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Carrizo Plain National Monument

The best camping in Carrizo Plain National Monument, CA

Witness the splendor of nature in this secluded plain.

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Stories from the community

Carolyn

4 days ago

16 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Beautiful property! Amazing views and super quiet. Felt far away, but there is a lot nearby. Will definitely rebook!

Marco

5 days ago

23 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at SLO Country Camp

Ken and Judi’s campground was epic! Location, environment, and amenities were exactly what we were looking for to spending a family Thanksgiving. 10/10.

Megan

5 days ago

Tent

2 nights at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Amazing hosts! Chris went out of his way to bring me wood and kindling for a fire, gave me a tour of the ranch where I got to meet the animals, and was very responsive via text when I had questions. The site was great and had everything you would need (picnic table, fire pit with poker, good trees to set up a hammock). The view from the top of the property is unbelievable during the day and at sunset!

brenda

1 week ago

23 ft Class B

1 night at Rock Creek - RV Camping

easy and quiet. perfect stop with great access to Los Olivos

Nicholas

1 week ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Great Camping Spot! Beautiful drive up the mountain to some amazing views. Hosts were very friendly and the bathrooms were really clean. Highly recommended.

Shannon

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

Ken and Judi’s property was lovely. It was intimate and provided plenty of personal space. I thoroughly enjoyed the attention to detail with the outdoor lighting and ample prep space. They had excellent communication and even offered to let us come a little early.

Steve

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

I spent my 45 bday weekend glamping!! It was awesome! Jen and Jim were amazing hosts!! Thank you I will be back

Colin

2 weeks ago

23 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Rock Creek - RV Camping

Clean sites, cool place.... Would stay here again.

Tawny

2 weeks ago

40 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Rock Creek - RV Camping

Great campsite in a great location. So close to downtown Santa Ynez.

Tasha

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

The glamptank site is remote, all tucked up in the corner by yourself with lots of privacy! The views and stargazing are incredible. Jen swung by a hour or so after I got to the spot, she’s a sweetheart. They provided drinking water and plenty of cooking equipment. Awesome escape for my dog and I. Thank you!!

Kegan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Beautiful location and nice and communicative hosts! Definitely make sure you have a 4x4 as the listing says because the last little climb gets pretty steep. Overall, would stay again.

Kevin

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

Ken and Judi's property was beautiful and spacious. We enjoyed meeting our hosts and loved the location as well. The fire pit is awesome and we liked hanging out around the fire. We will definitely return if we get a chance.

Noah

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

What a special way to spend my birthday. Really such a great spot that allows you to feel like your camping but has so many great amenities. The owners were so kind as well. We will be coming back!

Jean

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

Always an Epic time at SongDog Ranch! The place is peacefully quiet and surreal! Jim & Jen are fantastic host! Hospitality is at its best! See you again soon!!!

Samantha

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

Great hospitality! The site was well set up and had a great view. I loved the animals, especially the dogs I met! Also, I left with a dozen farm fresh eggs…I would definitely recommend.

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Cuyama Badlands

My wife Suzie and I, and our two pup-pups, Lucy & Juando, just returned from our 2-night stay at Songdog Ranch, where we bunked in at the cabin known as Pupdog Hill. We really are having a hard time finding adequate language to describe the inherent magic and utter bliss that is undeniable, as it is “baked” into every board and boulder that exists beneath your feet, surrounding you with every breath you take. I hope a few of our fotos will give you an idea of this stunning place. But you really have to experience Songdog Ranch for yourself. We are beyond grateful to our indescribable hosts, Jim and Jenny. Simply, thank you. Mark, Suzie, Lucy & Juando

brian

November 2025

With kids

1 night at Cuyama Badlands

Family and I very much enjoyed the convent fire pit and the available firewood. Family enjoyed sleeping in the glamptank and im sure the kids will remember its uniqueness.

Yissette

November 2025

16 ft Class B

1 night at SLO Country Camp

Where do we begin? The amenities were amazing! Between the fire pit, lighting, outdoor shower and crazy enough.. porta potty experience, lol everything was just wonderful! We’ll definitely be staying here again when passing through SLO. Very close to a beautiful ‘Main Street’ with shops, and dining.

