Top Dog Friendly Camping near Santa Barbara, CA

Are you planning a camping trip to Santa Barbara with your dog? We've got you covered. With The Dyrt, it's easy to find campgrounds near Santa Barbara that allow pets. Search nearby pet-friendly campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Santa Barbara, CA (85)

    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 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

    3. 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 Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Emma Wood State Beach

    4. Emma Wood State Beach

    26 Reviews
    58 Photos
    376 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Gorge Campground

    5. Wheeler Gorge Campground

    30 Reviews
    16 Photos
    24 Saves

    Overview

    Wheeler Gorge Campground is a great place for families to explore the Los Padres National Forest all year long. Informative tours of the area are led by forest rangers at the nearby visitor center. The campground provides scenic views of a nearby stream, as well as vast mountain vistas.

    Recreation

    The Wheeler Gorge Nature Trail begins at the upper end of the campground. It is a relatively short loop that leads through thick vegetation along the creek banks and to a hillside view of the area. Wildflowers often bloom along the path. The creek flows near some of the campsites and a small swimming hole is frequented near the side of the highway. Fishing is rough in the area and may produce a catch of trout, but the stream is not stocked. Kayaking or canoeing in the creek is not recommended. Educational programs, including ranger-led hikes, are offered year-round.

    Facilities

    The Wheeler Gorge Nature Trail begins at the upper end of the campground. It is a relatively short loop that leads through thick vegetation along the creek banks and to a hillside view of the area. Wildflowers often bloom along the path. The creek flows near some of the campsites and a small swimming hole is frequented near the side of the highway. Fishing is rough in the area and may produce a catch of trout, but the stream is not stocked. Kayaking or canoeing in the creek is not recommended. Educational programs, including ranger-led hikes, are offered year-round.

    Natural Features

    The campground is adjacent to Matilija Creek, and is bordered by a mixed forest of oak and sycamore trees and evergreen shrubbery. Most sites are shaded and summer temperatures reach up to 95 degrees. The campground was originally built by Boy Scouts nearly a century ago, as well as a historical stone home that is also on-site.

    Nearby Attractions

    Ventura and the Pacific Ocean are about 20 miles south of the campground.

    • Pets
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Toilets

    $34 / night

    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

    6. 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 Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park

    7. Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park

    12 Reviews
    8 Photos
    226 Saves

    The only RV park located in the city of Santa Barbara. We offer convenient, comfortable RV sites and friendly, dependable service. Enjoy the hospitality of our small, family owned urban RV park while you explore Santa Barbara’s countless treasures and oodles of activities. Whether you call it an RV or a caravan, a vacation or a holiday, a park or a campground, we welcome you!

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Prietos
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Prietos
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Prietos
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Prietos
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Prietos
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Prietos

    8. Los Prietos

    12 Reviews
    27 Photos
    243 Saves

    Overview

    Los Prietos Campground is situated in the Los Padres National Forest and provides access to a variety of outdoor adventures, including water-related recreation and hiking. The family-friendly campground is green and lush and is a great place to camp in the mountains of western California.

    Recreation

    The Santa Ynez River is popular for a variety of water-related recreation. The river can be accessed at White Rock Day Use Area, less than a half-mile from the campground. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is no-body-contact reservoir about 10 miles northwest of the campground. It offers boating, fishing and kayaking. Anglers will find an abundance of annually stocked trout. Carp and bass are also common catches. Visitors enjoy a variety of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. The Aliso National Recreation Trail is a popular, 2.5-mile loop that begins near the campground. Also nearby is the 18-mile Santa Cruz Trail, which provides access to a variety of other trails in the area. The Camuesa OHV Route and its connecting trails are available within 10 miles of the campground.

    Natural Features

    The campground is nestled on the side of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Beautiful, mature oak trees provide ample shade, and abundant vegetation blankets the ground. The sites are roomy and allow for some privacy and separation.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground is located 19 miles from Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $40 - $44 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rincon Parkway Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rincon Parkway Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rincon Parkway Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rincon Parkway Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rincon Parkway Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rincon Parkway Campground

    9. Rincon Parkway Campground

    17 Reviews
    78 Photos
    235 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Figueroa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Figueroa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Figueroa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Figueroa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Figueroa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Figueroa Campground

    10. Mt. Figueroa Campground

    21 Reviews
    35 Photos
    234 Saves

    Overview

    Experience life elevated when you enjoy vistas of wildflowers, star gazing, and summer campouts atop Figueroa Mountain. Lose yourself in a grove of beautiful red manzanita, oaks and pines as Figueroa Campground lifts your spirits and your senses. Take a leisurely walk up the mountain ridge to watch a beautiful sunset or walk the trail around the campground to see the wildlife and all of nature's beauty. During the spring season, the area features an amazing wildflower display. This easily accessed pedestal in the pines is also very popular with hunters during the annual deer season.

    Recreation

    Trails, horseback riding, off road vehicle use, mountain biking, fishing, camping, backpacking, seasonal hunting, shooting and photography are all popular recreational uses on Figueroa Mountain. Figueroa Campground serves as a centralized location to various trailheads, including the Davy Brown/Fir Canyon and Ballard Trails. On Figueroa Lookout Road, you will also find amazing views of rolling hills and the shimmering Pacific Ocean in the distance.

