Discover the best campgrounds near Santa Barbara, California with swimming

United States
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California
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Santa Barbara

95% (1433 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Santa Barbara

Available this weekend

12 top campgrounds near Santa Barbara with swimming

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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.

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Harmony's Glamping

10 sites · Lodging90 acres · Mission Canyon, 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, Teepee, or one of our Geo Domes. Each is secluded with a hot shower, propane fire pit, camp kitchen 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 do have a Jeep Wrangler available for rent on site. ($80 a day) You can add it onto your booking under extras. 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

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 !!"

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Private Beach Farm

4 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!

Saved 1 time

Regenerative Santa Barbara Farm

1 site · RV3 acres · Santa Barbara, CA

Welcome to our three-acre regenerative oasis, a certified organic urban working farm nestled just six minutes from the vibrant heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Here, amidst the bustling city life, discover a serene haven where the harmony of nature invites you to unwind and reconnect with your inner self. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our biodiverse sanctuary, where the gentle hum of bees, the fragrant aroma of lavender and citrus, and the sight of lush greenery coalesce to create a sense of peace and rejuvenation. Embark on a journey of self-discovery as you indulge in forest bathing amidst our verdant surroundings, enjoy leisurely picnics amid the natural beauty, and wander through our fragrant lavender and citrus gardens. Engage in interactive meditation sessions along our oak forest trails, allowing the serene ambiance to soothe your mind and nourish your soul. Escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and experience the transformative power of nature at our hidden oasis. Come, explore, and rediscover the essence of inner peace and serenity amidst the beauty of our certified organic farm.

Firefly Ridge on Sky High Drive

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Ventura, CA

Enjoy your own private, wild mountain top covered in protected California Oaks with 360° unobstructed views of nature. 10 minutes inland from the Beach in Ventura. 20 minutes from the center of Ojai. Quiet, dark skies! Off grid. Raw land. Rugged environment. There are multiple flat areas on which to pitch a tent - one grassy area right above where you park that can fit two small 2-person size tents or a few different spots on top of the hill (although the top is a bit rocky, so you’ll be more comfortable with a sleeping pad). The trail up to the top of the mountain from the parking spot is a bit STEEP and takes about 2-3 minutes to walk up to the top (where the best views are). The parking spot can fit a van but no larger vehicles. Pay very close attention to not block the neighbors’ driveways at any time. Our land comes as-is, it is a not a formal ‘campground’, so *WILD CAMPING* rules apply - respect the land, pack in-pack out, no trash left behind. No toilet, so come prepared! (Critical - you leave with *everything* you’ve come with. No digging holes to potty.) The road up to the top of the mountain is essentially a one lane paved road, with some hairpin turns. Google Maps tells you “you have arrived” slightly before you reach the parking space that you can see in the pictures. Please also note in the pics that the parking space is flat once you’re fully in it, but there is a slight angle where you pull in, so longer vehicles may not park perfectly flat. Try to arrive *before sunset* - a few campers have had trouble finding their way in the dark as there are no street lights up there. No open fires or BBQs!! Full fire ban in effect! Be ***extremely*** careful, this region is a High Fire Risk and needs to be protected. Protect these ancient oaks! (Enclosed gas portable stoves / pits ok when used with caution.) Dogs ok on leash but can never be left alone or allowed to bark in excess. No parties or loud music — we have neighbors surrounding us around the mountain top, please *be respectful* and quiet by 10pm. They keep an eye on the place for us and we will hear from them if they are upset about noise, fires or dogs and they will call 911 if there is an immediate hazard or disturbance. Please text us with any questions or issues. Thanks! *Alas, refunds will not be given if the issue is that you didn’t read the description fully - some not-so-kind folks seem to be trying to game the system by complaining about things that are clearly stated and/or pictured - eg, that it is a mountain top / ridge, that there are neighbors at the bottom of the hill, that there is no toilet, etc.

Zela G.’s Sky Mountain

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Santa Barbara, CA

Our land is unique in the variety of vegetation: pines, oaks, palms, citrus, chaparral. We are conveniently centrally located to many daily adventures. The Chumash painted cave is near by as well as the rock playground Lizards Mouth. We are on the old stage coach trail, and only five minutes from Cold Springs Tavern.

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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).

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Glorious, private, nature retreat in Santa Barbara!

