Camping in El Capitán State Beach, CA

Potable water

1 site · Santa Barbara, CA

Poppy Yurt

The Santa Barbara County Community Services Department - Parks Division stands out for its diverse and exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike. With a vast network of facilities, including day-use parks, beaches, pools, group areas, trails, and both on and off-leash dog parks, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in stunning natural settings. Our crown jewel, the Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and recreational options. Spanning an impressive 8,595 acres, the County of Santa Barbara park system features 24 day-use parks, 2 camping parks, 45 open spaces, and 12 beach areas. This extensive landscape provides ample space for exploration, relaxation, and adventure, catering to all types of outdoor lovers. Our user-friendly website is designed to provide you with all the information you need about our facilities, including detailed maps, amenities, rules, regulations, and usage fees. Additionally, you can access real-time updates on the availability of reservable sites at our camping and day-use parks, ensuring a seamless planning experience. To enhance your visit, we collaborate with concessionaires located throughout the County, offering a range of services from sit-down dining to canoe and kayak rentals.

Lake Casitas Recreation Area stands out as a unique destination, nestled within stunning wilderness areas that offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. To ensure a memorable and safe experience during your visit, consider the following tips. When setting up your tent and equipment, be mindful of your surroundings. The ongoing historic drought has left many trees stressed, which may lead to falling limbs at any moment. Even if a tree appears healthy, it could still be compromised. To minimize risk, choose a location for your tent that is well away from trees and their branches. In addition, it's essential to bring insect repellent and securely store your food. The Recreation Area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, mountain lions, skunks, bobcats, raccoons, opossums, and numerous bird species, such as nesting bald eagles. Bears have also been spotted in the area on occasion. With a variety of insects and arachnids, including ticks, insect repellent is a must-have for your trip. By following these guidelines, you can fully enjoy the natural wonders and recreational opportunities that Lake Casitas has to offer.

Lake Casitas Recreation Area

100%

(1)

420 sites · Ventura, CA

Potable water

103 sites · RVs, Tents · Goleta, CA

Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

Experience the unique charm of Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, where the breathtaking beauty of California’s Central Coast meets exceptional camping opportunities for the whole family. Nestled between the stunning Pacific Ocean and the picturesque Ynez Mountains, this resort offers an ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures and memorable experiences. With a variety of spacious RV and tent sites, guests can select their preferred level of camping comfort, making it perfect for both seasoned campers and newcomers alike. Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara is not just a campground; it’s a hub for family-friendly activities and group gatherings. Enjoy amenities such as a heated swimming pool and the Ocean Mesa Market, which provides camping essentials, local wines, craft beers, beach gear, and unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the seasonal outdoor movie nights on the Market lawn, perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones. For those seeking adventure, the resort offers access to docent-led hikes on private trails, as well as visits to a charming llama and goat farm. Additionally, guests can partake in events hosted at the nearby El Capitan Canyon Market. Recognized as the Most Popular campground in the USA by the 2022 Campspot Awards, Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara is the ultimate destination for your next family camping trip.

Rincon Parkway Campground

1 site · Ventura, CA

Discover a hidden gem along the Pacific coastline, where breathtaking views of the ocean and the Channel Islands create a unique camping experience. This scenic stretch of roadway, known as the Parkway, is conveniently situated between Faria Beach Park and Hobson Beach Park along Highway 1, just off the Ventura Freeway. The campground features 127 designated parking spaces for Recreational Vehicle (RV) use, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing comfort. However, please note that tent camping is prohibited in accordance with the County of Ventura Ordinance. For RV enthusiasts, it’s essential to comply with California Health Code Section 18010, as the site does not offer electrical hookups, dump stations, or shower and bathroom facilities. Additionally, there is no water available on-site. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, picturesque landscapes, or simply a peaceful retreat, this location provides an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions, including stunning beaches and local dining options. Enjoy the beauty of the California coast while creating lasting memories in this remarkable setting.

