Gaviota Sp Campground

Open

Open for the 2026 season through September 30. Seasonal closure runs October 1 through March 31 when the park reverts to day use only. Reservations available through ReserveCalifornia up to six months in advance.

Beach Hazards Statement issued October 10 at 1:51PM PDT until October 13 at 2:00PM PDT by NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA

1:51 PM — October 11th, 2:00 PM

* WHAT...For the Beach Hazards Statement, minor tidal overflow flooding with elevated surf and dangerous rip currents are expected. For the Coastal Flood Advisory, minor to moderate coastal flooding can be expected near times of high tide, especially with the Sunday morning high tide. * WHERE...Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast and Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast. * WHEN...For the Beach Hazards Statement, through Tuesday afternoon. For the Coastal Flood Advisory, from 6 AM Sunday to 10 PM PDT Monday. * IMPACTS...Minor to moderate flooding of sea water is likely around high tide at low-lying beach and harbor areas that is uncommon with normal tidal ranges. Enhanced beach erosion is 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. Large secondary high tides are also expected each evening. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...High tides are expected to peak around 7.7 feet on Sunday morning, then 7.1 to 7.3 feet on Monday and Tuesday mornings.

Coastal Flood Advisory issued October 10 at 1:51PM PDT until October 12 at 10:00PM PDT by NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA

1:51 PM — October 11th, 2:00 PM

* WHAT...For the Beach Hazards Statement, minor tidal overflow flooding with elevated surf and dangerous rip currents are expected. For the Coastal Flood Advisory, minor to moderate coastal flooding can be expected near times of high tide, especially with the Sunday morning high tide. * WHERE...Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast and Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast. * WHEN...For the Beach Hazards Statement, through Tuesday afternoon. For the Coastal Flood Advisory, from 6 AM Sunday to 10 PM PDT Monday. * IMPACTS...Minor to moderate flooding of sea water is likely around high tide at low-lying beach and harbor areas that is uncommon with normal tidal ranges. Enhanced beach erosion is 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. Large secondary high tides are also expected each evening. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...High tides are expected to peak around 7.7 feet on Sunday morning, then 7.1 to 7.3 feet on Monday and Tuesday mornings.

About

Located 33 miles west of Santa Barbara along the scenic Gaviota Coast, this campground provides access to one of the most pristine stretches of Southern California coastline. The park is defined by its dramatic setting where coastal bluffs meet the Pacific Ocean, with the iconic railroad trestle framing views of the beach and pier. The campground sits in a sheltered canyon environment with mature trees providing shade. Beyond the beach, the park offers hiking and horseback riding trails through oak woodland and chaparral environments leading to natural sulfur hot springs in the backcountry. Ocean activities include swimming, surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing from the pier. The campground features flush restrooms with accessible showers, potable water, fire rings and picnic tables at each site, and a camp store for basic supplies. Reservations are made through ReserveCalifornia up to six months in advance, though same-day reservations may be available. The campground enforces a seven-night consecutive stay limit with a 48-hour vacancy requirement before returning, and a maximum of 30 nights per calendar year. Dogs are permitted in the campground on a six-foot leash but are not allowed on the beach.

Directions

From Santa Barbara, drive 33 miles west on U.S. Highway 101. The park entrance is on the ocean side of the highway at the Gaviota State Park exit.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station —
Wifi —
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers Yes
Electric Hookups —
Water Hookups —
Sewer Hookups —
Camp Store Yes
Price $10 - $45

Vehicle

Max RV Length 24ft
Max Trailer Length 24ft
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (805) 968-1033

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile None

Availability

Photos

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