In Santa Barbara, stepping out of your abode and onto the beach doesn’t always mean you have to splurge on an expensive seaside resort. Coveted campgrounds and RV parks pepper the Santa Barbara South Coast, making it easy and affordable to set up shop on some of California’s most pristine shoreline.
Camping here has often been cited as one of the most inviting trips on the West Coast, and understandably so. Over 300 days of sunshine every year and mild temperatures throughout all four seasons make this an easy, comfortable, and convenient place to park or pop a tent. Camping and RV sites range from ocean-side state parks to the hidden gems of Los Padres National Forest. For those who prefer a more luxurious camping experience, El Capitan Canyon and Jalama Beach County Park are two campgrounds that offer glamping in Santa Barbara. At El Capitan Canyon, guests will find fully furnished cabins, adventure yurts and safari tents on raised wooden decks. And Jalama Beach County Park offers several upscale cabins – all with ocean views – that offer a variety of amenities.
Most campsites are still close to town, while also being just far enough off the beaten path that you’ll feel as removed from daily life as you need to, and as close to nature as you can get.