The best campgrounds near Buellton, California with swimming

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Buellton, California, with a focus on swimming, you're in luck. We've got over 180 options specifically tailored to your preference. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot by the water or a campground with swimming facilities, we've got you covered. And don't just take our word for it – our top campsites, like Camp Arroyo Grande (508 reviews), SLO Country Camp (394 reviews), and Private Beach Farm (382 reviews), have rave reviews from fellow campers. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to enjoy a refreshing camping experience near Buellton, California!

99% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Buellton, California, with a focus on swimming, you're in luck. We've got over 180 options specifically tailored to your preference. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot by the water or a campground with swimming facilities, we've got you covered. And don't just take our word for it – our top campsites, like Camp Arroyo Grande (508 reviews), SLO Country Camp (394 reviews), and Private Beach Farm (382 reviews), have rave reviews from fellow campers. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to enjoy a refreshing camping experience near Buellton, California!

99% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Camp Arroyo Grande

96%

(942)

42mi from Buellton · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Arroyo Grande, CA

Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy 29-acres that feature beautiful ocean views, oak woodlands, and plenty of rustic charm. All this is conveniently tucked into the hillside just steps away from the Village of Arroyo Grande where you will find restaurants, coffee, shopping, parks and Roosters. The property is home to many youth groups and local non-profits, continuing a 135-year legacy as an Event Center and Retreat Space. The historic Tabernacle building has been hosting church and schools gatherings, dinners, fundraisers, weddings, family reunions, festivals and more since 1897. Community Events are likely to be taking place but follow quiet time guidelines. *pool is seasonal and subject to availability

2. SLO Country Camp

99%

(1360)

49mi from Buellton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · San Luis Obispo, CA

SLO Country Camp was once a part of the Serpa Ranch, one of the early ranches of the Central Coast. It’s remained a beautiful rural pocket in the Edna Valley area of San Luis Obispo. It’s quiet and peaceful, enjoy your morning coffee listening to all the birds waking up. There’s a private creek not far away that draws deer and wildlife. Just saw 3 deer run through out property 2 days ago. Owls, red tail hawks, eagles, squirrels and jack rabbits we see frequently. And you can listen to the coyotes howling at night. We’re surrounded by rolling coastal hills, vineyards, horses, cattle and also land apportioned to the Land Conservancy. Walk down our road and then left up to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the entire area with the city San Luis Obispo at a distance. Our two sites are flat on decomposed granite pads. Both have excellent views and easy access to our common areas: big sink and counter, and a cold-water outdoor "beach-type" shower. Firewood is available for purchase at camp for those wanting to use the fire pit, or you can bring your own. The San Luis Obispo, Central Coast has so much to see and do! Hiking trails abound, our favorites are Bob Jones trail to walk or bike to Avila Beach, Johnson Ranch and Irish Hills for hiking hills, the Ridge trail for a view over Shell and Avila beaches, and the Harmony Trail to walk grassy cliffs by the ocean. Montano de Oro is only 15 minutes away with rocky ocean cliff trails that lead down to the coastline. We are 5 minutes from the beginning of the Edna Valley winery trail with 30 wineries or more I’ve lost count. Tasting and relaxing in great atmospheres. Our favorites are Biddle Ranch, Talley, Mailene, Chamisal, Bailyanna... but there are so many more. We’re 10 minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo, 10–12 minutes to Avila or Pismo beaches. Morro Bay is 25 minutes. And we’re just 5 minutes off the 101 for easy access to traveling. The Central Coast has almost everything for fun, adventure and food. Surfing, biking, hiking, ocean kayaking, paddle boarding, golf, wine and beer culture, ranch lands, shopping and restaurants and we’re close to it all.

