The best family-friendly glamping near Goleta, California

Just west of Santa Barbara, Goleta is a perfect jumping-off point to a Pacific Coast camping adventure. This stretch of California coast has multiple beaches with golden sand, tidepools, surf breaks, and estuaries for marine life like sea lions and harbor seals. Meanwhile, above Goleta in the Santa Ynez Mountains, the sprawling Los Padres National Forest beckons with more remote adventures through forests and up peaks. Hiking, biking, fishing, birding, and horseback riding opportunities abound throughout this region—all a short distance from the relaxed vibe and local amenities of downtown Goleta and Santa Barbara.

98% (3.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Just west of Santa Barbara, Goleta is a perfect jumping-off point to a Pacific Coast camping adventure. This stretch of California coast has multiple beaches with golden sand, tidepools, surf breaks, and estuaries for marine life like sea lions and harbor seals. Meanwhile, above Goleta in the Santa Ynez Mountains, the sprawling Los Padres National Forest beckons with more remote adventures through forests and up peaks. Hiking, biking, fishing, birding, and horseback riding opportunities abound throughout this region—all a short distance from the relaxed vibe and local amenities of downtown Goleta and Santa Barbara.

98% (3.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cuyama Badlands

99%

(4440)

38mi from Goleta · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cuyama, CA

If you've ever wondered what it might be like to camp on the moon, this is it. Completely removed from civilization and surrounded by a barren nature that is alive with the subtle presence of the universe. Seasonally, Spring wildflowers burst across the landscape. Cave paintings of Chumash Indians at Painted Rock remind us of those who lived before us. **Read on for more details.** This is our home but we love to share our life in the outback. We believe it will give you a better appreciation of life's simpler side. That being said, and to maintain the balance here at home, we'd appreciate if you keep your dogs in your car until you get to your site. Our offerings include fresh air and sunshine, amazing night sky, endless views, and plenty of space and privacy to enjoy your moments in nature. You'll find our amenities and activities puposefully sparse here. Upon booking, there are about 5 miles of dirt road on the property that you are welcome to explore on foot or by bicycle. Rustic is the theme here. There is no shower, no wifi, and no electricity available, but you will enjoy your own private spigot and the cellular service is acceptable. For any sites located south of Ballinger Wash, your vehicle length is limited to 22' and no more than 4' overhang from the rear axle, so you don't get stuck in the crossing and block access for others. Towing services are 1-3 hours away. Our Songdog Camps are sparsely scattered atop a 200 foot mesa that looks west over a valley offering stunning desert sunsets and amazing stargazing. These UPPER SITES are NOT OHV friendly, but any of our canyon bottom sites are a great base for your riding adventures up in Ballinger Canyon OHV. We'll be happy to recommend a site for you. **Forest Service law enforcement is actively ticketing unplated OHV on Ballinger Canyon Road. Be sure to know and abide by the laws.** Our friendly cancellation policies vary between 24 hours for simple campsites and 72 hours for our Glamp sites and Group sites. Be sure to check the Google for distance to Cuyama Valley, and your dates for availability and site descriptions. Upon booking, you can look forward to an information packed email to help you make the very best of your trip! We look forward to seeing you!

2. Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

99%

(1133)

21mi from Goleta · 38 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gaviota, CA

Howdy, campers, We removed our 10-paragraph description, our reviews and photos say it all. Feel free to ask any questions, we will get back to you ASAP. Before you ask: Yes, we have two outdoor showers. Yes, you can use a propane camp stove or cook at our common area bbq in front of the barn where we light a real wood fire for campers to socialize with us, other campers and visit our speakeasy. Yes, we provide propane for the propane fire pits. Yes, your dog can run off-leash. Yes, each site has a picnic table, umbrella, propane fire pit. Most sites have a hammock and hammock stand. Please pack your trash out there is a dumpster at the front gate entrance/exit for your trash. Please close your umbrella when your not at the site, especially when it's windy. We have lost far to many very expensive solar light umbrellas due to the wind when it picks up. Please support our farm by buying eggs, hats, stickers, and other items, all for sale in the barn. We look forward to hosting you. Sincerely, Sierra, Darin, and The Freedog Crew!

