Cachuma Lake Campground, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Cachuma Lake Campground is the centerpiece of the Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, run by Santa Barbara County Parks in California’s Santa Ynez Valley. Surrounded by rolling oak hills and framed by the San Rafael Mountains, it’s a full-service destination for campers, anglers, and families. The lake itself is a domestic water supply (no body contact swimming), but boating, kayaking, and fishing are huge draws — and amenities rival a small resort.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Relaxed and scenic.” Campers love the oak shade, clean facilities, and abundance of options — from tent loops to full-hookup RV sites and cozy cabins. It’s peaceful midweek and lively on weekends, especially with families and anglers.
Highlights
- Full amenities: flush toilets, hot showers, camp store, laundry, Wi-Fi, and hookups.
- Lake views: many sites overlook the water or distant peaks.
- Fishing paradise: stocked with trout, bass, crappie, and catfish.
- Close to Santa Barbara & Solvang: quick access to beaches, wineries, and food.
Frictions to plan around
- No swimming: the lake is a water supply; boating and fishing only.
- Summer heat: expect 90°F+ midafternoon temps.
- Weekend crowds: quieter midweek and off-season.
- Deer and raccoons: secure food; wildlife is abundant.
Camper Quotes
“Like a mini resort — showers, store, and lake views.”
“Perfect for families, and close to wine country.”
“Fishing was great and sunsets even better.”
“Cabins and hookups make it easy for everyone.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: over 400 total — mix of tent, RV, and full-hookup options.
- Hookups: water/electric/sewer available in select loops.
- Facilities: restrooms, showers, dump station, camp store, laundry, Wi-Fi, playground, nature center, and amphitheater.
- Cabins & yurts: available to rent year-round.
- Boating: marina with rentals for pontoons, kayaks, and fishing boats.
- Pets: welcome on leash (except inside rental units).
Booking & Availability
Reservations: through countyofsb.org/parks or by phone. Open year-round with peak demand from spring through fall. Holidays and fishing tournaments fill quickly, so reserve early.
Tip: Loops A and B offer the best mix of shade and views. For peace and quiet, try midweek visits in fall when temperatures are mild and the oak leaves turn golden.
Best Sites
- Loop A (lake view): stunning sunsets and easy access to trails.
- Loop B (oak canopy): shady, private, and near restrooms.
- Full-hookup section: best for longer RV stays.
Bring binoculars — bald eagles, herons, and hawks frequent the shoreline year-round.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Refugio State Beach: coastal camping west of Santa Barbara.
- El Capitan State Beach: classic bluff camping with ocean access.
- Lake Casitas Recreation Area: another family-friendly lake campground near Ojai.
Map & Directions
From Santa Barbara, take Highway 154 (San Marcos Pass) north for about 30 minutes. The entrance to Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is on the right, well signed. From Solvang, drive 10 miles south on Highway 154.
Address: Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, 2225 Highway 154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Cachuma Lake FAQ
Can you swim in Cachuma Lake?
No — swimming and body contact are prohibited, but boating and kayaking are allowed.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on leash in campgrounds and some trails (fee per pet may apply).
When’s the best time to visit?
Spring for wildflowers and full lake levels; fall for golden hills and fewer crowds.
Are there hookups?
Yes — several loops have full hookups for RVs.
Is there fishing?
Yes! Trout, bass, crappie, and catfish — rental boats available at the marina.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
Locals say he’s gone “semi-retired” near the nature center — usually spotted birdwatching at dawn 👣🦅.
