Camping near Santa Barbara with swimming

With a temperate climate, gorgeous shoreline, and incredible camping, this city earns its "American Riviera" reputation.

97% (1862 reviews)

United States
—
California
—
Santa Barbara

97% (1862 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Santa Barbara

Camper favorites near Santa Barbara

Public campgrounds near Santa Barbara

100%

(23)

San Miguel Campground

54 sites · RVs, Tents In Carpinteria State Beach

100%

(7)

North Beach Campground

91 sites · RVs, Tents In Emma Wood State Beach

100%

(8)

Pine Mountain Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

100%

(9)

Mount Figueroa Campground

33 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

100%

(13)

Reyes Peak Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

100%

(3)

Paradise Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

100%

(3)

Sage Hill Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

Great view once you get out from under the trees.

100%

(2)

Fremont Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

100%

(5)

Middle Lion Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

Nice little water fall to dip in during the hot summer

100%

(2)

Davy Brown Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

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

97%

(75)

Refugio Campground

66 sites · RVs, Tents In Refugio State Beach

Chula Vista is a rad little spot, especially if you're really into huge trees and star gazing. There's almost never anybody there so you're bound to get plenty of room to yourself!

100%

(6)

Chula Vista Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Leap Lab Farm

Amazing location next to the Rocky Mountain, with city views and an active farm. Responsive hosts too. I recommend coming while there is still light out, though it is navigable at night.

Weekend Trip to Leap Lab Farm

Just spent an amazing weekend camping at Leap Lab Farm with friends! The spot offers a peaceful escape in the Santa Paula hills, surrounded by nature and beautiful views. The hosts are super welcoming and have done a great job maintaining the farm despite recent fire damage. We loved the cool dinosaur exhibit and outdoor art really added a unique vibe. The campsite was spacious and clean, with a dome and electrical hookups that made our stay comfortable without feeling too “glamping.” Nights were perfect for stargazing under clear skies. Leap Lab Farm is great for groups and families alike there’s plenty to explore and enjoy for all ages. If you want a laid-back, nature-filled camping experience with some fun farm charm, this is the place. We left feeling refreshed and already planning our next visit!

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

Their place was absolutely amazing. We loved it there! It’s just enough to be camping, but enough amenities is to be comfortable. Plenty of shade and water available and not too crowded.

Weekend Trip to Leap Lab Farm

Private space near a community, which is refreshing. The dome is useful and nice to be around. Lots of airplane action from the small airport. Beautiful overlook. Close to Ventura.

Weekend Trip to Arber-Moore's Ranch

Super nice hosts. The sites are not perfect. Most of them have very little coverage and are very exposed to sun. Shower is great. Site #1 is definitely the best.

Trevor

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Canvas Under the Oaks

The tent was amazing, lots of space and everything was super clean. The nature was marvelous with stunning hikes nearby. There was everything needed to cook and clean. The outdoor toilets and showers were amazing, the hot water with the cold nights were so relaxing. When we arrived, the host gave us a full tour of how to use all the amenities and answered all our questions about nearby hikes and places to go to. I would definitely return and recommend others to as well for a getaway weekend to the mountains. I only have good things to say.

Weekend Trip to The Lodge at Deer Creek

This was our second time staying on Chris’ land. Its one of our favorites on the coast. Incredible view! Secluded , quiet, and easy to access.

Weekend Trip to Ballard Walnut Grove

Quiet, serene and well appointed space! Clean and the firewood in the pit was a nice touch. We will definitely be returning in the near future!

Sarah

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Harmony's Glamping

What a beautiful spot! Pretty incredible how secluded you can feel, just 20 minutes outside of town. My husband and I booked the yurt for three nights to rest and unplug. When we got there (and lugged our belongings to the yurt), we found it dirty with no bedding. I messaged harmony who quickly gave me a call to let me know she has upgraded us to the dome by the river. The space was awesome- decorated very nice, a private hot shower and best of all, right on the river with a hammock over the water where I spent several hours reading and listening to the sound of the water. There was no one else on the property so we had the place to ourselves! Things I would have liked to have known beforehand: - while we read the warnings about the road, we made it just fine in our Prius. Just go slow and you’ll be fine. -there were no kitchen supplies in the yurt or the fairy dome (contrary to what the listing said) so make sure you bring pots, pans, oil, salt, pepper, plates, cups and silverware. -the toilets are port-o-potties they haven’t been emptied in a looooong time. -there are lots of critters! While unpacking we found a baby rattlesnake which made me fearful to let our dogs out of my sight! There were lots of (giant) spiders in the fairy dome and there were big mice running around the camp at night so make sure you bring everything inside. It is camping, after all! - we weren’t able to get all the way to the waterfall with our three legged dog but the walk was beautiful.

