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Best Campgrounds near Santa Barbara, CA

873 Reviews

The coastal city of Santa Barbara has camping options that work well for both tent and RV campers. Wheeler Gorge Campground sits in Los Padres National Forest, with good hiking trails nearby. You'll find basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets there—nothing fancy but comfortable enough. Bridget M campground is currently closed but normally gives campers a quiet place to stay close to natural areas. Most camping areas have decent roads leading to them, but watch out during rainy seasons when some become muddy and harder to drive. Spring and fall camping in Santa Barbara means better weather—not too hot or cold. Summers can get pretty warm, and winters cool down quite a bit, especially at higher elevations. If you want more comfort in an RV, Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara has all the extras including full hookups, swimming pool, and a fenced area for dogs. It's close to the beach too, which is handy for swimming or walks. Santa Barbara has both forest and beach camping depending on what you prefer. Just check the weather forecast before you go so you pack the right gear. The area's mix of mountains and coastline makes for some really good camping spots throughout the region.

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Detours Nearby

Pine Springs Campground

Pine Springs Campground

1 hr 48 min away

Mono Campground - CLOSED

Mono Campground - CLOSED

1 hr 51 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near Santa Barbara, California (127)

    1. Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    50 Reviews
    Carpinteria, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 968-1033

    $45 - $180 / night

    "You can walk into town and eat at the amazing restaurants quaint Carpenteria has to offer. Or you can listen to the waves roll in from your campground as you cook something up over the camp fire."

    "Nestled between Ventura and Santa Barbara just north of Los Angeles is this picture perfect State Beach campground."

    2. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    59 Reviews
    Santa Ynez, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 686-5055

    "There are tent sites overlooking Lake Cachuma, and tent sites in the shady grass, and almost everything in between."

    "It’s a Quite campsite near Santa Barbara if you don’t want to spend the night in the city! We booked the day before and as we arrived a few other sites were free."

    3. El Capitán State Beach Campground

    46 Reviews
    Goleta, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 585-1869

    $45 - $320 / night

    "This is campground is on a great stretch of California Coastline north of Santa Barbara, but it is very popular in the summer time, so make reservations."

    "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."

    4. Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park

    14 Reviews
    Summerland, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 966-9954

    "Easy access to Santa Barbara too."

    "It's right in the city - near to the beach and zoo (biking distance for us).  Only flaw is it's right next to the freeway.  But it's ideal if you want to visit Santa Barbara!"

    5. Los Prietos

    12 Reviews
    Goleta, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 434-1996

    $40 - $44 / night

    "We took a small drive and we must’ve seen 60 more turkeys crossing the road.

    We stayed in the smaller loop and loved it. Every campsite up there was taken and it didn’t feel crowded at all."

    "In walking the campground there are some spaces I definitely wouldn't want, but there are some great spots here. The outer campsites have plenty of space, privacy, and tree coverage."

    6. Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

    19 Reviews
    Goleta, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 879-5751

    "Awesome campground 20 min from Santa Barbara. Its small and really well maintained. Pool, hiking trails, great wifi. Walk down to the beach or just chill at your site."

    "If you find yourself up near Santa Barbara, this luxury RV Resort and Campground is a real splurge."

    7. Refugio State Beach Campground

    25 Reviews
    Solvang, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 968-1033

    $45 - $350 / night

    "Low key but nice beach side campground along California’s Central Coast. Not to far from Santa Barbara. A bit of a surfers paradise because of some of the spots not far from the campsite."

    "This is the furthest spot away from the ocean we’ve ever stayed, but the site was large and exposed, which meant our solar panels were able to get all the charge they needed each day to easily power everything"

    8. Paradise Campground

    9 Reviews
    Goleta, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 434-1996

    $40 - $84 / night

    "A canopy of sprawling oak trees covers almost all the campsites, growing in a ring around an open grassy field."

    "Each campsite is very nice with shade under large oak trees, fire pits, bbq, and nearby trash and water.  Bathrooms were clean.  Camp host very nice."

    9. Lake Casitas Recreation Area

    39 Reviews
    Oak View, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 649-2233

    "This campground is located in Santa Barbara County just west of Ojai. Beautiful mountain scenery. It’s great for tents and RVs.

    The lake offers fishing and boating, no body contact."

    "A nice feature, (we did not take advantage of), is there is a water slide park near the entrance. As far as I know, this is a separate fee, but nothing astronomical."

    10. Thousand Trails Rancho Oso

    7 Reviews
    Goleta, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "We chose it because it was near Santa Barbara. And it was affordable (with Thousand Trails). So near to Santa Barbara is a relative term. It’s a 35 minute drive on a lovely windey mountain road."

    "I drove up the 101 by the coast of Santa Barbara on a Wednesday. It was beautiful, and pretty chilly by the water. Then I made the climb up the mountains to Rancho Oso."

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Recent Camping Photos near Santa Barbara, CA

294 Photos of 127 Santa Barbara Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Santa Barbara, CA

873 Reviews of 127 Santa Barbara Campgrounds

  • Lee-Ann C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Steckel Park

    Beautiful location

    The camp host came over shortly after we arrived and was very kind and friendly. I appreciate that they enforce quiet hours! The lots were not very private but they were clean and having full hookups was great. The location is pretty, on a creek. And there’s a playground and aviary which our whole family enjoyed. We’ll plan to go back when it’s not so hot!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Dennison Park

    Great spot close to downtown Ojai

    Firstly camp host knocked it out of the park. Site had water which was a nice surprise and very well kept bathrooms. Pay attention to RV vs Tent sites. This was my backup as Wheeler has closed for a bit. It was nice to be so close to downtown and we went there for a bit to get away from the heat. No natural water on site so if you love a creek look elsewhere.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    Close to Walkable Swimmable Beach / Close to Town / Nice Sunsets / Crowded

    Santa Cruz non-hook-up sites have: asphalt parking (close to level); picnic table; fire pit.  Individual restrooms with flush toilets and hot/cold water sinks cleaned daily but get lots of use.  Showers (tokens) cleaned but may have beach sand on floors.  Check feet / shoes for TAR from beach before entering tent / RV!  Baby oil helps take it off... plastic bag(s) helps to contain shoes.  Spaces can be tight... neighbor's RV was about two feet from ours.  Non-hook-up fee was $43.00 plus $8.25 online reservation fee.  "Enroute" camping may be available if campground is "full"... no hook-ups or tables - and have to leave by 9am - but you might have more space!   Inquire at front gate even if sign says "campground full".  Quiet after 10pm on Friday night even though campground and group sites were very full.  Thanks fellow campers!  Nice wide and safe swimming beach - close to quaint town - make this a CALIFORNIA CLASSIC.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Santa Cruz Campground — Carpinteria State Beach

    Beautiful location. Close to town

    Beautiful location. Close to town. Walkable, hike-able, bike-able, rideable via paths. No dogs on beach. There is a dog beach further up the coast. Sites are pretty tight. Lots of families and tent camping. Need token from kiosk for showers. Train comes by every once in a while. I stayed in Santa Cruz in my 25’ motorhome with no hook ups. Had my own picnic table and fire ring. May stay again only because of the nice walkable paths. Watch where you step near the tar pits.

  • Grace A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Foster Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Currently open! WATCHOUT FOR WASPS!!

    This campground was really nice for a last minute trip. We could have campfires so that’s always a plus. The bathrooms were clean and maintained. No showers but we only stayed one night so it wasn’t an issue. BEWARE OF BUGS! During the day there were a bunch of wasps so keep that in mind. It was annoying trying to eat. Besides that it was a quiet and clean spot! We stayed at campsite 15 and there was plenty of shade. Some of the other spots are not so lucky and have little to no shade coverage. I think each site has a picnic table that I saw. Tent sites and rv sites with hookups! Only like 10-15 minutes to Ventura beach! Definitely would come again!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Abundant Wildlife

    Tried out on a whim - note, NO swimming in the lake because it’s a source of drinking water. Get a waterfront spot for sure. General store pricey and there are yellow jackets during heat of day. BUT, gorgeous sunset and lake trails, big open campground with spacious spots. Def a fishing spot.

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

What are the best campgrounds in Santa Barbara for beach access?

Santa Barbara offers excellent beach camping options along its scenic coastline. Refugio State Beach Campground provides direct beach access in a low-key setting that's popular with surfers. For ocean views with more amenities, El Capitán State Beach Campground offers sites overlooking the Pacific with trails connecting to the beach. Other notable options include Emma Wood State Beach where you can camp right on the sand, and Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara which offers a short walk to the beach along with amenities like a pool and hiking trails. For those seeking a more remote beach experience, Jalama Beach County Park provides a secluded coastal camping environment about an hour from Santa Barbara.

Is free camping available in the Santa Barbara area?

Free camping options are limited in the Santa Barbara area, with most established campgrounds charging fees. Los Prietos in the Los Padres National Forest is one of the more affordable options, though it still charges a modest fee for its drive-in sites with basic amenities like water and toilets. Arroyo Hondo Vista Point Rest / Camp area may offer limited free overnight parking, but be sure to check current regulations. For true free camping, you'll likely need to venture further into the Los Padres National Forest for dispersed camping opportunities, following all forest service guidelines. Always verify current regulations and obtain any necessary permits before setting up camp.

What camping options are available in the Santa Barbara mountains?

The Santa Barbara mountains offer serene camping experiences away from coastal crowds. Mt. Figueroa Campground provides 35 campsites about 50 miles from Santa Barbara with hiking trails showcasing forest and mountain views. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. Paradise Campground offers both drive-in and walk-in sites with water and toilets, making it suitable for different camping styles. For a lakeside mountain experience, Cachuma Lake Recreation Area features diverse accommodation options including RV sites, tent sites, cabins, and yurts with views of Lake Cachuma. The mountains also contain numerous trails for day hiking and backpacking adventures, providing opportunities to explore the scenic beauty of the Los Padres National Forest.

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