The best campgrounds near Goleta, California with surfing

Looking to camp near Goleta, California and catch some waves? Hipcamp has over 150 options for you to choose from, all with surfing in mind. With an average price per night of $100 and options as low as $50, there's something for every budget. Check out top campsites like SLO Country Camp (394 reviews), Private Beach Farm (382 reviews), and Ballard Walnut Grove (291 reviews) for highly rated options. And don't worry about amenities - campfires, potable water, and showers are all popular features. Plus, if you're looking for more activities, you can also enjoy off-roading (OHV), wildlife watching, and even snow sports. Happy camping!

96% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to camp near Goleta, California and catch some waves? Hipcamp has over 150 options for you to choose from, all with surfing in mind. With an average price per night of $100 and options as low as $50, there's something for every budget. Check out top campsites like SLO Country Camp (394 reviews), Private Beach Farm (382 reviews), and Ballard Walnut Grove (291 reviews) for highly rated options. And don't worry about amenities - campfires, potable water, and showers are all popular features. Plus, if you're looking for more activities, you can also enjoy off-roading (OHV), wildlife watching, and even snow sports. Happy camping!

96% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Arber-Moore's Ranch

93%

(562)

31mi from Goleta · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Oak View, CA

Beautiful natural campsites in the Valley of the Moon (Ojai Valley). Our sites are within an eighth of a mile of walking, running, biking, and riding trails from Ojai to the beaches of Ventura. On many days you can experience Ojai’s famous pink moments. You can hike the trails above Ojai, boat, eat, or picnic at Lake Casitas. Travel to nearby Ventura to shop, fish the pier, or take a deep sea fishing charter or Island charter to Whale watch or fish around the Channel Islands. Please note the aerial view of the camping area recently placed by Hipcamp is NOT AT ALL REPRESENTATIVE of the current camping sites and shows a photo that is many years old when the site was merely land. That photo is without any of the existing amenities or improvements. The actual sites are all Larger than Federal Park and Statepark guidelines, with averages of 20'x30' for campsites and 20'x40' for a long RVCampsite. We have planted many young trees and continue to plant trees and native shrubs around and near the sites. We have picnic tables, table coverings, fire pits, and camping rugs/footprints. There is also an outdoor shower, a shower tent with hot water, and an upgraded porta-potty with a sink. Note: During times when high heat is predicted, we strongly recommend that our Hipcampers bring pop-up shade tents or canopies for their sites. The Hipcamp is adjacent to our working ranch, and any photos of old sheds, trucks, a wood lot, or other equipment are NOT on the Hipcamp, but you will drive past that property to get to the separate Hipcamp area. Wineries, Farmer's Markets, Craft Breweries, dispensaries, and more are within 10 to 15 minutes of our site. Our location allows moments when you may see Hawks, Owls, Geese, Swallows, Robins, Bluebirds, and more. We offer both tent and RV camping. The Majority of our Guests love it here: "Vivian and Dave were exceptional hosts! Easy to contact and find our way to their property. Also gave us a plethora of places to go and things to do in the Ojai area. The area was open and spacious, and many trees and upgrades were in the works to make future stays more user-friendly. Big pluses were the shower and toilet facilities—much appreciated !!"

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. Leap Lab Farm

100%

(52)

46mi from Goleta · 1 site · Tent, RV · Santa Paula, CA

15 acres of land right nestled up against South Mountain, on an ecologically-minded property where we are building a sustainability education center. From your campsite, you'll have a sweeping view of the Topa Topa mountain range, as well as a birds eye view of our community farm. Site has access to a geodesic dome, a funky spot to hang out, meditate, do yoga, or picnic. There is one electric outlet to plug into, as well as a hookup for water. Behind the site is South Mountain, where you can scramble, look for fossils from the Sespe range (20 million years old) and enjoy some peace and quiet.

4. El Capitán State Beach

96%

(94)

133 sites · Goleta, California

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Refugio State Beach

97%

(77)

67 sites · Solvang, California

Camp beneath swaying palm trees on the California Coast.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Regenerative Santa Barbara Farm

100%

(1)

7.5mi from Goleta · 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. Rancho de Granville

92%

(87)

32mi from Goleta · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Oak View, CA

Midway between the ocean and Ojai, the ranch is 7 acres with plenty of trees, shade and grass. A sandy yard, a tent spot with privacy near San Antonio Creek ! Challenge a friend to game of horseshoes or darts. Your neighbors are the friendly horses and the curious chickens! This was the original stage coach stop between Ventura and the small community of Ojai . The old bunkhouse and barn remain! Please plan to arrive before 8pm.

8. Vintage 1948 Airstream trailer

99%

(38)

7.4mi from Goleta · 1 site · Lodging · Santa Barbara, CA

Learn more about this land: Restored 1948 vintage Airstream Clipper trailer located on 6 acres. Complete with a double bed, mini fridge, stove, full private bathroom/shower in building next to it, private gate to Elings Park, many hiking trails, a 5 minute drive to Hendry's Beach surfing, swimming. Mountain views with rural country feeling yet in the city of Santa Barbara.

