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Gracewood Santa Barbara

Hosted by Fred · Goleta, California

8 guests max

89%

148 reviews

Near Channel Islands National Park

Within a 30-minute drive from the Outdoors Santa Barbara Visitor Center.

Big rig-friendly

Spacious, level camping well-suited for travel trailers over 40 ft long.

Staff verified

Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.

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.Only 1 site is available right now. Call if you need more than 1 site. 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 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 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 below 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 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.

Rig suitability

Vehicles under 40 feet allowed

Allowed rigs: travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, pop-up campers, class A RVs, class B RVs, class C RVs, campervans, cars, truck campers, and rooftop tents

Pull-through site

See notes on Driveway in regard to Site #2 for larger R.V.'s Most R.V. s and trailers will not be able to park in the campsite itself because of limitations due to trees and access. Those R.V.s and trailers can park immediately adjacent to the campsite by going to the end of the horse arena by the pond which is wide open and conveniently accessible. Regular size S.U.V.'s and cars or similar vehicles can park in the campsite itself.

Accommodates slideouts

Surface type: Grass or field

Surface levelness: Flat

Electrical hookup available

Less than 30 amps

Water hookup available

On-property hookup. Check with the host regarding the farm stay experience and custom lodging arrangements.

No sewage hookup

No TV hookup

Generators not allowed

What to expect

RV/tent site

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

8 guests max

Campfires allowed

Firewood provided, firepit, private. Fires must be small and in the designated fire pit located only at Camp Site #1. Never leave a fire unattended and dowse the fire with plenty of water (a provided bucket can be filled from the pond or from the hose in the sink) if leaving or if the wind comes up, especially during the night time hours.

Toilet available

Flush toilet. It is a really unique restroom made from a converted horse trailer a short distance from the campsite and near the library and carriage/activity barn.

No pets

Potable water available

Spigot, hose

Showers available

Cold water only. Outdoor shower is a la natural (under a tree out in the open)

Bins available

Trash bin. Trash dumpster is located behind the old yellow farm buildings. It can clearly be seen upon leaving the property by the large oak tree.

Cooking equipment present

Grill over firepit, bbq, sink or other dishwashing station

Picnic table present

Several are available of different sizes and condition. Your choice!

No wifi

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 2:00 PM

Early or late check-in may be available

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

Late check-out may be available

On arrival: Head straight to site

Cancellation policy:

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 12 months out

Park at listing

No wheelchair access

Max 2 vehicles

2WD accessible

During your trip

Follow the

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Select a site

RV/tent sites

1 site

Gracewood Santa Barbara

89%

(202)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 40 ft

Only 1 site is available right now. Call if you need more than 1 site. 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 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 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 below 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 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.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Reviews

89% Recommend204 ratings · 148 reviews

This campsite is favored for its peaceful and secluded location, offering a charming setting with a pond, mature oak trees, and roaming wildlife like ducks and horses. Many guests appreciated the privacy and quietness, making it a great spot for relaxation or family getaways. However, some reviews pointed out maintenance issues, such as outdated amenities and cleanliness concerns, which might detract from the overall experience. The host, Fred, is often mentioned as responsive and helpful, adding a personal touch to the stay.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· October 2026

8 ft campervan

Great spot. Tucked away in the back of the ranch. The bathroom was nice, clean and well kept. Great for a group of people.

Mixed feelings

· September 2026

Tent

Hosts are responsive. Conveniently located near Goleta and UCSB but the site and the bathroom facilities could have been cleaned up. Decent toilet and sink but there lots of cobwebs in the bathroom and the overall tent site didn't seem well kept. I liked the pond view and seeing some of the wildlife, including ducks, frogs and a crane. Bring ear plugs if you don't want to hear the pond water pump in the early morning.

Recommends

· August 2026

Tent · Group trip

Stayed here at the end of July and it was such a beautiful weekend getaway! We were pleasantly surprised at the provided tables, chairs, and grills. It was located near the back of the property by the pond. Fred was a great host! We ended up leaving part of our grill by the outdoor sink at the site and he called us within 30 minutes of leaving to let us know so we could come back and get it. I definitely recommend this site and would stay here again!