3. Harmony's Glamping

95%

(347)

25mi from Buellton · 11 sites · Lodging · Santa Barbara, CA

Nestled along a spring fed creek in the beautiful mountains of Santa Barbara. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors while staying cozy in a Yurt, or one of our Geo Domes. Each is secluded with a hot shower, propane fire pit, camp kitchen (stove and sink ) please bring pots/ pans and all necessary cooking supplies, and a comfortable queen bed. Wake up to the sound of the birds chirping and the creek rippling. Hike to our very own 30' ft waterfall where you can take a dip, lay out and catch some sunshine. The trail is rugged so be ready to boulder and use your hands in some places. Our wood burning hot tub is freshly filled every time, and right along the creek for a natural hot/cold plunge experience. We also offer morning yoga, and relaxing massages for a fully rejuvenating experience. We provide a list of things to explore off-site, but our on-site amenities include things like disc golf, corn hole, ping pong, puzzles in the yurts, books, and more! We do require a liability waiver to be signed, and by booking, you are agreeing to and signing to the waiver. We will also send you a waiver via your welcome message. Enjoy some nearby experiences all within 30 minutes: -Cold Springs Tavern, historical stagecoach stop, live music and delicious BBQ -Wine Tasting in Solvang or on Stearns Wharf -State Street, Downtown Shopping and Restaurants -Beaches, LedBetter, East Beach, Butterfly, Hendry's Beach (Dog Friendly) -Painted Cave, a cave full of Indian paintings -Hikes, SaddleRock, Lizards Mouth, Hot Springs Please note that a high clearance vehicle is recommended! This is a mountainous bumpy dirt road with steep sharp corners. A regular car can make it, just be warned you may bottom out a couple times. We are not liable for any damage to you or your vehicle when entering our property, so do so at your own risk. Please feel free to reach out with any further questions. Text or Call: 805-698-8623 IG:@harmonys_glamping

4. Gaviota State Park

77%

(22)

38 sites · Solvang, California

A geologically unique California beach just steps from the Santa Ynez Mountains.

5. Refugio State Beach

97%

(77)

67 sites · Solvang, California

Camp beneath swaying palm trees on the California Coast.

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Potable water

Toilets

6. Regenerative Santa Barbara Farm

100%

(1)

30mi from Buellton · 1 site · RV · Santa Barbara, CA

Welcome to our three-acre regenerative oasis, a certified organic urban working farm nestled just six minutes from the vibrant heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Here, amidst the bustling city life, discover a serene haven where the harmony of nature invites you to unwind and reconnect with your inner self. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our biodiverse sanctuary, where the gentle hum of bees, the fragrant aroma of lavender and citrus, and the sight of lush greenery coalesce to create a sense of peace and rejuvenation. Embark on a journey of self-discovery as you indulge in forest bathing amidst our verdant surroundings, enjoy leisurely picnics amid the natural beauty, and wander through our fragrant lavender and citrus gardens. Engage in interactive meditation sessions along our oak forest trails, allowing the serene ambiance to soothe your mind and nourish your soul. Escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and experience the transformative power of nature at our hidden oasis. Come, explore, and rediscover the essence of inner peace and serenity amidst the beauty of our certified organic farm.

7. Private Beach Farm

98%

(609)

17mi from Buellton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Goleta, CA

This is an incredibly historic site in Santa Barbara history. 2 tribes of Chumash Indians lived here for 10,000 years. This is where Spain landed and began colonizing the area. In the 1950's and 60's, this was the site of the World's largest orchid farm. There is a book called The Royal Rancho, if you are a history buff. We are a farm on the beach just North of Santa Barbara and Goleta, Ca. You will camp in a historic, glass greenhouse with incredible ocean views. Inside is a cob pizza oven that works awesome. (Bring your own firewood),,, a place to pitch tents and tiny artistic structures to explore. You will have a private bath and shower (Primitive, no electricity, but the hot shower has the best view in the world of any shower!) Bring your own toiletries and whatnot. Private beach access from our property. We have a barnyard with a multitude of farm animals. Limited electricity in greenhouse (A couple of extension chords). The fire ban is ONLY for open campfires. The pizza oven and YOUR bbq or propane flame is fine. If you are camping during the rain, be advised, it gets wet in the greenhouse. It's an antique after all!

8. The Aussie Hacie Campsite

100%

(2)

39mi from Buellton · 1 site · RV · Arroyo Grande, CA

The campsite is located on the front 1/2 acre of the property. It is equipped with full hook ups - water, sewer, and electricity. The campsite is nestled between our garden and chicken coop.The property is located 7 mi. from the Oceano Dunes Vehicular Recreation Area. Great location for wine tasting a dn enjoying the central coast lifestyle.

