Flying Flags RV Resort offers glamping near Los Alamos, California, in the heart of Santa Barbara County's wine country where elevations range from 500-900 feet above sea level. The surrounding landscape features oak-studded hills and open valleys with Mediterranean climate conditions that create ideal camping weather for most of the year. The area's distinct microclimates can produce temperature variations of 10-15 degrees between neighboring campsites.
What to do
Trail exploration: Los Padres National Forest trails provide hiking opportunities from Nira Campground. "We took a small hike on the lower manzana trail which had awesome views," notes a visitor to Nira Campground, which serves as a trailhead for the San Rafael wilderness.
Lake activities: Fishing and boating at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, where the water level varies seasonally. "Kayaking and fishing are both nice at Lopez as well. No cell reception, not for us on Verizon anyways, but you can drive about 1/2 mile down the road for it," shares a camper at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area.
Beach access: Pacific coast exploration within driving distance. "There is a marina and a campground store. This campground fills up fast on the weekends and holidays," explains a reviewer about the lake recreation options at Cachuma Lake.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities abound in the region. "Cachuma Lake is a great place for wildlife viewing and birding... deer can often be viewed on the shores of the lake, and we have even seen bobcats and foxes," according to a visitor.
What campers like
Beach proximity: Walking distance to shoreline at some locations. A visitor to Oceano Campground notes, "You are truly minutes away from the beach at this campground! Facilities are nice. Sites are decently spaced. Only drawback was the abundance of RVs, noisy mornings as a tent camper."
Quiet weekday camping: Less crowded experiences outside peak times. "We enjoyed a spur of the moment night away in our four wheel camper at Nira on a chilly (28f) night. We had the place to ourselves!" shares a Nira Campground camper about off-peak season benefits.
Natural shade coverage: Oak trees provide cooling at many sites. "The Squirrel Loop is nestled inside a canyon, surrounded by big, beautiful live oak trees," describes a reviewer about Lopez Lake Recreation Area, highlighting the natural shade available.
Swimming options: Pools and designated lake areas for water recreation. "Cachuma also has a pool (for an additional fee), gameroom, playgrounds/jungle-gyms, and disc golf courses available," notes a camper about the recreation facilities.
What you should know
Weather variations: Coastal sites can experience high winds. At Jalama Beach County Park, "It can get very windy and the first day was," reports a camper who experienced the characteristic coastal conditions.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "This campground fills up fast on the weekends and holidays," warns a Cachuma Lake visitor.
Water restrictions: Some lakes prohibit swimming. "Keep in mind that 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!"
Wildlife precautions: Bear country requires proper food storage. "While it is unlikely that a black bear will enter the campground, I would suggest locking your food and coolers in your car at night, as there are no food lockers in the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Kid-friendly swimming options vary by location. At Sycamore Campground, "Neat and clean campsite. They have pay showers which are decent. Less than 1/2 mile walk to the beach. Bike or hiking trails," making it accessible for children.
Recreation amenities: Playgrounds and game areas at some campgrounds. "There is a playground as well as bocce and horseshoes," notes a visitor about recreation options for children.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing can be educational. "I am a photographer, and love seeing all of the birds that hang out around Cachuma - ducks, coots, Western and Clark's grebes, loons, osprey, hawks, turkey vultures, turkeys, quail, American white pelicans, cormorants, etc."
Bug preparation: Seasonal insects require planning. "Also, mosquitoes! How could I forget. Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills. They're out and about and it's not fun if you're not prepared."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some campgrounds have more spacious RV sites than others. At Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, a camper reports, "Spacious sites. Very clean. Nicely wooded. Pool, jacuzzi, laundry-all well maintained. Hiking and biking trails. Short hike down to very nice beach at the El Capitan State Park."
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer connections vary by campground. "Nice campground, but narrow spots that are close to each other. We have a 35 foot 5th wheel with sides that fit okay. Getting out was a little tighter because of the narrow roads."
Level site considerations: Terrain can affect setup. "Most parking spots close to level but bring some blocks," advises a camper about preparing for slightly uneven sites.
Generator policies: Rules vary between campgrounds. "Getting out was a little tighter because of the narrow roads. It was okay, just smaller than other campgrounds. They have wifi and cable, 2 pools and a park for the kids too."
