: The canyon is teeming with unique flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for California poppies, sycamore trees, and California newts. Lily spotted a California newt near the stream, and I managed to capture a pretty cool photo.

• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Matilija Canyon offers incredible stargazing opportunities. We spent hours lying on our backs, identifying constellations like Orion and the Big Dipper. The Milky Way stretched across the sky like a river of diamonds, a sight that simply can't be captured in a photo.
• Rockhounding: The riverbed is full of interesting rocks and minerals. We spent some time searching for cool specimens, but remember to leave everything as you found it. Take only pictures, leave only footprints!

Overall Value: Priceless Memories on a Budget

Our camping trip to Matilija Canyon wasn't without its challenges. But despite the sometimes-sketchy bathrooms and the effort of setting up camp, it was an incredibly valuable experience. Lily and I bonded over shared adventures, disconnected from technology, and reconnected with nature. And the best part? It was incredibly affordable!

Camping is a fantastic way for single parents (and all families) to create lasting memories without breaking the bank. So, pack your bags, grab your kids, and get outdoors!

Gear Used:

• Backpack: Osprey Aura AG 65 (comfortable and great for carrying gear)
• Tent: Coleman Sundome 2-Person Tent (reliable and budget-friendly)

Now it's your turn! What are your favorite budget camping tips? Share them in the comments below!