9. Canvas Under the Oaks

100%

(11)

22mi from Buellton · 1 site · Lodging · Santa Barbara, CA

We are located just 15 minutes from Santa Barbara beaches and twenty minutes to wine country towns Los Olivos, Solvang and Ballard. Nestled among the oaks with stunning canyon views, our 14x16 foot canvas tent sits on a 28 foot redwood deck. The porch, cantilevered into the trees is a fantastic place to enjoy your morning yoga or coffee ritual, read a book, or relax with a glass of rosé. Check in is from 3-9pm, quite hours from 10pm till 8am

10. El Capitán State Beach

96%

(94)

133 sites · Goleta, California

Enjoy year-round camping at this Santa Barbara-area surfer favorite.

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Toilets

11. Los Padres National Forest

95%

(452)

762 sites · Mission Canyon, California

From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.

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Potable water

Toilets

12. Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

100%

(1)

2 sites · California

A 5.5-mile-long slice of heaven for off-road adventures and all things ATV.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. Carpinteria State Beach

94%

(113)

333 sites · Carpinteria, California

Twelve miles south of Santa Barbara, this beach is one of the best ways to take in the beauty of the southern California coast. Carve out a spot along the sun-soaked shoreline to warm your bones after a dip in what is known as Cali’s safest beach. Grab the paddle of your choice and commune with the dolphins, whales, and seals that call these waters home. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or along one of the dune trails. Discover tide pools full of starfish, crabs, snails, sea anemones, and sea urchins. Look out for seals, sea lions, and the occasional gray whale from December through May. Adventurers looking to catch their own dinner have ample opportunities for fishing and clamming. Those less interested in living off the land can take a short walk to town for a restaurant meal. Dogs aren’t allowed here, so furry friends should be left at home. Truly a California experience, get ready to beach it up on these golden shores. Take your pick from more than 200 campsites at four different campgrounds: Santa Cruz, San Miguel, Santa Rosa, and Anacapa. Reservations are available between 2 days and seven months in advance. Rinse the salt from your body in the coin-op showers located at each of the campgrounds. Hookups are available at Santa Rosa and San Miguel campgrounds. There are also hike or bike-in campgrounds available. Truly a Socal experience, get ready to beach it up on these golden shores.

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Potable water

Toilets

14. Pismo Beach State Beach

93%

(97)

248 sites · Grover Beach, California

Pismo Beach camping includes OHV dunes, clamming, and caving. What's not to love?

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Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites near Buellton

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Regenerative Santa Barbara Farm

100%

(1)

30mi from Buellton · 1 site · RV · Santa Barbara, CA

Welcome to our three-acre regenerative oasis, a certified organic urban working farm nestled just six minutes from the vibrant heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Here, amidst the bustling city life, discover a serene haven where the harmony of nature invites you to unwind and reconnect with your inner self. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our biodiverse sanctuary, where the gentle hum of bees, the fragrant aroma of lavender and citrus, and the sight of lush greenery coalesce to create a sense of peace and rejuvenation. Embark on a journey of self-discovery as you indulge in forest bathing amidst our verdant surroundings, enjoy leisurely picnics amid the natural beauty, and wander through our fragrant lavender and citrus gardens. Engage in interactive meditation sessions along our oak forest trails, allowing the serene ambiance to soothe your mind and nourish your soul. Escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and experience the transformative power of nature at our hidden oasis. Come, explore, and rediscover the essence of inner peace and serenity amidst the beauty of our certified organic farm.

Private Beach Farm

98%

(609)

17mi from Buellton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Goleta, CA

This is an incredibly historic site in Santa Barbara history. 2 tribes of Chumash Indians lived here for 10,000 years. This is where Spain landed and began colonizing the area. In the 1950's and 60's, this was the site of the World's largest orchid farm. There is a book called The Royal Rancho, if you are a history buff. We are a farm on the beach just North of Santa Barbara and Goleta, Ca. You will camp in a historic, glass greenhouse with incredible ocean views. Inside is a cob pizza oven that works awesome. (Bring your own firewood),,, a place to pitch tents and tiny artistic structures to explore. You will have a private bath and shower (Primitive, no electricity, but the hot shower has the best view in the world of any shower!) Bring your own toiletries and whatnot. Private beach access from our property. We have a barnyard with a multitude of farm animals. Limited electricity in greenhouse (A couple of extension chords). The fire ban is ONLY for open campfires. The pizza oven and YOUR bbq or propane flame is fine. If you are camping during the rain, be advised, it gets wet in the greenhouse. It's an antique after all!

