The best family-friendly campgrounds near Santa Barbara, California

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Santa Barbara, California? Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), See Canyon Fruit Ranch (980 reviews), or Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch (549 reviews). These campsites offer amenities like showers, pet-friendly accommodations, and trash disposal. If you're into paddling, swimming, or surfing, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. With an average price of $75 per night and options as low as $20, camping near Santa Barbara has never been more accessible. Get ready to enjoy nature at its finest!

97% (4.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Santa Barbara, California? Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), See Canyon Fruit Ranch (980 reviews), or Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch (549 reviews). These campsites offer amenities like showers, pet-friendly accommodations, and trash disposal. If you're into paddling, swimming, or surfing, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. With an average price of $75 per night and options as low as $20, camping near Santa Barbara has never been more accessible. Get ready to enjoy nature at its finest!

97% (4.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cuyama Badlands

99%

(4440)

36mi from Santa Barbara · 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)

30mi from Santa Barbara · 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. Arber-Moore's Ranch

93%

(561)

23mi from Santa Barbara · 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 !!"

4. Cuyama Oaks Ranch

99%

(769)

38mi from Santa Barbara · 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!

5. Leap Lab Farm

100%

(52)

37mi from Santa Barbara · 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.

6. Camp RainDale

98%

(245)

34mi from Santa Barbara · 6 sites · Tents · Santa Paula, CA

There is a road that leads to the site when you enter the gate the road runs between the stream and the mountain there are 4 Camps to choose from so far. Many more on the way and you can ask if you would like to camp somewhere else on the property and we can work it out. The site runs along a flowing stream consisting of paths from camp to stream. There are many trees enclosing the entire camping area.

7. Harmony's Glamping

95%

(347)

6.9mi from Santa Barbara · 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

8. Rancho de Granville

92%

(87)

24mi from Santa Barbara · 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.

Camper favorites near Santa Barbara

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Cuyama Oaks Ranch

99%

(769)

38mi from Santa Barbara · 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!

Leap Lab Farm

100%

(52)

37mi from Santa Barbara · 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.

Camp RainDale

98%

(245)

34mi from Santa Barbara · 6 sites · Tents · Santa Paula, CA

There is a road that leads to the site when you enter the gate the road runs between the stream and the mountain there are 4 Camps to choose from so far. Many more on the way and you can ask if you would like to camp somewhere else on the property and we can work it out. The site runs along a flowing stream consisting of paths from camp to stream. There are many trees enclosing the entire camping area.

Harmony's Glamping

95%

(347)

6.9mi from Santa Barbara · 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

Rancho de Granville

92%

(87)

24mi from Santa Barbara · 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.

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

S

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

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.

T

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!!

N

Noah

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

What a special way to spend my birthday. Really such a great spot that allows you to feel like your camping but has so many great amenities. The owners were so kind as well. We will be coming back!

Jean

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

Always an Epic time at SongDog Ranch! The place is peacefully quiet and surreal! Jim & Jen are fantastic host! Hospitality is at its best! See you again soon!!!

M

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

b

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.

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.

S

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.

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.

D

Diana

October 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

I love the scenery warmth and freedom at Fredog Farms!

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!

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

Sierra and Bandit Doing Perimeter Check.

Jessica

October 2025

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

Nice and close to solvang. Very cean and quiet site.

Mandana

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

We all loved camping at Sierra and Darin's land. It is a beautiful and quite serene area where groups of campers get quite a bit of privacy and space from others. The hosts are so kind, communicatice, and welcoming. We really enjoyed the welcome tour, learning about all the creative projects they have started to expand the services offered to campers. We will be going back and recommending to our friends and family.

A

Amy

October 2025

14 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

I’m new to camping and this was my first campsite with my dog. What a wonderful campsite it was! Sierra & Darin are super passionate about everything they have to offer guests and they give you a tour when you arrive. There are several water stations on the property for dogs to drink from. Lots of land to hike around with your dog off leash. The umbrellas at the picnic tables have lights on the underside which was cool. Sites are spaced out nicely. It’s a great place to stay and I will definitely go back.

J

Jeremiah

October 2025

23 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

Sierra and Darin have an epic place to camp! Their property is well maintained and clean. They provide gas fire pits at the campsites and ports potties throughout. The best part was their hospitality and open arms for new friends. They have a stocked bar and welcomed us with a great selection of beers to sip on as we took our little ones to see the chickens and goats. I do think that our dog had the most fun of us all. Being off-leash and able to explore was her favorite thing, and she enjoyed hanging out with the other pups of the campground. We will certainly be back, as one night was not enough.