Lake Camping Near Santa Barbara, California, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking to camp near Santa Barbara, California and prefer a lake setting, we've got you covered with over 77 options to choose from. Whether you're seeking a serene lakeside retreat or an action-packed adventure, you'll find the perfect spot. Check out our top-rated campsites, including Twisselman Ranch (384 reviews), Arber-Moore's Ranch (158 reviews), and Cross Bull Ranch/CBR (96 reviews), to get a sense of what fellow campers love. With popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and trash services, as well as activities such as boating, whitewater paddling, and wind sports, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Plus, with an average price per night of $70 and options as low as $20, there's something for every budget. So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the great outdoors!

94% (640)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking to camp near Santa Barbara, California and prefer a lake setting, we've got you covered with over 77 options to choose from. Whether you're seeking a serene lakeside retreat or an action-packed adventure, you'll find the perfect spot. Check out our top-rated campsites, including Twisselman Ranch (384 reviews), Arber-Moore's Ranch (158 reviews), and Cross Bull Ranch/CBR (96 reviews), to get a sense of what fellow campers love. With popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and trash services, as well as activities such as boating, whitewater paddling, and wind sports, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Plus, with an average price per night of $70 and options as low as $20, there's something for every budget. So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the great outdoors!

94% (640)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. 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 !!"

2. 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.

3. Gracewood Santa Barbara

88%

(186)

9.9mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Tent, RV · Goleta, CA

This is an historic ranch with buildings dating from the 1880's to the mid 1930's and then some newer and spacious structures. See management for tours, history and accessibility to some structures and areas. This is a working ranch with a fascinating heritage going back three owners to an impressive land grant. There are 6 miles of trails and roads on the ranch shared by vehicles, hikers and equestrians. A map can be provided which will insure that neighboring properties are not trespassed on. All visitors to the ranch must have checked in with the office and management. There is an extra charge of $40.00 per person per day coming onto the ranch whether they are spending the night or just visiting. This charge is beyond and in addition to the charge made for the first four individuals on the reservation for each day. We find that many of our regular clients on the ranch are very friendly and helpful. Only 1 site is exclusively available right now Come stay at our rustic campsite under some large oak trees next to a little open area by an ecological pond on our working ranch! With 54 acres for our horses and avocados, we welcome guests to camp on a somewhat private part of the ranch (on occasion, equestrians may ride by). We can accommodate up to 8 more campers depending on the group type. We love welcoming families to the ranch, but like to approve larger groups ahead of time! At the campsite you'll find picnic tables, a fire pit for small fires, and running water. Minimal 110 Volt electrical outlet is at the campsite. There is a fully functional unique bathroom made out of a converted horse trailer with a toilet and sink a few hundred yards from the site. Walking around the property, you'll see an activity barn and a historic 19th century cottage which houses a private library. Permission may be granted for entry to these structures if requested. There is an outdoor shower at the campsite with cold water only. Some firewood may be provided at no cost. Campers, making reservations during cold winter months when the otherwise beautiful weather becomes cooler, should be aware that because of the proximity of a wind machine which makes a noise like a helicopter about 300 yards away from the campsite, on a neighboring property, may interrupt an otherwise peaceful and quiet experience. The wind machine comes on automatically when the temperature drops to around 37 degrees so that avocados in the orchard do not suffer from a freezing temperature. Please note the trigger temperature for the machines is taken at individual low points on the adjacent property and may reflect as many as 6 degrees lower than what is found on forecast sites. This machine probably might turn on maybe 7 nights in a year and only during the cold winter months. Headlamps are a great idea, otherwise, flashlights for sure. Minimal 110 V. electricity at campsite. The library and restroom are a little ways away from the campsite have lighting but it is very dark between the campsite and those facilities. We are located only two miles to the ocean beaches and about a mile to a major shopping center. UCSB is just minutes away. Bicycling is very easy as all roads and access are flat. Please return all furniture to the place(s) from which it was moved and thank you for putting out your fire(s) and carrying out your trash to the dumpster when leaving the campsite.

4. Casita Eco-Glamping

4.1mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Lodging · Mission Canyon, CA

Nestled in the foothills amidst olive trees, red oaks & CA native plants with magnificent ocean views, our luxury tent offers elevated rustic comfort, intimacy and privacy in nature. A perfect destination for those seeking the ultimate relaxation & discerning travelers who seek for a rejuvenating stay. 10min from the beach, our romantic haven features driftwoods from our local coast, a reclaimed wood deck and a private shed bathroom with a stylish shower of that melds luxury w/ sustainability.