4 nights at Harmony's Glamping

Harmony was an excellent host, so far the best I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. She was very understanding and accommodating. Her property is beautiful and the waterfall was absolutely amazing and well worth the hike, however it’s definitely a more advanced hike. I will definitely be taking my kids back again.

1 night at Arber-Moore's Ranch

Provided great instructions upon arrival. Stay was private and peaceful. Location was great and close to Ojai!

4 nights at Arber-Moore's Ranch

The campground itself has a limited number of sites which we absolutely loved. Vivian and Doug were the most gracious and responsive hosts we’ve ever experienced in all our years of camping!! It’s dry almost desert like on years the dam up river isn’t opened but there’s a great little spot to get wet less than a mile away. We came as guests and left as friends. Wonderful people! We will definitely be back!

Shaelinn

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Harmony's Glamping

Had such a magnificent recharging time at harmonys glamping. So cool to be on 4 generation owned land, thank you harmony for creating and sharing such a magical space !! The hike to the waterfall wasn’t too bad just gotta watch your feet and go slow. It was soooo worth it tho. Just wow, so clear and fresh !! The hermit dome was the perfect getaway, literally sitting in the coziest best looking at the trees and hearing the river ,no service, it was heaven for the senses. We will be back !! Thank you again can’t recommend this place enough !!!❤️

1 night at Ballard Walnut Grove

Beautiful orchard. Very private as the other camp spot was like 100 ft away. Very nice fire pit and chairs. Had a picking table and a swing as well. Could t be more perfect for our first Hipcamp experience. Thank you.

Weekend Trip to Ballard Walnut Grove

This sight is so peaceful and beautiful Mike's and Anne's greeted us with some walnuts property was clean plenty of room with firewood bench, chairs,Trash can, games definitely returning and recommend.

1 night at The Lodge at Deer Creek

Wonderful host. Beautiful spot overlooking the mountains. So close to the beach! We’ll be back!

2 nights at Harmony's Glamping

This is a review for the Creekside Fairy Dome where we ended up staying. Harmony and her team are very friendly and accommodating! We were upgraded to stay at the fairy dome and it was AMAZING!! Our 8 year old daughter played in the creek all day! Very family friendly camp site. Clean dome room with very comfortable bed. Warm shower on site was very nice! We also splurged to do two nights with the wood fire hot tub…. Such a wonderful experience! A little bit of a harrowing drive down to the parking lot, but it was all awesomeness after Harmony let us into our Fairy Dome site! Thank you so much for the memories, and we are sure we will be coming back in the future!

2 nights at Private Beach Farm

This place has a very special energy. We brought our little travel trailer, but the real magic is in the greenhouse (you can camp in there!) and the private beach. Quiet and absolutely stunning, we would definitely come back and bring more family. It’s so special that we want to share it! Thank you to our gracious hosts and for letting us know about the launch. It felt like a private Oceanside flyby!

Weekend Trip to Rancho de Granville

What a great site! Catherine was very accommodating and made us feel at home. The site has a great mix of shade and sun, plenty of space, and areas to explore.

Weekend Trip to Ballard Walnut Grove

Had a great visit at the Walnut Grove. Was private and quiet. Love the walnuts we bought and even got the opportunity to have some homemade cookies Great hosts and centrally located to all.

9 top campgrounds near Santa Barbara with swimming

93%

(509)

Arber-Moore's Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · 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 !!"

96%

(300)

Harmony's Glamping

11 sites · Lodging90 acres · 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. 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

89%

(97)

The Lodge at Deer Creek

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Malibu, CA

At The Lodge at Deer Creek you'll be nestled between mountains and the pacific ocean. Surround yourself with nature and its music on this 25 acre ocean view property. Grab a surf or paddle board and head to the beach or zen out amongst the greenery. Grocery, restaurants, and retail are a beautiful drive along the coast.

Booked 1 time

Green Goat Eco Farm

1 site · Tent156 acres · Mission Canyon, CA

156 private acres of off-grid heaven, or Paradise, rather. Nestled into the protected National Forest, privacy abounds, and an opportunity to reconnect with nature emerges, whether that's down in the forest meadows under the tree canopy, up on our knoll with 360 degree views and epic stargazing, or next to our babbling creek dotted with natural plunge pools. Wake up naturally with our roosters and filtered sunlight, then enjoy what this area has to offer (hiking, road biking, mountain biking, wine tasting).

92%

(73)

Rancho de Granville

6 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Oak View, CA

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 Nordoff (Ojai) the old bunkhouse and barn remain!

100%

(560)

Ballard Walnut Grove

2 sites · RVs22 acres · Solvang, CA

We are a 4-generation family-owned and operated working farm, and have lived here since 1976. We are proud growers for Diamond Walnuts, and also have a busy Farm Stand with walnuts and produce, over 500 Christmas Trees, and a small event venue for rent. We love our farm and are happy to open our walnut grove to you and share the bounty and beauty that we have called home for over four decades. Ballard is 2 miles from Solvang, Los Olivos, and Santa Ynez. Our Walnut Grove is nestled in the village of Ballard and in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. Walking distance to two Tasting Rooms (Rideau & Lincourt), a Bakery (Bob's Well Bread), and a Fine-Dining Restaurant (Ballard Inn). Note that the trees lose their leaves in the winter and will leaf-out in late May. We offer 2 sites the Grove: one that accommodates larger RV's with up to 6 people (called "Diamond" - which has a larger area with soft solar lighting, picnic table, fire pit, corn hole, cozy bench for two, complimentary bundle of wood and a tasty treat. (This site also accommodates two RV's -just "add on" in Extras for each night of their stay.) The other smaller space (called "Chandler") is designed for a single RV or conversion van. Sprinkled with lighting, we include a picnic table, campfire pit with 3-4 pieces of split wood (you can add-on additional bundle for $10), Weber BBQ, bistro table and romantic bench swing. We include a treat for both our guests and their doggies. The two sites are 200 yards apart (that's two football fields) assuring your privacy. Please note in your request what you will be traveling in (RV, Trailer, Sprinter, etc). (** Please note that because we are a food-producing farm, we are only allowed to accept fully self-contained units (with built-in water and waste water tanks - sorry, no portable toilets ). No tents unless they are accompanying a self contained RV).

100%

(41)

Leap Lab Farm

1 site · RV, Tent15 acres · 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.

98%

(597)

Private Beach Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · 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!

98%

(245)

Camp RainDale

6 sites · Tents30 acres · 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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

94%

(113)

Carpinteria State Beach

Carpinteria, California

96%

(29)

Emma Wood State Beach

San Buenaventura (Ventura), California

95%

(448)

Los Padres National Forest

Mission Canyon, California

El Capitán State Beach

Goleta, California

Mountains cascading in the marine layer in the early morning

96%

(12)

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Malibu, California

95%

(58)

Point Mugu State Park

Camarillo, California

Under the unstable pier, it's closed to public currently.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Santa Barbara with swimming guide

Overview

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Santa Barbara, California where you can swim to your heart's content? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 180 available options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your swimming adventure. Whether you're looking for a rustic camping experience or a more luxurious glamping setup, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out some of our top campsites with rave reviews, like Camp Arroyo Grande (508 reviews), SLO Country Camp (394 reviews), and Private Beach Farm (382 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, cooking equipment, and campfires, and take part in activities like off-roading, wildlife watching, and biking. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to dive into the camping experience of a lifetime!

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me

Hipcamp campgrounds near me

Best RV camping near me

Hipcamps ready for RVs near me

Best glamping near me

Cabins, yurts, treehouses and more

Camping near Santa Barbara with swimming

Popular camping styles for Santa Barbara

Camper favorites near Santa Barbara

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Canvas Under the Oaks

A-Frame Bliss

Caravan Outpost - Ojai Oasis!

Romance in the Pines

Regenerative Santa Barbara Farm

Vintage Cabin in National Forest

Public campgrounds near Santa Barbara

San Miguel Campground

North Beach Campground

Pine Mountain Campground

Mount Figueroa Campground

Reyes Peak Campground

Paradise Campground

Sage Hill Campground

Fremont Campground

Middle Lion Campground

Davy Brown Campground

Refugio Campground

Chula Vista Campground

Stories from the community

9 top campgrounds near Santa Barbara with swimming

Arber-Moore's Ranch

Harmony's Glamping

The Lodge at Deer Creek

Green Goat Eco Farm

Rancho de Granville

Ballard Walnut Grove

Leap Lab Farm

Private Beach Farm

Camp RainDale

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Camping near Santa Barbara with swimming guide

Overview

Related Searches

Best camping near me