The best camping in Gaviota State Park, CA
77% (22)
77% (22)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Gaviota State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Gaviota State Park
Gaviota State Park Campground
1. Gaviota State Park Campground
77%
(22)
Gaviota State Park Campground is a quirky little place to call home for a night or two
Top-rated campsites near Gaviota State Park
Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch
1. Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch
99%
(1264)
6mi from Gaviota State Park · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Howdy, campers,
Welcome to our rustic resort. We look forward to hosting you.
We place campers on a first come first serve bases. Larger groups and campers booking more than one night take priority.
Feel free to ask any questions, we will get back to you ASAP.
Answers to the most common questions below...
Yes, we an outdoor shower at cactus flower beach (our version of a beach with cold dunk tubs, shade trees, day bed cabaña and lounge chairs for when it's hot.)
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.
You can support our farm by buying eggs, hats, stickers, and other items, all for sale in the barn.
Sincerely,
Sierra, Darin, and The Freedog Crew!
By booking and agreeing to camp, you accept the waiver and release of liability, without a wet signature. The Entire Waiver can be found under the "Rules" section of our listing.
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Gaia Farm Campground
2. Gaia Farm Campground
96%
(132)
8.5mi from Gaviota State Park · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
Rock Creek - RV Camping
3. Rock Creek - RV Camping
93%
(52)
12mi from Gaviota State Park · 7 sites
Escape to Rock Creek, a peaceful retreat tucked into the oak-studded hills of Santa Ynez. With six spacious campsites for RVs (no hookups), our property offers a rustic getaway just minutes from the charm of Santa Ynez, Solvang, Los Olivos, and the region’s best wineries. We are also walking distance to the popular Chumash Casino Resort that offers not only fun gaming, but year round concerts and entertainment, dining options, lounges, and a luxurious wellness spa.
We are proud to be a Star Host and strive to deliver a great experience to every Hipcamper that stays with us!
Rock Creek provides plenty of space to unwind and enjoy nature. Wake to birdsong, sip wine beneath wide skies, and spend evenings around the shared community fire pit. Rock Creek is a welcoming spot to escape, unwind and reconnect with the land — and each other.
Site Features and Amenities:
• Six large campsites for RVs (First come, first serve)
** We also offer one site that includes 30-amp power. Search Hip Camp for "Rock Creek with 30-amp Power" l
• Drinking water available on-site
• Picnic tables at each site
• Community fire pit (season permitting)
• Pack-it-out trash policy – help us keep nature clean
• Pet-friendly – dogs welcome on leash (max 2)
• Easy, level access for RVs (no hookups)
* Contact host Tom Carlson if you are interested in group bookings or small event options
Electrical hookup
Pets
Dare 2 Dream Farms
4. Dare 2 Dream Farms
96%
(297)
20mi from Gaviota State Park · 2 sites
Nestled in the back of a canyon with old-growth oaks and eucalyptus, our campsites offer a front row view of our working family farm: an acre of garden space, mangalitsa pigs, jersey cows, pigmy goats, and chickens. Birdsong and owl calls fill the quiet canyon, and the beautiful stars light up the night sky. The property boasts a small honor-system farm stand, where you can purchase fruits and vegetables grown on the farm, goodies from other local businesses, and items to elevate your guest experience, such as firewood, fire starters, s'mores kits, and more. We also have a little library of books to enjoy while you're here. On special occasions, SpaceX launches satellites into space from the neighboring Space Force Base, and we get a one-of-a-kind view of the rocket launches as they crest over the hillsides and fill the sky with their sound and light.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Canvas Under the Oaks
5. Canvas Under the Oaks
97%
(16)
23mi from Gaviota State Park · 1 site
We are located just 15 minutes from Santa Barbara beaches and twenty minutes to wine country towns Los Olivos, Solvang and Ballard.
Nestled among the oaks with stunning canyon views, our 14x16 foot canvas tent sits on a 28 foot redwood deck. The porch, cantilevered into the trees is a fantastic place to enjoy your morning yoga or coffee ritual, read a book, or relax with a glass of rosé.
