Top Glamping near Santa Barbara, CA

Santa Barbara, California, is one of the Golden State’s quintessential beach towns. With pristine beaches and immaculate ocean views, you’ll want to stop and smell the roses (and the ocean air).

The best camping near Santa Barbara is just up US Route 101 at El Capitan State Beach. If you’re looking for mountains or free camping, your next best choice is the nearby Dick Smith Wilderness. With an RV resort nearby and tent campsite options available, you should have no problem finding a place to sleep. No matter whether you prefer the beach or the mountains, you’ll find campgrounds to suit you near Santa Barbara, CA.

Best Glamping Sites Near Santa Barbara, CA (24)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    1. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    56 Reviews
    239 Photos
    848 Saves

    Set amidst acres of wilderness flanked by the picturesque Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains, lies glimmering Cachuma Lake. Here you will find practically everything you need for a relaxing getaway in the great outdoors. Mild temperatures, typically sunny skies, and celebrated fishing conditions make camping here during winter months exceptionally rewarding. The County entered into a long-term lease with the Federal Bureau of Reclamation in 1953 to manage the 9,000 acre Cachuma Lake Recreation Area. Cachuma Lake was formed by the construction of Bradbury Dam in that same year. Located off scenic Highway 154 in the Santa Ynez Valley, Cachuma Lake is midway between the beaches and bustle of Santa Barbara and the Danish Community of Solvang. At any age... in any season... you'll find that the Cachuma Lake Recreation Area offers a fun and relaxing getaway.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach

    2. Carpinteria State Beach

    47 Reviews
    105 Photos
    921 Saves

    Twelve miles south of Santa Barbara, Carpinteria camping offers a mile of beach for swimming, surf fishing, tidepool exploring and camping. Although dogs are not allowed on beach, we have a great picnic area where they are allowed to enjoy the outdoors as well. Lifeguards patrol the beach year round and lifeguard towers are staffed roughly from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. The Spanish named the area Carpinteria because the Chumash tribe, which lived in the area, had a large seagoing canoe-building enterprise, or "carpentry shop" here. This was because of naturally-occurring surface tar, which was used to waterproof the canoes. Seals and sea lions can be seen in the area December through May, as well as an occasional gray whale. Tidepools contain starfish, sea anemones, crabs, snails, octopi and sea urchins.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $180 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitan State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitan State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitan State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitan State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitan State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitan State Beach

    3. El Capitan State Beach

    45 Reviews
    107 Photos
    1000 Saves

    El Capitán State Beach offers visitors a sandy beach, rocky tidepools, and stands of sycamore and oaks along El Capitán Creek. It’s a perfect setting for swimming, fishing, surfing, picnicking and camping. A stairway provides access from the bluffs to the beach area. Activities and Facilities Include: -Picnic Areas -Exhibits and Programs -Fishing -Guided Tours -Scuba Diving/Snorkeling -Beach Area -Swimming -Windsurfing/Surfing -Family Programs -Geocaching

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $320 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    4. Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    38 Reviews
    92 Photos
    446 Saves

    Lake Casitas camping offers over 400 sites, so you can choose the camping experience that suits you best. Some sites are lakeside, close enough to hear the lapping water, others are nestled among the trees, and still more are located on hillsides offering splendid views of the sparkling lake. We have sites to accommodate tents, tent trailers, campers and RVs, all with picnic tables and fire rings, and some with children's playgrounds close by. Shower houses with bathrooms are located at the front gate and towards the back of the park. We also have a convenient, fenced, dry storage facility for recreational vehicles, boats, canoes & kayaks

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan

    5. Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan

    15 Reviews
    81 Photos
    460 Saves

    Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan is THE premier campground on the beautiful California Central Coast. Located just 20 minutes north of downtown Santa Barbara, Ocean Mesa is surrounded by Los Padres National Forest above the magnificent Pacific Ocean. Ocean Mesa offers the best of modern camping life including a heated pool and spa, laundry facilities, and convenience store. The Mesa is also wired for internet use and T.V. so you never have to feel too disconnected from life at home.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort

    6. Flying Flags RV Resort

    20 Reviews
    89 Photos
    183 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort

    7. Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort

    7 Reviews
    28 Photos
    137 Saves

    Bordered by the Los Padres National Forest and the Santa Ynez River, Rancho Oso RV Camping offers acres of beautiful scenery and endless opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and photography. Explore 310 beautiful acres of our RV camp in California, filled with history dating back to 1845. Put on your boots and hats (spurs optional), come to our RV camp in coastal California, and experience the Western atmosphere of Rancho Oso from our RV camping sites.Have a horse? Board it with us & take advantage of our Western Village and horse camping options with spacious pasture, covered corrals and more. Visit the Western Village, adobe, stables, conestoga wagons, cabins, stone lodge and all the unique amenities we have to offer at our RV camp in California. At Rancho Oso RV Resort, we encourage you to participate in the recreation events, entertainment, or sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery and wildlife native to our area. We are also just a scenic 30-minute drive from Santa Barbara or Solvang.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park

    8. Jalama Beach County Park

    37 Reviews
    187 Photos
    1116 Saves

    Situated just 30 minutes outside of Lompoc California, Jalama Beach campground is a hugely popular destination spot for locals and travelers every year. People flock to these sandy shores every day to take part in surfing, kite-surfing, photography, hiking, fishing, camping, and more. The terrain is unique thanks to a wide variety of local California wildlife and vegetation. Subsequently, Jalama Beach camping gives plant enthusiasts a chance to enjoy the thriving presence of Sand Verbena, Salt Brush, and Sea Rocket. One of the most famous attractions here however is the nearby Beach Caves. Only accessible during low-tide about a mile up the beach, these caves are the site of many famous instagram photos and movie scenes. They’re also a welcome escape from the hot-sun that beats down during the warmer months of late summer. But don’t get too comfy because you'll have to remember to beat the tide! Nearby, the Jalama Beach Grill touts its famous Jalama Burger. The nearby beauty of the beach even makes the food taste better. Visit on any 7 days of the week for a yummy dinner sure to make your mouth water. While the nearby attractions are nice, beachfront camping is what attracts visitors to this park. Jalama Beach County Park is home to 107 campsites, each overlooking the ocean with a private fire pit, and picnic table. Among these sites, 31 offer electrical hook-ups. The campground itself also has full-service bathrooms, and dump stations available. Reservations can be made 24/7 online, but be sure to reserve in advance for the best campsite selection. Summer is their busiest time, which means you may want to start planning as soon as January when securing your spot.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Dennison Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dennison Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dennison Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dennison Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dennison Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dennison Park

    9. Dennison Park

    18 Reviews
    41 Photos
    202 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Reyes Creek Campground

    10. Reyes Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    47 Photos
    309 Saves

    Overview

    Hammock spots, dipping holes and a fishing stream make Reyes Creek Campground an ideal hideaway. Located near the Sespe Wilderness alongside Reyes Creek you will find renewal and replenishment, Reyes Creek-style.

    Recreation

    Trail hiking, fishing, swimming, group camping, mountain biking, hunting, horseback riding, nature viewing, and recreational mining are favored activities. Day trips to higher elevation snow play in the winter is also enjoyed.

    Natural Features

    This shaded streamside campground located at 3,500 feet elevation boasts an ample supply of riparian oak and cottonwood trees. The creek area is well shaded and runs year-round. Overhead you may catch a glimpse of red-tailed hawks soaring above the trees. If you are lucky, you may see a California condor!

    Nearby Attractions

    Located south of Ozena Valley, this campground provides access to the Sespe Wilderness via the Reyes Creek Trail linking to the Piedra Blanc National Recreation Trail. This site is the trailhead for Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Area ideal for hiking or mountain biking.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $150 - $154 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 24 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews In Santa Barbara

354 Reviews of 24 Santa Barbara Campgrounds


  • Spicy  N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Carpinteria State Beach

    Not Worth staying here

    Facilities are run down. This places needs a major make over! Bathrooms are dirty, showers are gross. Sinks to wash dishes are disgusting & right next to dumpsters. You have no privacy and sites are right on top of each other…you’re basically in a parking lot. Barking dogs right next to you can get pretty annoying pretty fast. NOT WORTH the $70 a night fee. I would only stay here here as a LAST resort

  • Michelle M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Sep. 27, 2024

    Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    A beautiful Lake

    This is a nicely maintained municipal water reservoir with a very large lake. No swimming allowed, but boating is. Go figure.

