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Sanctuary Cielo

Hosted by Amber · Santa Barbara, California

4 guests max

99%

38 reviews

Near Channel Islands National Park

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

Staff verified

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

Find your inner calm. Quiet and beautiful 5 acre, mountain forest retreat with walking paths, seating areas, yoga platforms, swings, caves, boulders and a hammock. (Our neighbors had a rooster for a short time, but they moved it on!) Our sanctuary is more like a bed and breakfast, with touches of being in a warm home environment....an outdoor living room and kitchen. Easily accessible to cliffside hiking, caves or / rock climbing and the beach. Close to the Lizard's Mouth recreational area that has acres of exquisite cliffside boulders overlooking the ocean. Close to the Playground Recreational hiking area. And close to the Chumash Painted Caves and the Santa Ynez River. Some folks like to go to Montecito to Cold Springs Hotsprings. Tent camping, ( for a small fee, we have one if you don't). Room for a camping van. We have a variety of games to choose from for the whole family. Kid friendly. We have 1 friendly kitty and a small doggie. Outdoor kitchen with grill, wash basin, outdoor shower, potable water, fire pit, electricity and wifi. Hot tub is available for a small charge. Spa upgrades such as massage are available.Come chill in a quiet, mountain, 5 acre wooded sanctuary: nature trails, sitting areas, caves, boulders, swings and more. Easy access to recreational cliffside hiking and rock climbing, as well as a short 20 minute trip to the beach. There is also a river close by for cooling off! We only allow one set of campers at a time, but there are 2 official spots to choose from, so you rule the roost! We have a very large front yard. The Beyond Eden Campsite is on this upper floor, tucked back down the road and around the side of an out building, cradled with privacy barriers. This campground has access to all amenities. And is ‘accessible to all’. It has an outdoor living room, outdoor grill, an outdoor kitchen set up with amenities including fridge and freezer. There is electricity, WiFi , an outdoor shower, a gas fire pit, porta potty, yummy potable water from a private well. Calm and well behaved pets allowed with prior approval of host. When booking site, kindly share about the temperament of your pet. While this is a magical space, we typically only allow one child as this is a quiet and calm sanctuary. You may inquire for 2 if they are quiet and well behaved. It is not a great place for toddlers as there are a few set of steps going down. Enchanted Forest Campground is in the valley forest. It has access to power, water, a toilet and a kitchen area. There is room for a standard size van on this property. Please advise beforehand. The hot tub is available under a towering ancient pine and avail for a small up charge. This forest is a magical get-a-way. Our trees create a community that surrounds us , and they evoke a sense of peace. Come bathe in the solace they provide. Please let us know if you are celebrating a special occasion. Choose from a list of spa upgrades, including hot tub , massage, gentle yoga and meditation class. While we prefer a 24-48 hour booking policy, you are welcome to reach out directly for shorter notice. It is set up in different ways at different times, so try us if it's not on the right setting!

What to expect

Tent site

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

4 guests max

Campfires allowed

Firepit, private

Toilet available

Composting toilet

Pets allowed

Off leash. Animal friendly! Please let us know before arriving. Dogs must be under good voice command and stay close to campers. No cat chasers. No tying up.

Potable water available

Hose, pump or well, bottled water or jugs

Showers available

Hot water

Bins available

Compost bin, recycling bin

Cooking equipment present

Grill over firepit, bbq, private, oven, stovetop or hot plate, fridge, freezer, cookware, dishware, basic seasoning and oils, sink or other dishwashing station

Picnic table present

Wifi available

Hot Tub present

Hot tub is available for $25 per person, per stay.

Laundry absent

No playground

The whole space is a giant wonderland!