Check in is from 3-9pm, quite hours from 10pm till 8am
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
Sanctuary Cielo
6. Sanctuary Cielo
99%
(41)
23mi from Gaviota State Park · 1 site
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Harmony's Glamping
7. Harmony's Glamping
95%
(374)
25mi from Gaviota State Park · 5 sites
Nestled along a spring fed creek in the beautiful mountains of Santa Barbara. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors while staying cozy in a Yurt, or one of our Geo Domes. Each is secluded with a hot shower, propane fire pit, camp kitchen (stove and sink ) please bring pots/ pans and all necessary cooking supplies, and a comfortable queen bed. Wake up to the sound of the birds chirping and the creek rippling. Hike to our very own 30' ft waterfall where you can take a dip, lay out and catch some sunshine. The trail is rugged so be ready to boulder and use your hands in some places. Our wood burning hot tub is freshly filled every time, and right along the creek for a natural hot/cold plunge experience. We also offer morning yoga, and relaxing massages for a fully rejuvenating experience.
We provide a list of things to explore off-site, but our on-site amenities include things like disc golf, corn hole, ping pong, puzzles in the yurts, books, and more!
We do require a liability waiver to be signed, and by booking, you are agreeing to and signing to the waiver. We will also send you a waiver via your welcome message.
Enjoy some nearby experiences all within 30 minutes:
-Cold Springs Tavern, historical stagecoach stop, live music and delicious BBQ
-Wine Tasting in Solvang or on Stearns Wharf
-State Street, Downtown Shopping and Restaurants
-Beaches, LedBetter, East Beach, Butterfly, Hendry's Beach (Dog Friendly)
-Painted Cave, a cave full of Indian paintings
-Hikes, SaddleRock, Lizards Mouth, Hot Springs
Please note that a high clearance vehicle is recommended! This is a mountainous bumpy dirt road with steep sharp corners. A regular car can make it, just be warned you may bottom out a couple times.
We are not liable for any damage to you or your vehicle when entering our property, so do so at your own risk.
Please feel free to reach out with any further questions.
Text or Call: 805-698-8623
IG:@harmonys_glamping
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-G Ranch
8. -G Ranch
98%
(62)
39mi from Gaviota State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
The Cuyama Valley separates the Caliente Mountain Range from the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. Tucked away in the northern foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range of the Los Padres National Forest is Cottonwood Canyon of the Cuyama Valley, located in northern Santa Barbara County. Cottonwood Canyon is known for its spectacular high desert landscapes offering open ranges, rolling hills, chaparral with oak woodlands, riparian and juniper-sage terrain, and seasonal wildflowers. Cottonwood Canyon is also home to our secluded 116-acre ranch. The flora and fauna are plentiful, the mountainous views are indescribable, and the night skies are unforgettable! Perfect for unplugging, wildlife watching, photography, meditation, and much more! Our ranch has miles of hiking, mountain biking and horseback trails and is just two short miles from the Los Padres National Forest. This is the true essence of wilderness meets country, and we can’t wait to share it with you!
Even though we are in the middle of nowhere, we are conveniently located near many recreational sites. Just to name a few, about 20 miles east is Alison Canyon Park; About 30 miles east off highway 33 is OHV recreation area, Ballinger Canyon; About 35 miles east off Hudson Ranch Road is the Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge; About 60 miles north off Soda Lake Road is the Carrizo Plain National Monument; About 12 miles west is the Chimineas Ranch Ecological Reserve; and, about 60 miles east off highway 166 is Wind Wolves Preserve.
Learn more about this land:
Come spend the night under the stars at our Grant Line camp site and event center. The Grant Line campsite is situated right next to an original 1840’s Spanish Land Grant boundary line, which is intersected by Forest Route 11N01. The grant has since been divided, but large pieces of land still remain, mostly inhabited by mountainous wildlife, ground squirrels, rabbits, coyotes and cattle. This area is also rich in Chumash history. Million-dollar views of the Caliente Mountain Range await you for evening sunsets and the Sierra Madre Mountain Range await you for your morning coffee enjoyment. Don't miss the brilliance of the famous Cottonwood Canyon Wildflowers with your front row seat. For your comfort, there is a 16x20 rustic-style shade structure (which has also been used for a dance floor!), water spigot, fire pit, small BBQ, and an outhouse. We have oak firewood available for purchase and a larger BBQ capable of cooking for 200+ guests available for rent, if needed. This site also provides plenty of parking for multiple RV’s and can accommodate larger groups.
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Cuyama Oaks Ranch
9. Cuyama Oaks Ranch
99%
(676)
40mi from Gaviota State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
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Diamond E Ranch
10. Diamond E Ranch
100%
(12)
40mi from Gaviota State Park · 1 site
We have lived in quiet Nipomo since October 2014. Our Nipomo neighborhood is known for not having street lights giving you beautiful night skies!
