Dispersed camping near Goleta, California requires preparation for varying elevations and rugged terrain. Los Padres National Forest dominates the region, with most rustic campsites located between 3,000-5,000 feet elevation. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer can bring extreme fire danger and camping restrictions.
What to do
Hike to water features: The Big Cone Camp in Santa Paula Canyon offers access to natural pools and waterfalls. One visitor noted, "From Big Cone Camp you can easily reach the waterfalls and pools that make this area known as the punch bowls. Depending on weather and water conditions there are some nice water rock slides, and a few pools you can jump from the cliffs into."
Stargazing opportunities: Carrizzo Plain National Monument provides excellent night sky viewing. A camper reported, "The stars were also quite visible with minimal light pollution. The area is hilly and beautiful with enough flatness and openness to pitch a tent without issue."
Island exploration: Channel Islands National Park permits backcountry camping with coastal views. A visitor shared their experience: "Hiked from Scorpion Harbor cross-island to Del Norte Camp, great way to see the island. Camped at site 1, had the most wind but also the best views of the ocean."
What campers like
Solitude and isolation: Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry offers a secluded camping experience. A camper explained, "Shared the campground with one other group. Only 4 campsites total. Great place to camp for solitude."
Scenic parking spots: Old Sierra Madre Road provides convenient spots for smaller vehicles. According to a reviewer, "Easy spots to turn around and park. Beautiful views, slight road noise if you're not in the van but quiet inside. Wouldn't recommend anything bigger than a extended sprinter or transit."
Multiple site options: Some areas have numerous potential spots beyond initial coordinates. One camper at Carrizzo Plain noted, "Despite the absence of trees or bushes for shadow, we had a wonderful evening here. We drove a bit further down the main road than the gps location suggests, and took the next road to find a spot."
What you should know
Fire restriction zones: Know where fires are prohibited. A reviewer clarified restrictions: "There is a nice hike-in campsite about 1.5 miles up the Chorro Grande trail called Oak Camp."
Parking limitations: Many sites accommodate only small vehicles. A Figueroa Mountain Road user stated, "The site is all up hill and really only has a small area where a few vans can fit. But the views are awesome."
Pack out requirements: Sites typically have zero amenities. One camper observed, "Very pretty area! Lots of little trashes I found in the gravel and grass, so please make sure to pack in and pack out! We had to pick up lots of trash from people before."
Weather preparation: Temperatures can vary widely from forecasts. At Carrizzo Plain, a visitor warned, "It was about 15 degrees (F) colder than was forecasted (20 F vs 35 F) at night, so be prepared to be a bit chilly if visiting during the winter."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Santa Cruz Island offers manageable distances for novice hikers. A family camper shared, "My friends and I took the cruise to Santa Cruz Island for a simple 1-night backpacking trip. It's only 4-miles from harbor to campsite, but it's mostly uphill. My friends were beginner backpackers so it was a bit tiring, but it was over quick and I still think it's a great trip for beginners."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for animal encounters and proper food storage. A camper warned, "The crows are unruly so watch your belongings, and the fox are cute but sneaky."
Early arrival recommended: Sunset provides optimal views at many sites. One visitor to Old Sierra Madre commented, "Arrived just at sunset and loved the views! It was very peaceful and far enough from the highway."
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: Many access roads become problematic in wet conditions. A camper at Morrow Hill recounted, "We had a great and quiet night up there in our 21ft RV. But the road is a little tricky and we almost wouldn't have driven there."
Site selection guidance: Higher elevation spots often provide better views but more exposure. At Chorma Camp, a reviewer observed, "Situated high on a bluff it gets lots of wind, and with very little shelter around to break it, if you camp here you will get the brunt of it."
Level parking challenges: Finding flat spots for vehicles requires exploration. One camper noted, "Picked the first nook from the GPS pin but hiked up road and there are quite a few others, some shaded, some exposed."
