Bates Canyon Campground, near Santa Barbara, California, is a laid-back spot tucked away in the Los Padres National Forest. This campground is perfect for those who appreciate a simple, rustic experience with the freedom to enjoy campfires and the company of pets.

The campground features picnic tables and fire pits, making it easy to gather around for meals and stories under the stars. Visitors have noted the peaceful atmosphere, with one camper mentioning, “We spent a nice peaceful quiet night here,” which is a big draw for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. While there’s no drinking water or electric hookups, the natural surroundings and the chance to gather firewood from fallen trees add to the charm.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are hiking trails nearby that promise stunning views, although some reviewers mentioned that the creek wasn’t flowing right next to the campground. The dirt road leading in is manageable, and while a 4x4 is helpful, many have made it in with regular vehicles. Just be prepared for a bit of adventure on your way in!

While the facilities are basic, the remote location offers a unique experience for those willing to embrace the outdoors. Bates Canyon Campground is a solid choice for campers looking to unwind and enjoy nature without the distractions of modern amenities.

Bates Canyon Campground

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We got here late at night after not being able to find multiple other campgrounds we were looking for, and were very happy that there was signage all the way there and we didn’t have to drive through the dark for no reason because this is truly in the middle of nowhere. The road was manageable in a 4x4 although not well-maintained, but we did see a sedan driving it the next day that didn’t seem to have any problems. There were 3 sites very close to each other near the bathrooms and at least 2 other sites that were very overgrown and not flat, so we ended up having to camp pretty close to one other group. We were surprised to see anyone else there because it’s so remote. The picnic tables and fire rings were fine but we couldn’t find much wood to gather. The bathrooms were pretty nasty so we opted to pee in the woods. There were lots of mosquitos and some pretty big frogs around in early summer and we heard a larger animal come between us and the other group’s tent in the middle of the night but it didn’t disturb anything. The sunset on the drive there through the farms was beautiful and a bunny wouldn’t stop jumping in front of our car, as if it was leading us to the campground! We had a $5 adventure pass but no one came to check. All in all, it was fine.

Very Remote

Wayy off the main road on a non-maintained dirt road, only 4x4 accessible, run down camp with no water or anything else other than picnic tables and fire pits. 
One of the bathrooms is destroyed and the other was absolutely disgusting, plus no toilet paper. Don’t come here. 
All of the sites are not flat, some are so slanted that I can’t believe someone made a campsite there. 

Don’t come here

We thought this campground was absolutely gorgeous. I guess some people don’t like to rough it a little and expect toilet paper in the bathrooms lol. Next time stay inside your RV. We spent a nice peaceful quiet night here on super bowl weekend. Don’t know why people are saying it’s remote when there’s a main highway only a few miles away and ranch houses near by and cell
Service. The dirt road is in great condition and don’t need a 4x4 at all. It’s only 2 miles of dirt road to the campground and the rest is paved. Theres a nice trail that leads to the creek but unfortunately wasn’t flowing right next to camp but it was just upstream. Plenty of firewood to gather from fallen trees nearby. We didn’t see anyone the whole weekend and we had a great time. There are plenty of flat spots to set up a tent and had no problem at all. 

Nice and Quiet 

This was a really cool spot recommended by a local. I had to leave early because it started to rain and there was a rough 2 mile dirt road to get to the campsite. My van isn’t 4x4 so I didn’t want to risk getting stuck in the mud. 
Overall the campsite is a clean quiet simple campground that I heard has great hiking views. Definitely coming back when it’s less wet.

Photos of Bates Canyon Campground

Real photos from real campers