Best Campgrounds near Goleta, CA

Camping near Goleta, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Boating and Fishing: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, you can enjoy boating and fishing. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is perfect for boating, but since it’s a drinking water reservoir, there is no body contact with this body of water."
• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Point Mugu State Park. A camper noted, "Great location. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach, hiking and MTB/gravel trails accessible from the campground."
• Beach Activities: Visit Thornhill Broome Beach for a day of sun and sand. One happy camper said, "Awesome spot for boondocking! Can't beat camping on the beach."

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at El Capitán State Beach Campground. A reviewer shared, "First night unobstructed views of sunset over the ocean."
• Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities at Lake Casitas Recreation Area. One visitor mentioned, "The sites are clean and the pads are very flat. Makes leveling a breeze."
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the spacious sites at Jalama Beach County Park. A reviewer noted, "Jalama Beach offers great walks along a long beach that is nestled in a cozy bay."

What you should know:

• Crowded Campsites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lopez Lake Recreation Area said, "We found a HUGE park... the sites were closely packed."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Wheeler Gorge Campground pointed out, "No running water available; fire ban... a lot of the sites are very close together."
• Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area. One camper warned, "There are black bears that roam the area so be sure to prepare for that."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach. A family shared, "Great location, spots are so close to the beach with no bluff and stairs."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. A camper at Jalama Beach County Park mentioned, "Surfers, couples & families can enjoy this beautiful place."
• Pack Essentials: Bring everything you need, as some campgrounds have limited stores. A visitor at Lake Casitas Recreation Area noted, "The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Leo Carrillo State Park Campground said, "The sites are small. It is very difficult to back in to a spot when you have campers across from your campsite."
• Be Prepared for Fees: Some campgrounds charge extra fees for pets or amenities. A visitor at Lake Casitas Recreation Area mentioned, "They nickel and dime a lot of things, showers pets."
• Enjoy the Scenery: Many RVers love the views. A camper at El Capitán State Beach Campground said, "Overall a great experience."

Camping in Goleta, CA, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!