5. Serenity And Sunshine Cabin

100%

(2)

44mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Lodging · Pine Mountain Club, CA

Our cozy yet modern cabin is all about relaxation and reconnecting with nature. Breathe in the fresh forest air and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that Pine Mountain Club offers. There are also many opportunities for new adventures golfing, hiking trails, exploring waterfalls and fishing on a lake. Public pool and hot tub with seasonal use. Pine Mountain is one of Southern California's best-kept secrets--a small alpine village with a four-season climate. We have light snow in the Winter, spectacular wildflowers in Spring, and gorgeous Fall colors. It's a wonderful getaway—and yet so close! Our two-story home is located on a quiet street at 5771 feet. Lovely pine ceilings throughout the cabin contribute to the warm ambience. The 1000 sq. ft. interior is furnished in a modern style with a leather sofa and some cool abstract art on the walls. The living room has a wood stove and 50" smart HDTV with direct satellite & Blu Ray DVD. A skylight in the living room brings in lots of light. The master bedroom (queen bed) is separate from the downstairs and reached via a spiral staircase leading up to French doors. The master bathroom adjoins the bedroom and has a skylight over the double length tiled shower. A second bedroom downstairs has a murphy bed with a queen size mattress. There is air conditioning in the living room as well as in the upstairs bedroom and 2 fans are provided-- although generally temps are not above 85 degrees on a hot day and generally drop into the 60's in the evening. Upper and lower decks offer lovely views of Mt. Pinos and the San Emigdio range. Relax on the sunny decks or in the Adirondack chair near the pond surrounded by pine trees. Plan to do some bbqing--it is so pleasant to do some grilling on the upper deck bbq and dine outdoors. Our cabin is clean and well-kept. It can comfortably accommodate 4 people. Please NO smoking or pets! Mt. Pinos has the best view of the stars in So. California—star parties are common whenever there is a new moon. In addition, since we are in the Padres National Forest - wildlife (deer, raccoons, bobcat, fox, bunnies, squirrels, quail, stellar and scrub jays) abounds. Ra

6. A-Frame Bliss

100%

(25)

44mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Lodging · Pine Mountain Club, CA

Learn more about this land:Our beautiful and rustic A-Frame cabin is exactly what you imagine when you dream of a mountain getaway. The cabin is nestled amongst the pine trees with two large decks. Inside, you will enjoy relaxing in the family room which has soaring wood vaulted ceilings and forest views from the floor to ceiling windows. You can imagine sitting in front of a roaring fire in the open style wood fireplace on winter nights and enjoying time on the deck just listening to the forest sounds.

7. Romance in the Pines

93%

(15)

44mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Lodging · Pine Mountain Club, CA

Romance in the Pines is a cozy, hidden gem located 6200 ft high, surrounded by 100 ft pine trees and over 300 year old oak trees. This magical 2-story cabin sits on a half-acre lot with pines growing right through the large deck. The interior features raw cedar walls, gorgeous wood laminate floors, the comfiest fireplace, carpeted bedrooms and large spectacular view windows. You can have your morning coffee in the enchanted garden and enjoy sunset on the deck with a complimentary bottle of wine.Close to the Waterfall Trailhead, a cool and easy hike with a waterfall if there has been rain. Even without the waterfall the views are beautiful. Welcome!

8. Caravan Outpost - Ojai Oasis!

93%

(28)

27mi from Santa Barbara · 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 Santa Barbara

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Casita Eco-Glamping

4.1mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Lodging · Mission Canyon, CA

Nestled in the foothills amidst olive trees, red oaks & CA native plants with magnificent ocean views, our luxury tent offers elevated rustic comfort, intimacy and privacy in nature. A perfect destination for those seeking the ultimate relaxation & discerning travelers who seek for a rejuvenating stay. 10min from the beach, our romantic haven features driftwoods from our local coast, a reclaimed wood deck and a private shed bathroom with a stylish shower of that melds luxury w/ sustainability.

Serenity And Sunshine Cabin

100%

(2)

44mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Lodging · Pine Mountain Club, CA

Our cozy yet modern cabin is all about relaxation and reconnecting with nature. Breathe in the fresh forest air and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that Pine Mountain Club offers. There are also many opportunities for new adventures golfing, hiking trails, exploring waterfalls and fishing on a lake. Public pool and hot tub with seasonal use. Pine Mountain is one of Southern California's best-kept secrets--a small alpine village with a four-season climate. We have light snow in the Winter, spectacular wildflowers in Spring, and gorgeous Fall colors. It's a wonderful getaway—and yet so close! Our two-story home is located on a quiet street at 5771 feet. Lovely pine ceilings throughout the cabin contribute to the warm ambience. The 1000 sq. ft. interior is furnished in a modern style with a leather sofa and some cool abstract art on the walls. The living room has a wood stove and 50" smart HDTV with direct satellite & Blu Ray DVD. A skylight in the living room brings in lots of light. The master bedroom (queen bed) is separate from the downstairs and reached via a spiral staircase leading up to French doors. The master bathroom adjoins the bedroom and has a skylight over the double length tiled shower. A second bedroom downstairs has a murphy bed with a queen size mattress. There is air conditioning in the living room as well as in the upstairs bedroom and 2 fans are provided-- although generally temps are not above 85 degrees on a hot day and generally drop into the 60's in the evening. Upper and lower decks offer lovely views of Mt. Pinos and the San Emigdio range. Relax on the sunny decks or in the Adirondack chair near the pond surrounded by pine trees. Plan to do some bbqing--it is so pleasant to do some grilling on the upper deck bbq and dine outdoors. Our cabin is clean and well-kept. It can comfortably accommodate 4 people. Please NO smoking or pets! Mt. Pinos has the best view of the stars in So. California—star parties are common whenever there is a new moon. In addition, since we are in the Padres National Forest - wildlife (deer, raccoons, bobcat, fox, bunnies, squirrels, quail, stellar and scrub jays) abounds. Ra

A-Frame Bliss

100%

(25)

44mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Lodging · Pine Mountain Club, CA

Learn more about this land:Our beautiful and rustic A-Frame cabin is exactly what you imagine when you dream of a mountain getaway. The cabin is nestled amongst the pine trees with two large decks. Inside, you will enjoy relaxing in the family room which has soaring wood vaulted ceilings and forest views from the floor to ceiling windows. You can imagine sitting in front of a roaring fire in the open style wood fireplace on winter nights and enjoying time on the deck just listening to the forest sounds.

