Barrel Springs
Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No vehicle access; campers must hike or bike in. No potable water available.
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Monterey Ranger District Emergency Closure Order with Exceptions
To provide for public safety, the Timber and Plaskett Fire Area are closed, including roads and trails described in Exhibit A and shown on the Exhibit B Map.This Forest Order No. 05-07-51-26-11 supersedes Forest Order No. 05-07-51-26-10.
Special Closure - SBRD Storm Damage Recovery
Closure of developed recreation sites, roads, and trails in the Santa Barbara Ranger District impacted by storm damage and some roads restricted to non-motorized use. Effective from September 16, 2026, through September 15, 2027.
About
Barrel Springs Campground is a small, primitive camping area located in the backcountry of Los Padres National Forest, east of Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County. The campground sits in a shaded canyon bottom along La Brea Creek, surrounded by mature oak trees that provide welcome relief from the sun. The campground features 6 individual sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. However, visitors should be aware that this is no longer a drive-in campground; road access has been closed, so campers must hike or bike in. The spring that once provided water no longer functions, so all water must be packed in unless La Brea Creek happens to be flowing. The surrounding area offers opportunities for hunting, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicle use on designated routes. This remote location appeals to those seeking a backcountry experience away from more developed campgrounds.
Directions
From Santa Maria, take Betteravia Road 7 miles east, then Mesa Road 4.5 miles east, then Tepusquet Canyon Road 4.5 miles north, then Colson Canyon Road (11N04) 8 miles southeast to the Barrel Springs Road (10N06).
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (805) 968-6640 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Los Padres NF Alerts |
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!