9. Private Beach Farm

98%

(609)

6.3mi from Goleta · 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!

10. 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.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Channel Islands National Park

96%

(68)

95 sites · Isla Vista, California

Set sail for one of the five wildlife-filled islands that make up this offshore park.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

12. Emma Wood State Beach

96%

(29)

93 sites · San Buenaventura (Ventura), California

Fish, surf, and explore WWII ruins at this Southern California beach.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. McGrath State Beach

82%

(17)

133 sites · Oxnard, California

Discover the natural splendor of McGrath State Beach.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

14. Canvas Under the Oaks

100%

(11)

5.3mi from Goleta · 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

15. Caravan Outpost - Ojai Oasis!

93%

(28)

35mi from Goleta · 1 site · Lodging · Ojai, CA

Tucked away at the outskirts of Ojai, Caravan Outpost offers an unique experience hosted in one of our 10 Airstreams or 1 Tiny House on Wheels. Learn more about this land: This listing is for one of our 10 Airstreams located in a plush, beautiful Oasis in Ojai, California. Caravan Outpost is a garden filled with Airstreams in Ojai, CA. One of the most unique places to stay in all of America. The Outpost is family-friendly and located on the Ojai Valley bike path. Ride one of our complimentary bikes, enjoy the beautiful botanical garden, eat at a local delicious restaurant, hike one of the many trails, listen to our vinyl collection - Relax and enjoy!

Camper favorites near Goleta

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Regenerative Santa Barbara Farm

100%

(1)

7.5mi from Goleta · 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.

Rancho de Granville

92%

(87)

32mi from Goleta · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Oak View, CA

Midway between the ocean and Ojai, the ranch is 7 acres with plenty of trees, shade and grass. A sandy yard, a tent spot with privacy near San Antonio Creek ! Challenge a friend to game of horseshoes or darts. Your neighbors are the friendly horses and the curious chickens! This was the original stage coach stop between Ventura and the small community of Ojai . The old bunkhouse and barn remain! Please plan to arrive before 8pm.

Vintage 1948 Airstream trailer

99%

(38)

7.4mi from Goleta · 1 site · Lodging · Santa Barbara, CA

Learn more about this land: Restored 1948 vintage Airstream Clipper trailer located on 6 acres. Complete with a double bed, mini fridge, stove, full private bathroom/shower in building next to it, private gate to Elings Park, many hiking trails, a 5 minute drive to Hendry's Beach surfing, swimming. Mountain views with rural country feeling yet in the city of Santa Barbara.

Private Beach Farm

98%

(609)

6.3mi from Goleta · 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!

Canvas Under the Oaks

100%

(11)

5.3mi from Goleta · 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

Caravan Outpost - Ojai Oasis!

93%

(28)

35mi from Goleta · 1 site · Lodging · Ojai, CA

Tucked away at the outskirts of Ojai, Caravan Outpost offers an unique experience hosted in one of our 10 Airstreams or 1 Tiny House on Wheels. Learn more about this land: This listing is for one of our 10 Airstreams located in a plush, beautiful Oasis in Ojai, California. Caravan Outpost is a garden filled with Airstreams in Ojai, CA. One of the most unique places to stay in all of America. The Outpost is family-friendly and located on the Ojai Valley bike path. Ride one of our complimentary bikes, enjoy the beautiful botanical garden, eat at a local delicious restaurant, hike one of the many trails, listen to our vinyl collection - Relax and enjoy!

Public campgrounds near Goleta

96%

(94)

El Capitán Campground

10mi from Goleta · 133 sites · Tents, RVs · in El Capitán State Beach

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

97%

(77)

Refugio Campground

12mi from Goleta · 66 sites · Tents, RVs · in Refugio State Beach

93%

(14)

Anacapa Campground

19mi from Goleta · 200 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carpinteria State Beach

94%

(62)

Santa Cruz Campground

19mi from Goleta · 1 site · in Carpinteria State Beach

An early morning surf session with nobody out. This photograph should explain it all

86%

(14)

Santa Rosa Campground

20mi from Goleta · 77 sites · in Carpinteria State Beach

100%

(23)

San Miguel Campground

20mi from Goleta · 54 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carpinteria State Beach

98%

(50)

Santa Cruz Scorpion Campground

32mi from Goleta · 54 sites · Tents, RVs · in Channel Islands National Park

100%

(7)

North Beach Campground

32mi from Goleta · 91 sites · Tents, RVs · in Emma Wood State Beach

90%

(5)

Santa Rosa Island Campground

32mi from Goleta · 15 sites · in Channel Islands National Park

94%

(22)

Ventura River Group Campground

33mi from Goleta · 1 site · in Emma Wood State Beach

82%

(17)

