Recreational vehicle camping near New Cuyama offers access to diverse terrain ranging from high desert landscapes to mountainous regions. Located about 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles at an elevation of 2,150 feet, this area experiences significant temperature swings between day and night. Cell service throughout the region remains spotty, with most campgrounds offering limited connectivity especially in more remote locations.
What to do
Horseback riding adventures: At Thousand Trails Rancho Oso in Santa Barbara, campers can participate in guided horseback rides. "If you are looking for a campground with horseback riding opportunities, this is the campground for you. Remote, mountain location," notes one visitor who appreciated the equestrian-focused amenities.
Beach access: Just 10-15 minutes from Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, visitors can walk to El Capitan State Beach. "Short hike down to very nice beach at the El Capitan State Park," one camper explains. The campground connects to hiking trails leading directly to the shoreline.
Coastal drives: Travelers staying at Rincon Parkway RV Overnight can enjoy scenic drives along Highway 1. "We are road tripping for our honey moon and are letting the gods decide on where we were van camping once a destination has been confirmed. We accidentally ran into this parkway and let me tell you…. You'd be crazy not to stay," shares one reviewer about the coastal experience.
What campers like
Swimming facilities: The pool areas at Bakersfield River Run RV Park receive consistent praise. "The showers were better than you'll find in most homes, lol & the pool was beautiful & spotless, tho u will need a reservation during Covid, you get a 35 minute slot, 10 people at a time. Which was nice, who likes a crowded pool?!!" wrote one satisfied guest.
Wine country proximity: Many campers appreciate the location of Flying Flags RV Resort near wine regions. "The location of Flying Flags is perfect if you are looking to venture out for an evening or you are here for the wineries," notes one reviewer who enjoyed the resort's strategic position near Solvang.
Oceanfront camping: At Rincon Parkway, the seaside parking draws enthusiasts. "127 RV/Trailer spots with incredible ocean front views," reports one camper, who added that each site along old PCH is 45 feet long with spots along the seawall that can accommodate bigger rigs.
What you should know
Road considerations: Access to Thousand Trails Rancho Oso requires careful driving. "Scary climb, lost transmission and brakes...if you do not have big diesel pusher in tip top shape, AVOID," warns one reviewer about the challenging mountain road.
Highway noise levels: Several RV parks near New Cuyama sit close to highways. At Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park, "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," cautions one camper.
Seasonal weather patterns: Summer heat affects comfort at many locations in the region. At Lost Hills RV Park, reviewers noted, "When arrived the wind was blowing and the dust was a moving.. but in the evening it calmed down," highlighting the variable conditions common to the area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Flying Flags RV Resort offers numerous family activities. "Great place for kids and families. 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," explains one parent.
Safety considerations: At Rincon Parkway, parents should be aware of proximity to traffic. "Not the best place for young kids, as it is too scary being right off the highway in my opinion. Just stay down on the beach (break water rocks provide a barrier if you have kids)," advises one experienced camper.
Recreational options: Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara provides diverse activities for children. "We have an great time here. They have bike rentals that I believe are free to use. We had a great time and had a nice hike down to El Capitan beach with the kids where they enjoyed themselves," shares a family that visited.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Bakersfield River Run RV Park, location within the campground matters. "I'll bet the other side of the park is better but we were backed up to the fence (#56). Ask for 1-32 or 89-113 to have your best chance of avoiding the highway noise," recommends one RVer.
Maneuvering space: RV parks vary in their accommodation of larger vehicles. At Flying Flags, one camper noted, "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."
Utility management: Given limited hookups at some locations, planning is essential. At Rincon Parkway, "No hook ups so be prepared," advises one RVer, while another mentions that "trucks come by offering sewer/water services" for those needing to replenish or dump tanks during longer stays.
