Top Free Dispersed Camping near Buellton, CA

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

What to do:

• Beach Access: Enjoy the sandy shores at Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach. It's just a short walk to the beach, making it perfect for sunbathing or beach games. One camper mentioned, "The beach is a short walk away," making it easy to enjoy the sun and surf.
• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Cachuma Lake Recreation Area. There are plenty of paths for hiking and biking, with one reviewer noting, "Hiking and mountain biking trails are abundant throughout the area."
• Wildlife Watching: At Jalama Beach County Park, keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor shared, "Surfers, couples & families can enjoy this beautiful place," highlighting the diverse activities available.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area. One review stated, "The flush bathrooms are clean and spacious," which is a big plus for families.
• Scenic Views: Many enjoy the stunning views at El Capitán State Beach Campground. A camper mentioned, "Our site had an ocean view," making it a picturesque spot for relaxation.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Lake Casitas Recreation Area are great for families. One reviewer noted, "This is a huge place, with lots to do," emphasizing the variety of activities available for kids and adults alike.

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Emma Wood State Beach, have minimal facilities. A visitor pointed out, "Completely dry camping with no showers or bathrooms," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
• Crowded During Peak Season: Campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. One camper at Lopez Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "Check-in involved parking our van and standing in line like Disneyland," indicating that it’s best to arrive early.
• Wildlife Precautions: If you're camping at places like Wheeler Gorge Campground, be aware of wildlife. A camper shared, "They let us know there was a bear in the area," so keep food secured and be cautious.

Tips for camping with families:

• Bring Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially at Jalama Beach County Park. One camper advised, "Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills," to keep the bugs at bay.
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A family at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area enjoyed the "boating and fishing," which kept everyone entertained.
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand is a must. A visitor at Oceano County Campground mentioned, "There's a great Mexican restaurant down the road," but it's good to have some treats ready for the kids.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to check if your chosen campground has electric hookups. A reviewer at Lake Casitas Recreation Area noted, "The sites are clean and the pads are very flat," which is great for RV parking.
• Be Prepared for Fees: Some campgrounds charge extra for pets or amenities. One camper at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "We paid online and... getting charged $5 a day extra for pets," so budget accordingly.
• Know Your Vehicle Size: If you're driving a larger RV, check the campground's size restrictions. A visitor at TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping advised, "I drove the entire road and would not recommend doing that without four-wheel drive," highlighting the importance of knowing your vehicle's capabilities.

Camping near Buellton, California, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!