Best Camping near Solvang, CA

Searching for the best camping near Solvang, CA? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Solvang, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Solvang, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Solvang, CA (104)

    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
    849 Saves
    Santa Ynez, California

    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 El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground

    2. El Capitán State Beach Campground

    45 Reviews
    107 Photos
    1000 Saves
    Goleta, California

    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

    Beach wheelchairs are available for use by the public with no cost. With this specially designed chair, wheelchair users may access the beach at several locations. Contact a ranger or lifeguard for additional information.

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

    $45 - $320 / night

    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

    3. Jalama Beach County Park

    37 Reviews
    187 Photos
    1117 Saves
    Santa Ynez, California

    Land near Jalama Creek was once a Chumash Indian settlement named "Halama". In 1943, 23.5 acres of privately owned land was donated to the County of Santa Barbara from the Atlantic Richfield Oil Company, and thus, our park was formed. Jalama Beach is a respite from typically bustling seaside parks, yet offers many conveniences. Groceries, personal care sundries, firewood, fishing bait and tackle, ice, beer, and wine may be purchased at the Jalama Store. Other services include mailing, facsimile, and video rentals. The store and its popular Grill are open daily from 10 am.

    Jalama Beach is approximately an hour drive from Santa Barbara and a 45-minute drive from Lompoc. A sign 4.5 miles south of Lompoc off Highway 1 will direct you onto Jalama Road. Follow this scenic 14.5-mile road to the coast. The park entrance will be at the end of the road. Jalama is subject to high winds and rough surf. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, however, visitors swim at their own risk.

    Day-use picnic areas provide tables and raised fireboxes. Additional activities include surfing, whale-watching, birdwatching, nature photography, and fishing the surf or rock outcroppings for perch, cabezon, kelp, bass, or halibut. Many protected California native plants like sand verbena, saltbush, and sea rocket, grow within park boundaries.

    While you're here, visit the Jalama Beach Store and Grill and have a "World Famous Jalama Burger." They also have an extended menu that includes homemade clam chowder, chile verde, and "Aunt Ruth's Raw Apple Cake."

    Jalama Beach offers twelve walk-in sites (seven basic and five partial hook-up) that are first-come, first-served. These sites may not be reserved online, through the Call Center, or through the Jalama Gate.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Refugio State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Refugio State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Refugio State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Refugio State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Refugio State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Refugio State Beach Campground

    4. Refugio State Beach Campground

    25 Reviews
    42 Photos
    525 Saves
    Solvang, California

    The campsite fee covers one vehicle. There are additional fees for extra vehicles. Please note: Fires are allowed in fire rings only - not allowed on the beach.

    OCCUPANCY: Eight people maximum are allowed per campsite (including children). VEHICLE PARKING: Vehicles may only be parked in your assigned campsite. They must remain on the pavement and must not extend into the roadway beyond the campsite number or limit line. Three vehicles maximum are allowed per campsite. Trailers must be backed into the campsite parking space. Motor homes may be pulled forward or backed in.

    A 66-site family campground and three group sites are close to the beach. There are no RV hookups. Observe quiet hours. Reserve campsites well in advance at www.parks.ca.gov or call (800) 444-7275.

    Visitors will be able to reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance from the current date. Bookings may extend from the arrival date to the desired departure date – based on availability and the park’s maximum stay rules.

    Refugio State Beach offers excellent coastal fishing as well as trails and picnic sites. Palm trees planted near Refugio Creek give a distinctive look to the beach and camping area. Lifeguards patrol the beach year around while lifeguard towers are only staffed roughly from Memorial day weekend through Labor day weekend. Beach wheelchairs are available for use by the public at no cost. With this specially designed chair, wheelchair users may access the beach at several locations. Contact a ranger or lifeguard for additional information.

    Visitors can get a unique perspective of the coast line by taking the kayak tours offered by State Park Lifeguards. There are tours available for intermediate and beginning kayakers, and are held roughly from Memorial Day weekend through August.

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

    $45 - $350 / night

    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

    5. Flying Flags RV Resort

    20 Reviews
    89 Photos
    183 Saves
    Buellton, California

    With a s’more in your hand and a brand new friend at your side, you might not remember all the things that inspired you to visit Flying Flags in the first place. Like the fact that it’s surrounded by miles and miles of lush, Central Coast vineyards. Or the fact that it’s just down the road from an outrageously charming ostrich refuge. Or the fact that it’s on the edge of the village of Buellton—the home of split pea soup. Because when you’re at Flying Flags, you’ll see that these grounds create a village in themselves.

    Here, poolside cabanas keep families cool late into the afternoon. And expertly groomed bocce courts host brackets late into the evening. Front porches foster interactions between neighbors. And fire pits tend to spark a few stories among them too. Sure, the beauty of this place is more than enough to inspire you to come for a vacation. But the beauty of our community is what just might inspire you to come back.

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

    6. Mt. Figueroa Campground

    21 Reviews
    35 Photos
    234 Saves
    Los Olivos, California

    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

    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

    7. Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

    15 Reviews
    81 Photos
    460 Saves
    Goleta, California

    Treat the family to memorable camping on California's Central Coast at Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, formerly Ocean Mesa RV Resort. Our fantastic resort is situated in Santa Barbara, where the Pacific Ocean and Ynez Mountains offer a spectacular setting and stunning backdrop for activities and adventure.

    Choose your experience with a selection of spacious RV and tent sites. Enjoy fun amenities like a heated swimming pool and our amazing market that features camping gear, souvenirs, local wine, craft beer, and beach gear. Gather for seasonal outdoor movie nights on the market lawn. Or explore trails on docent-led hikes, take the kids to our llama and goat farm, and check out the events hosted at the El Capitan Canyon Market, located at El Capitan Canyon, our sister resort.

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

    8. Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    47 Reviews
    105 Photos
    921 Saves
    Carpinteria, California

    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

    $45 - $180 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Gaviota Campground — Gaviota State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gaviota Campground — Gaviota State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gaviota Campground — Gaviota State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gaviota Campground — Gaviota State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gaviota Campground — Gaviota State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gaviota Campground — Gaviota State Park

    9. Gaviota Campground — Gaviota State Park

    11 Reviews
    27 Photos
    6 Saves
    Solvang, California

    Gaviota Campground

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Picnic Table
    • Showers
    • Toilets

    $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    10. Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    61 Reviews
    257 Photos
    65 Saves
    Grover Beach, California

    Oceano Camp (sites 1-42)

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

    $25 - $40 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 104 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Solvang

Recent Reviews in Solvang

799 Reviews of 104 Solvang Campgrounds


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

    Santa Cruz Campground — 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

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Oct. 27, 2024

    North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

    A winner

    I skipped out on Oceano and came here hoping they might have something open. Turns out they had 8 and the park ranger let me drive in to scope it out. I picked a site close to the beach and even better my Oceano reservation could be transferred. Yay. Loved this campground so much. It’s well laid out and all the sites are well spaced and clean. The evening was much quieter, with a sunset and sounds of waves. A ten minute walk to the beach and right next to the butterfly grove. I have already made another reservation to see about the butterflies when they are in season. Pismo Beach is fantastic!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    You can do better

    Probably just due to the time of year but this campground was way too rowdy for my taste, all the sites are close together and it seemed almost every site was a very large group, generators running after 10pm, amplified music and tv! If that’s your jam you’ll love it. I took off after 1 night.

  • Connor B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Good spot for a quick night

    pretty easy to find, road is also easy to drive. found a pretty good level spot, definitely camping right off the side of the road. pretty nice and low key tho

  • 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.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Lovely hillside spots

    Picked the first nook from the GPS pin but hiked up road and there are quite a few others, some shaded, some exposed. Bit of highway noise.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    Not our scene: hot, crowded, buggy

    We had reservations for 2 nights on an Augugst Friday / Saturday at Lopez Lake in a full-hook-up site in Bandtail (Site 38). The reviews of this place were great, and the photos were beautiful. We arrived to find a HUGE park (yes, I should have noted how many campsites there are). Check-in involved parking our van and standing in line like Disneyland. The park employees were nice though. There were big signs all around "NO FIRES" (more on this later) and I was also told at check in that there were no fires. We found our site easily enough, only to realize how closely packed the sites were in Bandtail. Some nice folks to our right had three sites - 11 kids and 21 people between them. The kids rode their bikes all over, and even onto our site (while also running around our van chasing a chipmunk). We had our daughter's dog, so tried sitting outside in the shade, only to find that in addition to the heat (it was mid 80s), there were biting flies. :( Poor puppy got bit or stung more than once. So we went in our van and turned on the AC (it could run on low with the 20A service there). Then, after dark, a dad and his young son arrive on our other side and had to back in their boat in the dark. We got out of our rig and helped them (twice) with our portable lights and guidance. In the morning, they spoke in very loud voices and we were right next door. We did take one of the trails in the heat, but they are not at all well maintained - basically trampled grass that could easily hold a snake. While the area is pretty, it is just way too crowded for our taste. Oh, and the bathrooms were dimily lit, had a couple of non-functioning toilets, and were dirty. We were ready to get out of there and will not be back. Lastly, though the fire danger was marked as extremely high and "NO FIRES" signs at check-in, along with verbal warnings of no fires, I saw two campsites had open fires in the fire pits. This blatant lack of regard for rules and safety didn't sit well with me. And no one was enforcing the fire ban. Sad.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Great Campground

    We stayed here a few years ago, but on the primitive / non-hookup side. We stayed on the E/W hookup side this time and liked it as well, though it does have the more typical RV/parking lot feel as compared to the other side.  There's a nice walking trail that connects the two sides. It's $50 for an E/W site, plus an $8.25 reservation fee.

    There's a cool lagoon that you can walk all the way around on, with lots of birds, and much of it accessible as well which is nice. There's a cool visitor center, open 12-4. The beach is a short walk away. There's a great Mexican restaurant down the road also, Old Juan's, it's so good and has great vegan options.

    The showers here are nice and clean, and $1 gets you 4 minutes.  The showers are individual, private, and non-gendered. There was no host on site when we were there, but the rangers were very present.  This campground, like all California State campgrounds we've been to recently, has trash, recycling, and a food compost bin which I love.

    There's a fun game for kids where you download an app and go on a scavenger hunt and complete other challenges.

    No dump station here, but there's one just 2 miles north at North Beach Campground, and it's $10 for dump and water fill there.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground

    4 x 4 recommended

    We love being able to camp directly on the beach, and have done so many times in Texas and in Louisiana, but wouldn't recommend it here unless you are in a 4wd. We did see 2 skoolies on the beach, but then we also saw a pickup truck stuck in the sand in the parking lot outside of the beach, so there's that.

    Camping overnight is only $10, and the beach is wide open for camping. It was very busy during the day on a weekday in August, so I can imagine the weekends are packed. 

    This is a fun beach in a fun, low key beach town, and we love coming here.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Nice Car Camping Spot

    Pretty solid! Had great cell service and was a lovely drive to get there. Probably wouldn’t recommend if you have a tent or RV as the spots were a little small and rocky. But I only went a little past where the directions take you, so not sure what else is up there.

    Arrived just at sunset and loved the views! It was very peaceful and far enough from the highway. It seemed like the same truck was driving up and down a couple times which was the only downfall.

    Overall a good experience.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Faria Beach Park
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Faria Beach Park

    Beachy casual

    I'm giving this place 5 stars, because even though it's cramped and packed and awkward to maneuver through, it's got the casual and fun beach vibe that we love about this area.

    You're right on the beach, with easy access to the beach via stairs. This campground is very close to Rincon, but the setup is totally different. Rincon is basically just a parking space on the road, while Faria is a regular campground. The drive down from the main road is pretty steep with a sharp turn, I'm surprised more RVs don't scrape and cause damage on the way down.

    The sites here are very close together, but it doesn't matter. Everyone is friendly and happy and in a good mood. The cafe is fun and seems to be a hangout for bikers riding along Hwy 1. We love it here.

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park

    protected campground in middle of the island

    Both upper and lower campgrounds get almost total shade, which provides a relief from the direct sunlight throughout the rest of the island. The vault toilets were clean. Each site comes with its own table and metal food box. Some sites are closer together, but if you get lucky you can nab one towrds the outskirts.

    According to my Alltrails, lower sites were about 0.3 mile from the dock, and upper sites were about 0.6 mile.

    I recommend packing dramamine, in case you get motion sickness on the 1-1.5 hour boat ride in both directions. In January, the ride out to the island was pretty chopping. The ride back was calmer, and we boated along a pod of HUNDREDS of dolphins, it was spectacular.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rincon Parkway RV Overnight
    Jul. 26, 2024

    Rincon Parkway RV Overnight

    Love it here

    We come here often, whenever we are in the Ventura area. I used to be crabby about the high cost for just a parking spot along the freeway, but I've grown to love it. You're right on the beach, the weather is always perfect here and the ocean sounds drown out your neighbor's generator.

    No amenities other than trash dumpsters and the occasional recycle bin. Self contained RVs only, no tents.

    Cost is $47 during peak season, plus a $10 reservation fee and $2.50 per day per dog. Sigh - it adds up but it's kind of worth it. No check in required when you arrive, just pull into your reserved spot. No host on site, but rangers do come by often.

    You have to scramble down rocks to get to the beach, or you can walk to Faria campground and access the beach via their stairs.

  • 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.

  • Jeremy F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Jun. 27, 2024

    Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    Great time with the whole family

    Large sites with plenty of room for tents and all the other camping necessities. This site backs up into the hills and there are black bears that roam the area so be sure to prepare for that. The lake is full and lots of areas to fish.

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

    Rincon Parkway RV Overnight

    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.

  • Tammy P.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Flying Flags RV Resort

    A lot of amenities and great for family with kids

    Very tight space, lots of amenities like pools, playgrounds for kids, restaurants, activities, performances on weekends but can get quite busy and crowded. Close by solvang town and many pretty hiking trails

  • t
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Casitas Recreation Area
    Jun. 5, 2024

    Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    Nice place but dog owners beware

    Just to be clear, I love lake Casitas. I grew up camping here with my family. The reason I’m writing this review is to warn pet owners about the abundance of foxtails and burs. We have 2 poodle mixes with med-long hair and they both ended up with their fur filled with burs and foxtails. So much that it required a vet visit. This was from a weekend camp in our RV that had a large rug and they have raised dog cots.

  • b
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    May. 31, 2024

    Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Beautiful, but a little squirrely

    This campground is awesome. It’s very beautiful, with lots of wildflowers, trees, trails, beach dunes…and squirrels. Lots of them. But we also saw and heard hawks, turkey vultures, owls, and many other birds. We also saw a cute little weasel. There’s also lots of rangers, which makes for very well-mannered campers. Loved it!! You can walk to the beach or drive on the beach. Driving in the beach was fun, but it was so windy and so cold! This was the end of May. Not sure what the weather is over months. The actual campground was not as cold or windy, since it’s behind the dunes. The bathrooms have hot water and Flush toilets. Showers are huge and are self-contained and not in the bathrooms. Tokens needed. Starting in May there’s a market night at the main pier, small but fun to visit. Lots to do, from renting dune buggies to playing at the main pier. Loved it and can’t wait to go back. Oh, and about the squirrels. They’re not afraid. They ate through my little pantry that’s canvas that’s connected under my table. Also, mosquitoes! How could I forget. Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills. They’re out and about and it’s not fun if you’re not prepared. There’s a Walmart not too far away. After the citronella incense weren’t working, we went to Walmart and it was war! Another note, campsite 68 does not look like the photo. Tree is gone and the ice plant has invaded the site and made it smaller. One tent will fit, not another.



Guide to Solvang

Camping near Solvang, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and family-friendly options. Whether you're looking for a beachside retreat or a serene forest escape, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the beach: Head to Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach for a short walk to the dunes and easy access to the beach. One camper mentioned, "Short walk to the dunes, 5 minute drive to downtown Pismo Beach."
  • Visit local attractions: Check out the nearby town of Carpinteria, where you can enjoy the beach and local shops. A family tradition at Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach includes biking along the trail that connects to the campground.
  • Hiking and biking: Cachuma Lake Recreation Area offers numerous trails for hiking and biking. One visitor noted, "Hiking and mountain biking trails are abundant throughout the area."

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Jalama Beach County Park said, "Jalama Beach offers great walks along a long beach that is nestled in a cozy bay."
  • Clean facilities: Many campgrounds, like Lake Casitas Recreation Area, are praised for their clean bathrooms and showers. A camper mentioned, "Clean toilets. Clean showers."
  • Wildlife sightings: Campers enjoy the chance to see wildlife. At Wheeler Gorge Campground, one visitor shared, "We love the water going through the campground," highlighting the natural beauty and wildlife.

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Emma Wood State Beach, have very few facilities. A camper noted, "Completely dry camping with no showers or bathrooms."
  • Crowded during peak season: Expect busy campgrounds, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lopez Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "Check-in involved parking our van and standing in line like Disneyland."
  • Wildlife precautions: Be aware of wildlife, especially at campgrounds like Wheeler Gorge Campground. One camper warned, "They let us know there was a bear in the area."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, which has a water park. A reviewer said, "The campground is broken down into a bunch of different camping loops, each with different amenities and vibe."
  • Plan for meals: Bring food supplies, as some campgrounds have limited markets. One camper at Lake Casitas Recreation Area mentioned, "The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something."
  • Engage in outdoor activities: Encourage kids to explore nature. A visitor at Oceano County Campground highlighted a fun scavenger hunt app for kids.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground's site dimensions. A camper at Santa Cruz Campground noted, "Spots are very snug."
  • Be prepared for fees: Some campgrounds charge extra for pets or amenities. A visitor at Lake Casitas Recreation Area mentioned, "We paid online and... getting charged $5 a day extra for pets."
  • Bring cash: Many campgrounds, like Emma Wood State Beach, only accept cash for payment. A camper shared, "Right now it's First Come First Serve, pay with cash or check only."

Camping near Solvang, California, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. From beach fun to forest adventures, there's something for every camper to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Solvang, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Solvang, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 104 campgrounds and RV parks near Solvang, CA and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Solvang, CA?

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

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Solvang, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Solvang, CA.

  • What parks are near Solvang, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Solvang, CA that allow camping, notably Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument.