Beach Camping Near Montecito, California, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2025

If you're looking to camp near Montecito, California and want to be close to the beach, Hipcamp has over 76 options for you to choose from. With options as low as $65 per night and an average price of $200 per night, you'll find something that fits your budget. Some of the top campsites in the area include SLO Country Camp (394 reviews), Private Beach Farm (382 reviews), and Frog Hollow Homestead (239 reviews). Popular amenities at these campsites include toilets, campfires, and trash facilities, while popular activities in the area include swimming, biking, and surfing. So pack your gear and get ready to enjoy the beautiful beaches near Montecito!

95% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you're looking to camp near Montecito, California and want to be close to the beach, Hipcamp has over 76 options for you to choose from. With options as low as $65 per night and an average price of $200 per night, you'll find something that fits your budget. Some of the top campsites in the area include SLO Country Camp (394 reviews), Private Beach Farm (382 reviews), and Frog Hollow Homestead (239 reviews). Popular amenities at these campsites include toilets, campfires, and trash facilities, while popular activities in the area include swimming, biking, and surfing. So pack your gear and get ready to enjoy the beautiful beaches near Montecito!

95% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Arber-Moore's Ranch

93%

(561)

18mi from Montecito · 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. Gaia Farm Campground

96%

(95)

27mi from Montecito · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Goleta, CA

Situated on a private and peaceful non-profit farm on the Gaviota Coast, our campsites provide a unique camping experience for the whole family. The sites feature uninterrupted views of the coast, native chaparral hiking trails, and access to a farm tour (suggested donation of $25/person). Our farm raises animals such as cows, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, and more. We invite you to visit with the animals, hike our trails, and enjoy the natural beauty of our incredible land. Sites are primitive camping on gravel pads along our hiking trails. Approximately a five minute hike from parking. Water and composting toilets are provided.

3. The Lodge at Deer Creek

90%

(119)

44mi from Montecito · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Malibu, CA

At The Lodge at Deer Creek you'll be nestled between the majestic Santa Monica Mountains and the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Enjoy sunsets and stargazing from this 25 acre ocean view property. During the day you can swim or surf the famous Malibu waves, hike or bike in the mountains, or enjoy shopping at Pt. Dume or Cross Creek. Grocery, restaurants, and retail are just 15 minutes away along the beautiful coast.

4. Waypoint Ventura

23mi from Montecito · 34 sites · RVs · Ventura, CA

Waypoint brings a new and authentic overnight experience to Ventura. Set one block from the Ventura Pier and a short walk to the center of downtown, our campground offers the perfect base camp to enjoy California’s quintessential beach town. Kick back and relax at your campsite, or hang out and barbecue in our communal areas. We encourage you to enjoy our hotel property, and then take one of our bikes to explore the beaches, surf spots, hiking trails, and all that Downtown Ventura has to offer.

5. Vintage 1948 Airstream trailer

99%

(38)

6.1mi from Montecito · 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.

6. Private Beach Farm

98%

(609)

19mi from Montecito · 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!

7. Rancho de Granville

92%

(87)

19mi from Montecito · 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. Prospector Ranch

100%

(45)

48mi from Montecito · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Thousand Oaks, CA

Prospector Ranch which is an 1800's style ranch located right next door to the acre used for Hipcamping. The ranch is made up of their home and is also a venue for filming, photo shoots and small events. When not being used, camping guest are welcome to enjoy the area down around the authentic saloon, use the picnic area under large Oak trees and hike the property. We purchased the ranch 8 years ago and love being outside of the city in the mountains. Star gazing is a must when staying there! The camp site is NEXT DOOR to Prospector Ranch which is our 1800's style ranch tucked away in the Santa Monica mountains, close to beaches, vineyards, amazing hiking, biking to the beach and the city! The wide open empty lot looks out at the beautiful mountains. Enjoy stunning sun sets and Picnic under the grand Oak Trees at the ranch or maybe come by the saloon next door for a cold beverage if we are around. :-). We are happy to point you in the direction for what ever you want to do. There are so many things to do in Thousand Oaks!

9. Ocean Breeze

23mi from Montecito · 1 site · Lodging · Ventura, CA

WONDERFUL CALIFORNIA COASTAL LOCATIONS NEARBY Amazing location for ALL THE MOST LOVED SURFING, HIKING, BIKING,, ADVENTURE ENTHUSIAST, near Carpinteria and Santa Monica and OJAI! Camp anywhere you want at the nearby beaches and OJAI, Santa Monica Mountains and beyond! —why only camp at one place when you have hundreds of locations nearby to choose from!!! Then come home to a cozy living room and fireplace! And the King sized bed is aahhhmazing! Glamping can be fun, too!!! Enjoy the OCAEAN BREEZE!! And when the suns out PalmTree sunsets from your balcony! Aloha!

10. Caravan Outpost - Ojai Oasis!

93%

(28)

22mi from Montecito · 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 Montecito

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Waypoint Ventura

23mi from Montecito · 34 sites · RVs · Ventura, CA

Waypoint brings a new and authentic overnight experience to Ventura. Set one block from the Ventura Pier and a short walk to the center of downtown, our campground offers the perfect base camp to enjoy California’s quintessential beach town. Kick back and relax at your campsite, or hang out and barbecue in our communal areas. We encourage you to enjoy our hotel property, and then take one of our bikes to explore the beaches, surf spots, hiking trails, and all that Downtown Ventura has to offer.

Vintage 1948 Airstream trailer

99%

(38)

6.1mi from Montecito · 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)

19mi from Montecito · 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!

Rancho de Granville

92%

(87)

19mi from Montecito · 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.

Prospector Ranch

100%

(45)

48mi from Montecito · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Thousand Oaks, CA

Prospector Ranch which is an 1800's style ranch located right next door to the acre used for Hipcamping. The ranch is made up of their home and is also a venue for filming, photo shoots and small events. When not being used, camping guest are welcome to enjoy the area down around the authentic saloon, use the picnic area under large Oak trees and hike the property. We purchased the ranch 8 years ago and love being outside of the city in the mountains. Star gazing is a must when staying there! The camp site is NEXT DOOR to Prospector Ranch which is our 1800's style ranch tucked away in the Santa Monica mountains, close to beaches, vineyards, amazing hiking, biking to the beach and the city! The wide open empty lot looks out at the beautiful mountains. Enjoy stunning sun sets and Picnic under the grand Oak Trees at the ranch or maybe come by the saloon next door for a cold beverage if we are around. :-). We are happy to point you in the direction for what ever you want to do. There are so many things to do in Thousand Oaks!

Ocean Breeze

23mi from Montecito · 1 site · Lodging · Ventura, CA

WONDERFUL CALIFORNIA COASTAL LOCATIONS NEARBY Amazing location for ALL THE MOST LOVED SURFING, HIKING, BIKING,, ADVENTURE ENTHUSIAST, near Carpinteria and Santa Monica and OJAI! Camp anywhere you want at the nearby beaches and OJAI, Santa Monica Mountains and beyond! —why only camp at one place when you have hundreds of locations nearby to choose from!!! Then come home to a cozy living room and fireplace! And the King sized bed is aahhhmazing! Glamping can be fun, too!!! Enjoy the OCAEAN BREEZE!! And when the suns out PalmTree sunsets from your balcony! Aloha!

Caravan Outpost - Ojai Oasis!

93%

(28)

22mi from Montecito · 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 Montecito

P-Bar Flat Campground

5.7mi from Montecito · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

83%

(3)

Middle Santa Ynez Campground

5.7mi from Montecito · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Mono Campground

6.3mi from Montecito · 3 sites · in Los Padres National Forest

Rock Camp Campground

7.7mi from Montecito · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

View from Upper Oso via Andy Sternberg: https://www.flickr.com/photos/revolute/

92%

(9)

Upper Oso Campground

11mi from Montecito · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(3)

Sage Hill Campground

12mi from Montecito · 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

13mi from Montecito · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(3)

Paradise Campground

13mi from Montecito · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Great view once you get out from under the trees.

