El Capitan Sb Campground
The campground is currently closed for the El Capitan State Beach Entrance Improvement Project. The anticipated March 2026 reopening has been delayed; a revised timeline will be announced once remaining paving work and final approvals are completed. When the park reopens, campsites will initially be first-come, first-served before reservations are reactivated.
Beach Hazards Statement issued October 10 at 1:57AM PDT until October 13 at 2:00PM PDT by NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA
* WHAT...Minor tidal overflow flooding is expected. Dangerous rip currents and breaking waves due to elevated surf expected. * WHERE...Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast and Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast. * WHEN...From Saturday morning through Tuesday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Pooling of sea water is possible around high tide at beach and harbor areas that is uncommon with normal tidal ranges. Enhanced beach erosion is also possible. The risk for significant damage is very low. There is an increased risk of ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats nearshore. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...High tides of 6.6 to 7.2 feet will be common each morning, with large secondary high tides in the evening hours.
About
El Capitán State Beach campground sits atop scenic bluffs that rise dramatically from the Santa Barbara Channel, 17 miles west of Santa Barbara off Highway 101. The 132 standard campsites and 5 group camps are nestled beneath a canopy of sycamores and oaks, offering shade and privacy. Each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table. The campground also provides hike-and-bike sites with shared fire pits and food storage. A stairway leads from the bluffs down to the sandy beach below, where visitors can swim, surf, fish, scuba dive, snorkel, and explore rocky tidepools. The park features a nature trail and bluff-top bike path connecting to nearby Refugio State Beach. Restrooms and showers are available throughout the campground. Ten ADA-accessible campsites are available, primarily designed for tent camping, with accessible restroom and shower facilities nearby. A beach wheelchair can be borrowed from park staff. Dogs are permitted in the campground on a 6-foot leash but are not allowed on the beach.
Directions
From Highway 101, take Exit 117 for El Capitán State Beach, located 17 miles west of Santa Barbara. Proceed south toward the ocean.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $45 - $285 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 42ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 30ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (805) 968-1033 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
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