1 site · Santa Barbara, CA

El Capitan Canyon

El Capitan Canyon Resort stands out as a unique destination where rich history meets breathtaking natural beauty, offering guests an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning landscapes of the Gaviota Coast, Pacific Ocean, and Santa Ynez Mountains. With 300 acres of pristine grounds, this retreat is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. Guests can embark on docent-led hikes along the Selma Rubin Trail, explore our organic garden, and visit our charming llama farm, all while soaking in the spectacular views. The property features numerous trails that wind through 2,500 acres of protected State Park land, providing ample opportunities for exploration. For relaxation, take a dip in our heated pool or enjoy a leisurely ride on one of our complimentary adult bicycles around the scenic Canyon. Seasonal activities include yoga sessions, stargazing, ropes course challenges, and guided beach runs. Don’t miss our popular Summer BBQ and Canyon Concert Series every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. El Capitan Canyon has a rich history of hospitality, tracing back to its origins as a sacred site for the ancient Chumash tribe. The area, known as Ajuilashmu, served as a celebration place for the Chumash people, who thrived on the fertile land and abundant sea. The creek that flows through the

Hobson Beach Park stands out as a unique destination due to its stunning location nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, providing visitors with breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Situated just north of Faria Beach Park and the Rincon Parkway along Highway 1, this park offers an exceptional vantage point for viewing the Channel Islands, especially during the enchanting dusk hours. The park features an oceanside campground with 31 sites, making it an ideal spot for families and groups seeking a memorable outdoor experience. Campers can enjoy amenities such as fire pits, hot showers, and flush toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay. For those looking to stay connected, Wi-Fi is available, and a concession stand offers convenient snacks and supplies. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the beautiful sandy shoreline perfect for surfing and surf fishing, as well as one of the best reefs for exploration during low tides. Additionally, the campground includes 10 sites with full hookups for water, sewer, and electric, catering to various camping needs. With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and a wealth of recreational activities, Hobson Beach Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Hobson Beach Park

176 sites · Ventura, CA

Discover the Treehouse, a truly unique getaway that combines rustic charm with modern luxury, all while nestled high among the branches of a majestic tree. This enchanting retreat features a private bedroom adorned with a plush canopy bed, a cozy leather loveseat, and a charming cut log wet bar, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation. The hidden bathroom is a delightful surprise, showcasing elegant wood tile and a beautifully crafted cut log vanity. Step outside onto the spacious deck, where an outdoor cedar tub awaits, inviting you to unwind and soak under the twinkling stars. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, seeking a nature lover's paradise, or looking for a whimsical break from daily life, the Treehouse offers an unforgettable experience. Embrace the tranquility of living among the treetops, where the soothing embrace of nature and the beauty of the surrounding landscape come together to create a magical sanctuary. Enjoy nearby attractions such as scenic hiking trails, refreshing swimming holes, and charming local restaurants and shops, making your stay even more memorable.

Campfires

Victorian Mansion Bed & Breakfast

1 site · Los Alamos, CA

Camping in El Capitán State Beach, CA guide

Overview

About

Just outside of Santa Barbara, El Capitán State Beach—affectionately known as El Cap—has long been popular among surfers, and while this state park gets some fantastic swells, even those who prefer to stay on dry land will find plenty to experience within the park's boundaries. The park’s 10-odd miles of trails weave through beautiful forests full of oaks, sycamores, and willows and there are plenty of viewpoints on the bluffs above the beach for taking in views of the Pacific Ocean. To spend the night at the beach, the year-round campground has over 130 sites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve your campsite up to six months in advance on the California State Parks website or over the phone.
If you are planning to visit during the busy summer season, it's a good idea to book well in advance, as campsites can fill up quickly.
In addition to the main campground, there are five group camping areas as well as special hike and bike campsites for travelers coming on foot or by bicycle.
If you're having trouble snagging a spot at El Capitán, you may have better luck at Gaviota State Park, a 15-minute drive down the coast.