We have a 1 Acre lot with an RV Pad out front and a hobby farm in the back. We raise Nigerian Dwarf Goats and Kune Kune pigs. My wife teaches soap milking classes.
We are centrally located between Pismo Beach and the Santa Maria Valley (for its wineries)
During the week I run a Digital Marketing Agency and my wife is a retired teacher.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Blue Sky Center
11. Blue Sky Center
94%
(778)
44mi from Gaviota State Park · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
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Camp Arroyo Grande
12. Camp Arroyo Grande
96%
(998)
48mi from Gaviota State Park · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Campsite 2
13. Campsite 2
99%
(106)
49mi from Gaviota State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Campsite 1
14. Campsite 1
97%
(112)
49mi from Gaviota State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Campsite 3 & 4
15. Campsite 3 & 4
99%
(188)
49mi from Gaviota State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
16. Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara
97%
(17)
12mi from Gaviota State Park · 103 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Highway Country Nook
17. Highway Country Nook
100%
(7)
11mi from Gaviota State Park · 1 site
Santa Ynez Valley is known for its wine, the little Danish town of Solvang, its gorgeous mountain hikes, and proximity to Lake Cachuma and the Santa Ynez River. Access it all easily from this central location perfect for your camper van or trailer. Simple and relaxing while also feeling near the heart of what makes Santa Ynez special.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
SFR Jalama
18. SFR Jalama
100%
(1)
11mi from Gaviota State Park · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
167 acre ranch in Northern Santa Barbara County. 15 minutes from the beach at Jalama. 10-30 minutes from wineries in Lompoc and Santa Ynez Valley. Swimming (at your own risk) in the pond with beach entry, hiking, golf green and more. Camp by the pond or rent the ranch for a family reunion. Circle bar, Santa Maria grill, solo stove (wind permitting) for use. Restroom facilities and stage.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Lisa S.’s Land
19. Lisa S.’s Land
89%
(339)
12mi from Gaviota State Park · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Tack Room at El Capitan Ranch
20. The Tack Room at El Capitan Ranch
14mi from Gaviota State Park · 1 site
Be entranced by a magical Pacific sunset from the private deck of this serene and completely secluded cottage overlooking the pristine Gaviota Coast, halfway between Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley.
The Tack Room is in close proximity to wine tasting, sightseeing, hiking, and beautiful beaches. This land was formerly part of the Chumash tribal range.
The Tack Room offers a rare opportunity to slow down and take in the world around you—contemplate the stars at night and watch soaring raptors by day. Feel at ease with 24-hour on-site security.
Enjoy the graceful swallows of Capistrano as they nurture their young from April 1 through August 1 before flying back to Mexico.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Stacey
1 week ago
15 ft travel trailer
My stay was everything I always hope for when traveling.
Clean and safe.
Nicol is awesome. I felt very welcomed and enjoyed my time there.
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Jesse
2 weeks ago
23 ft Class C
With kids
Sierra & Darin have truly created such a unique experience on their land. First class hospitality and such a memorable stay. Cannot recommend this place enough.
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George
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Cuyama Oaks Ranch
I spectacular piece of the world. Immaculately setup living areas and a fantastic family farm feel.
See more
Mark
2 weeks ago
Nate
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
This is great place to stay, it has anything you need for camping or glamping. It’s a little gem. I’m hoping my dog can be off leash out of site, he is quite a good dog. It seems dog needs to be on leash out of site. Everything else is great
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Tarah
3 weeks ago
15 ft campervan
With pets
Wow! I arrived at night and was impressed with the stargazing, but nothing could prepare me for the morning! Breathtaking views! And a huge site! I have a campervan and a dog, and he was in heaven running around all over the site. 10/10 recommend! Trying to figure out when I can come back! Thank you!
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M.
3 weeks ago
Jordan
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
With pets
Darin & Sierra were absolutely amazing hosts! So welcoming, kind, and beyond generous with their space, their time, great food, beers, and even better company!
