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A night under the stars


The Los Padres offers beautiful campgrounds that range widely from low to high elevation, riverside to forest to coastal bluffs

Camping & Cabins

There are no cabins on the Los Padres National Forest, only campgrounds. There are cabins at Rancho Oso and Lake Cachuma County Park. Lodging is available in the nearby communities of Santa Barbara, Solvang and Buellton and in the Big Sur area.

The Los Padres National Forest offers beautiful camping areas that range widely from low to high elevation, riverside to forested, and primitive to developed.  Most of the campsites tend to be directed toward the more primitive camping experience.

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through www.recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

Policy on Pet Dogs

Always keep your dog leashed, except when inside a vehicle, tent, dog crate, or portable kennel. Do not allow your dog to wander freely.

While on a trail or in and around campgrounds and picnic areas, dogs must be kept on a leash (unless caged or crated) no longer than six feet.

Dogs must wear a collar with current tags at all times, as state and county laws apply on National Forest System lands.

Showing: 1 - 6 of 6 results

Ballinger Canyon OHV Day Use Riding Area

Site Open
Off Highway Vehicles (OHV)
The Ballinger and Deer Park areas are geared toward OHV use. These areas provide 11 4WD roads, 12 ATV trails, and 14 motorcycle trails. Access to 4WD roads is available to both ATVs and motorcycles,…

Campo Alto Campground

Site Temporarily Closed
Hiking
Jeffrey Pine shaded camp, Recreational Vehicles up to 30 feet. There are 17 campsites. 6-8 people allowed per site. 2-3 small tents. Access to the Vincent Tumameit Trailhead. Beautiful scenic views.…

Chuchupate Campground

Site Closed
Pinyon pine shaded camp, Recreational Vehicles up to 24 feet. There are 29 campsites. The Chuchupate Campground is managed by the Parks Management Company for the Forest Service.  $30/night for…

McGill Group Campground

Site Temporarily Closed
Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
Escape from the city to the rustic and beautiful McGill Campground. The campground, bursting with views of mountains and valleys, is an ideal base for several biking and hiking trails.A dense stand…