Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Campsites can be reserved via ReserveCalifornia six months in advance, based on availability.
- Online bookings may extend from the arrival date to the desired departure date, depending on maximum stay rules.
- Each site accommodates up to eight people. Fees cover one vehicle and one towed vehicle or trailer—additional fees apply for more cars.
- From October to April, the campground may only remain open Friday through Sunday.
- Check-in begins at 2pm and check-out time is noon, but the park is open for day use from 7am to sunset.
When to Go
Gaviota State Park is busiest in summer, the best time of year to swim, hike, or bike. Water sports are popular any time of year, and the mountains—rising 2,400 feet above the beach—offer scenic spots for a picnic lunch. During the off-season, between October and April, the park is closed during the week but remains open on weekends, weather permitting.
Know Before You Go
- Leashed dogs are allowed in the campground and day-use area, but not on trails or the beach.
- Heavy winds can reach up to 50 miles per hour with the potential to snap tent poles.
- If you need supplies like firewood or snacks, the Gaviota Beach Store operates seasonally next to the campground.
Gaviota State Park
A geologically unique California beach just steps from the Santa Ynez Mountains.
Gaviota State Park gives Hipcampers access to spectacular terrain with myriad things to do. Trailheads above the coastal bluffs lead hikers to the eastern part of the park, while ambitious hikers can see the beach from Gaviota Peak by tackling a loop trail, then relax tired muscles while soaking at Gaviota Hot Springs. Check out the Gaviota Wind Caves for a special treat. Anglers can dip their lines in from Gaviota Pier, which serves as a launch point for scuba divers and surfers heading into the Santa Barbara Channel. Gaviota State Park Campground contains 39 seasonal campsites close to the beach, some shaded by small trees. The open camping area is most suitable for RVs, but sites along the outer perimeter may offer tents more protection from
Gaviota State Park gives Hipcampers access to spectacular terrain with myriad things to do. Trailheads above the coastal bluffs lead hikers to the eastern part of the park, while ambitious hikers can see the beach from Gaviota Peak by tackling a loop trail, then relax tired muscles while soaking at Gaviota Hot Springs. Check out the Gaviota Wind Caves for a special treat. Anglers can dip their lines in from Gaviota Pier, which serves as a launch point for scuba divers and surfers heading into the Santa Barbara Channel. Gaviota State Park Campground contains 39 seasonal campsites close to the beach, some shaded by small trees. The open camping area is most suitable for RVs, but sites along the outer perimeter may offer tents more protection from wind. All campsites include a picnic table and fire ring with a built-in grill (but no hookups), and campers have access to restrooms with flush toilets and pay showers.If this campground is full or closed, check out El Capitán State Beach, Refugio State Beach, or nearby Jalama Beach County Park.
Activities in the park
1 campground in Gaviota State Park
Gaviota State Park Campground is a quirky little place to call home for a night or two. There are 40 campsites (some of which operate on a first come, first serve basis). Amenities for the campground include bathrooms, hot showers, picnic tables and barbeque pits. This is a windy area so be prepared to stake your tent into the ground (there isn’t Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Gaviota State Park is busiest in summer, the best time of year to swim, hike, or bike. Water sports are popular any time of year, and the mountains—rising 2,400 feet above the beach—offer scenic spots for a picnic lunch. During the off-season, between October and April, the park is closed during the week but remains open on weekends, weather permitting.
Know Before You Go
Public campgrounds (book externally) —