Refugio Campground

Open — Open year-round. Currently operating on a first-come, first-served basis through March 31. Online reservations through ReserveCalifornia are available April 1 through November 30. Caltrans piledriving operations for the Highway 101 Bridge Replacement Project continue through December 2025, generating additional noise starting at 7:00 AM daily.

About

Refugio State Beach Campground is situated along the scenic Central California coast, 20 miles west of Santa Barbara on Highway 101. The park's distinctive character comes from palm trees planted near Refugio Creek, giving it a unique tropical island atmosphere. The campground features 67 standard family campsites, 3 group campsites, and hike/bike sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. The campground accommodates RVs and trailers up to 30 feet in length, though no hookups are available. Full facilities include hot showers, restrooms, drinking water, and outdoor showers. A camp store located near the shoreline provides supplies and snacks. Additional amenities include a basketball court, playground, campfire center, and large grassy areas with barbecues. The beach offers excellent opportunities for surfing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Lifeguards patrol year-round, with towers staffed from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Beach wheelchairs are available at no cost for visitors with mobility needs. The park offers hiking and bike trails, picnic areas, and interpretive programs. Dogs are permitted in the campground and day-use areas but not on the beach.

Directions

Located 20 miles west of Santa Barbara on Highway 101 at Refugio Road. Address: 10 Refugio Beach Road, Goleta, CA 93117. Main entrance accessible from Southbound 101 off-ramp.

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