The campground is HUGE, and my dogs had the best time exploring and running around freely. Their dogs are so much fun too, which made the experience even better! The campsites are beautiful and really well equipped, with plenty of shade, a propane fire pit, a hammock, a camping table, and incredible views. Everything you need to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
This was my very first time using Hipcamp, and I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Thank you so, so, SOOOO much, Sierra & Darin, for making our stay so special! My doggies thank you too 🐾👌🏼
You’ve truly been the best hosts. We can’t wait to come back!
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Heather
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch
Free Dog Farms was a great place to stay. The owners were very friendly and made us feel welcome. The location is close to hiking and the beach and a great stop if you are driving up or down the coast.
We stayed in the green and white vintage trailer. It was super cute and cozy. The mattress was a little thin for me, but I'm picky about mattresses so I bring a travel mattress topper, which made it ok.
Be aware that there is no water in the camping areas (except non potable water to wash your hands by the port potties). This is not a huge deal if you are used to dry camping, but definitely read the camping info so you are prepared. The owners let us refill our water bottles from the water by the barn since we used up more than we expected hiking!
We would stay here again.
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Dan
3 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
Nice facility, very well maintained. Only 7 sites, not over crowded. Close to activities in Santa Ynez & Solvang.
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Jennifer
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Dare 2 Dream Farms
We enjoyed our time on the farm so much. The trailer was super cozy. A highlight was picking out fresh veggies from the farm stand in the morning and making ourselves a delicious farm to table scramble in the morning. The canyon that this property is is truly magical.
See morePamela
September 2026
Weekend Trip to Dare 2 Dream Farms
This spot was super adorable! I honestly loved it and have already recommended to a couple of friends. Everything you need, they have for you! 5 stars!
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marco
September 2026
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
This place felt really close to the Main Street of Solvang and at the same time quiet and private I would 100% come back given the chance
See moreDanielle
September 2026
19 ft campervan
Sierra and Daren have such an amazing property so many little surprises and next level hospitality
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Heidi
September 2026
Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping
Wonderful spot! Beautiful location and nice amenities for camping. We went to waterfall-such a great hike and the water hole is an area you can spend a whole day in! And yes, the hot tub! So very cool. We will be back!
See moreTricia
September 2026
20 ft travel trailer
This is our 3 rd stay at Rock Creek and it is one of our favorite camp spots in California.
See moreMichael
September 2026
19 ft truck camper
Had a great time. The hosts are wonderful and very accommodating. We look forward to our next stay at FDF.
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Mark
September 2026
Tent
I solo camped in a good-size spot, and there was a huge pad which easily fit my four-person tent. Views were amazing of surrounding mountains, especially at sunrise and sunset. Couple of areas for short hikes. No one within a half mile of me so very quiet and peaceful.
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Katherine
September 2026
16 ft car
What an amazing location and experience!! If you are looking for a beautiful camp site that’s clean and millions of stars you found the best place ♥️✨
See more
Clinton
September 2026
With pets
Nice, clean, safe grounds. Stayed at #1 Christiansen Family Cabin and was pleased by the amount of space we had. I have a two wheel drive car and was able to park at the base in a parking lot and walked up to the cabin easily. Food is easily accessible nearby. Next time I’ll bring a fan to cool things off a little faster. Will be back.
See moreGaviota State Park camping guide
Overview
About
Gaviota State Park gives Hipcampers access to spectacular terrain with myriad things to do. Trailheads above the coastal bluffs lead hikers to the eastern part of the park, while ambitious hikers can see the beach from Gaviota Peak by tackling a loop trail, then relax tired muscles while soaking at Gaviota Hot Springs. Check out the Gaviota Wind Caves for a special treat. Anglers can dip their lines in from Gaviota Pier, which serves as a launch point for scuba divers and surfers heading into the Santa Barbara Channel. Gaviota State Park Campground contains 39 seasonal campsites close to the beach, some shaded by small trees. The open camping area is most suitable for RVs, but sites along the outer perimeter may offer tents more protection from wind. All campsites include a picnic table and fire ring with a built-in grill (but no hookups), and campers have access to restrooms with flush toilets and pay showers.If this campground is full or closed, check out El Capitán State Beach, Refugio State Beach, or nearby Jalama Beach County Park.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Campsites can be reserved via ReserveCalifornia six months in advance, based on availability.
- Online bookings may extend from the arrival date to the desired departure date, depending on maximum stay rules.
- Each site accommodates up to eight people. Fees cover one vehicle and one towed vehicle or trailer—additional fees apply for more cars.
- From October to April, the campground may only remain open Friday through Sunday.