Alison

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

I can’t wait to go back the views were beyond my wildest dreams

Kim

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

What an amazing place to camp. The views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking, especially at sunrise and sunset. The working farm adds such a unique touch I had a great time learning about the animals and even got to hold the baby goats! If you stay here, don’t miss the guided tour of the farm. It made the whole experience unforgettable.

Top-rated campgrounds

Cuyama Badlands

99%

(4440)

30mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cuyama, CA

If you've ever wondered what it might be like to camp on the moon, this is it. Completely removed from civilization and surrounded by a barren nature that is alive with the subtle presence of the universe. Seasonally, Spring wildflowers burst across the landscape. Cave paintings of Chumash Indians at Painted Rock remind us of those who lived before us. **Read on for more details.** This is our home but we love to share our life in the outback. We believe it will give you a better appreciation of life's simpler side. That being said, and to maintain the balance here at home, we'd appreciate if you keep your dogs in your car until you get to your site. Our offerings include fresh air and sunshine, amazing night sky, endless views, and plenty of space and privacy to enjoy your moments in nature. You'll find our amenities and activities puposefully sparse here. Upon booking, there are about 5 miles of dirt road on the property that you are welcome to explore on foot or by bicycle. Rustic is the theme here. There is no shower, no wifi, and no electricity available, but you will enjoy your own private spigot and the cellular service is acceptable. For any sites located south of Ballinger Wash, your vehicle length is limited to 22' and no more than 4' overhang from the rear axle, so you don't get stuck in the crossing and block access for others. Towing services are 1-3 hours away. Our Songdog Camps are sparsely scattered atop a 200 foot mesa that looks west over a valley offering stunning desert sunsets and amazing stargazing. These UPPER SITES are NOT OHV friendly, but any of our canyon bottom sites are a great base for your riding adventures up in Ballinger Canyon OHV. We'll be happy to recommend a site for you. **Forest Service law enforcement is actively ticketing unplated OHV on Ballinger Canyon Road. Be sure to know and abide by the laws.** Our friendly cancellation policies vary between 24 hours for simple campsites and 72 hours for our Glamp sites and Group sites. Be sure to check the Google for distance to Cuyama Valley, and your dates for availability and site descriptions. Upon booking, you can look forward to an information packed email to help you make the very best of your trip! We look forward to seeing you!

Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

99%

(1133)

47mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 38 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gaviota, CA

Howdy, campers, We removed our 10-paragraph description, our reviews and photos say it all. Feel free to ask any questions, we will get back to you ASAP. Before you ask: Yes, we have two outdoor showers. Yes, you can use a propane camp stove or cook at our common area bbq in front of the barn where we light a real wood fire for campers to socialize with us, other campers and visit our speakeasy. Yes, we provide propane for the propane fire pits. Yes, your dog can run off-leash. Yes, each site has a picnic table, umbrella, propane fire pit. Most sites have a hammock and hammock stand. Please pack your trash out there is a dumpster at the front gate entrance/exit for your trash. Please close your umbrella when your not at the site, especially when it's windy. We have lost far to many very expensive solar light umbrellas due to the wind when it picks up. Please support our farm by buying eggs, hats, stickers, and other items, all for sale in the barn. We look forward to hosting you. Sincerely, Sierra, Darin, and The Freedog Crew!

Camp Arroyo Grande

96%

(942)

41mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Arroyo Grande, CA

Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy 29-acres that feature beautiful ocean views, oak woodlands, and plenty of rustic charm. All this is conveniently tucked into the hillside just steps away from the Village of Arroyo Grande where you will find restaurants, coffee, shopping, parks and Roosters. The property is home to many youth groups and local non-profits, continuing a 135-year legacy as an Event Center and Retreat Space. The historic Tabernacle building has been hosting church and schools gatherings, dinners, fundraisers, weddings, family reunions, festivals and more since 1897. Community Events are likely to be taking place but follow quiet time guidelines. *pool is seasonal and subject to availability

Cute Colorful Alpine Cabin w/HotTub

46mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 1 site · Lodging · Pine Mountain Club, CA

