Tent campsites near Santa Barbara, California range from coastal enclaves to mountain hideaways within Los Padres National Forest. Winter temperatures typically hover between 45-65°F, while summer brings 60-80°F days ideal for outdoor exploration. Many backcountry sites lack potable water sources, requiring campers to pack in their own water supply.
What to do
Kayaking excursions: At Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground, campers can explore sea caves and coves. "Kayak around and experience seals and dolphins right underneath you in beautiful coves. An amazing and unique experience," shares Megan B.
Cross-island hiking: The Del Norte Backcountry Camp offers longer treks for experienced hikers. "Hiked from Scorpion Harbor cross-island to Del Norte Camp, great way to see the island. Camped at site 1, had the most wind but also the best views of the ocean," notes Tom M.
Bridge exploration: From Arroyo Hondo Vista Point, visitors can access an old abandoned highway bridge. "There is a walk down to the old abandoned highway bridge and you can watch the Coast Starlight carrying passengers South to San Diego and North to Seattle," explains Ronald K.
Marine wildlife viewing: Boat trips to campsites often include wildlife encounters. "We saw schools of dolphins, the captain estimated over 2000 dolphins. He stopped so we could get lots of pictures," recounts Deborah C. about her Channel Islands journey.
What campers like
Isolation from crowds: Santa Rosa Island Campground provides remarkable seclusion. "It was so isolated, not many people are allowed to camp per night and once you are there, you are stuck for a few days. It was amazing and peaceful," reports Katie O.
Island wildlife encounters: The unique fauna on Channel Islands makes for memorable camping. "We saw lots of island foxes - so cute! Note that there are gear restrictions for the cruise (check the website). Also you have to PACK YOUR OWN WATER," advises Kathleen L.
Modern facilities despite remoteness: Some island campgrounds have better amenities than expected. "This campground had running water spouts to fill up water, bathroom with flushable toilet and sink, and nice wind breaker walls," notes Colston L. about Santa Rosa Island.
Ocean views without camping fees: Free roadside stops provide budget-friendly alternatives. "Right on the ocean and couldn't be any better for a quick nights stay," states Terry L. about Arroyo Hondo Vista Point.
What you should know
Transportation planning required: Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry demands advance logistics. "You have to set up a boat trip here and back so do your homework because it takes some coordinating," cautions Kate W.
Wind exposure at island sites: Island campsites experience significant wind. "The wind is not a joke. When we came back from hiking more than one tent was blown over. Low profile, use your steaks and we even tied ours to the shelter to keep it stable," warns Lindsay C.
Limited overnight parking duration: Arroyo Hondo has time restrictions. "This is a California Highway rest area right off the 101 just north of Goleta/Santa Barbara. As the sign says, one is allowed to park their 8 hours," explains MomentoMori C.
Wildlife protection protocols: Special food storage is mandatory. "Keep anything shiny out of sight for the crows. At the campgrounds there is a bear box at each site, make sure to utilize this for all food and anything that has a scent because the fox will eat through your tent and bags," advises Katie O.
Tips for camping with families
Gear transport strategies: Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon requires carrying equipment from the dock. "You do have to carry your gear from the boat to the site, but it's very manageable even if you have coolers, full-size tents, etc. You don't need backpacking gear for this camp," suggests Jonathan G.
Site selection for privacy: Upper campground areas offer more space between sites. "The upper loop has all of the group sites and thus everything is a more spread out. The trees aren't quite as dense in the upper loop as they are in the lower loop, but there's still plenty of shade," describes Jen G.
Cleanliness supplies: Bring sanitizing items for campsite maintenance. "I would also highly recommend bleach wipes or something of the sort to help keep your table clean. I'm certainly not averse to a little 'nature' in my food, but I draw the line at puddles of pee and fecal matter," advises Jen G.
Weight considerations for ferry transport: Island Packers enforces strict weight limits. "You must not have water in your back pack, the propane must be out in a separate bin, and you are allowed only 60 lbs of 'stuff' each," notes Deborah C.
Tips from RVers
Noise reduction strategies: At Arroyo Hondo Vista Point, position your vehicle strategically. "If you park so that the large berm is between you and the freeway it muffles the sound," advises Ronald K.
Highway access considerations: Entering and exiting requires specific driving maneuvers. "The entrance and exit are build for traffic going south, so you have to be comfortable doing a freeway u-turn if you're going north. Not a big deal, and there are lanes that are built for it," explains Jason H.
Equipment limitations: Roadside camping areas have restrictions on setup. "We were concerned that since it was a rest area, we weren't able to put out our folding picnic set but we were able to cook a quick meal right in front of our van before turning in for the night," shares MomentoMori C.