1 site · Lodging11 acres · Santa Barbara, CA

PURE MAGICAL WELL LOVED LAND & YURT off secluded gated private drive. Extremely serene, quiet setting with peaceful gorgeous energy, green growing things and fine air. This stunning 11 acre property graced with oak, pepper, sycamore and walnut trees is surrounded by private trails, more land and national forest. Santa Barbara is stunning place to be ALL year round.. summer and spring obviously but fall and winter are equally gorgeous and kind weather wise (fall/ winter my personal favorite when the colors are extra deep and vibrant) - this land. is.... a true expression of the beauty of Santa Barbara being within the mountains and minutes from the ocean, half hour from the Santa Ynez back country, minutes to the beach and epic mountain top trails.I wish to say before going into the description... how SO very sweet and satisfying it's been for me to share this special land with the amazing people coming through making life memories.. eloping or having their first romantic get away after having children etc.. I think because I truly LOVE, love opening my home and land up to others, it makes for a very different kind of experience energetically. It's been a real honor for me to be hostess! The incredible thing about this place is that it's a mere few miles to uptown, Whole Foods and restaurants (5 minutes) and 10 minutes to downtown Santa Barbara. We're also just 30 minutes from Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, Solvang (wine country). The land is unique because it feels like you're very remote and off the grid out in nature (which you are) but then it's just minutes to get anywhere in Santa Barbara. Very find rare to find such a spot with so much surrounding private serene land!Again.. to say... how I so love having people here.. part of the unfolding story of this special dwelling. I've marveled and appreciated so much how everyone has treated this place with honor, respect.. all of us taking good care with it so it's here for everyone's enjoyment. Makes my heart glad!!I am usually present on the land in my "own neck of the woods" in my barn (so I'm around if needed by text), but it's very uncommon for people to cross paths unless they are seeking it out others at common spaces.. otherwise it's rare, private and pretty vast on this 11 acre piece of paradise. Usually I will greet you briefly, warmly so I can answer any questions and then again because there's so much space, there is rarely any overlap. A very private, serene experience.The photographs... I have to say, DO NOT GIVE JUSTICE to this home and land. You'll know what I mean when you get here...the feel of this place, the stillness, the open, natural setting, nurturing, safe feeling. It's a very special zone in which to unravel the nervous system, revise and renew. Hope to share it with you!PLEASE NOTE: If you are interested in staying, first step will be to connect voice to voice by phone as I love to take great care with each and every person that visits this amazing land.. a soulful hello, answer questions and be sure the offering is the right fit! Also, for reviews, you can search for the yurt on airbnb where you'll see near 100 5 STAR reviews.. which will give you a much deeper feel for the experience that is had here. Thanks for reading!Learn more about this land:The Yurt is a very private, soulful, sexy, romantic space. Very different from being in a normal house structure. It's like you're camping in a way.. hearing the sounds of outside, of the wind.. but then you're in this very luxurious extraordinarily dreamy realm. For those of you who don't know, a yurt is a round structure with wood floors, a round skylight at the top of the dome and very heavy canvas that can withstand any weather... a most interesting architecture. It's very warm and soulful. The hillside where it resides provides beautiful trees and sweetest feel of openness.. a small trail that leads up to a 2 seater lounge swing overlooking the entire mountain range of Santa Barbara begins just outside the door. Amazing surround sound system for your dancing pleasure. Also available DVD player and WI. No internet. This is for those who wish to really recalibrate... though most smart phones (internet) will function from the sweet spots on the property. I myself are on Verizon.. have no issue using phone and internet from my smart phone.Amazing redwood bath house exclusive to the yurt which includes an amazing outside shower looking out to the expanse of the hillside. Super private!Pool and hot tub resides on the top tier of the land, not near any dwellings.. gorgeous day and night. More about the yurt. The space is very light and open. A complete living room/ bedroom/ eating area all in one. French doors lead out to a private deck. Perfect for stargazing or just laying in the sweet sun. The land surrounding is an extension of the living space.Hear and watch the beautiful birds.. hawks, crows and small singing ones.. howls of distant coyotes by night and the occasional sighting of a bob cat.The yurt in short is just an epic place to dwell recalibrate, renew in both nature and luxury. The setting is ideal for two adults or one solo soul looking to retreat. There is also plenty of land around the yurt and on other parts of the property in which to camp.... so this is a potentially amazing place for more visitors as well. Now, there is no kitchen inside the yurt. (small fridge is outside under the stairs). Keeps the motors away and the sounds of nature in the forefront. I am pretty much an extraordinary cook specializing in bringing forth the incredible local organic year round produce.... I had the thought to offer to guests (by request and if I'm available, additional cost and if my schedule allows) a meal or two which could be brought up to the yurt or eaten down at the main house where we can hang out while I cook for you! I hate to say it because there are some pretty fantastic restaurants in town.. but I would be VERY surprised if you found food as good as mine. :) Something about home cooking by someone who worships food and the highest quality ingredients.. equal parts healthy and gourmet. OR, I certainly can point you in the right direction if eating out is what you prefer! BUT either way!! EGGS! Here on the land, I have 12 wonderful hens who lay daily in the non cold months of the year. Happy to send you off with fresh ones to take home with you! Also tons of fruit from the land to share depending on the time of year.Ahh... what else? The sun is supreme here, the air quality medicinal and the weather has a habit of being a perfectly kind 73 degrees and sunny. Hang out by day or by moon with the countless places to dwell.P.s. OTHER OFFERINGS: I have chickens who are fed very well laying all organic epic EGGS! When they are laying (not so much in the winter months. chickens will take a break when it's "cold")... I will be showering you with them for your breakfast making pleasure (hard boiled or you can take some home!). I also provide organic whole bean coffee and tea.Also of course the best natural shampoo, conditioner and soap!

Rancho de Granville

6 sites · RVs, Tents7 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!

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.

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Canvas Under the Oaks

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Santa Barbara, CA

We are located just 15 minutes from Santa Barbara beaches and twenty minutes to wine country towns Los Olivos, Solvang and Ballard. Nestled among the oaks with stunning canyon views, our 14x16 foot canvas tent sits on a 28 foot redwood deck. The porch, cantilevered into the trees is a fantastic place to enjoy your morning yoga or coffee ritual, read a book, or relax with a glass of rosé.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

94%

(112)

Carpinteria State Beach

Carpinteria, California

96%

(29)

Emma Wood State Beach

San Buenaventura (Ventura), California

96%

(436)

Los Padres National Forest

Mission Canyon, California

El Capitán State Beach

Goleta, California

Mountains cascading in the marine layer in the early morning

100%

(11)

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Malibu, California

96%

(57)

Point Mugu State Park

Camarillo, California

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

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!