Recommends

· August 2026

Goodland gold

20 ft campervan · Group trip

This was a great place to camp. The space was perfect although not updated. The fire, pond, and mature oaks really made it special. I thought the pond would have tons of mosquitoes but was pleasantly surprised. We had two small kids and they also loved the space. Felt secluded and not far from town. Will camp here again

Mixed feelings

· July 2026

Disappointing for the price

Tent

The price for value is disproportionate and there’s an expectation management problem here. This is the most expensive camping we’ve ever done, especially as you’re paying for a large group size regardless of how many are in your camp. If we had 8 people, the price would have been slightly more reasonable, but for 2 of us, this was actually ridiculous. The ‘amenities’ really should be modernized, or at least cleaned up once in a while. The tables, chairs, etc. around the campsite are splintering chunks of wood with exposed rusty nails, the bathroom is functionally sufficient but feels like it was last tended to in the 19th century, and other utilities like the outdoor sink are so decrepit that it’s unclear whether they are for campsite use or just another piece of equipment that’s been left to rot on the property. For a reasonable price, I would have no complaints as we bare bones camp frequently and the location was really wonderful. But I was shocked by the state of things and really disappointed that the ‘historic ranch’ I expected to be as beautiful and well cared for as advertised was largely in a state of disrepair and neglect.

Recommends

· July 2026

23 ft campervan

This place is amazing, very clean and beautiful. Highly recommended

Recommends

· June 2026

Great Venue for Us

34 ft toy hauler · With kids

Beautiful campsite. Road loops around the back pond to the campsite behind the horse training ring. Oversized vehicle/RV parking in the back of the ring alongside the pond. Nice fire pit setup and shade. Horse ranch with lots of training for kids to explore and observe. We extended a night.

Recommends

· June 2026

Family Weekend

14 ft campervan · Group trip

Fred's campsite was perfect for our family getaway weekend. The property was peaceful, well-maintained, and had plenty of space for everyone to relax and enjoy the outdoors. We especially appreciated how quiet and private the site felt while still being easy to access. Fred was a great host. Very responsive, and made sure we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The campsite was exactly as described, and we would happily stay here again in the future. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a relaxing camping experience!

Recommends

· June 2026

Tent · Group trip

My friends and I had one of the best vacations at this beautiful and peaceful campsite. The pond was absolutely lovely, and the large trees provided plenty of shade. There was an abundant supply of free firewood, and the restrooms were exceptionally clean. We will definitely be coming back. The campsite owners were also very kind, friendly, and welcoming.

Recommends

· April 2026

Frogs!

Tent · With kids

There are a few things that were very special about this site that were not especially highlighted in the description. First, you'll get to fall asleep to the sound of thousands of frogs croaking starting at dusk to about 3am. (bring earplugs if you prefer it quiet). Second, there's a large beautiful oak offering plenty of shade at the site. And third, it's a great area for your kiddo to ride their bicycle around. My son and I had a fantastic time. Thank you!

Recommends

· September 2025

18 ft Class C

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.

Recommends

· September 2025

18 ft campervan

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.

Recommends

· August 2025

Tent · With kids

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.

Recommends

· August 2025

Peace and quiet.

8 ft travel trailer

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.

Not recommend

· August 2025

NOT a family campsite

25 ft travel trailer · With pets

NOT a family campsite in a great location. Trailer parking is 40' from the tent camp area in a horse corral with a narrow, sloping path. The numerous leaves, large piles of sticks and rocks, and old, rusted items alongside the pond looked interesting. Unfortunately, it wasn't safe for two active 4- and 8-year-old grandsons. Despite these safety concerns, the 30-day refund policy was applied ($0 returned).