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 3:00 PM

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Meet with Host

Cancellation policy:

Minimum nights: 2 nights

Accepts bookings: 3 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

Tent-only sites

1 site

Sanctuary Cielo

99%

(41)

Tent site · Sleeps 4

Come chill in a quiet, mountain, 5 acre wooded sanctuary: nature trails, sitting areas, caves, boulders, swings and more. Easy access to recreational cliffside hiking and rock climbing, as well as a short 20 minute trip to the beach. There is also a river close by for cooling off! We only allow one set of campers at a time, but there are 2 official spots to choose from, so you rule the roost! We have a very large front yard. The Beyond Eden Campsite is on this upper floor, tucked back down the road and around the side of an out building, cradled with privacy barriers. This campground has access to all amenities. And is ‘accessible to all’. It has an outdoor living room, outdoor grill, an outdoor kitchen set up with amenities including fridge and freezer. There is electricity, WiFi , an outdoor shower, a gas fire pit, porta potty, yummy potable water from a private well. Calm and well behaved pets allowed with prior approval of host. When booking site, kindly share about the temperament of your pet. While this is a magical space, we typically only allow one child as this is a quiet and calm sanctuary. You may inquire for 2 if they are quiet and well behaved. It is not a great place for toddlers as there are a few set of steps going down. Enchanted Forest Campground is in the valley forest. It has access to power, water, a toilet and a kitchen area. There is room for a standard size van on this property. Please advise beforehand. The hot tub is available under a towering ancient pine and avail for a small up charge. This forest is a magical get-a-way. Our trees create a community that surrounds us , and they evoke a sense of peace. Come bathe in the solace they provide. Please let us know if you are celebrating a special occasion. Choose from a list of spa upgrades, including hot tub , massage, gentle yoga and meditation class. While we prefer a 24-48 hour booking policy, you are welcome to reach out directly for shorter notice. It is set up in different ways at different times, so try us if it's not on the right setting!

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

Picnic table

Reviews

99% Recommend41 ratings · 38 reviews

Sanctuary Cielo offers a tranquil escape just outside Santa Barbara, where lush scenery and well-thought-out amenities make for a comfortable stay. Amber, the host, receives high praise for her hospitality, with thoughtful touches like homemade muffins and detailed camping supplies. Visitors enjoy exploring the property's trails and relaxation spots, though some mention the presence of noise from a nearby rooster. Overall, the site provides a peaceful retreat with convenient access to nature and local attractions.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· September 2026

Beautiful Nature Getaway

Tent · With pets

This is truly a magical local get away. This sanctuary is just a completely peaceful retreat. With its beautiful nature trails and perfectly places relaxation spots on the property, it is a wonderful get away for the family. Amber was an amazing host that leaves nothing to chance. She makes sure you have all you need for a great vacation.

Recommends

· August 2026

Tent

This is a beautiful and welcoming space, and the hosts are great! Really enjoyed our time there and will be coming back :)

Recommends

· July 2026

Mmmm. Muffins!

Tent

Come for the amazing property and stay for the delicious homemade muffins!

Recommends

· July 2026

Perfect For Us!

Tent

Amber's property was exactly what we needed for our first car-camping experience! It was also a great getaway from the hustle and bustle - a chance to decompress and chill under the oaks and stars! Everything we might need for support was available - and we availed ourselves of several items that made our stay much smoother. Relatively close to Santa Barbara - but far enough away to truly allow for a much-needed disconnect!

Recommends

· July 2026

Wonderful Time Camping Here

Tent

We loved staying at Amber's campsite as our first time camping! There were ample supplies and kitchen pans there available to borrow and the different resting areas made it perfect for stargazing at night. We appreciated the homemade muffins as well!

Recommends

· June 2026

Magical

Tent · With kids

Amber has clearly put a lot of love and hard work into making her property and magical experience for her guests. As if the 5 acre property itself isn't already beautiful enough, there are wonderful little treasures to discover that kept my boys entertained for days. They didn't want to leave. The location is 20 mins from downtown Santa Barbara and very close to great hiking trails and swimming holes. Would highly recommend and we will definitely be coming back.

Recommends

· May 2026

Tent

I enjoyed camping in my camper van on Amber’s unique property. It was peaceful, tranquil with beautiful old oak trees.