The Quail's Nest! Cute colorful retro cabin with amazing views and direct access to hiking trails. Lots of toys and games for kids and a relaxing hot tub for the adults. The space Captain's quarters has 1 king bed. The Bunk house has 1 queen bed and a bunkbed with a comfy full size futon on the bottom and a twin bed on top. Guest access The whole house is yours

Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

98%

(304)

45mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Santa Margarita, CA

Our ranch consists of 142 acres located at the top of East Cuesta Grade, elevation approximately 2100 ft. We are secluded and it feels like you're far away from city life yet San Luis Obispo is only a twenty minute drive away. We neighbor Los Padres National Forest which has several miles of hiking and biking trails. On our farm we have 10 sheep, 10 goats, 32 chickens, 3 pigs, 4 dogs and a cat. Interaction with farm animals is common place as most campsites are close to our animal pastures. Bee hives are located on the property as well. Honey, eggs and firewood are available for purchase. :)

SLO Country Camp

99%

(1360)

44mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · San Luis Obispo, CA

SLO Country Camp was once a part of the Serpa Ranch, one of the early ranches of the Central Coast. It’s remained a beautiful rural pocket in the Edna Valley area of San Luis Obispo. It’s quiet and peaceful, enjoy your morning coffee listening to all the birds waking up. There’s a private creek not far away that draws deer and wildlife. Just saw 3 deer run through out property 2 days ago. Owls, red tail hawks, eagles, squirrels and jack rabbits we see frequently. And you can listen to the coyotes howling at night. We’re surrounded by rolling coastal hills, vineyards, horses, cattle and also land apportioned to the Land Conservancy. Walk down our road and then left up to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the entire area with the city San Luis Obispo at a distance. Our two sites are flat on decomposed granite pads. Both have excellent views and easy access to our common areas: big sink and counter, and a cold-water outdoor "beach-type" shower. Firewood is available for purchase at camp for those wanting to use the fire pit, or you can bring your own. The San Luis Obispo, Central Coast has so much to see and do! Hiking trails abound, our favorites are Bob Jones trail to walk or bike to Avila Beach, Johnson Ranch and Irish Hills for hiking hills, the Ridge trail for a view over Shell and Avila beaches, and the Harmony Trail to walk grassy cliffs by the ocean. Montano de Oro is only 15 minutes away with rocky ocean cliff trails that lead down to the coastline. We are 5 minutes from the beginning of the Edna Valley winery trail with 30 wineries or more I’ve lost count. Tasting and relaxing in great atmospheres. Our favorites are Biddle Ranch, Talley, Mailene, Chamisal, Bailyanna... but there are so many more. We’re 10 minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo, 10–12 minutes to Avila or Pismo beaches. Morro Bay is 25 minutes. And we’re just 5 minutes off the 101 for easy access to traveling. The Central Coast has almost everything for fun, adventure and food. Surfing, biking, hiking, ocean kayaking, paddle boarding, golf, wine and beer culture, ranch lands, shopping and restaurants and we’re close to it all.

Gaia Farm Campground

96%

(93)

48mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Goleta, CA

Situated on a private and peaceful non-profit farm on the Gaviota Coast, our campsites provide a unique camping experience for the whole family. The sites feature uninterrupted views of the coast, native chaparral hiking trails, and access to a farm tour (suggested donation of $25/person). Our farm raises animals such as cows, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, and more. We invite you to visit with the animals, hike our trails, and enjoy the natural beauty of our incredible land. Sites are primitive camping on gravel pads along our hiking trails. Approximately a five minute hike from parking. Water and composting toilets are provided.