Recommends

· August 2025

Nice little getaway but expensive

Tent · With kids

Pros: a lot of privacy, a lot of shade, access to water and a clean bathroom , unlimited firewood Cons: price, no warm shower

Recommends

· July 2025

Tent · With kids

Great spot, private, quiet and serene setting. Was a great way to finish our Sequoia, Yosemite, and Norcal road trip.

Recommends

· July 2025

Tent · Group trip

Best place for camping. Privacy, Scenery, and Everything you need for a good time. Thank you Fred for being a wonderful host… look forward to coming back

Recommends

· June 2025

Tent

Beautiful property, saw some really beautiful wildlife at the campsite. Bathroom was a great amenity and so was the huge pile of chopped up firewood.

Recommends

· May 2025

Tent · Group trip

We enjoyed this camping spot. The sink was so convenient for washing dishes. There are lots of picnic tables and benches to sit on, and we were able to fit 4 tents around the space. The bathroom, a short walk away from the camp site, was clean and well-maintained. The host was easy to communicate with.

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

Camped under some enormous, gorgeous oak trees, next to an avocado orchard and by a man-made pond with a fountain and friendly ducks. This is a horse ranch, and a historic ranch, which was fun to read about in the HipCamp materials that were left for us at the entrance. The restroom is a horse trailer tricked out with a clean plumbed toilet and sink. It's a languid walk along the pond from the campsite. There are lots of rusty and decomposing odds and ends around the property, like benches and boats and machinery. That's OK with me, but maybe not with someone who likes a tidier aesthetic. Enjoyed our stay.

Recommends

· September 2024

Quiet Campsite in Unique Location

Tent

This is a great tent camping location away from the hustle and bustle of the larger campgrounds in the area, but so close and convenient to beautiful beaches, Goleta and Santa Barbara. We appreciated having running water at the site, a cool outdoor shower, and a private bathroom nearby. There is even an electrical outlet onsite for emergency charging. The surrounding oaks trees provided lots of shade with a large clearing over the fire pit (tons of firewood available) for some excellent stargazing. We enjoyed the visiting ducks, horses, and birdwatching. This campsite is large, private, and has everything you need for a short stay.

Recommends

· August 2024

Private campsite under the oaks

16 ft car

We thoroughly enjoyed van camping at Gracewood. The large oak canopy on the edge of the property made for a very quiet and secluded space. There were plenty of tables for both food prep and dining. There was also tons of firewood ready to go by the fire pit. Fred was very helpful and provided very thorough instructions. The ducks are very friendly.

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent · With kids

A pleasant, quiet and private spot in a super convenient location

Recommends

· August 2024

Father/Son camping trip

Tent · With kids

Fred’s land is a perfect escape. Beautiful property with a picturesque pond to relax next to and enjoy the beauty of nature. My friend and I brought our boys (6) and (4) on an annual father/son trip, and we had a wonderful time by the fire and watching the ducks in the pond.

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent · With kids

I love this place. It is very quiet and peaceful. Thank you for allowing us to stay at your site again

Recommends

· July 2024

Beautiful camping on a ranch

Tent · Group trip

Fred was a very helpful host and the site was awesome! We escaped the 4th of July weekend heatwave in LA to this beautiful spot (which was in a much more tolerable mid-70s during the day). The shade from the trees was really nice as well. We had a great and definitely plan to return again.

Recommends

· June 2024

Frogs not traffic

Tent

We loved tent camping at Graceland. 1. Falling asleep to frog song 2. Cheaper almost any hotel in SB 3. The horse trailer bathroom! Thank you Fred for the great stay!

Recommends

· June 2024

Tent

It was peaceful & quiet. Very private. I only wish prior to getting to the camp. That you had to bring your own propane tank.

Recommends

· June 2024

14 ft Class A

Nice quiet spot in a cool area. Some of the furniture is a little run down. Having the bathroom was a huge plus

Location

Goleta, Santa Barbara, California, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Gracewood Santa Barbara

Things to know

Select a site

RV/tent sites

Gracewood Santa Barbara

Reviews

Location

Hosted by Fred D.

Things to do nearby

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