100%

(2)

Fremont Campground

13mi from Montecito · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(7)

North Beach Campground

20mi from Montecito · 91 sites · Tents, RVs · in Emma Wood State Beach

Holiday Group Campground

21mi from Montecito · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Los Padres National Forest

94%

(48)

Wheeler Gorge Campground

21mi from Montecito · 67 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

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

Alex

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Gaia Farm Campground

Our time spent at Gaia farm was phenomenal! The views, especially during sunrise and sunset, were spectacular! Amanda was extremely helpful and gracious towards us the entire stay. She was very responsive and went well out of her way to make sure that we were accommodated. I would absolutely go back and would recommend it to anyone looking for a unique stay along the California coast line!

A

Andres

3 weeks ago

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.

S

Samantha

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

Great hospitality! The site was well set up and had a great view. I loved the animals, especially the dogs I met! Also, I left with a dozen farm fresh eggs…I would definitely recommend.

A

Alison

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

I can’t wait to go back the views were beyond my wildest dreams

K

Kim

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

What an amazing place to camp. The views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking, especially at sunrise and sunset. The working farm adds such a unique touch I had a great time learning about the animals and even got to hold the baby goats! If you stay here, don’t miss the guided tour of the farm. It made the whole experience unforgettable.

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.

A

Alaina

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

I loved everything about this stay! The amazing views, warm hospitality and fun farm visit made this a treasured day for us. Ocean views, chaparral in the air, amazing stargazing landscape and friendly hosts. We even left with some farm-fresh bacon and sausage. Many thanks, we can't wait to visit again. Cheers!

N

Nat

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

I'm so lucky I found Gaia farms - the location is stunningly beautiful, the accommodations were cozy, Amanda was generous, friendly, kind, and I got to hold a baby goat! It was truly a special experience. I cannot recommend a visit enough and hope for the chance to return. We stayed in the yurt, enjoying privacy, quiet, comfort, and VIEWS! The pictures can't even capture how gorgeous the views were. We watched the sun set pink over the mountains and ocean, saw shooting stars all night, and then the clouds settled below us at dawn. It was perfect. Thank you for sharing this place with us, Amanda. <3

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.

E

Emily

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Gaia Farm Campground

We loved this camp site! The host, Amanda, was super welcoming and made us feel comfortable upon arrival. Amanda and her family are located on what is truly the most magical pocket of the Gaviota coast. At night, the stars are so bright it feels like you're in your very own planetarium. We even saw an insane comet (fireball??!) in the sky during our last night!!! Even though other people were staying near us, we never felt overcrowded. Amanda was super considerate in spacing out her guests so that we each felt like we were enjoying the coast all to ourselves. Would 100% recommend this site and we hope to come back again soon!

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!

B

Becca

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

We loved camping on Amanda's land! The campsite was just stunning. All of the farm animals were so sweet and Amanda was so lovely to introduce us to them! Overall perfect experience, we are excited to come back again. Thank you!

M

Mike

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

Amanda‘s place is wonderful, incredible hospitality, and views of the ocean and mountains. I can’t say enough, how much I enjoy the serenity and peacefulness of this property.

S

Sam

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

Amazing spot to stay, amazing hosts. Couldn’t recommend staying here enough. It’s spacious, beautiful, and you have to get a tour of the wonderful farm! Angela and Tracy are so sweet and welcoming, definitely check out their awesome soaps, lotions, and meat products! Will be back soon :)

S

Sloane

October 2025

Group trip

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

My friends and I agreed that there’s no more beautiful place to play card games and cook Mac and cheese than this yurt! Amanda was the most kind and welcoming host. Don’t miss out on holding a baby goat or buying some goats milk lotion or soap, these additions really made our day! Such a special place, we feel so lucky to have stayed a night here. So worth it!

A

Annie

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

The yurt was in a stunning location and hosted by such a welcoming family. Amazing views and awesome rock formations, just up the mountain from a great beach. Beds were super comfy cozy, outdoor seating area great for taking it all in. Plus, baby goats!!! This was our very first Hipcamp experience and it was overall awesome. And the farm-made goat milk soap smells amazing.

M

Mads

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

We had a great stay at Amanda's place. The view was amazing and the whole place seemed very peaceful with beautiful nature all around. Would definitely want to come back.

M

Mark

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Lodge at Deer Creek

My spot was lovely and quiet. Watching the cloud/fog layer creep over the mountain tops in view during sunrises and sunsets was wonderful. Chris' knowledge of the human and natural history of the area was profound. If you need a getaway from the city that is close by, this is the place.