Romance in the Pines

93%

(15)

44mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Lodging · Pine Mountain Club, CA

Romance in the Pines is a cozy, hidden gem located 6200 ft high, surrounded by 100 ft pine trees and over 300 year old oak trees. This magical 2-story cabin sits on a half-acre lot with pines growing right through the large deck. The interior features raw cedar walls, gorgeous wood laminate floors, the comfiest fireplace, carpeted bedrooms and large spectacular view windows. You can have your morning coffee in the enchanted garden and enjoy sunset on the deck with a complimentary bottle of wine.Close to the Waterfall Trailhead, a cool and easy hike with a waterfall if there has been rain. Even without the waterfall the views are beautiful. Welcome!

Caravan Outpost - Ojai Oasis!

93%

(28)

27mi from Santa Barbara · 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 Santa Barbara

Mono Campground

10mi from Santa Barbara · 3 sites · in Los Padres National Forest

P-Bar Flat Campground

11mi from Santa Barbara · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(3)

Sage Hill Campground

11mi from Santa Barbara · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

83%

(3)

Middle Santa Ynez Campground

11mi from Santa Barbara · 13 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 Santa Barbara · 19 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

11mi from Santa Barbara · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(3)

Paradise Campground

11mi from Santa Barbara · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Great view once you get out from under the trees.

100%

(2)

Fremont Campground

12mi from Santa Barbara · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Rock Camp Campground

13mi from Santa Barbara · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Holiday Group Campground

26mi from Santa Barbara · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Los Padres National Forest

94%

(48)

Wheeler Gorge Campground

26mi from Santa Barbara · 67 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(8)

Pine Mountain Campground

27mi from Santa Barbara · 6 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

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.

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.

S

Sheryl

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to A-Frame Bliss

Traveled with family and our dog and loved the fresh air, trails and cozy ambiance of the A-Frame bliss. Would def go 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!

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..

L

Luis

September 2025

18 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Gracewood Santa Barbara

Amazing experience. Beautiful farm. Directions were very precise and made it very easy to get to the campsite. We stayed one night, hopefully next time we can stay longer. Place is well kept and the host was very responsive. Definitely recommend.

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!

J

Jordan

September 2025

Weekend Trip to A-Frame Bliss

This cabin was perfect for a weekend getaway for my girlfriend and I. I would highly recommend this place for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors

d

david

September 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Arber-Moore's Ranch

Great location for some family camping! Would definitely recommend.

J

Jack

September 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Gracewood Santa Barbara

Fred was super responsive! The location was perfect to base camp from. We checked in and enjoyed a wonderful afternoon wine and cheese picnic in nature by the little lake with a couple of friendly ducks. Later we bounced into town for dinner then came back to a super peaceful nighttime setting. The converted horse trailer turned bathroom was very functional and actually added to the charm of the camp.

K

Keila

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

Had an amazing time definitely coming back. Our host were amazing and it was peaceful and we had a great time they gave wood for sell there so it’s a plus!! Shower was clean a few stores around for last minute things:))

Sandra

August 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

Pros: hosts were awesome, decent area for camping, hot and clean shower area, fair porta potty Cons: Lack of privacy. You can hear other conversations right across from you, as well as their movie. It played pretty loud past midnight.

Daniel

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rancho de Granville

Has a really nice time camping at The Ford. The site is large and has lots of shaded, usable space. Tons of greenery and birds. It is close to a road and cars can be loud at night. Bring white noise or earplugs. The chickens were really fun to have nearby, and the frogs and crickets go crazy at night. Bugs are present, but not aggressive. Had a really nice stay.

M

Mary

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Gracewood Santa Barbara

We had plenty of space to set up camp, privacy and quiet. There was a great fire pit set up as well as cooking grills.

C

Celine

August 2025

8 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Gracewood Santa Barbara

We had the most relaxing stay at Gracewood. So peaceful, lots of privacy. We had the whole camp to ourselves. We needed the peace and quiet this camp had to offer. It was a beautiful location under the canopy of the trees.

C

Christian

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

Really enjoyed the tent camping I did on this land. The hosts clearly care about providing their campers with a comfortable experience. They maintain a clean environment, provide a really nice shower/restroom, and have plenty of space to accommodate large groups! Plus the location is very accessible and you can be back in the city in no time. Huge thank you to Vivian and David for making our trip a great experience. Definitely recommend this for future hipcampers!