The best luxury RV campgrounds 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.

95% (679)

Top-rated campgrounds

Wake up early to catch the sunrise--lots of blankets are available to you.

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.

95% (679)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Blue Sky Center

94%

(746)

36mi from Goleta · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Cuyama, CA

1948- On January 1, 1948 a wildcatter named George Hadley, who had been oil prospecting in the valley for 10 years, made the first oil strike in the Cuyama Valley. Richfield Oil Company soon moved in and extracted nearly 300 million barrels of oil in just a few short years. To accommodate an exploding workforce in the early 1950s, the company built the town of New Cuyama, its infrastructure, public buildings, the Cuyama airstrip (L88) and all the industrial structures that are now home to Blue Sky. Richfield Oil Company, later merging with Atlantic Oil Company forming the Atlantic Richfield Oil Company (ARCO), created high-paying jobs, a safe and prosperous community, and developed schools, churches, and recreational areas for the employee-residents.1973- With dwindling production in the area and new discoveries in Alaska, Atlantic-Richfield Oil Company put the town of New Cuyama and its associated infrastructure up for sale. Word of an entire town for sale made its way to entrepreneur, Russell O’Quinn of the Foundation for Airborne Relief (FAR) and Mildred Dotson, a wealthy widow from Tulsa, Oklahoma. The two worked together to acquire the townsite and adjacent land. O’Quinn, an aviator, inventor, and test pilot, aspired to use the New Cuyama airstrip and facilities as a base for humanitarian relief and a non-profit trade school. Though not fully realized, FAR’s primary vision included utilizing converted military aircraft to airlift food and medical supplies to developing countries and global disaster areas. Dotson had loftier goals. Her plans included an 18-hole fly-in golf course, expansion of the Buckhorn Restaurant and Motel, and a 40- to 50-acre lake for amphibious landing and water sports. 1986- Another visionary, Harry Kislevitz, inventor of the popular design tool Colorforms® and founder of Future City/Villages International, sought to develop the site as a “City of Friendship,” an all-electric village of 5,000 earthen homes. The dwellings were to be designed by Nader Khalili, an Iranian-born architect who specialized in earthen structures, worked with NASA on prototypes for lunar homes and received an award from the United Nations for his work towards the development of low cost, sustainable structures for human shelter in impoverished and disaster prone environments. One 628-sq-ft Khalili prototype remains on the property today ("the Cantina"). Khalili went on to form the California Institute for Earth Art and Architecture, Cal-Earth, in Hesperia, CA.1993- Recognizing the transformative potential of clean, solar power and the attractiveness of a rural destination, entrepreneur Mike Nolan worked to develop the Solar Skypark and Big Sky Guest Ranch with Santa Barbara Architect, Barry Berkus. The Sky Park included plans for sixty-five fly-in residences on one-acre lots powered completely from clean, solar energy. The Big Sky Guest Ranch was intended to function as a clubhouse for Skypark residents complete with an equestrian center, a small subsistence farm, pool and plenty of enriching recreational activities. 2012- At the end of 2011, the Zannon Family Foundation made a long-term investment in acquiring the New Cuyama Airport property with the vision of rehabilitating the site to be a low-cost resource for programs and organizations working to advance sustainable living practices and technologies. Plans began soon after towards developing a framework and organization to develop the space and coordinate with prospective programs and institutions. In 2014 Blue Sky Sustainable Living Center ("Blue Sky Center") received 501(c)(3) not-for-profit status, endeavoring to reclaim this property for the public good. Today, Blue Sky Center provides unduplicated services and technical assistance to support small businesses and entrepreneurs as well as the local food system, with core work focused on community research and advocacy led by Cuyamans. Learn more on our website and consider supporting our community work with your donation or by hosting your next special event here!