Recommends

· May 2026

Tent · With pets

What a treasure! So peaceful and just outside of Santa Barbara city limits! We loved our stay. The hot tub was amazing! And Amber couldn't of been more welcoming. Fresh muffins at 6:30 am before we left! Perfect stay :)

Recommends

· March 2026

Camping with our little adventurers

Tent · With kids

We were very fortunate to find Sanctuary Cielo! We have taken our children (4 and 2) camping many times over the years and so we have a sense of what we need to make it an awesome trip with little ones: a lot available to keep them busy, safe, access to some of the comforts of home and beautiful scenery. Sanctuary Cielo had of those things and more! Amber and Gregory were great hosts and you can tell they take a lot of pride in their land and sharing it with others. There were so many special, curated spots all over their land and it was fun exploring them. They also have pretty much everything you need for your adventure...I have way too much camping gear and found I left 90% of it packed in the vehicle. Plenty of places to sit and relax, a grill set-up to cook meals, refrigerator to store food, supplies in case you forgot something. The location is great...we were able to play in the Santa Ynez river, visit Lake Cachuma and Solvang on this trip. Would highly recommend and we hope to visit again soon!

Recommends

· February 2026

Tent · With pets

I could not recommend Sanctuary Cielo more!! I was joined by my Honey and our 2 pups and we were all welcomed to sanctuary cielo with open arms. The site is huge with a gas pire pit, a gas bbq, compost toilet (with TP and wet wipes!) lounge chairs, sofas, tables, a huge picnic table, mini fridge, more appliances than I could name (we took advantage of the electric kettle for tea). Decorated so tastefully and comfortably, it felt like an outdoor home in the best way. Everything you could need was thought of down to the tiny details! Amber and Gregory were so hospitable the entire time but they really went out of their way when the weather was planning on getting quite wet and invited us to stay indoors in their very comfortable loft. The hot tub is indeed a MUST! there's a warm outdoor shower to freshen up afterwards (nice big towels included). And we were warmly greeted on Valentine's morning with fresh home made blueberry and banana muffins! She had set out heart shaped plates and decor for us to make our Valentine's weekend extra special. This land is already magical but Amber transformed it into such an amazing outdoor space, we were already planning on coming back before our first sleep haha. Her land also has fun trails to explore, which we all enjoyed, but especially the puppies.

Recommends

· November 2025

Tent · With kids

We had a lovely time at Sanctuary Cielo. A peaceful setting with ample amenities. There are nice walking trails around the property that we enjoyed exploring with our two year old son. The campsite is in view of the house but there’s a privacy screen to keep things feeling private. Amber the host was warm and inviting but never intrusive. Highly recommend if you’re looking for something close to Santa Barbara!

Recommends

· August 2025

Tent

What a wonderful property and a beautiful place to relax and get away from it all. The hosts were kind and helpful in every way. Can’t wait to come back.

Recommends

· July 2025

So beautiful and peaceful

Tent · With pets

The hosts are as amazing and the surroundings are peaceful and incredibly beautiful. The campsite has everything for a comfortable stay in nature. We had an amazing time and would love to return.

Recommends

· July 2025

Tent

Really amazing staying here! So peaceful and tranquil. I loved watching the birds while having my coffee under the trees. The property is very special and they have done an excellent job of making it into the sanctuary that is it. I felt very welcomed and appreciated the freshly baked muffins that Amber brought over in the morning :) and the hiking suggestions. Thank you!

Recommends

· February 2025

Sadie Approved!

Tent · With pets

We spent two nights camping at Amber and Gregory’s place and we really enjoyed our time there! We were greeted by Amber and her cute little dog, Savannah upon arriving. We had a little difficulty finding the place at first, but after calling Amber, we found our way despite our GPS taking us to the wrong house. Amber was hospitable and helpful as she showed us around the property when we first arrived. The set up is very cute, like a little outdoor living area with lots of places to sit and relax. We didn’t realize just how close we would be to their home, but it didn’t bother us. The hot tub is definitely a must! We enjoyed reading on the lounge chairs, relaxing in the hot tub and checking out all the cool things the property has to offer. There is quite a bit of noise surprisingly, with the traffic of the main road and the area being generally busy even though you’re tucked away up in the trees. There is a rooster at a neighboring property that woke us up each night around 3AM and continues into the morning so bring ear plugs if you are a light sleeper! Overall we enjoyed our experience and would love to come back to soak up more of this little oasis. Thank you again, Amber! :)

