Best Cabin Camping near Goleta, CA

Rustic cabin rentals dot the Santa Barbara coastline, offering overnight accommodations with varying levels of comfort and amenities. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area provides cabins with lake views, basic furnishings, and electricity. El Capitan Canyon features more upscale cabin options with private bathrooms and comfortable beds. According to one visitor, "The yurt I stayed in slept 4-6 people, 6 if you have kids. Yurts do not have bathrooms. It has electricity and heat, two bunk beds, a view of the lake, a wrap-around patio with chairs, picnic table, fire pit, water source, grill, and ample parking space." Jalama Beach County Park offers beachfront cabins that provide shelter from the consistently strong coastal winds while maintaining proximity to the ocean. Most cabin rentals include electricity and heating systems, essential for the cool coastal nights.

While some campgrounds operate year-round, others limit cabin availability seasonally. Thousand Trails Rancho Oso and Flying Flags RV Resort maintain cabin rentals throughout the year, with peak season falling during summer months. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for premium waterfront cabins at Jalama Beach or lake-view accommodations at Cachuma Lake. A review mentioned that "If we were unable to reserve a premium beach site, we would choose a site at the top level. Although these are furthest from the beach, they provide the best view of the ocean." Pet policies vary by location—some cabins at Ventura Beach RV Resort and Flying Flags permit pets, while others maintain strict no-pet policies to accommodate guests with allergies.

Most cabins include beds with mattresses but require visitors to bring their own linens, pillows, and towels. Kitchen facilities range from basic to comprehensive—some cabins offer only outdoor fire pits with cooking grates, while others include microwaves, mini-refrigerators, and basic cookware. On-site camp stores at Cachuma Lake and Jalama Beach provide essential groceries, though prices are typically higher than in town. A visitor commented that the Cachuma Lake "general store is filled with pretty much anything you could ask for. About 3 rows of dry grocery goods, 1 refrigerated section including a very impressive selection of local craft beers, ice machine, firewood, smores stuff, fishing poles, odds and ends, candy, trinkets and gifts, propane, camping supplies, cooking supplies, stationary, etc." For longer stays, the nearby towns of Buellton, Solvang, and Santa Barbara offer full grocery stores and restaurants.

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Best Cabin Sites Near Goleta, California (14)

    1. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    59 Reviews
    Santa Ynez, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 686-5055

    "There is a general store, clean bathrooms, and showers."

    "The sites offer the usual camp picnic table and fire ring, and the many group sites offer large grills and even a few picnic shelters. "

    2. Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

    19 Reviews
    Goleta, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 879-5751

    "If you find yourself up near Santa Barbara, this luxury RV Resort and Campground is a real splurge."

    "Heated pool and jacuzzi. Concrete pads and lots of trees. Connected to El Cap Canyon that has cabins and yurts. A really great store there with events like wine tasting and concerts."

    3. Thousand Trails Rancho Oso

    7 Reviews
    Goleta, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "I played some mini golf, right next to the horseshoe pits, but other amenities you use at your own risk. The store, and kitchen are closed."

    "We chose it because it was near Santa Barbara. And it was affordable (with Thousand Trails). So near to Santa Barbara is a relative term. It’s a 35 minute drive on a lovely windey mountain road."

    4. Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area

    11 Reviews
    Solvang, CA
    16 miles
    Website

    "I would have slept in my car but I got there around 1pm and stayed til 4 then moved on. The place is beautiful and you can get down to the beach, and walk across the bridge."

    "This is a California Highway rest area right off the 101 just north of Goleta/Santa Barbara. As the sign says, one is allowed to park their 8 hours."

    5. Flying Flags RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Buellton, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 783-5247

    "Nice RV park... It's pretty big and offers several options for staying from small cabins to full RV hook up sites."

    "The resort offers RV camping, cottages Airtream rentals, canned ham rentals and safari tent glamping."

    6. El Capitan Canyon

    1 Review
    Goleta, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 685-3887

    $225 - $600 / night

    "It was my first sleep away camp.time being away from my parents for multiple days. We stayed in cabins with bunk beds and had such a wonderful experience in nature and saw/tried so many new things!"

    7. Jalama Beach County Park

    38 Reviews
    Santa Ynez, CA
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 736-3504

    "More than likely the beachfront sites will be booked, but be sure to call the ranher station just before for last-minute availability."

    "General: Variety of sites from basic camping to those with electric hookups. Some are considered premium beachfront sites and cabins. Prices are also adjusted seasonally. "

    8. Ventura Beach RV Resort

    15 Reviews
    Ventura, CA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 643-9137

    "Pool, hot tub, laundry, people friendly, picnic tables, fire rings and green grass every paved site. Buttt...266.00 2 nights!"