3. Cuyama Oaks Ranch

99%

(769)

36mi from Goleta · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · CA

Hello! Our names are Ricky and Nathan. We own and operate an 80 acre ranch that is great for family's, kids, romantic getaways, and LGBTQIA+ safe. We cannot wait to host you and your group! We're excited to share our property with those who appreciate nature and what seclusion in the mountains has to offer. Located deep in the Cuyama Valley, close to wine country, and booming local vineyards (1.25 hrs past Ojai and 45 minutes past Santa Maria) our ranch promises the getaway experience you've been looking for. The Ranch is 80 acres with majestic mountain views and vast canyons for hiking and trail access. During the spring and summer months imagine sitting in your own personal cowboy pooltub looking up at the stars. Smell the sage and wildflowers in the air while you sip wine. Surrounded by the Los Padres Mountains and located deep within the hidden valley of enchantment, this ranch gives the visitor the high-desert glamping/camping experience of their dreams. For the hikers and explorers out there, the ranch offers trails and within 30 min in every direction there are local trails. . There is a designated area for tent camping and for RV's, Trailers, Vans, and tiny homes (no electric yet for RVs). We also offer glamping sites and all inclusive yurts. The ranch is completely private and secluded, off HWY 166. We welcome all animals, big and small. We are farm! We have pigs, goats, ducks, chickens, turkeys and more!

4. Harmony's Glamping

95%

(347)

4.8mi from Goleta · 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

Stories from the community

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Steve

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

I spent my 45 bday weekend glamping!! It was awesome! Jen and Jim were amazing hosts!! Thank you I will be back

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Tasha

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

The glamptank site is remote, all tucked up in the corner by yourself with lots of privacy! The views and stargazing are incredible. Jen swung by a hour or so after I got to the spot, she’s a sweetheart. They provided drinking water and plenty of cooking equipment. Awesome escape for my dog and I. Thank you!!

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MF

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Cuyama Badlands

My wife Suzie and I, and our two pup-pups, Lucy & Juando, just returned from our 2-night stay at Songdog Ranch, where we bunked in at the cabin known as Pupdog Hill. We really are having a hard time finding adequate language to describe the inherent magic and utter bliss that is undeniable, as it is “baked” into every board and boulder that exists beneath your feet, surrounding you with every breath you take. I hope a few of our fotos will give you an idea of this stunning place. But you really have to experience Songdog Ranch for yourself. We are beyond grateful to our indescribable hosts, Jim and Jenny. Simply, thank you. Mark, Suzie, Lucy & Juando

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brian

November 2025

With kids

1 night at Cuyama Badlands

Family and I very much enjoyed the convent fire pit and the available firewood. Family enjoyed sleeping in the glamptank and im sure the kids will remember its uniqueness.

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Sarah

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

I love this place! The views are rivaled only by the vibe. This is the perfect place to relax.

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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

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Alissa

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

What an incredibly beautiful and peaceful place! Pupdog is the perfect place to escape, relax, and stargaze. Jen was super friendly and helpful. The shelter is well kept, comfortable, and cute with the perfect mix of amenities while still having a little bit of the glamp experience. It has lots of thoughtful little features (mat for the wagon, games, outdoor tub, kitchen supplies, etc). I truly cannot wait to go back and my dog can’t wait either :) Thank you Jen!

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Jenn

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Oaks Ranch

We had a small group come up to Nathan's ranch for my sister's birthday, and we rented out two of the glamping sites. We had so much fun, and it was awesome being away from the city with such amazing views. Seriously, the mountains were insane, and I don't think I've ever seen the Milky Way so clearly. Nathan was lovely, as are the animals—everyone should do the petting zoo. Definitely bring your earplugs if you're in Pink Pony #1 (the rooster is an early riser!) We'll be back for sure :)

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!

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Jennifer

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

I can’t say enough about our time at the creekside fairy dome! It was a magical location, Harmony was an amazing host and the hike to the waterfall was unforgettable! Loved it and will definitely be going back! 💕

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Manda

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

Beautiful. Magical cabin and valley. We can’t wait to come back! Our little pups loved it too.

Jenny

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Oaks Ranch

Lovely! Nathan was a welcoming and gracious host. Our toddler loved meeting the animals and collecting eggs. The land and skies are breathtaking. We’ll be back!

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isaac

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at Cuyama Badlands

Beautiful views, well-supplied and felt like we were alone on the land under the beautiful Milky Way Galaxy. Who knew this little part of the earth was so near!

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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.

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Erin

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

Loved this place! I would definitely go back. You can really tell how much the hosts care about taking care of the environment and making it a wonderful place for people to experience. 10/10

We loved having our own table and fire pit to enjoy at our campsite.

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Alanna

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

We were only able to stay 1 night but it was truly an amazing experience. Sierra and Darin have built an amazing space on such a beautiful property of land. From the first second we met them, they were very welcoming. They made us feel like we were home. Their hard work in the whole space shows. We brought our Australian Shepherd with us, who didn’t want to leave. We are 11/10 coming back, hopefully for more than just one night. I recommend for anybody that wants/needs to be surrounded by nature and good people.

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Brad

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

My wife and I had an amazing time at Harmony's. It was so peaceful, relaxing and fun. Our area was clean and equipped with nice touches that made the stay more enjoyable. Our site felt very private and the community area was fun to hang out in and play games or just relax.

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tom

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

this is a magical spot, beautiful, unique building with an epic views of sunset down the valley. Jim and his family are so great to deal with, song dog is a go to for my family, but this cabin makes it even more special.

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Lauren

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

Gosh, this is such a serene and lovely place. The location-- along a running creek with steelhead trout, lush trees and ample swimming holes-- feels magical given it's set in the midst of a much dryer and arid landscape. I will certainly return.

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Catherine

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

Was a truly magical spot. You could tell Harmony has really put a lot of thought into the spaces she’s created for guests. It was a great place to unplug and will definitely go again!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near Goleta guide

Where to go

Beach Parks on Highway 101

Drive west from Goleta and you’ll hit three beach parks in 25 miles along a stunning stretch of Highway 101: El Capitán State Beach, Refugio State Beach, and Gaviota Beach at Gaviota State Park. Each park has a campground for tent and RV camping, as well as day-use access for activities like surfing, hiking, or relaxing on the beach. You can’t go wrong at any of these sites, but highlights include sea kayaking at Refugio, the 10 miles of hiking trails at El Capitán, and Goleta Hot Springs at Gaviota.

Los Padres National Forest

Above Goleta in the Santa Ynez Mountains lies the Los Padres National Forest, a wilderness that spans nearly 2 million acres. Los Padres is snaked with hiking and mountain biking trails, rock climbing sites, waterfalls, and stunning vistas. There are also fishing, hunting, and off-roading opportunities to be found, and close to Goleta, a cluster of Los Padres campgrounds puts visitors below ancient oak trees on the banks of the Santa Ynez River: Fremont, Paradise, Sage Hill, and Los Prietos. All campgrounds feature sites with picnic tables and fire rings.

Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

Cachuma Lake is a 3,600-plus-acre reservoir in the Santa Ynez Valley about 30 minutes north of Goleta. A freshwater oasis during summer heat, Cachuma Lake has a boat launch and kayak rentals, plus its Santa Barbara County-operated Cachuma Lake campground. Campers can choose from tent camping sites, RV sites with full hookups, and glamping options.