Blue Sky Center

94%

(746)

20mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Cuyama, CA

1948- On January 1, 1948 a wildcatter named George Hadley, who had been oil prospecting in the valley for 10 years, made the first oil strike in the Cuyama Valley. Richfield Oil Company soon moved in and extracted nearly 300 million barrels of oil in just a few short years. To accommodate an exploding workforce in the early 1950s, the company built the town of New Cuyama, its infrastructure, public buildings, the Cuyama airstrip (L88) and all the industrial structures that are now home to Blue Sky. Richfield Oil Company, later merging with Atlantic Oil Company forming the Atlantic Richfield Oil Company (ARCO), created high-paying jobs, a safe and prosperous community, and developed schools, churches, and recreational areas for the employee-residents.1973- With dwindling production in the area and new discoveries in Alaska, Atlantic-Richfield Oil Company put the town of New Cuyama and its associated infrastructure up for sale. Word of an entire town for sale made its way to entrepreneur, Russell O’Quinn of the Foundation for Airborne Relief (FAR) and Mildred Dotson, a wealthy widow from Tulsa, Oklahoma. The two worked together to acquire the townsite and adjacent land. O’Quinn, an aviator, inventor, and test pilot, aspired to use the New Cuyama airstrip and facilities as a base for humanitarian relief and a non-profit trade school. Though not fully realized, FAR’s primary vision included utilizing converted military aircraft to airlift food and medical supplies to developing countries and global disaster areas. Dotson had loftier goals. Her plans included an 18-hole fly-in golf course, expansion of the Buckhorn Restaurant and Motel, and a 40- to 50-acre lake for amphibious landing and water sports. 1986- Another visionary, Harry Kislevitz, inventor of the popular design tool Colorforms® and founder of Future City/Villages International, sought to develop the site as a “City of Friendship,” an all-electric village of 5,000 earthen homes. The dwellings were to be designed by Nader Khalili, an Iranian-born architect who specialized in earthen structures, worked with NASA on prototypes for lunar homes and received an award from the United Nations for his work towards the development of low cost, sustainable structures for human shelter in impoverished and disaster prone environments. One 628-sq-ft Khalili prototype remains on the property today ("the Cantina"). Khalili went on to form the California Institute for Earth Art and Architecture, Cal-Earth, in Hesperia, CA.1993- Recognizing the transformative potential of clean, solar power and the attractiveness of a rural destination, entrepreneur Mike Nolan worked to develop the Solar Skypark and Big Sky Guest Ranch with Santa Barbara Architect, Barry Berkus. The Sky Park included plans for sixty-five fly-in residences on one-acre lots powered completely from clean, solar energy. The Big Sky Guest Ranch was intended to function as a clubhouse for Skypark residents complete with an equestrian center, a small subsistence farm, pool and plenty of enriching recreational activities. 2012- At the end of 2011, the Zannon Family Foundation made a long-term investment in acquiring the New Cuyama Airport property with the vision of rehabilitating the site to be a low-cost resource for programs and organizations working to advance sustainable living practices and technologies. Plans began soon after towards developing a framework and organization to develop the space and coordinate with prospective programs and institutions. In 2014 Blue Sky Sustainable Living Center ("Blue Sky Center") received 501(c)(3) not-for-profit status, endeavoring to reclaim this property for the public good. Today, Blue Sky Center provides unduplicated services and technical assistance to support small businesses and entrepreneurs as well as the local food system, with core work focused on community research and advocacy led by Cuyamans. Learn more on our website and consider supporting our community work with your donation or by hosting your next special event here!

Cuyama Oaks Ranch

99%

(769)

17mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · CA

Hello! Our names are Ricky and Nathan. We own and operate an 80 acre ranch that is great for family's, kids, romantic getaways, and LGBTQIA+ safe. We cannot wait to host you and your group! We're excited to share our property with those who appreciate nature and what seclusion in the mountains has to offer. Located deep in the Cuyama Valley, close to wine country, and booming local vineyards (1.25 hrs past Ojai and 45 minutes past Santa Maria) our ranch promises the getaway experience you've been looking for. The Ranch is 80 acres with majestic mountain views and vast canyons for hiking and trail access. During the spring and summer months imagine sitting in your own personal cowboy pooltub looking up at the stars. Smell the sage and wildflowers in the air while you sip wine. Surrounded by the Los Padres Mountains and located deep within the hidden valley of enchantment, this ranch gives the visitor the high-desert glamping/camping experience of their dreams. For the hikers and explorers out there, the ranch offers trails and within 30 min in every direction there are local trails. . There is a designated area for tent camping and for RV's, Trailers, Vans, and tiny homes (no electric yet for RVs). We also offer glamping sites and all inclusive yurts. The ranch is completely private and secluded, off HWY 166. We welcome all animals, big and small. We are farm! We have pigs, goats, ducks, chickens, turkeys and more!

