Middle Santa Ynez
Currently closed to vehicle access due to storm damage on Romero Camuesa Road. Hike-in, bike-in, or equestrian access only. The storm damage closure affecting Santa Barbara Ranger District recreation sites is in effect through September 2027.
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
Middle Santa Ynez Campground is a rustic, first-come, first-served campground situated approximately 75 minutes from Santa Barbara via Romero Camuesa Road. At 1,567 feet elevation, the campground offers over a dozen spacious sites nestled beneath spreading oak trees, providing welcome shade during warmer months. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and BBQ stand, with pit toilets located nearby. The campground sits between Caliente Creek and the Santa Ynez River, though water sources are highly unreliable and often completely dry. Campers must bring all water needed for their stay. The 14-day stay limit applies to all visitors. Middle Santa Ynez serves as a popular base camp during fall hunting season and provides trailhead access to McPhearson Peak Trail and Aliso Trail. A one-mile interpretive trail along Aliso Creek offers an easy hike, while a more strenuous 3.5-mile loop provides ridgetop views of the Santa Ynez River valley.
Directions
From Santa Barbara, take Highway 154 (San Marcos Pass Road) north. Turn onto East Camino Cielo and continue to Romero Camuesa Road (Forest Road 5N15). The campground is located along Romero Camuesa Road, approximately 75 minutes from Santa Barbara. Note: Road access currently restricted due to storm damage.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| 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) 967-3481 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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