    There are campgrounds with hookups that are only available for RVs. There is one Campground -Indian- that has a mixture of tent and RV sites with hookups available but it was under maintenance when I was here this weekend. So all the rest of the areas that do have hookups do not accommodate my truck and tent rig. And there are no 110V or 30a outlets available for people who are traveling light -with solar and a minimum amount of panels, where you might need to plug in once in awhile- they can't cover you here. Too bad no one thought of that when they were designing this place, because it's an awfully big place with a lot of sites.

    So we're leaving today to find another place to weekend.

    But two nights next to the lake, in the campground called Mallard was lovely as can be. Next time I'll come out with more panels to keep my pair of EcoFlow RiverPro solar generators topped up.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Please Don’t Tell Anyone About This — OOPS

    This is tragi-comedy: I was invited to a wedding in Santa Barbara. It was summer and the most fleabitten motel prices were astronomical. I began to look at campsites within driving distance, I was desperate. Booked Catchuma and thought, hoorah, I’ve defeated the tourism trap. 

    Well… from the moment I arrived . . . I really could not care less about the wedding. My god. I think I’ll leave it at that. 

    Bring binos. Boat, bring your canoe/kayak.

  • Monica E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Jul. 3, 2024

    Jalama Beach County Park

    Never disappoints

    Jalama Beach offers great walks along a long beach that is nestled in a cozy bay. Surfers, couples & families can enjoy this beautiful place. Watch for tar on the sand & pack some petroleum jelly to help remove it in case you step on it barefoot. There’s a small freshwater stream that flows right into the shore where your pets & kids like to splash around & play. Lots of driftwood & rocks pepper the shore so bring water shoes.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitan State Beach
    May. 23, 2024

    El Capitan State Beach

    Bluff-top beach-ish camping

    We spent two nights at El Capitan State Beach. Our site had an ocean view, which is why I give this campground a 4-star rating. There isn't much to do here (limited hiking), so that is why it isn't a 5-star review. Still, other than one windy day, we had a lovely time relaxing here, walking the limited beach bluff-top walk down to the beach and west toward Refugio. The path used to go all the way to Refugio, but it is closed right after the walk/bike-in campsites at El Capitan due to the ocean erroding away the cliffs the path sits on. The bathrooms were fairly clean and there are showers (didn't use). Like many CA parks, the area has a run-down feel. We went into Santa Barbara on our way to and from the campsite. It is about a 20-mile drive, so a bit long. One of my photos is at Chase Palm Park in Santa Barbara (you can see the pier). It is a good place to park a van (up to 22 ft) or they have "motor home" spots for day parking.

  • Patrick J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    May. 9, 2024

    Flying Flags RV Resort

    Always a good stay

    Having stayed here a few times, it is always fun. Check in was nice and efficient. 

    We had a pull trough site that is on the southern part of the park. This is normally more quiet and has better maneuvering room. Friends joined us in the retro Airstream. Nothing but good reports from them. Wineries and breweries located  very close by, so slaking a thirst is never a problem. I'm sure we will be back.

  • Jenny S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Songdog Campground
    Apr. 2, 2024

    Songdog Campground

    Spacious and beautiful private property. Friendly, accommodating hosts!

    I stayed for a quick stop overnight and found the site as described. Just a table, fire pit, and water spigot.  The hosts are very accommodating and made sure I was able to find my site after dark and were very responsive to my texts!  Cell service was fine and I felt perfectly safe as a solo female!  I really enjoyed the ranch dogs coming to hang out with me! I'll be back to try one of the other sites with more amazing views!

  • Jack J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Mar. 7, 2024

    Carpinteria State Beach

    Family Tradition

    My family camps here everyone year for as long as I can remember. The beaches are always nice. The trail that goes to the end of the campground is always fun bike ride. Carp itself is one of my favorite little towns. When camping, we also stop at Robitaille's Fine Candy shop.