Campsite 3 & 4

99%

(165)

35mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Cuyama, CA

Every campsite has its own picnic table, fire pit with grill, a large trash can, and a kitchenette table, a rustic outdoor loo, and gorgeous 360º view. They are semi-secluded and spacious. There are many hiking trails near by, a vast riverbed to explore, and a quail guzzler to check out! The absolute best part is the night sky views of the Milky Way.

Lisa S.’s Land

89%

(299)

41mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Solvang, CA

This is Glamping at its best! We have two cabins that have kitchens with mini frig, microwaves and sinks. Complimentary coffee and tea as well. Very comfortable queen beds. Each cabin has a living room and table area along with gas fireplaces inside and A/C. Outdoor courtyard area with firepit, picnic tables and string lights to enjoy the days or evenings. Each cabin sleeps two but both can be rented to sleep four. Both cabins are historic to the area. All of this is in the center of the Santa Ynez valley close to Los Olivos , Santa Ynez and Solvang. Wine tasting, bike riding and hiking. Great restaurants and wineries within walking distance.

Rancho Relaxo

89%

(139)

48mi from Carrizo Plain National Monument · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Mission Hills, CA

Located on private property, 3 minutes from the historic La Purisima State Mission. Hiking trails on the 1500 acres State wildland. Located less than 5 minutes away from the wine tasting of the Lompoc Valley, home of the infamous "Wine Ghetto", Lompoc Valley Flower Festival and Skydiving less than 3 minutes away. 10 miles from Surf Beach and 21 miles from Jalama County Beach. Learn more about this land: Private Ranch natural preserve located by La Purisima Mission, Lompoc, Vandenberg Space Port and Village. Dry tent or self-contained camping.

The best camping in Carrizo Plain National Monument, CA guide

Overview

About

Whether you want to stargaze, be wowed by nature, or seek serenity, Carrizo Plain National Monument is a worthy addition to your camping itinerary any time of year. The Carrizo Plain is a popular California destination to witness some of the most dramatic wildflower-painted landscapes in spring, but it’s not its only draw. Traverse across the remote plain for bird watching, biking, and hiking, or take a scenic drive through the fields with its backdrop of mountain ridges, remnants of abandoned ranching structures, and unique wildlife. The Carrizo Plain also offers the opportunity to see a section of the earth-moving San Andreas fault and Native American pictographs found on Painted Rock.

Tips for snagging a campsite

There are two semi-primitive campsites at Carrizo Plain National Monument. The Selby and KCL campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are 12 campsites at KCL, including two that are ADA-compliant, and 13 sites at Selby.
Both campgrounds accommodate small RVs and trailers.
Dispersed car camping also is allowed in designated areas around the monument.

When to go

Fall and spring provide the best weather for enjoying Carrizo Plain National Monument. Springtime draws the biggest crowds as many visitors flock to see the stunning flower-carpeted hillsides. Summertime at the monument can get hot during the day—think 100°F and above hot—so it’s best to avoid extraneous activities at that time of year. During winter, Soda Lake, the largest remaining natural alkali wetland in Southern California, offers a refuge for migratory birds.

Know before you go

Carrizo Plain National Monument is rugged and secluded, so expect a bumpy ride and few services. Pack enough water and food, and start your adventure on a full gas tank.
Check the weather before you visit, as rain may cause many roads to become impassable.
Carrizo Plain National Monument welcomes dogs, but they must remain leashed or caged, including at trailheads and camping areas.
Cell reception is spotty across the plain, so download or print copies of maps and informational materials.
Campsites include picnic tables, fire pits, horse corrals, and wheelchair-accessible vault toilets. Electricity and drinking water are not available.
Access to Painted Rock is restricted to prevent vandalism. Reservations for guided or self-guided tours can be made through recreation.gov.

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