Gaviota Sp Campground

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.