Camping near Los Alamos, California offers diverse options within the eastern Santa Barbara County oak woodlands at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences warm summers with daytime temperatures reaching 85-95°F while winter nights can drop below 40°F. Wind conditions in the higher elevations frequently reach 20-30 mph gusts, especially during spring afternoons when camping in open areas becomes challenging.
What to do
**Fishing opportunities: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, anglers can fish year-round with valid California licenses. "We rented a boat at the marina and was warm all night in the summer," reports one visitor who stayed in the primitive camping area with portable toilets nearby.
**Beach exploration: Explore the relatively undeveloped coastline at Jalama Beach County Park about 45 minutes west of Los Alamos. "The beach is very big and beautiful. Sunsets are beautiful! There are horse shoe pit, playground and plenty of areas along the river and on the beach to explore!" notes a long-time visitor.
**Hiking trails: Access several scenic trails from Mt. Figueroa Campground within Los Padres National Forest. "There are TONS of awesome trails around to walk, hike, or bike. I would recommend a 4 wheel drive vehicle to get to the spot depending on which route you take," advises a November visitor who notes nighttime temperatures approached freezing.
What campers like
**Privacy and space: Mt. Figueroa Campground sites provide ample room for setting up camp. "Tons of room at each campsite! Great local hiking!" notes one camper, though they warn about flies being present "from dawn until about 6pm" during summer months.
**Beachfront access: El Capitán State Beach Campground offers several oceanfront sites with direct beach views. "There are spots with direct ocean views. Great amenities (had showers, which are always nice after a sweaty hike). We saw dolphins!" shares one visitor who noted the sites aren't very private but the beach access compensates.
**Campground amenities: The campground at Oceano Campground near Pismo Beach provides convenient facilities. "Clean sites, good restrooms, kayaks, nature center, and well stocked store," summarizes one visitor who appreciated the organized campground layout. Another notes the "large restrooms with multiple stalls, hand soap, plenty of toilet paper, and clean showers."
What you should know
**Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during spring through fall. For Flying Flags RV Resort in nearby Buellton, advance planning is essential. "We had a premium site at $185 a night and it was nice, but it was on the main entrance road so that was a little annoying. Site 91, not very much shade from the afternoon heat," reports one camper.
**Water availability: Many campgrounds in higher elevations lack drinking water facilities. At Mt. Figueroa Campground, one reviewer emphasized, "No water at all so make sure you pack it in!" Another adds the practical tip to "Bring CASH for fee" as electronic payments aren't accepted.
**Wind conditions: Coastal campgrounds experience significant wind, particularly at Jalama Beach where one camper shares, "Be prepared for winds as this campground can blow at times and it's no joke when the Jalama winds kick up!" Another mentions, "During the day it will blow onshore and at night it will blow offshore."
Tips for camping with families
**Beginner-friendly options: Gaviota Campground offers accessible coastal camping with beach access. "This campsite has been my favorite place to go camping ever since I was a little girl. I love that the campsite is right next to the beach, less than 5 minute walk. There is a pier and a gift shop," shares a long-time visitor.
**Wildlife viewing: Cachuma Lake provides excellent wildlife watching opportunities for children. "Cachuma Lake is a great place for wildlife viewing and birding. Deer can often be viewed on the shores of the lake," notes one camper. Another adds, "Tried out on a whim - note, NO swimming in the lake because it's a source of drinking water. Get a waterfront spot for sure."
**Bug protection: Prepare for insects, especially during warmer months. A visitor to Oceano Campground warns, "They're not afraid. They ate through my little pantry that's canvas that's connected under my table. Also, mosquitoes! How could I forget. Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills."
Tips from RVers
**Hookup availability: Sites with full hookups are limited in the region. At Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, RVers can find concrete pads with connections. "Clean facility. Heated pool and jacuzzi. Concrete pads and lots of trees. Connected to El Cap Canyon that has cabins and yurts," reports one visitor who appreciates the amenities despite noting "No ocean view."
**Site selection: When booking at Flying Flags RV Resort, consider sun exposure and road noise. "Site 91, not very much shade from the afternoon heat, but plenty from the morning sun with a massive live oak," notes a camper who paid for a premium site but found it "on the main entrance road so that was a little annoying."
**Dump station access: Plan waste disposal in advance. Jalama Beach County Park offers a dump station for RVs, with one visitor noting it's "easy dump site on way out," although they caution about getting water from spigots before hookup as some sites only offer electrical connections.