2. Lisa S.’s Land

89%

(299)

20mi from Goleta · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Solvang, CA

This is Glamping at its best! We have two cabins that have kitchens with mini frig, microwaves and sinks. Complimentary coffee and tea as well. Very comfortable queen beds. Each cabin has a living room and table area along with gas fireplaces inside and A/C. Outdoor courtyard area with firepit, picnic tables and string lights to enjoy the days or evenings. Each cabin sleeps two but both can be rented to sleep four. Both cabins are historic to the area. All of this is in the center of the Santa Ynez valley close to Los Olivos , Santa Ynez and Solvang. Wine tasting, bike riding and hiking. Great restaurants and wineries within walking distance.

3. Hudson Ranch Historical Resort and Campground

100%

(4)

43mi from Goleta · 56 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Maricopa, CA

Our expansive 80-acre property, located in the mountains of north Ventura County near Highway 166 and just a 90-minute drive from Los Angeles, is the perfect setting for a unique glamping, RV, and camping experience. At Hudson Ranch, we cater to a variety of preferences with a full spectrum of outdoor experiences and amenities. We have miles of trails leading from the property, including direct access to Ballinger Canyon OHV Park. Ideal for families, pet lovers, and groups of all sizes, our property features an array of accommodations: Cabins, private rooms, furnished glamping tents, domes/yurts (coming soon), standard campsites, hammock camping, and RV sites. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, we have the perfect spot for your getaway. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the landscape and exclusive access to both the Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge and the Los Padres National Forest, where you'll be walking amongst the footsteps of the ancient Chumash Native American peoples who lived here for over 13,000 years. We are committed to environmental sustainability; Hudson Ranch is fully sustainable and runs on 100% solar power with battery packs. Adventure, explore, or simply unwind – Hudson Ranch is your gateway to a vacation you will cherish forever.

4. North Fork Ranch (Horses Welcome)

100%

(12)

47mi from Goleta · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging · Frazier Park, CA

Where Forest meets the Farm. The North Fork Ranch began as a 100 year old homestead Apple Orchard and Turkey Ranch. The ranch surrounded by the Los padres forest is now a diversified farming ranch including cider apples, hops, cattle, babydoll sheep, chickens, dogs and a vineyard. We are at 5500 ft so we get the luxury of seasons and wildlife. The ranch includes a bunkhouse and dry land camping areas. There are hiking trails, seasonal hunting, ohv and motorcycle trails. Bring the horses and explore the mountains

Stories from the community

R

Robert

5 days ago

40 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to North Fork Ranch (Horses Welcome)

Loved the location and the hilltop campground. The stars were absolutely amazing!

c

charline

September 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

Great location! Very peaceful and beautiful. Restroom was clean. Would recommend 100%

S

Sandy

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

The campsite was very nice! Although I didn’t stay in the huts I loved it! We book a tent site and got there late. It was dark but we were able to set up our tent. The owner was very responsive and had really great hospitality. I can’t believe we were able to get so many accommodations. They had a fridge, coffee, laundry machine and more. Would come back again!

K

Kevin

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

as a solo camper i was able to have the place to myself, which was very relaxing once settled into camp. The Cantina was perfect for quick dinner prep so I left all my cooking and kitchen gear packed up. I enjoyed a beautiful sunset and had a very comfortable nights rest. I think Blue Sky camp would be fun for a large group of friends.

F

Farrah

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

What a treat! We were so impressed with the facilities (that we even had access to running water & toilets, but also refrigerator & electricity?!?)- staying here was far beyond our expectations! We met neighbors in the cute cafe nearby & leaving the visitors center after craft night. Do know, this location is more like an empty lot behind a neighborhood. That means people’s dogs left out all night were barking nonstop, there was traffic & residential noise just beside the camping grounds. The dogs barking were particularly distressing, as they’re clearly neglected & unhappy.

Scott

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

Definitely appreciate the clean bathroom, hot shower, and well-equipped kitchen cantina. This was my second time camping here and I will be back. Fun waking up to small prop planes landing and taking off on the runway right next to the camp :-)

A

Amit

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

9/10! Couldn’t really ask for more. Loved the facilities overall. I think the only things I would improve are to add some rope hanging off the hooks on the tent loops on the platforms in case someone needs to tie their tent / wind cover down but forgot rope (so bring your own for now I guess.) The outdoor shower was only cool to room temp for me but maybe it isn’t normally? And I think the small appliances could use a deep clean or just simple replacement, since most of them cost $10-20. Anyway, just nitpicking, was a very full featured camping experience!

K

Kathryn

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

Car camped one night -- Thursday -- very private, quiet, lots of solitude in a stunningly beautiful setting. Clean bathrooms and shower. Nice cantina, although I did not use it.

Z

June 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

This place was definitely an adventure—with an artsy soul and a sun that does not mess around. By midday, our tent and wagon turned into full-blown saunas, and our car became a tragic little oven (RIP to the candles and gummies—we hardly knew you). Hammock dreams? Dashed. All of them were out of commission during our stay, so if you’re the lounging type, bring your own gear—and maybe a pop-up shade palace while you’re at it. Nights were cooler, and the vibe totally shifted. Stargazing was lovely until the moon decided to steal the show. It’s shockingly bright—like someone left a giant porch light on in the sky. Not much going on nearby, but we stumbled into a low-key spot that served a surprisingly solid BBQ plate. Not naming names—you’ll have to earn that one. In short: not the cushiest experience, but if you don’t mind a bit of sweat and silliness, this place might just charm you in its own weird little way.

Scott

June 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

Clean bathrooms, shower, and communal kitchen cantina space. A little strange not to see anyone else there during my weekend stay. But I’m not complaining about the peace and quiet :-)

S

May 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

We enjoyed the spot and camped for 1 night. The raised wood platform was very nice to ensure we were not directly on the ground. Unfortunately no shade trees next to tent camping but the commons area was well put together. Clean bathrooms and showers and overall clean setting and friendly staff. We will definitely stay there again. Thank you!

D

Dani

May 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

Excellent place to stay whether on a caravan or in the dispersed campground on wooden planks (this area is beside a small airfield). They have onsite staff and art residents. Friendly people. Indoor and outdoor showers. Full kitchen and dining area. Fairy-lit row of canvas-covered caravans plus one teeny wooden caravan cabin that could easily accommodate 2-3 campers. Lots of parking. One of the caravans is family size. Wi-fi Water Toilet Showers Sink Coffee maker Microwave Lounge by the dining facility Flowering cacti galore Enchanting piece of heaven under a moonlit sky.

S

Saranya

May 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

We loved our trip here, we spent a weekend with our dogs and everything was lovely. The common shared spaces were clean and well maintained. Would recommend this spot to anyone looking for a relaxed trip!

J

Jeanne

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

No one there but us! We loved the wooden platform for the tent. Our dog had fun roaming around. It was very quiet and we had a lovely stay. We will definitely go again!

Will

April 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

Great place, very cool, quiet, peaceful, great amenities bathroom, kitchen facilities.

J

Joel

April 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at North Fork Ranch (Horses Welcome)

This was a nice destination to avoid the congestion of LA and have a good overnight spot before continuing southward. Our host could not have been nicer!

C

Colin

April 2025

25 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

Bathrooms better than expected and wifi very useful.

K

Kelly

March 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

I was on a motorcycle journey to Death Valley and had a planned stop at blue sky center. Their tent camping pants were perfect. The skies were beautiful. It was nice to have such a nice hot shower at the facility. Definitely would recommend.

C

Christopher

March 2025

Tent

1 night at Blue Sky Center

Great place to tent camp. The stars were absolutely beautiful. Would come again.

Jake

January 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blue Sky Center

Awesome little spot. Big shoutout to the staff for answering all of my dumb questions lol they also really helped us out by letting us know the weather was about to get turn. Definitely wanna have a date night at their little cabin things next time I’m out there

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best luxury RV camping 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.