  • Khaled A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventura Ranch KOA
    Mar. 6, 2024

    Ventura Ranch KOA

    Nice Getaway!

    Quiet and nice 2-day stay. Alexi from reception was super nice and courteous. We couldn’t be more grateful to her! Our lot was secluded, private and close to the entrance/exit. The only thing was the unlevel ground we were on. Our RV was a simple 30’ rental without any leveling. Many peacock’s roam around the premises and they can be very intrusive! Playgrounds, zip lining and a massive bounce pad were all on site. Make sure you hike down to the creek!

  • Patrick J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan
    Feb. 18, 2024

    Ocean Mesa Campground at El Capitan

    Our go to place

    This was another trip here. We needed a quick getaway, and this is always a good choice for us. Check in was easy, they even changed our site after showing all that were available. The was February, so lots of available sites. We will be back!

  • Kristi D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Oct. 29, 2023

    Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    Seems like a popular place

    Economical for California and the area. Off the beaten path from all the craziness by the beach.

    We are just passing through CA or it would not be my top spot. They nickel and dime a lot of things, showers pets. We paid online and we pull up and all of a sudden getting charged $5 a day extra for pets including a cat that doesn't leave the camper. Was not thrilled about that.

    Otherwise, it was scenic, had a camp store, was close to restaurants, had a gate to drive into, so the place was pretty secure. Seemed like a lot of people gathered on the weekends.

    We had the dirt campground which wasn't my favorite but all that was left, while the other campgrounds had cement pads. It was still pretty level.We did have cell reception, nice views and they had a water park for kids during summer months, though wasn't open while we were there.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Oct. 19, 2023

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Huge County Campground with Numerous Site Types

    The lovely county run park in the hills above the Santa Barbara coastline, is a great campground offering a wide variety of camping experiences from full hook ups to grass covered spaces under the trees along the shores of this lovely reservoir. The sites offer the usual camp picnic table and fire ring, and the many group sites offer large grills and even a few picnic shelters. 

    The sunshine is typically abundant in this California park, and even without full hook ups you can easily get all the power you need with an appropriately sized solar panel system. We’ve run on solar for over 10 years, and it saves us thousands of dollars each year for our full-time camping life. 

    The flush bathrooms are clean and spacious. Water spigots were plentiful throughout the campground. The coin operated showers got the job done, but since we were there during a chilly March, things could have been warmer. But hey, everything important got clean… 

    The lake is perfect for boating, but since it’s a drinking water reservoir, there is no body contact with this body of water. So plan on using the campground pool to cool off during the summer months. Hiking and mountain biking trails are abundant throughout the area, and kayaking, canoeing, fishing or sailing on the lake is the perfect way to spend the afternoon. 

    The campground offers some excellent yurts and cabins for nightly rent right on the shores of the lake. These are often booked out so plan ahead. 

    The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something, including ice, snacks, fire wood, and gas.  There is also a cool pub down by the boat ramp which offers live music in the weekends.  The nearby tourist town of Solvang offers a great day trip to sample the amazing Dutch pastry treats, pick up some groceries, wine tasting, or a night out on the town.

  • Bryan S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Oct. 14, 2023

    Carpinteria State Beach

    Snug

    Great location, spots are so close to the beach with no bluff and stairs. Spots are very snug. You can get stuck waiting for a while if your neighbors don’t know how to park their unit. Only downside is the neighbors sewer is in your site. Also we had some grumpy neighbors which sucks with the smaller sites. Seals and dolphins all around while you swim or surf

  • Bryan S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventura Ranch KOA
    Oct. 14, 2023

    Ventura Ranch KOA

    Fun stuff to do

    Nice campground. Plenty of things to do. Jump pad, pool, zip line, playground, creek. Front desk staff was exceptional. Few cons. Park was a bit dirty lots of trash around and generally not very clean. Bathrooms were really gross. Facilities were a little run down. Our spot was tiny but most others seem descent sized

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Oct. 13, 2023

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Quiet in the off-season

    General: Many different options from tent sites to premium tent sites, water/electric, and FHU sites in addition to yurts and cabins. 