    "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."

    9. Reyes Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    Pine Mountain Club, CA
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 434-1996

    $30 - $154 / night

    "There is no running water, and the pit toilets are definitely of the smellier side, but clean nevertheless."

    "It's about a 40 minute drive from the nearest town (and therefore the nearest gas station or market - plan ahead). There is no power, or water."

    10. Camp Comfort Park

    8 Reviews
    Ojai, CA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 654-3951

    "SUPER fast wifi(if that’s your thing, we were here for a little under two weeks, so it was nice!), electric hookups, picnic table and fire pit!"

    "The location is phenomenal - surrounded by hills that bask in a beautiful golden light before sunset, a creek runs along the edge making the area right in front of the hills like a tropical garden -green"

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Cabin Reviews near Goleta, CA

226 Reviews of 14 Goleta Campgrounds


  • M
    Jul. 29, 2021

    Ventura Ranch KOA

    Family Oriented Place

    From zipline obstacle courses to tie dye classes, this KOA easily occupies kids and has teepee and cabin rentals available for glampers, but nice showers, clean bathrooms and a roomy pool area really make this campground 5 stars.

  • j O.
    May. 25, 2018

    Jalama Beach County Park

    Beachfront Seclusion

    More than likely the beachfront sites will be booked, but be sure to call the ranher station just before for last-minute availability. Gorgeous spots with fire pits and picnic tables on the sand, just before a private beach accessible via the e0 minute, winding dead-end road. Facilities, a playground, tiered campspots and cabins, and a store all sit serenely at this quiet spot.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 15, 2023

    Jalama Beach County Park

    Ruggedly beautiful beach

    General: Variety of sites from basic camping to those with electric hookups. Some are considered premium beachfront sites and cabins. Prices are also adjusted seasonally. 

    Site Quality: Some sites are concrete; some are on sand. Our site was close to the beach, however, the view of the ocean was blocked by dunes (and also by a restroom). Our site also easily accommodated two camper vans. Each site had a large picnic table and fire ring, although the picnic table was a bit warped. 

    Bath/Shower: The closest restroom to our site was very basic – one toilet each for men and women with a shared sink on the outside. Showers are in a separate building and are $ 1.00 for three minutes. 

    Activities: The beach here is ruggedly beautiful and you can walk quite a distance if you go to the left; to the right, there is a lot of driftwood but is still somewhat walkable. There is also a store/small restaurant on-site.

    We were supposed to spend two nights here but after a very stormy night, we had to evacuate as the only road in/out was unstable, but we would definitely return. If we were unable to reserve a premium beach site, we would choose a site at the top level. Although these are furthest from the beach, they provide the best view of the ocean.

  • K
    May. 25, 2018

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Peaceful & filled with life

    I have been coming to this campground annually since around 2009, and I've loved every trip. The campground is on the larger side, filled with grassy and shaded sites all throughout it. There is a general store, clean bathrooms, and showers.

    The campground is based on a peninsula that juts into the lake, therefore it has waterfront campsites on both sides, and all the sites in the middle are only a matter of 2-3 campsites from a water's edge. When you first enter the campground, there are a few day use only spots near the general store. All campsites at the base of the peninsula are the ones that families tend to stick to, as there is a pool, its close to the store, and that is the only area on the campground with full and partial hookups. As you travel up the peninsula, limited Yurts and Cabins are along the waterfront. Most yurts have a foot trail down to the water. The Yurt I stayed in (we camped 3 nights and had a yurt the last two) slept 4-6 people, 6 if you have kids. Yurts do not have bathrooms. It has electricity and heat, two bunk beds, a view of the lake, a wrap- around patio with chairs, picnic table, fire pit, water source, grill, and ample parking space. I have never stayed in a cabin here before but they look really nice.

    The general store is filled with pretty much anything you could ask for. About 3 rows of dry grocery goods, 1 refrigerated section including a very impressive selection of local craft beers, ice machine, firewood, smores stuff, fishing poles/ odd's and end's, candy, trinkets and gifts, propane, camping supplies, cooking supplies, stationary, etc. The wine selection, on the other hand, is sub-par; so a stop in SB on the way up is a must if you need wine! Keep in mind the store closes week days at 4 and weekends at 5 if i'm not mistaken.

