Campgrounds and RV parks near University of California-Santa Barbara, CA

The Gaviota Coast is the main draw for campers. At Refugio State Beach, the cove suits swimming, surfing, scuba diving, fishing, and kayaking, with calm waters, palm-lined sand, and views toward the Channel Islands. The Aniso Trail runs along the coastal bluffs between Refugio and El Capitan and is popular with cyclists and walkers. The El Capitan backcountry, including the Bill Wallace Trail, remains open during the entrance project. Inland, Rancho Oso provides guided horseback riding, hiking access into Los Padres National Forest, a country store, and family activities. In town, visitors stop at the Santa Barbara Zoo, the Old Mission, Stearns Wharf, and the harbor. Lake Cachuma, north of the coast, adds calm-water boating and fishing options for day trips from camp.

The Santa Barbara coast has two clear seasons. The wet season runs December through March, and Refugio State Beach shifts to walk-in only for regular campsites from December 1 through March 31, with group camps available by special-event permit only. El Capitan State Beach is closed to camping and, during the most intensive construction phase, to pedestrian access as well, while crews complete a new entrance road, bridge, and kiosk. The El Capitan backcountry and Bill Wallace Trail remain open. Confirm current status on the California State Parks website before traveling. Spring brings drying trails, wildflowers, and rapidly filling weekend reservations. Summer is peak season, with dry weather, warm ocean temperatures, and lifeguard towers staffed at Refugio from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Coastal state-park reservations should be made the moment the six-month window opens. Fall is mild and quieter, with the warmest ocean water often arriving in September and early October. Wildfire risk in the Los Padres backcountry typically peaks in late summer and fall, so check fire restrictions before traveling inland.

Coastal state parks here are dry camping for RVs. Refugio State Beach has no electric hookups; the campground includes flush toilets, hot showers, a camp store, picnic areas, and fire rings, with sites that generally accommodate smaller to mid-size RVs. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, and dogs are allowed in the campground and day-use area but not on the beach. Rancho Oso provides full-hookup RV sites with 30 and 50 amp service, a dump station, restrooms with hot showers, laundry, a pool and hot tub, a country store, and a dog park, though some amenities have been periodically offline for repairs. Cell and Wi-Fi service at Rancho Oso is limited due to the mountain setting. Natural tar can wash up on Gaviota Coast beaches, so pack old towels.