El Capitan Sb Campground

Closed — Closed for construction beginning January 2025 for approximately one year. The entrance road, bridge, and entrance kiosk are undergoing replacement as part of a major improvement project. Anticipated reopening in January 2026. Pedestrian beach access remains available during closure.

About

El Capitan State Beach Campground sits on the scenic Central Coast of California, 17 miles north of Santa Barbara. Originally acquired by California State Parks between 1953 and 1967, the campground maintains its 1978 configuration with 132 standard campsites, 5 group sites, and hike-and-bike camping options. The park provides a classic California coastal camping experience with direct beach access, though amenities remain basic with no RV hookups available. Sites accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers with a maximum length of 30 feet, and each includes a fire ring and picnic table. The campground typically operates on a reservation system through ReserveCalifornia up to six months in advance, though it may operate first-come, first-served during certain periods. Standard sites allow up to 8 people, with pets permitted in the campground but not on the beach. The beach features lifeguard coverage traditionally from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend. Stay limits vary seasonally: 7 consecutive days from March through November, and 15 consecutive days from December through February, with a maximum of 30 days per calendar year.

Directions

From Highway 101 (north or southbound), take Exit 117 for El Capitan State Beach Road, located 17 miles west of downtown Santa Barbara. At the end of the off-ramp, turn south toward the ocean and proceed a short distance to the park entrance. The campground is approximately 20 minutes north of Santa Barbara.

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