Campsite Details
- Location: Santa Barbara County, California
- Month: July
- Site: #6
- Bathrooms/showers: yes/yes (coin-operated)
- Cost: $52.99
- Reservations: Here (currently closed)
Campground
Located just outside of Santa Barbara, El Capitan State Beach is a classic California coastal campground with ocean views, bluffs, and easy beach access. It contains about 140 different sites, with different levels—some have cliff-like views, and others were amongst the trees.
The campground is trailer and camper-friendly, but no hook-ups. Additionally, dogs are allowed, however, only in the campground and day-use areas.
And although the campground lies right off the highway, its coastal location made it feel secluded amongst the trees and along the shoreline.
Campsite
I camped at site #6 on the lower section of the campground. As a last minute reservation, I was happy with my campsite. It was shaded, and surrounded by trees. It also contained a picnic table, and a fire ring, with only a quick walk to the bathrooms, and the large trash cans.
Shrubs and tree surrounds my campsite which gave the impression that it was private (although it really wasn’t). However, the campground, specifically the loop I stayed in, remained largely unoccupied.
The parking spot had space for two cars, side by side, and the campsite also had ample space for multiple tents.
What is nearby Campground?
The main draw here is the short walk to the beach. You can tide pool, walk the shoreline, or relax in the sand. For something active, hop on the bike path that connects to Refugio State Beach.
If you’re willing to drive a little bit, Gaviota State Beach/Campground is about 15 minutes north, Solvang is about 30 minutes north, and Santa Barbara is about 25 minutes south on the coast. Additionally, across the highway there is Sun Outdoors, which is an outdoor camping resort. The campground store on site was closed when I arrived, so I went to this location to buy wood, and other snacks.
How Easy is it to book?
I booked through ReserveCalifornia just a week prior to arriving. But like any rule of thumb with booking campsites, booking months in advance is highly recommended (especially for summer weekends, and for the bluff-edge sites).
Final Thoughts
What I loved most was falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up with ocean air drifting through camp. The location had incredible sunset and ocean views, it was family-friendly, and kept very clean.
Unfortunately, my only hang-up was that at night time, I had a problem with wasps surrounding my light sources. Luckily, by the fire place I had no issues, but my lanterns and tent lights kept getting these critters all over them.
Finally, It’s not the most secluded campground, and the weekend days were booked, but the location makes it unforgettable. I’d return again for a weekday adventure here for sure.
FAQs About El Capitan State Beach
Does El Capitan State Beach have hookups?
No, RV sites do not have hookups, but a dump station is available.
Are dogs allowed at El Capitan State Beach?
Yes, but only in campgrounds and on-leash — not on the beach.
When is the best time to camp here?
Late spring and early fall offer the best weather without the heavy summer crowds.
Curious about other campsites in California? I review all the wonderful campsites (and not so wonderful campsites) here that I have stayed at. Take a peek, get outside, and happy adventuring!
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