The Aussie Hacie Campsite

100%

(2)

39mi from Buellton · 1 site · RV · Arroyo Grande, CA

The campsite is located on the front 1/2 acre of the property. It is equipped with full hook ups - water, sewer, and electricity. The campsite is nestled between our garden and chicken coop.The property is located 7 mi. from the Oceano Dunes Vehicular Recreation Area. Great location for wine tasting a dn enjoying the central coast lifestyle.

Canvas Under the Oaks

100%

(11)

22mi from Buellton · 1 site · Lodging · Santa Barbara, CA

We are located just 15 minutes from Santa Barbara beaches and twenty minutes to wine country towns Los Olivos, Solvang and Ballard. Nestled among the oaks with stunning canyon views, our 14x16 foot canvas tent sits on a 28 foot redwood deck. The porch, cantilevered into the trees is a fantastic place to enjoy your morning yoga or coffee ritual, read a book, or relax with a glass of rosé. Check in is from 3-9pm, quite hours from 10pm till 8am

Public campgrounds near Buellton

Probably a non-sanctioned trail, but you can hike up to the railroad track from the side of hill.

77%

(22)

Gaviota State Park Campground

10mi from Buellton · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Gaviota State Park

The sunset was spectacular. Plus days on the beach were so fun. Great time making sun castles and swimming around!

97%

(77)

Refugio Campground

13mi from Buellton · 66 sites · Tents, RVs · in Refugio State Beach

96%

(94)

El Capitán Campground

14mi from Buellton · 133 sites · Tents, RVs · in El Capitán State Beach

100%

(9)

Mount Figueroa Campground

14mi from Buellton · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Nice little water fall to dip in during the hot summer

100%

(2)

Davy Brown Campground

17mi from Buellton · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

94%

(8)

Nira Campground

18mi from Buellton · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Barrel Springs Campground

20mi from Buellton · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Great view once you get out from under the trees.

100%

(2)

Fremont Campground

22mi from Buellton · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(3)

Paradise Campground

22mi from Buellton · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

67%

(3)

Colson Canyon Camp

22mi from Buellton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Los Prietos Campground is pleasantly shady and a great site for those newer to camping.

83%

(7)

Los Prietos Campground

22mi from Buellton · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(3)

Sage Hill Campground

24mi from Buellton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Stories from the community

Marco

6 days ago

23 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at SLO Country Camp

Ken and Judi’s campground was epic! Location, environment, and amenities were exactly what we were looking for to spending a family Thanksgiving. 10/10.

S

Shannon

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

Ken and Judi’s property was lovely. It was intimate and provided plenty of personal space. I thoroughly enjoyed the attention to detail with the outdoor lighting and ample prep space. They had excellent communication and even offered to let us come a little early.

K

Kevin

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

Ken and Judi's property was beautiful and spacious. We enjoyed meeting our hosts and loved the location as well. The fire pit is awesome and we liked hanging out around the fire. We will definitely return if we get a chance.

Y

Yissette

November 2025

16 ft Class B

1 night at SLO Country Camp

Where do we begin? The amenities were amazing! Between the fire pit, lighting, outdoor shower and crazy enough.. porta potty experience, lol everything was just wonderful! We’ll definitely be staying here again when passing through SLO. Very close to a beautiful ‘Main Street’ with shops, and dining.

Brian

November 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

2nd visit. Great spot. Quiet, clean and close enough to town, beaches.

C

Clayton

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

This was an awesome, secluded but easy to get to camp site. 10/10

C

Christina

October 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

This campsite is adorable and even better than what the pictures show. Our hosts were very responsive via the app's messaging. This property also offers excellent bird-watching opportunities.

M

Motoki

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Beach Farm

Beautiful, unique, engaging space! Would book again.

Christina

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

We had such a great stay at Harmony’s Glamping! It’s incredible that you can feel completely tucked away in nature while being just 20 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara. The property is beautiful — surrounded by trees, with a creek running alongside the sites — and the yurts (we stayed in the Luxury Yurt + Creekside Fairy Dome) struck a perfect balance between comfort and adventure. Harmony was an excellent host and made sure we felt well-prepared before arriving, especially with helpful notes about the drive in and things to bring. Definitely make sure you bring pots/pan and foil for cooking, and headlamps for light. Harmony had alot of the other essentials there for us such was, silverware, soap, sponge, shampoo, lighter, instant coffee, and paper towels. This spot is ideal for anyone looking for an easy, nature-filled getaway without going too far off the grid. We left feeling refreshed and already talking about when we could come back!

J

Julie

October 2025

26 ft fifth wheel

2 nights at SLO Country Camp

This was our second visit and highly recommend staying here. The location is perfect for visiting the SLO downtown and many wine tasting locations are close by. The hosts were very accommodating on our arrival time and Ken was there to greet us and help get us settled in.

p

pam

October 2025

1 night at Camp Arroyo Grande

this was our 2nd stay at Camp AG. We opted for a cabin since the weather was wet. Very comfortable stay. Thanks!

John

October 2025

26 ft pop-up camper

Group trip

3 nights at SLO Country Camp

Easy to get to and your around the area. Hosts were friendly and welcoming. Loved all the decorative touches

T

Thuy-Van

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Canvas Under the Oaks

What an adorable glampsite! Located on the back of the owner’s property, the site was not too remote, right in between Santa Barbara and Solvang. It was quiet, clean and comfortable. Highly recommend.

t

tasha

October 2025

14 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Camp Arroyo Grande

This was our first time using this app and I hope every experience is good! The ladies are super responsive and extremely friendly and I was very nervous at first, but We loved our stay so much thank you and will definitely be back💚🍻

S

Shaun

October 2025

3 nights at Harmony's Glamping

Harmony was very accommodating and even allowed for an upgrade to a different site. The drive down to the site is a little sketchy, but well worth it. We had the entire site to ourselves and was one of our best experiences camping/glamping ever. The dip in the water was refreshing and the nights were peaceful. We didn’t make it to the waterfall because of small dogs, but it didn’t bring our experience down. The ping pong and freezbie golf was a high light as well.

Loved this little spot right across the way from the open camping area

M

Mindy

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Arroyo Grande

This place is great! A dram come true! Honestl, I was doubtful of the photos I saw on their website, but they don’t capture how beautiful the facilities are here. The restrooms showers were modern, clean and many. The various buildings were in perfect space. I reserved a spot in the camping area with is flat and large, and had contacted the hostess prior to arriving because I was riding a large Harley motorcycle and wanted to check on parking options - which were paved and perfectly adequate to a bagger ladened with a weeks worth of camping gear. The hostess was also VERY helpful and stayed in personal contact (not copy paste messages) when I let her know I was coming I. Late after a 600 miles ride. She met me well after hours and treated me better than if I were stopping at a hotel! It was such a blessing after that long ride to take a hot shower in a place that was beautiful and felt very welcoming and safe (I am a woman and was traveling alone, so that’s an important feature for me!). I think that it would be amazing for future stops in the area and a possible family or class reunion in the future.

S

Samantha

September 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

We had a fabulous visit at the SLO Camp! The kids had a blast running around, the amenities were great, and the hosts very responsive and kind. We'll be back!

S

Samantha

September 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

We had a fantastic time at the SLO Camp! Ken was very kind and accommodating, the amenities were great, and our kiddos loved the property. Such a peaceful place, yet so close to SLO.

p

pam

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Arroyo Grande

We had a comfortable stay at Camp Arroyo Grande. It's a nice walk into town, where there are many nice restaurants. We were the only people there, so it was very quiet. It does stay very light at night and the shower heads are the height for kids, but overall it's an affordable, safe stay. We saw turkeys and deer nearby.

S

Sarah

September 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Camp Arroyo Grande

I love this place! So cute, close to town, and just what we needed for a party of 4! Basic accommodations with a clean community bathroom. This would be a wonderful place for an event. The camp hosts are very nice and accommodating:) Don’t forget bedding!!