Best Campgrounds near Santa Barbara, CA

Camping near Santa Barbara offers a fantastic mix of beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and family-friendly spots. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Boating and Fishing: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, you can enjoy kayaking and fishing. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is perfect for boating... kayaking, canoeing, fishing or sailing on the lake is the perfect way to spend the afternoon."
• Beach Access: Leo Carrillo State Park offers a beautiful beach nearby. A camper shared, "Beautiful campgrounds in a canyon next to the beach. Clean restrooms & showers."
• Hiking Trails: Point Mugu State Park has great hiking options. One visitor noted, "Great location. Less than 1/2 mile to the beach, hiking and MTB/gravel trails accessible from the campground."

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers at Jalama Beach County Park rave about the views. One said, "Jalama Beach offers great walks along a long beach that is nestled in a cozy bay."
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Lake Casitas Recreation Area is popular for families. A reviewer mentioned, "This is a huge place, with lots to do... Good cell service here at the park."
• Quiet Camping: Many enjoy the peacefulness at Thornhill Broome Beach. One camper said, "Loved the quietness of this campsite. No water, no dump station, only portable bathrooms on site."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Emma Wood State Beach have very few facilities. A visitor noted, "Completely dry camping with no showers or bathrooms."
• Crowded During Peak Season: Carpinteria State Beach can get snug. One camper mentioned, "Spots are very snug. You can get stuck waiting for a while if your neighbors don’t know how to park their unit."
• Wildlife Encounters: At Wheeler Gorge Campground, be prepared for wildlife. A camper shared, "They let us know there was a bear in the area and sure enough that night Bucky the bear was in our campsite."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Cachuma Lake Recreation Area that offer activities for kids. One reviewer said, "The flush bathrooms are clean and spacious. Water spigots were plentiful throughout the campground."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to bring bikes or kayaks for fun activities. A camper at Leo Carrillo State Park mentioned, "Nice short walk to the beach where dogs are welcome."
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks handy is a must. One camper at Jalama Beach County Park noted, "There’s a small freshwater stream that flows right into the shore where your pets & kids like to splash around & play."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Point Mugu State Park said, "The spaces are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs."
• Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Emma Wood State Beach, don’t have electric hookups. One camper mentioned, "There are no toilet facilities here."
• Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving at places like Lake Casitas Recreation Area, as nearby stores may be limited. A visitor noted, "The campground is broken down into a bunch of different camping loops, each with different amenities and vibe."

Camping around Santa Barbara offers a unique experience with its stunning landscapes and variety of activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone!