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Top 10 Campgrounds and RV Parks Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is a coastal town in Southern California. This area is popular with tourists, and RV campgrounds in Santa Barbara, California also see their share of Los Angeles residents searching for a place to park their RVs for the night. Santa Barbara is located about 100 miles north of L.A., and most RV parks in the Santa Barbara, California area are situated near the beach.
Beach access is this town’s best amenity, and the campgrounds in this area make sure to capitalize on this fact. Since this city is located near all of the amenities of Los Angeles, RV parks in Santa Barbara are great places to start on a sweeping RV trip throughout California. The weather in this area stays bright and sunny all year long, so check out these 10 options for RV camping in Santa Barbara that can each provide you with the best-possible opportunity to soak up some rays.
Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground
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Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground is a large RV park located to the northwest of Santa Barbara. There is a local winery within walking distance, and the town of Solvang is about five minutes away. Other local attractions include Lake Cachuma and Los Padres National Forest.
Why You’ll Love Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground
Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground is an all-inclusive resort. It features all of the amenities that you need to stay fed and comfortable overnight or for an extended stay. Since this RV park is relatively remote, it’s easy to enjoy some peace and quiet.
What People Are Saying About Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground
“We go there on the average of three times a year, and every time that we are there, we are amazed at the changes they have made. We always recommend this RV park to anyone that we see. If you want to stay there, I would recommend booking very early in advance as the spaces go quickly.” – Randall, Google Review
Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
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Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara is located directly on the beach. It’s part of El Capitan State Beach and is situated about five miles outside of Santa Barbara. Every RV pad is surrounded by shade trees, and ocean views are abundant.
Why You’ll Love Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
Nothing beats being able to walk to the beach whenever the mood strikes. The sunsets at this RV park are absolutely beautiful, and you can hear the waves crashing at night. If you need to stop into town, Highway 1 runs through the El Capitan area.
What People Are Saying About Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
“The park was almost empty, which is probably one reason I rated it so high. We had the place to ourselves, but having said that, it is a very nice spot even if full. Nicely kept sites with lots of trees. Hedges separate the sites. However, in some areas, the hedges are small. Wi-Fi was excellent.” – Gerry, Google Review
Thousand Trails Rancho Oso
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Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort is a medium-sized RV park located in the hills north of Santa Barbara. Unlike other campgrounds in Santa Barbara, California, this RV park is equestrian-themed, and it features many amenities that are popular with kids. The resort is situated on 310 acres, and the history of this camping area goes back to 1845.
Why You’ll Love Thousand Trails Rancho Oso
Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort is a great place to bring your horses. The staff at this RV park also offers horseback riding lessons. There are dozens of miles of horse trails in the area, and there’s even a restaurant on-site.
What People Are Saying About Thousand Trails Rancho Oso
“Great campground & resort. I’ve been going here for more than 20 years now. Tons of amenities, lots of bathrooms located throughout the resort, hiking, horseback riding (for a fee), miniature golf, tennis court, two pools, hot tub, country store, river, horseshoes, and more.” – Jason, Google Review
Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park
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If you have dreamt of being able to hike the Santa Ynez Mountains to watch the sunrise or venture down a sandy beach to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, then Santa Barbara is the place you want to go. The experience can be amplified if you are traveling in your home on wheels and decide to stay at Santa Barabara Sunrise RV Park!
Why You’ll Love Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park
Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park prides itself in its hospitality, providing a comforting at-home atmosphere when staying here. Not only is this park within walking and biking distance to miles of pristine beaches, numerous wineries, breweries, restaurants, art and history museums, and loads of other outdoor activities, it is also just across the highway from the Santa Barbara Zoo! The numerous amenities at this park and its proximity to nearby attractions will make you want to keep coming back again and again.
What People Are Saying About Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park
“The best park I've stayed at. Friendly and helpful staff, blazing fast internet, walking distance to the beach and some great restaurants, and the spaces aren't too cramped like some other parks. The bathrooms and laundry room are extremely clean as well.” – Ian, Google Review
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
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Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is operated by the County of Santa Barbara. It’s located northwest of Santa Barbara on the shores of Lake Cachuma. This RV park is one of the largest in the area, and it’s open year-round.
Why You’ll Love Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
Lake Cachuma is a beautiful spot to visit any time of year. In the winter, you can bundle up in your camper and watch the peaceful lake. During the summer, you can join the throng and splash around. Best of all, Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is only about 20 miles away from Santa Barbara.
What People Are Saying About Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
“Nice near-lake campgrounds with RV and tent spaces, yurts and little cabins, store and gas station. Lake is still low at about 35% capacity. New disc golf course with 18 holes, Mach V orange baskets, four pin positions for every hole, nice tees and signs. Really nice course!!” – Mark, Google Review
Carpinteria State Beach Campground
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Carpinteria State Beach Campground is located a few miles to the east of downtown Santa Barbara. It’s a relatively large RV park, and it’s located directly on the beach. This RV park can accommodate a maximum camper length of 35 feet.
Why You’ll Love Carpinteria State Beach Campground
Every RV pad at Carpinteria State Beach Campground is located just a few steps away from the beach. This facility is close to Los Angeles, which means you have a lot of amenities at your disposal. The sunset over the ocean is incredible any time of year.
What People Are Saying About Carpinteria State Beach Campground
“The park is a nature preserve, so there is a lot to do and see there. It goes for miles, extending from a marshland bird preserve to the north to a seal rookery and miles of bluff trails to the south. There are tidal pools, gentle waves, miles of sand, a creek, and natural tar pit– one of only eight worldwide.” – Quillen, Google Review
Paradise Campground
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Paradise Campground is a remote campground located in the hills to the north of Santa Barbara. It’s one of the smaller campgrounds in the area, and it’s at a high elevation. Small bodies of water and nature trails surround Paradise Campground.
Why You’ll Love Paradise Campground
If you really want to get away from it all, Paradise Campground is the place for you. Even though it’s only about 30 minutes away from Santa Barbara, the resort feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere. Campsites are first come, first served, so there’s no need to make reservations.
What People Are Saying About Paradise Campground
“Nice place to camp, not far from Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean. Great views, and not far from Solvang and Wine Country. Park access is on a winding, rather steep at times road, but doable for RVs.” – Gary, Google Review
Lake Casitas Recreation Area
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Lake Casitas Recreation Area is located on the shores of Lake Casitas, which is about 15 minutes to the east of Santa Barbara. This RV park is relatively large, and it offers full hookups. Lake Casitas Recreation Area is open all year long, and it clears out in the winter months.
Why You’ll Love Lake Casitas Recreation Area
Lake Casitas Recreation Area is located relatively close to Los Angeles, making it easy to stock up on supplies if necessary. There are quite a few recreational trails in the area, and guests are welcome to fish to their heart’s content.
What People Are Saying About Lake Casitas Recreation Area
“Wonderful place, beautiful and serene. Helpful ranger staff. Very accessible with plenty of parking. Be sure to check out the paired eagles as in bald eagles that are nesting by the lake. Kids loved it, ran around, and had a great time!” – Rocco, Google Review
Refugio State Beach
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Refugio State Beach is located a few minutes west of Santa Barbara. This RV park features beach access, and the beach is lined with looming palm trees. Refugio State Beach can accommodate campers that are up to 30 feet long.
Why You’ll Love Refugio State Beach
At Refugio State Beach, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean every morning. The camp store is open on Saturdays and Sundays, and Santa Barbara is only minutes away. This RV park is relatively small, so it stays pretty quiet at night.
What People Are Saying About Refugio State Beach
“Huge campground sitting right on top of the Pacific. Well kept, clean showers (bring quarters!). Perfect for families, kids exploring, and grilling at night. And if you forgot anything, there’s a convenience store.” – Thorsten, Google Review
Ventura Beach RV Resort
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This Santa Barbara, California campground is located east of Santa Barbara in the town of Ventura. There is a camp store on-site, and the resort is easy to access. The Ventura County Fairgrounds are right across the street from this RV park.
Why You’ll Love Ventura Beach RV Resort
Ventura Beach RV Resort is an all-inclusive RV park. This means that you’ll only need to go into town to stock up on groceries. The resort stays relatively quiet at night, and the beach is within walking distance.
What People Are Saying About Ventura Beach RV Resort
“Great location for bike riding or walking into the town of Ventura. There is a freeway and a road that surrounds the place, which could bothersome if you’re in a tent. But the inside of the grounds is great. Swimming pool and a kids’ area.” – Kimberly, Google Review
In Summary
With so many fine Santa Barbara campgrounds at your disposal, picking just one can be a challenge. But if you want to get as close to the waves as possible, a place like Carpinteria State Beach Campground might be the best option. If you’d rather explore the surrounding hills, you might want to stay at Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort. Whether you’re renting a camper or you own an RV, you’ll always remember camping in Santa Barbara as one of the most rewarding and sun-filled RV experiences that you’ve ever enjoyed.
Explore other Campgrounds & RV Parks near Santa Barbara
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to camp in Santa Barbara, California?
How much does it cost to camp in Santa Barbara, California?
The top 10 campgrounds we selected all show daily, weekly and monthly rates for you. Pricing will vary.
How much does it cost to RV park in Santa Barbara, California?
Pricing will vary. The top 10 RV Parks we selected all display daily, weekly and monthly rates for you.
How long can you stay at an RV Park in Santa Barbara, California?
Staying at an RV Park for a long period of time will vary on the campground & RV Park you choose. View our post for more information.
Are there pet friendly RV Parks & Campgrounds in Santa Barbara, California?
Yes. The majority of campgrounds we selected in this blog allow pets.