McGrath State Beach Campground

37mi from Goleta · 133 sites · Tents, RVs · in McGrath State Beach

San Miguel Island Campground

38mi from Goleta · 9 sites · in Channel Islands National Park

Stories from the community

A

Artsiom

1 week ago

18 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Arber-Moore's Ranch

good place, worm shower, have all needed connections of water and electrisity

C

Conor

2 weeks ago

18 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

We ended up having to leave late and so arrived to the campsite much later than expected. Vivian was extremely accommodating. The outdoor shower was hot and just what we needed after a day of surfing too. It was a beautiful site in general

A

Andres

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

Location is incredibly convenient to Lake Casitas, Ojai and Oak View, but still feels remote and secluded. Site was spacious, clean and beautiful, but could definitely use some improvements. More restrooms and showers, for one, and definitely a line of trees to block out the noise from the main road would be major upgrades. We were lucky to be the only group there that weekend, but I could imagine it being frustrating trying to schedule bathroom/shower time if the sites were full. From my brief conversations with the the owner, Vivian, however, it sounds like they're actively working towards those things already. Other than that, the toilet and shower were both very clean and functional. Shower was hot and pressure was good. Light pollution from Ojai is visible on the horizon, but the property itself is very dark and conducive to star gazing. Host was friendly, helpful, accommodating and communicative, but pretty hands-off otherwise.

hugh

November 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Leap Lab Farm

This place is epic, super quiet at night with great views over the valley.

l

ly

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rancho de Granville

Catherine was such a wonderful host. She made sure we were comfortable and let our kids explore her ranch. Our kids loved the horses. It was really quiet at night. We will come back.

Scott

October 2025

17 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Leap Lab Farm

Great Place! Very interesting dinosaur exhibit on the grounds. The campsites are spacious and well-maintained — perfect for groups. I was lucky enough to get the highest site, which offered incredible views of the valley and city lights at night. The host was very accommodating, and I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. I’ll definitely be back!

M

Motoki

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Beach Farm

Beautiful, unique, engaging space! Would book again.

B

Ben

October 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

Great spot in a beautiful setting. Would return and recommend for others.

Mark

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Arber-Moore's Ranch

Nice spot! We enjoyed our stay. Was nice to have water and electricity. There’s a bit of construction going on with the property but didn’t really bother us at all. Nice views and cool to be able to have fires as well. Definitely recommend!

K

Kenny

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Leap Lab Farm

Great camp site on a bluff overlooking Santa Paula. Quiet with no neighboring sites. Our kids had an amazing learning opportunity with the hosts and even got to pick out dinosaur bones to take home! Would come back often

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

Toby

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Leap Lab Farm

Beautiful property with wonderful hosts! Adorable goats and cool dinosaur bones! Super excited to see where Leap Lab goes next

V

Virginia

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

I have been staying at Vivian’s property for several years now and I always enjoy my stay there..

J

Jack

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Leap Lab Farm

We had a great stay in the dome! Very easy, clear instructions, and a friendly welcome from the owners and dogs. Would have liked to have a picnic table as was shown in some of the pictures. Very private space which we enjoyed, and an easy 25 minute commute to the harbor to take the boat over to the Channel Islands!

Camille

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Lisa S.’s Land

The cabin is very cute - shabby chic decor with a rustic touch. The bed was very comfortable and the place was clean. We had a great time!

G

Gary

September 2025

35 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

We never actually made it there, due to unexpected events. However, we had a really good feeling about the place and what it would be like, especially after our conversations with Vivian, as we engaged with her about other aspects of the trip: planning, problem solving, cancelling the reservation. We genuinely hope to make the trip to visit with her at another time soon.

Eric

September 2025

16 ft car

With pets

3 nights at Arber-Moore's Ranch

Vivian’s ranch was a great experience to host my family’s first camping trip with kids. It was close to services and pizza for the little ones, was quiet, had lots of birds and nature sounds, and the facilities were clean and in working order. Their ranch has a lot of potential, and I’m excited to see how it improves over time with all of the hard work they’re putting into it and the trees they’ve been planting.

M

Matthew

September 2025

23 ft Class B

1 night at Arber-Moore's Ranch

Beautiful property with great stargazing! Good sized sites and great amenities!

A

Anita

September 2025

2 nights at Canvas Under the Oaks

It was my first time Glamping. And boy was this an amazing spot and experience. Shirley and Matt are so nice and attentive. We had everything we could need. They even had extra blanket and towels. I couldn't believe how large the tent was and it also had an island on the side where we could make coffee (which they were kind enough to provide) and prepare food on. Thanks so much Shirley and Matt for making this a positive experience.

M

Melissa

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at Lisa S.’s Land

Cabin 2 was very charming, clean, and peaceful. The instructions were clear and easy. The location was perfect! A short 5-10 minute drive to Solvang and Los Olivos. I would stay here again. 👍🏼