When to go

El Capitán State Beach offers year-round camping and pleasant weather throughout the year. If you want to swim and sunbathe, July through September offer the best temperatures, though you may find sunny days (with fewer crowds) well into October. Winters are mild, but do get some rain, and temperatures this time of year rarely drop below the mid-40s at night. Advanced surfers should consider coming in autumn or winter, when the swells are at their finest.

Know before you go

There's a small store at the campground selling ice, fishing bait and tackle, camp supplies, souvenirs, and basic groceries. For a more extensive shop, head to nearby Santa Barbara, about a 20-minute drive from the beach.
Check tide tables before walking on the beach, as large sections disappear at high tide, which can leave visitors stranded against the cliffs.
Accessible features at El Capitán include 10 tent camping sites, accessible picnic sites, and accessible toilets and showers. There’s also a loaner beach wheelchair available for visitors to use.

96%

94 ratings · 31 reviews

May 2020

We stayed at El Capitan and loved it there. We enjoyed the campsite which sits high above the ocean with some magnificent views of the Pacific. Our campsite was large and full of chipmunks! The beach was rocky and full of driftwood which we used to build an awesome campfire. You can hike along the beach and enjoy all of the wildlife along the shore.

Mike S.

5 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2019

We’ve been here several times. This is a fantastic escape from LA. 2hrs away. You can bring the clothes on your back or go all out. Cabins, yurts, canvas tents. We’ve done it all. Each has a unique charm. The tents are fun for a couple nights just hanging out and having fun. I’ve used the cabins to really unwind, soak in the giant tub, and self care the hell out of yourself! We even escaped here after putting our beloved cat down to cry for two days straight. This place is like a warm hug. A fantastic place for kids but also perfect for a single or couple. Everything is so spread out that you all kinda find your spot. Lots of wildlife and farm animals a short hike away. Deer, raccoons, skunk ;) have all visited us.

Bea L.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· November 2017

hardly camping, but easy with kids

Gina G.

3 reviews

September 2017

I am trying to figure out if the tent/cabins shown in the first photo are really at the SB? I cant find any mention of them on the reservation site? Does anyone know?

Henry C.

8 years on Hipcamp

Not recommend

· July 2017

Don't stay in a site near the freeway

Marthine S.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2017

It is incredible! From the tents to the yurts to the cabins you can't go wrong with any. Love this place 😊

Kelley C.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2017

Great spot, close to beach. Crowded.

Alexandra K.

8 years on Hipcamp

Not recommend

· May 2017

The group campsite is right off the highway. Train tracks also run along the site. This means that trains come all times of the day and night.

Nancy S.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2017

no comment

Elsa E.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2017

Bring Bikes!

Destiny I.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· February 2017

For better views, try to grab a site on closest to the cliff edge.

Xanthe &.

27 reviews

February 2017

Stayed 2-13 to 2-16. Due to recent rain area A & C closed. Stayed in area D at Site "I" in Portola group area. Nice site with ocean view & close to restroom. Showers are $0.25 for 2 mins. We heard timers were water savings device to keep from looong showers. 4 mins. Worked out well for us. Nice bike/walking trails but watch out for poison oak. Beaches are very rocky, check with Ranger about tides so you don't get stranded at high tide. Rocks are slippery as well. I fell trying to get to tide pools and hurt my shoulder. Abundant wildlife around. Raccoons are VERY smart and aggressive. Got into food bin we thought was animal proof. Put water and cast iron cookery on bins and coolers and seemed to work OK. Had a great time. Will be back.

Gary K.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· February 2017

The raccoons are bold here! Put away and safely store your food immediately before you leave your site.

Allison C.

