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.
Extreme Heat Warning issued September 9 at 1:11AM PDT until September 10 at 8:00PM PDT by NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA
* WHAT...Temperatures of 88 to 108 expected. * WHERE...Calabasas and Agoura Hills, Eastern San Fernando Valley, Eastern Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area, Los Angeles County Beaches, Los Angeles County Inland Coast including Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles County San Gabriel Valley, Malibu Coast, Palos Verdes Hills, Western San Fernando Valley, and Western Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area * WHEN...From 8 AM this morning to 8 PM PDT Thursday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events. Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Humid conditions will add to heat discomfort. Heat peaking on Wednesday for most areas, except likely peaking Thursday for the Santa Barbara South Coast.
Beach Hazards Statement issued September 8 at 11:10PM PDT until September 10 at 3:00AM PDT by NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA
* WHAT...Dangerous and potentially life threatening rip currents and breaking waves due to elevated surf expected. * WHERE...Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast and Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast. * WHEN...Through late Wednesday night. * IMPACTS...There is an increased risk of ocean drowning. Rip currents will be widespread and very strong, potentially pulling swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks. Pooling of sea water is possible around high tide at beach areas that is uncommon with normal tidal ranges. Enhanced beach erosion is also possible. Highest impact potential is tonight (Tuesday), with more minor impacts Wednesday through Thursday. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...High tides near 7 feet will occur each evening between 7PM and 11PM.
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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