Camping options near Buellton, California span from coastal locations to mountain retreats in the Santa Ynez Valley. The region's Mediterranean climate features warm, dry summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 45°F. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though winter rains occasionally affect dirt access roads at wilderness sites.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Thousand Trails Rancho Oso caters to equestrian campers with numerous horses on site. "If you are looking for a campground with horseback riding opportunities, this is the campground for you. Remote, mountain location. Almost no cell coverage, no restaurants or services nearby," notes reviewer M.M.
Beach access activities: Pacific Dunes Ranch offers direct access to sand dunes leading to the ocean. "Our site was night to the dunes so easy walk to the sand, but about 30 minute hard walk to the ocean, it was worth it," reports Ryan S. The dunes provide unique recreational activities without motorized traffic: "Without the OHV activity, it was safe to hike or dune surf."
Biking excursions: Multiple campgrounds connect to regional bike paths. At Avila Hot Springs, "there is a bike path (5 miles ish round trip) that leads to the beach. The path is along a creek, surrounded by trees, and goes through a golf course. It is relatively flat and our 7yr old had a blast."
What campers like
Hot springs access: Avila Hot Springs offers mineral soaking opportunities alongside camping. "In addition to natural mineral springs and heated pool, facilities have water, toilets, showers, electricity for stealth travelers," writes Scott O. The warm pool features "25 yards with swimming lanes, and the hot pool which can accommodate 30 people."
Family-friendly amenities: Flying Flags RV Resort receives positive feedback for its recreational facilities. "We love the wading pool and kid-friendly activities. Our family will keep coming back here," says Jason M. Another camper mentions that "There is lots to do and great for families... plenty from the morning sun with a massive live oak."
Proximity to towns: Most Buellton-area campgrounds offer convenient access to local attractions. "It's within walking distance of Pea Soup Andersons, a cute Mexican restaurant and other shops and stores. The convenience was a plus, you can see shops and stuff on one side, but mountains on the otherside. It's a cheaper option than Solvang hotels," notes Andrea R. about Flying Flags.
What you should know
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly between rv parks in Buellton and surrounding areas. Rancho Oso has "No wifi and cell service - on them. They need to fix this," according to one reviewer. Another notes "Almost no cell coverage, no restaurants or services nearby."
Space constraints: Many RV parks near Buellton feature compact sites. At Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, "Tight spaces but great infrastructure. Courteous staff, great store with all replacement parts you might need," reports Frank P. Similarly, Pacific Dunes Ranch has "no privacy... the sites are so small, you are practically on top of your neighbors with zero privacy."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects several campgrounds. Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park sits "directly next to the highway which is very loud. The campground does have complete hook up which works as it should. But the highway noise is disturbing," according to Michael. Another reviewer adds "Unfortunately 101 is really loud all night long. Might be ok in a hard-sided RV…but if you're in anything else you may not sleep much."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access options: Several RV parks maintain swimming facilities for children. At Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, "The heated pool was really nice. If you don't feel like cooking, there's a really cute little deli and gift shop called Canyon Market that sells a nice selection of California wines, craft beers and BBQ kits for grill-your-own meals."
Playground availability: Flying Flags RV Resort includes multiple play areas. "They have a playground as well as bocce and horseshoes. There is a full fitness center in case you want to get your workout in without the heat," notes one reviewer. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort also features "play structures throughout, and the sites are tight, but clean and mostly level."
Entertainment facilities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation areas. "Great place for kids and families. Went during the week so wasn't too crazy packed. They have a pool, playground, 24 hour bathroom and showers included with your stay. Also have a small restaurant in case you don't feel like cooking," writes Mario R. about Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking at Pacific Dunes Ranch, "Upper area closer to the dunes is preferred for breezes. Lots of permanent residents, but the park is well kept." At Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, "We got site #4 overlooking the lagoon. Beautiful sunset!"
Leveling requirements: Prepare for varied terrain at some campgrounds. At Avila Hot Springs, one RVer reported they "had to use 4 blocks to level our trailer, the site was full of trash and dog poop too." Similarly, at Pacific Dunes Ranch "all on sand/hard pack" surfaces may require additional stabilization.
Laundry facilities: Pismo Coast Village RV Resort offers "Laundry on site and pricey, but machines worked well and very clean facilities with plenty of washers and dryers. $2.75/wash, $1.75/dry." Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara provides similar amenities: "Free WiFi, a full laundry facility, pools, and a hot tub, every aspect of your stay is covered."