Recommends

· November 2024

Heavenly Views and Thoughtful Hosts

Tent

We had the most amazing stay at Sanctuary Cielo! Amber and Gregory went above and beyond to make our experience unforgettable. They thought of everything to make us feel comfortable, even bringing us delicious muffins in the morning—a sweet touch that really made us feel at home. The view from the property is absolutely stunning, and the star gazing at night was magical. We felt so connected to nature, with nearby access to beautiful hikes, rivers, and the beach, which was such a bonus. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape with thoughtful hosts and breathtaking surroundings, Sanctuary Cielo is the place to be! We can’t wait to come back.

Recommends

· October 2024

First Camping Trip Ever

Tent

Amber and her husband Gregory were amazing hosts! It was my birthday and they decorated with a big happy birthday banner. Amber baked us fresh muffins in the morning and brought out birthday candles to go with them. I will tell you, ADD THE HOT TUB. it's one of the best hot tubs we've ever been in. The hiking around the property is fun, it's shorter and not as challenging as we expected, but there are lots of little treasures scattered throughout the hike that are wonderful to take in. They also have hand-crafted walking sticks you can use for your trip around the campgrounds, and even purchase one to take home. I really regret not getting one. We were able to find some hotsprings and a 3 mile hike, not far from the property, so we did that, but very much enjoyed returning back to base to sleep in our tent and enjoy the eternal firepit. My absolute favorite spot in the whole place was the bed swing next to the eternal firepit. I spent most of my time there relaxing and reading. I'm there in my head RIGHT NOW. Also made friends with a family of dear and Amber's little dog savannah and her orange kitty that guards the property! Thank you so much Amber and Gregory, my birthday was incredible and you will always be a part of that <3

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent · With kids

My family loved staying at Sanctuary Cielo. Amber and Gregory's attention to detail was awesome. There were signs for trails, supplies if we forgot anything, and so many places to relax and be cozy. They are excellent hosts and made us feel welcome and safe. The location feels very remote and private but is central to all things Santa Barbara. It is a fun place to camp and this is now on our favorites list for places to stay when we visit our daughter at UCSB.

Recommends

· September 2024

Sanctuary Cielo

Tent · With pets

We had an overall good trip! The directions were well written and utilized. We had no difficulty finding the property and were greeted by Amber. Upon arrival, we were given very detailed information and were comfortable knowing where things were. We're an active older couple who camp often with our 2yr old pup. We were trying to find something unique, and learned about Hipcamp. This was our first, and enjoyable time with this site. We were looking for a weekend away to enjoy some peace and quiet; off grid and spend time alone together and enjoy one another's company. Nature threw us a curveball; a heat wave with advisory warnings, but Amber's generosity with fans, popsicles, and homemade organic berry & nut muffins made the trip better. The property is amazing. We look forward to returning and hoping for cooler weather to explore a bit more. I think it's important to mention, incase you are envisioning being in the middle of nowhere, catching up on rest. We were woken up several times throughout the night by a local roster. It's not a deal breaker and we are definately returning but good to know. We were looking forward to the typical sounds of nature camping, but had to wear earplugs. Again, this was an amazing place, worth going and our pup even made a friend. Amber's dog was so sweet.

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent · With pets

Lovely piece of paradise! Amber has created such a neat space full of everything you could want and need (kitchen appliances, a fridge/freezer, potable water, compost toilet with a little vanity area) as well as lots of whimsical touches. You can tell a lot of time, effort and creativity has gone into the space. Amber was so wonderful - very communicative and super nice.