    I think the main thing that keeps this campground so peaceful (other than their strictly enforced quiet hour from 10pm-7am) is the fact that NO SWIMMING, speedboats, wake boarding or waterskiing is allowed in the lake because is is a source of drinking water in the area. That being said, you are more than welcome to rent a 4 or 6 person fishing boat or 6-10 person pontoon boat for the day or hourly at the marina fishing store. The lake is open to fish until 6pm if you have a vehicle or are on a boat- a park ranger will come around at 6 and let everyone with a car know its time to go. However, if you walk to the marina, you could fish all night for all they care. You can also purchase fishing licenses for the day, 2 days, or year, at a reasonable price (I got a year pass it was $53.74) along with endless fishing lures, bait (including live), hooks, line, and poles. In regards to actually catching fish- In the past years I always rented a boat and i caught a lot of bass and carp, an occasional rainbow trout. This time I had plenty luck from certain parts of shore! Tons of beautiful 3 lb rainbow trout and 2 lb crappie! The limit was 10 per person, and people around us definitely caught their limit, but we were conservative and only caught what we needed for the day. Some fish bite more in certain areas of the lake than others, if you don't mind to hike a mellow/ moderate journey you'll find plenty of little coves within a reasonable distance of the campground. If you're looking for a bit more strenuous of a journey word has it there is a trail that goes all the way around the perimeter of the lake- I, however, have not hiked the trail, as my husband and I were backpacking into the campsite and that was an adventure in its self and I was exhausted!

    Like I mentioned before, the bathrooms and showers are very clean. No mirrors in the bathroom, there are multiple bathroom buildings throughout the campground along with the showers. Showers are individual rooms that have a locking door. Showers are pay showers, so bring a lot of quarters if you plan to stink pretty. I think it was $1.50 for 3 minutes.

    Another note: This campground is near the water (the lake and the ocean) and you're in the mountains; which means it will be generally pretty windy (bring chapstick!). The wind dies down midday and at night. If you're trying to light a fire when the sun is setting- good luck. 20 minutes later- you're golden. It also gets very cold at night! I'm form Southern California, so by cold I mean mid to low 40's, then add wind- yikes. On the contrary, bring sun screen for the day- cause it gets pretty warm! I'm still suffering the repercussions of not wearing any after fishing all day lol.

    Overall the campground is aesthetically pleasing on many levels. From the abundance of grass (no dirt sites), trees, rolling hills of knee high grass, blooming flowers, wildlife (ground squirrels, birds including california condors, blue jays, hawks, etc.), and, of course, the gorgeous cascading mountains plummeting straight into the lake, there's not a thing about this campsite I couldn't love.

  • Penélope F.
    Sep. 5, 2020

    Flying Flags RV Resort

    Nice place for those who are looking to party!

    Nice RV park... It's pretty big and offers several options for staying from small cabins to full RV hook up sites. I personally was a little disappointed that place was packed as most places we have been staying had a 50% capacity restriction. Staff was friendly and helpful and definitely will return after pandemic is gone. Quiet time wasn't enforce which is nice for those wanting to party.

    Our site had a gas grill and fire pit which was nice for some of the chilly nights we had.

  • Sherrie R.
    Feb. 17, 2021

    Flying Flags RV Resort

    Full Service resort with close walking or biking distance activities

    The resort offers RV camping, cottages Airtream rentals, canned ham rentals and safari tent glamping. Endless amenities include soccer field, basketball court, bocce ball, pool/spa, playground, store, restaurant, LP refills, self service ice machine, firepit rentals, covered bike parking. Impeccably clean and well maintained. The site staff is very friendly, helpful and quietly accomplishes their tasks with hardly any disturbances to campers. Much appreciated. Was pleased to see roaving security regularly.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2023

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Huge County Campground with Numerous Site Types

    The lovely county run park in the hills above the Santa Barbara coastline, is a great campground offering a wide variety of camping experiences from full hook ups to grass covered spaces under the trees along the shores of this lovely reservoir. The sites offer the usual camp picnic table and fire ring, and the many group sites offer large grills and even a few picnic shelters. 

    The sunshine is typically abundant in this California park, and even without full hook ups you can easily get all the power you need with an appropriately sized solar panel system. We’ve run on solar for over 10 years, and it saves us thousands of dollars each year for our full-time camping life. 

    The flush bathrooms are clean and spacious. Water spigots were plentiful throughout the campground. The coin operated showers got the job done, but since we were there during a chilly March, things could have been warmer. But hey, everything important got clean… 

    The lake is perfect for boating, but since it’s a drinking water reservoir, there is no body contact with this body of water. So plan on using the campground pool to cool off during the summer months. Hiking and mountain biking trails are abundant throughout the area, and kayaking, canoeing, fishing or sailing on the lake is the perfect way to spend the afternoon. 

    The campground offers some excellent yurts and cabins for nightly rent right on the shores of the lake. These are often booked out so plan ahead. 