    Natural Features

    Figueroa Campground is surrounded and shaded by red manzanita and a variety of oak and pine trees. During spring, Figueroa Campground is an ideal place to camp while you enjoy the magnificent wildflower displays that Figueroa Mountain has to offer. This is also the home of numerous spring migrating birds, such as the exquisite western tanager, which breeds and raises its young on Figueroa Mountain until August.

    Nearby Attractions

    A few miles away, Davy Brown Campground is the starting point for several trails, including the spectacular Davy Brown/Fir Canyon Trail. Two miles further are the Lower Manzana and Upper Manzana trailheads, entry points to the majestic San Rafael Wilderness. Los Olivios, Santa Ynez, Solvang and Buelton are within an hour's drive.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 - $34 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 85 campgrounds

Recent Dog-Friendly Reviews In Santa Barbara

696 Reviews of 85 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

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

    Anacapa Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    For $70 a night we Expected More!

    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

  • AnnaEvan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Campo Alto Campground
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Campo Alto Campground

    Great Escape!

    This is a wonderful campground if you're looking to escape the crowds elsewhere. We were in spot 4 which was right next to the check in board. Despite the close proximity to the road the site was very big and had plenty of trees to throw our hammocks up and relax. Next time we would likely pick spots 6-8 or 13-17 as they were a little further into the campground and away from the main road.

    There is plenty of firewood to gather but I may suggest a small hatchet.

    The vault toilets were clean enough for vault toilets.

    My husband and I stayed Saturday to Monday and found that only a few hunters were left Sunday night and Monday morning and we enjoyed walking through the campground and checking out all the small viewpoints through the trees to the valleys below. The group sites looked spacious and awesome as well!

    Pine Mountain Club was close, quaint, and the people we met were friendly.

    We are keeping this spot in our back pockets for the next time we want to escape the busy city life!

  • 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.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Gorge Campground
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Wheeler Gorge Campground

    Peaceful and Calm!

    We loved camping here. The whole area has a really peaceful and mellow vibe. We reserved site #49 which was plenty big enough for our 26ft class c, but the drive through the campground to get to the site was a little narrow and tight, wouldn't recommend for larger RVs. This end of the campground is right next to the emergency exit, too, but they keep that gate locked, otherwise it would be an easy swoop in. Camp host was really nice, campground was huge, nice that there's a creek running through it which comes in handy in the hot summer months. You have to drive over some creek runoff at parts, no problem.

    There's zero cell reception in this entire area, the roads leading up to the campground as well.

    Fees are $35 or $37 for weekends/holidays. Pricey for what you get and for what we're used to paying for a forest service campground.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Vandenberg AFB Pine Canyon Campground
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Military Park Vandenberg AFB Pine Canyon Campground

    Nice and quiet

    Located on Vandenberg base which requires a membership card (military I.D.) This helps keep the camp site more private. No one goes here. It is tranquil and has trails to hike and lakes to fish in. Hunting is also allowed during select seasons. If you like quiet and keep to yourself, this is the place. There are no trash cans and a permit is required for campfire. There are a couple of port-a-pots and they are very clean. Go SpaceForce! Lastly, watch out for poison oak. Stay on the trails and all is well. Semper Fi.

  • Kim N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Thornhill Broome Beach
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Thornhill Broome Beach

    Great site with no amenities

    Loved the quietness of this campsite. No water, no dump station, only portable bathrooms on site from what we can see. We were in an RV so we didn't mind at all. Went to Sycamore campground to fill up on water. Youre packed right on the beach next to the sand. Combo of tent and rv campers. Wifi is great at this location. We have tmobile

  • Kim N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu State Park
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Point Mugu State Park

    no wifi

    No tmobile wifi. we dropped by to fill up water since we were camping at thornhill Broome. Water refill was free. We didn't  dump there. Can't comment on anything else.

  • 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.

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Danielson Group Multi-Use Area
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Danielson Group Multi-Use Area

    Haven't stayed, looks a little run down

    I came across this group campsite while on a long hike with a friend. I had no idea it existed, so I'm adding it to the Dyrt so more people can find it if they are looking for a group campsite. You can reserve it for large groups of 10-50 people. Some of the communal areas and fencing looked like it could use some resfreshing. Facilities available: Drinking Water, Flush Toilets, Showers, Tent Spaces, and Fireplace.

    I recommend visiting in the spring, when things are greenest, and there are beautiful wildflowers.

  • Elaine H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dennison Park
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Dennison Park

    Great campground and host!

    I love finding a camping spot last minute and it turns out to be amazing! Dennison Park Campground did not disappoint! Although there are beautiful upper campground spots that Overlook Ojai Valley, I chose, from the choices I had, a spot that looked spacious and offered the most shade. Nestled in the middle of upper and lower campsites, I found it to be a quiet reprieve from our day's activities -- the campfire always the highlight for me. The camp host, Dane, was friendly, helpful, and a joy to chat with. He also gave us some suggestions of other county parks to check out the next time we venture to the Ojia area! We will definitely be back to camp here!

