Open Year-round
Yes
Reservations possible?
Yes
RV Hookups
No
Potable water
Yes
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Refugio State Beach Campground is a large scenic campground set beside the ocean in a beautiful palm tree dotted cove north of Santa Barbara off of Highway 101. The campground contains 66 sites, along with two group campsites, which can fit trailers and RVs up to about 30 feet in length.

The campground has family recreation in mind, containing day use playgrounds, basketball courts and facilities which campers can make use of. There is also a walking/cycling path that leaves the campground, heading south for about a mile on the bluffs overlooking the ocean with access to wide views and some smaller beaches along the way. Campers have easy access to Refugio State Beach throughout the campground.

Modern bathroom facilities stand throughout the campground, offering flush toilets and showers. Water is available at faucets located throughout the campground. Lifeguards are present on the beach during the Summer months, and offer kayak tours to campers and beach visitors during this time as well. Firewood can be purchased from camp hosts. Hiker/Biker sites are available.

The downside to this ideal location is that sites are often reserved at capacity well in advance during the nicer months. Reservations are available through California State Parks' website, and can be made up to six months in advance. Dogs are permitted on leash in the campground area, however are not allowed on the beach.

Overall, Refugio State Beach Campground is a scenic slice of coastal camping that has a tendency to see large crowds, however the spacious beach and easily-accessed walking/cycling trail offers a few quick escapes to get away from the large crowds and find a sense of solitude in this part of coastal California.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Occasionally full

Parking Pass

Campsite fee

Price per night (basic site)

45.00 $ (37.78 €)

Pros

Scenic environment. Modern amenities. Access to beaches and bike paths.

Cons

Reservations often fill up well in advance.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Managed by

California State Parks

Features

ADA accessible
Big vistas
Wildflowers
Amphitheater
Flushing toilets
Family friendly
Picnic tables
Potable water
Showers
Basketball
Playground
Horseshoes

Access

Vehicle

Total number of sites

66

Lodging type

Yurt

Maximum trailer length

25.00 ft (7.62 m)

Location

Nearby Adventures

Santa Barbara + Sierra Madre/San Rafael Mountains, California
Santa Barbara + Sierra Madre/San Rafael Mountains, California

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Santa Barbara + Sierra Madre/San Rafael Mountains, California
Santa Barbara + Sierra Madre/San Rafael Mountains, California

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