    The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something, including ice, snacks, fire wood, and gas.  There is also a cool pub down by the boat ramp which offers live music in the weekends.  The nearby tourist town of Solvang offers a great day trip to sample the amazing Dutch pastry treats, pick up some groceries, wine tasting, or a night out on the town.

  • Ashley E.
    Jul. 21, 2018

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Great Getaway

    clean spacious sites, pool, laundry, grocery store, gas. Sites have fire pit, grill grate and picnic table. Great views of the sunset from our site #287. Beer and wine for sale. Pontoon wildlife cruises and kayaks for rent. Park rangers are so kind and knowledgeable about the park. Can’t wait to come back!

  • Chanel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 19, 2021

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Great camping for beginners

    + Great amenities— large restrooms with multiple stalls, hand soap, plenty of toilet paper, and clean showers. Each site has a fire pit with grill, picnic table, and parking for 2 cars

    + Beautiful California Oak trees surround the campgrounds and you get the most amazing variety of birds visiting.

    + Some sites have lake views! Our site#290 had a great view but the site itself was not the best. The grounds were every rocky and uneven. It was hard to find ground to set up a tent and most spots had rocks embedded into the floor so you would be sleeping on bumps.

    + FANTASTIC camp store. One of the best I’ve seen. They have everything you could need. It’s a gift store, mini mart, and a liquor store. You can buy eggs, milk, butter, and tons of shelf and can items. You can also buy a variety of beverages including wine and beer. The store carries plenty of snacks and candy, and you can get hot food items like hot dogs. They also carry camp gear in case you need— tents, chairs, sleeping bags, flash lights, cooking gear(stove, camp mugs/plates, fuel. Etc. Firewood is a little pricey at$8/bundle but when you need it, you need it! The store is SO CLUTCH because having to leave to purchase anything would be a longggg drive.

    + Lots if lake activities. You can bring your own boat and they have a small gas station for boat fuel. The camp shop also carry bait and other fishing gear. There are boat, kayak rentals, and you could also sign up for a lake boat tour. Only downside is no swimming or SUP boarding.

    + Lovely lake cafe with good hot food, beer/wine, and even cocktails. There is outdoor dining and even a fire pit for colder months. Careful during hot climate, there are yellow jackets everywhere. It makes sitting at the cafe unbearable. Service is friendly and the food is good. We tried their burger and fries and were not disappointed. Prices are a little high but it’s nice if you want to skip preparing and cleaning up a camp meal.

    + Quiet Time begins at 10pm which is great because I find this campground louder and more rowdy than others. It’s packed and people love running their music speakers super loud. They wait until the park rangers come around at 10pm to tell them to turn off their music. It’s definitely a fun crowd that comes here so heads up if you’re looking for a more serene camping experience.

    + There are yurts and cabins for rental that are a little more removed from the loud crowd. I definitely would love to try renting a yurt with a lake view next time I visit.

    Overall, this is a really fun campground with tons of convenience. Run out of booze? No problem. Head to the cafe or the camp store. Too lazy to cook? No problem, Lake Cachuma has options for you. Bored? Head to the lake or play some air frisbee. It’s also a great place for first time campers. You get a good introduction to nature, run activities, and camping while still having comfort and convenience just a few steps from your tent.


Guide to Goleta

Cabin camping near Goleta, California offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cozy accommodations, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.

Cabin campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy a variety of water activities at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, where you can kayak, fish, or simply relax by the shore.
  • Explore the scenic hiking and mountain biking trails surrounding Thousand Trails Rancho Oso, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Visit the charming town of Solvang, just a short drive from Flying Flags RV Resort, where you can indulge in wine tasting and delicious Dutch pastries.

A day at the beach or a cozy cabin retreat

  • Spend your days soaking up the sun at Jalama Beach County Park, known for its rugged beauty and beachfront cabins, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
  • Experience the tranquility of El Capitan Canyon, where you can unwind in a cabin surrounded by nature and enjoy easy access to the beach.
  • Take in breathtaking ocean views while staying at Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, where you can enjoy both cabin comforts and outdoor adventures.

Some prices for cabin camping range from $50 to $350

  • Rates at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area vary depending on the season and type of cabin, making it accessible for different budgets.
  • At Flying Flags RV Resort, you can find cabin rentals that cater to families looking for a fun-filled experience.
  • For a more luxurious stay, consider El Capitan Canyon, where cabin prices reflect the premium amenities and stunning surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Goleta, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Goleta, CA is Cachuma Lake Recreation Area with a 4.3-star rating from 59 reviews.

What is the best site to find cabin camping near Goleta, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 14 cabin camping locations near Goleta, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.