    Site Quality: Varies greatly depending on what type of site you choose. The only sites with gravel paved pads were the ones with water/electric hookups or FHU; all others were grass. Most seemed level. It was raining heavily when we were there and some of the sites were flooded. Very little to no separation/privacy between sites. We were in a w/e site, and it was long enough to easily accommodate two camper vans.

    Activities/Amenities: Off-season, everything was closed but in-season, there is a marina, boat rentals, restaurant, store, gas station, pool, and laundry. 

    Bath/Shower house: Clean but very basic. No hooks or shelves for toiletries. Cold water only. The shower looked nice but did not use so cannot comment on it. 

    IMO, the best options are the premier tent sites, yurts, and cabins as they offer the best lake views. We had not planned on camping here but after evacuating from Jalama Beach, we were told this park would honor our reservation. It rained most of the time we were there, and it was off-season, so I imagine it would be an entirely different experience in the summer when all amenities were offered and the campground was full.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Aug. 27, 2023

    Jalama Beach County Park

    Not my favorite

    Between sunset and nighttime sandstorms (which was MISERABLE in a tent) combined with a beach full of jellyfish and tarantulas… yes, for sure my least favorite camping experience.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Radl Ranch
    Aug. 12, 2023

    Radl Ranch

    Little hidden gem

    We loved the atmosphere. Small well maintained and cute, outdoor shower was a highlight!

  • Jenneffer V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Aug. 7, 2023

    Carpinteria State Beach

    Hike & Bike

    $10 per night per person, max 2 nights and 48 hour wait before you can come back. Max 5 times per year.

    Took my son here for a weekend to explore Santa Barbara. There is no overnight parking in the park unless you have a previously reserved car camping campsite. We walking in with our belongings and there was three other campers on their bikes. Short walk to the Amtrak Surfliner, restaurants, dogs are allowed on a leash on the campsite. There is a dog beach a few minutes walk away.

    There’s 3 fire pits for H&B campers, a Food box and a bike rack.

  • Emily S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Carpinteria State Beach
    Jul. 19, 2023

    Carpinteria State Beach

    Santa Cruz dry camping

    Snagged a cancellation at Carp Santa Cruz site C233 to celebrate our new trailer and our Labrador’s first birthday!!! Doors opened to the west (that’s a good thing!), and it was easy to back into. Site was flat, but in the back. Heavy foot traffic on sidewalk that connects the different campgrounds gave us little privacy. Still, any time we get to spend in Carp is time well-spent!

    Pros:

    • Location—next to beach, great restaurants, excellent ice cream (Rori’s), solid beer scene, great bluffside running trails!
    • Large site—not the parking lot like San Miguel and Santa Rosa tend to be. 
    • Camp host was friendly. 
    • Clean bathrooms and showers. 
    • Easy to fill water tank at dump station before parking. 
    • Easy to dump at dump station. 
    • Close to town—easy bike/walk. 

    Cons: 

    • Tar on beach. 
    • Next to railroad tracks. 
    • Site backs up to sidewalk, offering little privacy. 
    • Dogs not allowed on beach (I know… but my labs don’t get it!)
    • Smoking neighbors. 
    • Lots of fox tails on site.
  • j
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Jul. 6, 2023

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Camp ground site 143 partial hook ups

    Stayed at camp site #143 no shade trees very dusty site. Rental boats pontoon type are brand new. Boat rental opens at 7am close at 7pm boat harbor is very nice with new boat docks. If going fishing the K boats are nice but anchor line to short to use I bring my own 50’ of anchor rope and use their anchor. Came hear to get away from all the illegal fire works where I live. Not one fireworks at the park yea the dog had a great nights sleep. Plus the swimming pool was great open from 12 noon to 5:30pm they have plenty of chairs and have life guards

  • Lara S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Comfort Park
    Jul. 5, 2023

    Camp Comfort Park

    Best RV park for tent campers

    Camped here 4th of July weekend and it was quiet and family friendly. Bathrooms were clean, people were respectful, and it was just an all around nice place to camp - expensive though.



Guide to Santa Barbara

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!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Santa Barbara, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Santa Barbara, CA is Cachuma Lake Recreation Area with a 4.3-star rating from 56 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find glamping camping near Santa Barbara, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 24 glamping camping locations near Santa Barbara, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.