  • 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.

  • Michelle W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Steckel Park
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Steckel Park

    Much better than I expected

    I had a giant campsite overlooking the heavily flowing creek. The creek was so clean and beautiful. The amazing thing is I brush-crashed for hours and didn’t get a single bug bite. The site was a bit messy when I arrived, but the ranger pulled up right as I got there to empty the trash bin. He said the crows scatter the garbage. A family of 2 peahens, a peacock, and 3 babies hung out near the creek. Beautiful birds. After walking around the creek for an hour, I came back to see a few bundles of wood left for me. I think the ranger found them at a site and gifted them to me. Very nice person!

  • Tippy B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rincon Parkway Campground
    Jun. 12, 2024

    Rincon Parkway Campground

    Million dollar view

    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. Views were amazing to fall asleep to and wake up to.

    You can bring your own wood, have a fire where you camp. Don’t forget your campfire stove, there are porta-potties. As long as your self contained in a RV, car, bus, you are golden. Stay…. It will be a memorable trip. And you can’t beat the price.

  • Heather K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobson Beach County Park
    May. 16, 2024

    Hobson Beach County Park

    Expensive But It’s On The Beach

    I stayed here for one night. Bathrooms were clean. They seem to have a coffee and pizza shack too but they were not open when I arrived. I didn’t use the showers but they have a shower room in addition to bathrooms. It was a quiet night.

    The only negative was the people parked next to me had moved their picnic table into my spot so it made it difficult to back in and use my spot.

  • 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.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Foster Residence Campground
    May. 3, 2024

    Foster Residence Campground

    Small Campground but Nice

    Small little campground, easy to get to and across from Foster Park. 

    There are not too many spaces, and it is a little tight, so larger RVs will not fit. 

    I got site 11, which is pretty big, but it's next to the road. At all times of the day, you get a lot of loud motorcycles coming through. 

    It's next to Foster Park, which allows swimming in the river during the summer months. 

    It's also near the Ojai Bike trail, which you can take all the way to Ojai or down to the beach in Ventura. 

    I road up to Lake Casitas and into Ojai, which was a nice short loop.

    There were no issues with safety; it felt pretty safe.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Mugu State Park
    May. 2, 2024

    Point Mugu State Park

    Compact Little Campground

    Small little campground adjacent to Sycamore Canyon. This is great for trail runners and mountain bikers. 

    The spaces are pretty small, so they are not meant for large RVs. The facilities are Okay. I don't think there was hot water when I went there. 

    There is no reception for T-Mobile users. However, I used my WeBoost and got two bars. I was able to stream music, text and some internet. 

    It's nice to ride down PCH on this stretch towards Camarillo. You can visit the Missile Park in Point Magu or the Light House in Hueneme.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Faria Beach Park
    May. 2, 2024

    Faria Beach Park

    Beach Front Camping At Its Best

    It's a nice little site. It's not too crowded, as there aren't too many sites within the campground. You are packed in like sardines, but this is conducive to every beachfront campground. 

    The place is clean and easy to get to. There are signs to lock your stuff up so it doesn't get stolen. The person next to me said they got their bike stolen the last time they were there. 

    The view is amazing of course. There is nothing else in the area, no shopping.  

    Good area if you plan to ride or run. You could ride up to Santa Barbara from here and run along the beach path.  You could also ride up to Lake Casitas and make a loop out of it.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kcl Campground
    May. 1, 2024

    Kcl Campground

    Quiet rolling hills

    Small campground for 12 smaller than 30 ft rigs or tents. Most are much smaller. Rough bumpy road for miles ether direction on a first come, first serve campground. Has vaulted toilet with no water or other services. If full, would seek off road area on right just as you approach. Has older building of interest. There was a great horned owl in one of the few eucalyptus trees at the campsite. Quiet and nice area to take a hike or two with pretty nice views if you like the high desert landscape. Warning not to travel dirt roads after a rain as you’re likely to get stuck. Better if you come in from the north side(58) on paved roads, but would limit you to boondocking likely because unable to get to this or Selby campgrounds. Selby is another first-come site to the NW

  • 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!

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rincon Parkway Campground
    Mar. 27, 2024

    Rincon Parkway Campground

    Great Coast dry camp.

    Park parallel right on the road. You must be heading southbound. Great for last second check-in online. Best, I've ever had checking in. Sites with lower numbers. Have more sand in front and maybe easier access beach.

  • Jack J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Nettle Springs Campground
    Mar. 23, 2024

    Nettle Springs Campground

    One Night Stay

    It’s a pack in and pack out camp ground. Apache canyon trail getting is was a fun drive. I used my 4x4 but could easy done without. Not a soul was there. Could see it getting busy during the summer though.

  • 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.



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 dog-friendly campsite near Santa Barbara, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly 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 dog-friendly camping near Santa Barbara, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 85 dog-friendly camping locations near Santa Barbara, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.