8 years on Hipcamp

August 2016

Report from your shirtless host on a 59 Lakewood @ El Capitan S.B. The Cory family showed up today with a classic. A 1959 Lakewood trailer. David said they got it last March. The person who had it was restoring this classic. Unfortunately he had to sale it to move to Canada, ( lucky for the Cory family). David is planing to finish it with help of Holly and there two kids. ( Jude & Gus ) I hope that they enjoy this classic & have a life time of camping together. This was another great find on Gregs-list. Plan on painting it Teal-White and putting the original stickers back on. This South Pasadena family is part of a large group that wants to bring back the classic. FROM ALL OF AS THANK YOU ! shirtless Steve

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

August 2016

Report from your shirtless host on a fire ball at El Capitan The fire ball came from San Diego. This classic is one Iam glad I got to see it is a 1964 8' fire ball classic trailer. The 1st one I have seen & it is as cute as a bug and no bigger then a bug. They got it from Bret & Cindy who bought it 30+ years ago. They used it alot taking the kids to Halloween cove ? all the time. By the time Quinn & Tracy got it back in 2004 it was ready for the recycling shop. The 1st. few years they used it for a party house. Now they have brought it back from ruin. Now restore to almost it's full glory. This classic is ready to be seen and enjoyed by all. Thanks you Quinn & Tracy Becker from all of us who loves to see classic R V on the Rd.

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

August 2016

Report from your shirtless host on group camping @ El Capitan S..B. El Cap. has some of the best group camping I have seen. All 5 group sites are just enough different to make each 1 right for every type of group camping. If you have a group an like to get away ( DRAKE ) & ( CABRILLO ) both hold up to 60 people each. This sites are for tent camping only. They are large flat sites W/ Ocean view. The group site ( ORTEGA ) holds up to 50 people and tent camping only also. This is also flat W/ ocean view. But if you have a group W/ trailers and tents El Cap. has ( ANZA ) 32 people max. and in the C- Loop. ( PORTOLA ) is in the D-Loop 40 people max. Also holds tents and trailers. Go group camping & have fun Shirtlesshost. Steve

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

August 2016

Report from your shirtless host on a 74 Shasta @ El Capitan S.B. We have another classic on the Rd. This one is a 1974 Shasta (compact). This is a little jewel & it's back on the Rd. Dick said that he bought it on Gregs-list about 2 yrs. Ago. What a find, he hit gold with this classic. Alameda lost and Santa Rosa's gain. This is the 1st. time to El Cap. W/ family and friends. Here with his daughter (Anne) and his grandkids (Hazel) (Penny) & (Raleigh) and alot of good friends. I know that he wishes that his loving Barbara of 54 yrs. could be with him. So if you this classic in Santa Rosa Hook! To thank Dick Lucore for putting this RV back on the road. Thanks Dick with out good guys like you, classic would die. Shirtlesshost Steve

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

July 2016

Report from your shirtless host on El Capitan S.B. El Cap. Well be opening soon. The camp has Ben closed way to long. The last I heard is that the camp well be opens on the 29 th. Of July. I can't hardly wait for it to reopen. I miss all you camper and I hope to see you all soon. I fell bad for all the campers out on camping here the last 45 days. I know that family outings are important and fun for the friends and familys. So pack up and get ready for a fun time at the beach, camping and getting outdoors. As a camper I know how much I would miss it if I miss out going after planing all year. I know that the camp host and staff is looking forward to see everyone back again. As your shirtless host, I can't wait. Shirtless Ste

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

June 2016

Report from your shirtless host on 3 day friend life time of memory This is for campers that well met new friends @ camp. Some camper are now meeting and camping with campers they met at a camp site. So this is for the rest of you. Remember that you go camping to get away ( enjoy family and met new friends ) so relaxes and get out and enjoy the wildlife. Say hi to each camper, you never know it could be your hi school friend, ( this happened to Brenley & Mira ) @ El Cap. This year. The camper you talk to is just like you-out to enjoy family and life like you. So wave they well wave back. The 1 you say hi to might be the you go camping with next year or next week. Enjoy camping. Your shirtless host Steve

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

May 2016

Report from your shirtless host @ El Capitan S.B. Wild life @ this camp is so much fun to watch. El Cap. Has a beer drinking, Egg stealing, Ham setting family of racoons. Let me tell you about the beer drinking racoons. 2 racoons was seen on the table and one of them knocked over a beer and started licking it up as fast as it could. A 3rd. One show up and all 3 were drinking the beer now. The camper Jim & Dee Dee and 2 kids just sat by the fire and watched. The Larger one hopped off the table and headed for the ice chest. He took a ham and the other 2 got off the table and took a carton of eggs an left. Jim and his family said that it was just to funny to stop. So keep your ice chest locked and hide the beer.