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent

Sanctuary Cielo was an awesome experience in Santa Barbara. Amber and Greg were very welcoming. They showed us around the property and were accessible to us if we needed anything during our stay. Sanctuary Cielo has many things you may need during your stay like an outdoor living space with lights, multiple seating and lounge areas, a refrigerator, bbq & cooking equipment. It was great for us because we have just starting out camping so we don't have everything we need yet. There is even a tent set up that you can use if you don't have your own. It's a beautiful serene property with great views. It was so awesome waking up to nature and the sunrise beneath the oak trees. We didn't have a chance to explore all of the property and trails but there are maps and walking sticks available. We were a quick 20 minutes drive to the beach and downtown area with many shops and restaurants. Thank you Amber and Greg for opening up your property to us, we hope to visit again :)

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent

I loved this tent site and amber is super welcoming and accommodating for all of our needs. There is a lot of cool trails on the property to explore and lots of activities to keep you entertained nearby. We loved our visit and would recommend it for others!

Recommends

· July 2024

Cielo Sanctuary

Tent · With pets

A beautiful and tranquil spot! We loved our stay! The hosts have thought of everything that could possibly be needed to make the stay comfortable and easy. Looking forward to visiting again! Amber’s muffins were an extra special treat! Highly recommend!

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent · With kids

We loved our camping experience at Amber’s place. It was a perfect location for our boys who loved rambling around. Amber kindly organized a scavenger hunt for them. The campsite itself was spacious and extremely well-equipped. We chose the location closest to Amber’s house which came with a grill, fire pit and access to cooking equipment and much more besides. We loved using the outdoor shower. The location itself was beautiful. It was only a 20 minute drive to Santa Barbara but felt much more isolated. We loved star gazing at night. Amber was a great host; really friendly and accommodating. We hope to return again one day!

Recommends

· June 2024

Local getaway

Tent

Loved all the relaxing places to hang out! Beautiful place , nice hiking trails.

Recommends

· September 2023

Tent · With kids

Amber and Gregory went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable and welcomed. I especially appreciated all the thoughtful touches that show how much care went into making the space so enjoyable. My 7 year and I had a spectacular time exploring and relaxing, I only wish we could have stayed more than 2 nights. I am already planning a trip back and am so glad I discovered this peaceful paradise. The hot tub was amazing, the nature walks were gorgeous and the space was incredibly well equipped. Already planning a trip back!

Recommends

· August 2023

Tent · With pets

We absolutely loved our stay at Amber’s place. So much care was put into making it an Incredible experience for us and our daughter. There are lots of places to sit and relax and also games for us to play and she kindly baked us muffins in the morning and even made a scavenger hunt for our daughter. It is clear that so much love has gone into the creation of this magical retreat. It was like dream like.

Recommends

· August 2023

Fantastic find!!

Tent

I can’t say enough good things about Sanctuary Cielo and Amber. This camp spot is one of the most amazing I’m sure you’ll find. The trees are beautiful, and there are hiking trails and super cool spots to check out on the property. Beds outside, a hot tub, and even a treehouse! We didn’t even feel the need to leave. We stayed there for the weekend and had so much fun. Check it out!

Recommends

· August 2023

Tent

We had a memorable stay at Sanctuary Cielo. The property is fun to explore. Amber made it extra special for our daughter, with a special scavenger hunt, lots of books, activities, and games. We enjoyed the hot tub under the stars and all the unique spaces to relax and appreciate nature. We also enjoyed the fresh baked muffins in the morning, refrigerator with treats, and special touches for my birthday. Amber had lots of recommendations for things to do in the area, but we opted to stay and enjoy the experience. Be aware that the terrain is steep (walking sticks are provided), and be prepared for the insects that accompany any forest setting. Overall it was a great experience and we had a great time!

Recommends

· July 2023

Perfect weekend Recharge/Relax

Tent

I loved the campsite and all the various spots around the property with very cute names. The bed in the woods, watching stars in the night while laying on the trampoline, just relaxing in the hammock around the cathedral were just some of the highlights of the visit.

Location

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

Sanctuary Cielo

Things to know

Select a site

Tent-only sites

Sanctuary Cielo

Reviews

Location

Hosted by Amber Y.

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