Carpinteria State Beach offers tent and RV camping directly on the Pacific coastline, with sites located just steps from the shore. The temperature in this coastal region averages 65°F year-round, with summer highs rarely exceeding 75°F. The area's unique geological features include natural tar seeps visible along the shoreline, requiring campers to be careful about tar getting on shoes and gear.
What to do
Beach exploration: 10-minute drive from Santa Cruz Campground, where "This is a nice little spot, close to town, but not as close to the train as some of the other Southern California state beaches" according to Kelly E. The campground provides easy access to Carpinteria's protected beaches.
Hiking mountain trails: 30-minute drive to Los Padres National Forest from Reyes Creek Campground. "We hiked up hills to watch the meteor shower (great), along the creek for small waterfalls, and a little ways into the wilderness (but there's nice hiking as far as you want to go)," shares Larry M. The area offers trails for all difficulty levels.
Wildlife viewing: 45 minutes north at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, where "Cachuma Lake is a great place for wildlife viewing and birding... ducks, coots, Western and Clark's grebes, loons, osprey, hawks, turkey vultures, turkeys, quail, American white pelicans, cormorants, etc." notes Amanda M. Pontoon boat tours for wildlife viewing launch daily from the marina.
What campers like
Creek access: Free water play at Camp Comfort Park. "The creek running through was full of frogs & small fish. Many different birds are found here. We saw lots of red-headed woodpeckers as well as herons and smaller birds," says Larry M. The adjacent park area offers space for yard games and picnics.
Proximity to town: Walking distance from Santa Cruz Campground at Carpinteria State Beach. "You can walk into town and eat at the amazing restaurants quaint Carpenteria has to offer. Or you can listen to the waves roll in from your campground as you cook something up over the camp fire," states Megan B. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the area.
Hot springs access: 20-minute drive from Lake Casitas Recreation Area. "Close to hot springs, mountains, hiking, Ojai and ocean. We love it here," shares Lori L. The hot springs provide a relaxing soak after a day of outdoor activities.
What you should know
Limited water access: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, "You CANNOT SWIM in Cachuma Lake. Silly, I know, but they justify it because Cachuma lake is Santa Barbara's drinking water source. You are allowed to boat, kayak, and fish on the lake, but no swimming!" explains Amanda M.
Wildlife encounters: Watch for ground squirrels at Lake Casitas. "There are ground squirrels in abundance everywhere here and they live without fear of humans! We watched them approach as we sat right near the truck and they hopped up into the engine compartment," warns Bower.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. At Thousand Trails Rancho Oso, "Good & bad is that your wifi, cell service is very limited here. If you want to get away from that hectic 'connected 24/7' life this is a place you can do it," notes Butch C.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Lake Casitas Recreation Area includes a water park for cooling off. "The most fun is the water park. You can take a break from the heat and tube down the lazy river. Also there is a disk golf course," recommends Shannon R. The water park is ideal for families with children of various ages.
Kid-friendly glamping: For luxury camping near Carpinteria, California, Ventura Ranch KOA provides activities like "zipline obstacle courses to tie dye classes," and has "teepee and cabin rentals available for glampers," according to Manya. Family-friendly amenities include "a pool, playground, 24 hour bathroom and showers."
Beach camping with amenities: At Leo Carrillo State Park, "The best part about this campground is definitely the beach access- it's about a 10-minute walk from most sites, and you can explore some amazing tide pools and caves once you get there. The kids loved searching for hermit crabs and sea anemones," shares Alfred.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up considerations: At Ventura Beach RV Resort, "Sewer, water, 30&50amp, picnic table and fire ring included. House bathrooms available," notes Sherrie R. However, some sites require a longer sewer hose due to connection placement.
Road noise awareness: Some RV parks are located near highways. "It is close to the 101 freeway, you can hear the traffic, but that didn't bother us. Just be aware, it's not a super quiet place," explains Rob L. about Ventura Beach RV Resort.
Space and privacy factors: Sites vary widely in size. At Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, "The grounds are beautiful, overlooking the ocean, and connecting to the El Capitan Canyon glamping resort, which offers yurts and safari tents," according to Momma H. This offers an upscale alternative to traditional glamping near Carpinteria, California.