- Check-in begins at 2pm and check-out time is noon, but the park is open for day use from 7am to sunset.
When to go
Gaviota State Park is busiest in summer, the best time of year to swim, hike, or bike. Water sports are popular any time of year, and the mountains—rising 2,400 feet above the beach—offer scenic spots for a picnic lunch. During the off-season, between October and April, the park is closed during the week but remains open on weekends, weather permitting.
Know before you go
- Leashed dogs are allowed in the campground and day-use area, but not on trails or the beach.
- Heavy winds can reach up to 50 miles per hour with the potential to snap tent poles.
- If you need supplies like firewood or snacks, the Gaviota Beach Store operates seasonally next to the campground.
Reviews for Gaviota State Park Campgrounds
77%
22 ratings · 15 reviews
Not the best camping experience, especially for the money. Spots are all right next to each other, on a field, under a train bridge... Amenities were ok, nothing to rave about. Beach is nice, can't actually see the sunset as it's behind the rocks (April). Host was SUPER nice though.
June 2021
This campsite is REALLY windy. I mean really, really, really windy. Not just the average wind that you would except when you are close to the beach. Like really really windy. My tent broke (that was well steaked) on the first day. It is a great lotion and the beach was awesome. The campsites are small. But, did I mention that it is windy?
Mixed feelings
· July 2017
Close to the beach, which is amazing, however the entire campground is shared and everyone is very close together. I've never camped this way, but everyone was very friendly so that was a plus. Just don't expect to be camping in nature. Bathrooms were in decent condition, it's dog friendly, and they have showers.
Mixed feelings
· April 2017
open spots right under a train bridge. beautiful beach & scenery, but no privacy and noisy.
February 2017
It's not the prettiest of places to be but for trips down south from the Bay Area, it's a nice place for an overnight pit stop and can sometimes be a good place to snag a campsite if other campgrounds further down the coast are full. Beware, there's not much shade and it can get windy since it's nestled right in a valley from the sea. Try to get one of the sites out of the way of the hubub (furthest from the entrance).
November 2016
After reading some iffy reviews on Yelp, my friends and I decided to camp here anyways and we LOVED it! The beach is right next to the campsite, as well as easy access to some great hikes, including the Gaviota Hot Springs. The beach isn't too crowded and there's even a little campsite store where you can buy snacks and firewood if you run out. We didn't have trouble with the wind like people said we would, but it may have just been the weekend we were there. Regardless, we loved this campsite and would definitely go back.
August 2016
So, what is the trick for actually reserving a spot here? I havent been able to find a single open spot at any time in the 7 monthe reservation window using Reserve America... and this would be fall and winter!
August 2016
Report from your shirtless host on Gaviota State Park
This is a park that is jewel in its own rusty way. The camp sites can be at times vary windy. The winds dose blow at this park. The hosts are very experience and well do what ever they can to help you.
The beach has a spectacular and a picturesque train track running right over the day use.
Unfortunately the pier on the beach is under construction and repair @ this time.
If you go camping and love hiking Gaviota is the camp to camp at. This park has miles of hiking trails. The hot springs is ouly 0.7 miles from the parking lot. The trail to Gaviota peck is a unforgettable experience on a clear day you can see the Channel Islands.
Your shirtless host Steve
August 2015
So I am from the Central Coast. I love this area. I love the outdoors. I was going to stay here with my then-boyfriend and his two kids, many moons ago, before they became my stepchildren. We drove into the campground. It was, to say the least, not impressive. My stepdaughter said it looked like camping in a parking lot. We did not stay. I think Refugio is better than Gaviota, and I would recommend the backcountry even more-- Los Padres National Forest. Yes, you miss the beach aspect. But you're not sleeping in a parking lot.
August 2015
The winds can get REALLY strong in the evening and throughout the night. Try not to get the campsites that's in open area and stake your tents down.
April 2015
The wind here will blow you away...literally. Come prepared, especially if you’re camping overnight.
March 2015
If you think you see an overgrown housecat, think again! Mountain lions roam this park...no need to come here, kitty kitty.
March 2015
Campsites 19 and 20 are your best bet here! They get you close enough to the bathrooms for that middle of the night stumble and you’re only about two minutes from the beach.
March 2015
When the tide is out, you can do some great tidepooling underneath the pier.
March 2015
Watch for fossils – with a little bit of luck you can find fish fossils or petrified whale bone on the beach.
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