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

May 2016

Report from your shirtless host @ El Capitan S.B. This is for all you Beach lovers and campers. The beaches at Refugio & El Cap. are made for family fun. Whale witching and just fun on the beach. Don't for about the jr.. Rangers it well be starting up soon. This is great for the kids it well teach the little Rangers all about the State Parks. El Cap. Has a large day use area so we can handle large groups. Remember that safety is always paramount. This pristine environment has alot to offer. Endangered species, seasonal Wildflower's & native plants & animals are all here for you to see and enjoy. So bring your family and friends and go camping or just a day on the beach. Shirtless host Steve Shirtlesshost.blogspot.com

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

April 2016

Report from your shirtless host @ El Capitan S.B. on a serro-Scotty ( 1962 ) This is about a 1962 Scotty. One thing I love to see is a classic on the Rd. In 62 the Kostechko family classic was build. What a joy to see this Scotty being used. This classic was in great shape. It was bought from a family friend. This the 1st. Trip in the trailer, they came to El Cap. For Milo's B.D. from there home town of Santa Barbara. Camping with there kids Milo & Knox and other family members and friends gives Jaime & Nick alot of joy. Now they have a classic to go camping in. ( So Thanks ) for keeping the classic on the Rd. Drop them a E-Mail if you have a Scotty. kostechko805@gmail.com Bring your Scotty to El Cap. Shirtlesshost Steve

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

April 2016

Report from your shirtless host @ El Capitan The camp is on reservations now it well be harder to get a site @ times. ( but you must try) El Capapitan is a spectacular park to be camping @. If you get lucky to get a site. The park can accommodate large groups. So bring you family and friends and let's go camping. For large RVs. They have the upper parking lot. We have shady and sunny site and the kids have lots of places to play. No dump station but has water station. The showers bathrooms are large very clean. Hiking,strolling,biking and brid & whale watching in a peaceful Surroundings. This is a relaxing atmosphere for camping. The beach is Sandy and rocky but a great place for a day of fun. Shirtless host Steve

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

April 2016

Report by you shirtless host on a Bluebird @ El Capitan S.B. El Cap. Has a RV spot @ the top of the hill. This is the # 1 spot for large R Vs. One of them is a 1983 Bluebrid ( yes the school bus CO. They made RVs. At one time ) Wanderlodge. Doug bought the RV. In 2010. Wierenga family Stephanie & Doug W/Ella flew back to Nebraska on a 1 way ticket. Drove it back 1700 miles home. Broke down 2 times but there love of camping kept them going. This was est. $300000. RV in 83. And still looks top of the line. They redid the in side. Give them a big har-Ra . thank you for keeping this on the road So bring your large and small RVs tents campers to EL Capitan for a fun filled camping trip. Shirtless host Steve. Shirtlesshost.blogspot.c

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

April 2016

Report from your shirtless host @ El Capitan S.B. Camping is a life time of joy. This is about Marji & Lee Venden. They have been married now 38 years. Back in 1977 on new years Eve's Lee asked Marji to marry him. The next day they used the pay phone ( yes there was a pay phone back then ) to call there parents. Now there back at El Capitan 38 years later. They might have been here before but I just meet them. The Venden are from Walla Walla Wash. Marji is a teacher and Lee is a paster. They have 2 kids and a grandchild on the way ( Aug. ) El Capitan is a great place to camp and a majestic backdrop to asdk someone to marry you. So go camping you might ended up married. Shirtless host Steve Shirtlesshost.blogspot.com

Shirtless Host Steve J.

9 years on Hipcamp

September 2015

Great location by the beach and close-ish to Santa Barbara for picking up bbq supplies. Great swimming beach (but occasional tar spots) and plenty of hiking across the road or up at Gaviota.

Karim O.

10 years on Hipcamp

April 2015