El Capitan State Beach Campground
4.5148 reviewsEl Capitán State Beach, Goleta, CA 93117
El Capitan State Beach Campground
$45.00 - $45.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$45.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$45 per night for standard campsites. An additional $8.25 reservation fee applies. Fees for group sites and hike/bike sites are not specified.
About this campground
Perched dramatically on coastal bluffs where the mountains meet the sea, El Capitán State Beach Campground offers an enchanting escape into California's central coast wilderness. Here, ancient sycamores and sprawling oaks frame your view of the endless Pacific, while below, a tapestry of sandy coves and mysterious tidepools awaits exploration. The rhythmic crash of waves provides nature's soundtrack as you settle into this coastal paradise where forest and ocean converge.
El Capitan State Beach Campground offers a variety of camping options, including family sites, group sites, hike-and-bike sites, and RV accommodations.
Historical SignificanceLong before European sails appeared on the horizon, the Chumash people called this coastline home, leaving their mark in the very essence of the land. The campground's name honors José Francisco Ortega, the pioneering commander of the Santa Barbara Presidio, whose legacy intertwines with the Spanish colonial era that shaped California's identity. Today, visitors walk paths where indigenous traditions met colonial ambitions, creating the rich cultural tapestry that defines the Central Coast.
Weather and SeasonsEl Capitán's climate reads like a love letter to coastal California living. Summer mornings arrive wrapped in mystical fog that burns away to reveal azure skies, while late summer and fall deliver those coveted golden days that make the coastline glow. Winter brings dramatic storm displays that transform the Pacific into a churning spectacle, followed by crystalline days so clear you can trace the Channel Islands on the horizon. Each season paints the landscape with its own distinctive palette.
ElevationFrom your vantage point atop these commanding coastal bluffs, the Pacific stretches endlessly before you, while the gentle slope down to the beach invites exploration. These elevated terraces provide the perfect natural amphitheater for sunset watching and whale spotting during migration seasons.
Natural Features and SceneryEl Capitán Creek winds through the campground like a green ribbon, nurturing groves of majestic sycamores whose pale trunks glow in the filtered sunlight, alongside venerable coast live oaks that have witnessed centuries pass. The aromatic sage scrub releases its perfume on warm afternoons, while the coastal woodland shelters deer, foxes, and countless bird species. From the blufftop, panoramic ocean vistas unfold in every direction, punctuated by the discovery of hidden beaches accessible via winding trails.
Geological RegionThis remarkable stretch of coastline showcases nature's artistry where tectonic forces lifted ancient seafloor to create the dramatic bluffs that define El Capitán. Below, the relentless Pacific has carved a wonderland of sandy pocket beaches interrupted by rocky outcroppings that harbor thriving tidepool ecosystems. El Capitán Creek has etched its own canyon through these marine terraces, creating a lush riparian corridor where sycamores and oaks thrive in the marriage of mountain runoff and ocean mist.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include ten campsites designed for tent camping with firm surfaces and accessible tables. The combination restroom/shower building adjacent to the De Anza Group Camp is accessible. Parking and picnic facilities near the beach are also accessible.
Sites SizeSites accommodate trailers and recreational vehicles up to 42 feet in length. Pad lengths are listed as 35 feet.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. Some spots are described as secluded, while others in the upper section are more exposed and resemble parking lots.
Total Campsites130 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in the 120s and mid-80s are closest to the beach. Bluff-top sites are recommended for ocean views.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites include 7, 8, 16, 30-34, 37, 39-40, 42, 52-53, 70-73, 82-85, 88, 92-94, 96-97, 99, 101, 103, 105, 107-108, 115-116, 118, 120-121, 124, 126, 128, 130, and 132.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
No specific information provided on the maximum length of stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per campsite.
Groups
Five group camping areas accommodate 40-100 people, overlooking the ocean from the marine terrace. Accessible group camps include Drake and Ortega.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground features loops with paved and unpaved sites on bluff-tops. Includes both family and group sites.
Open and Closed SeasonCurrently open until November 19, 2024 for reservations. From January 2025, camping will cease due to construction until January 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites available starting November 19, 2024, until construction closure in January 2025.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific information provided about cancellation policy.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
El Capitan State Beach offers a wide range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, surfing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The campground also features a campfire center for family programs and organized events.
HikingThe park features several trails, including a 0.6-mile Nature Trail offering coastal views and a riparian corridor, and the Bill Wallace Trail, which spans over ten miles with a 1,000-foot elevation gain. "Enjoy mature sycamore trees on the nature trails," writes one reviewer.
FishingFishing is permitted, and the beach is noted for its rocky tidepools and diverse aquatic life. Specific types of fish commonly caught are not detailed.
SwimmingSwimming is available in designated beach areas. "The beach is kid-friendly as waves were small," a user mentions. However, dogs are not allowed on the beach itself.
BikingThe bluff-top bike trail provides scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands. Though coastal erosion has closed parts of the trail, accessible sections remain available for bikers.
BoatingBoating opportunities are available, although explicit details on docking facilities or types of boats allowed are not provided.
Wildlife viewingThe park's lush coastal woodland features sycamores and oaks that attract diverse wildlife, including band-tailed pigeons, scrub jays, mule deer, and monarch butterflies in the fall. "Look for clusters of reddish-brown wings with black veins," advises an observer.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include sunbathing, tidepool exploration, and surfing. "Rocky beach with driftwood on one end, open sandy beach on the other," writes a user. Naturally occurring tar in the sand is noted as a minor inconvenience.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsPrograms at the campfire center include accessible seating, parking, and stage routes. Family programs and guided tours are occasionally offered.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings and grills. Restrictions apply during high fire danger.
- Quiet hours are Generators must be off by 10 PM. General quiet hours not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsCliffs are unstable and dangerous. Beach sand contains naturally occurring tar. Poison oak is prevalent in some areas.
Active alertsCamping will be closed starting January 2025 for road and facility improvements.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (approximately 17 miles away). Police services available through Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated, but summer and fall are suggested as the warmest and busiest seasons.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, though specific details on their locations and schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the Pacific Ocean with access to sandy beaches and tidepools. El Capitán Creek runs through the area.
Common complaintsRestrooms and showers are outdated. Some sites near Hwy 101 and train tracks experience noise disturbances.
HostNo specific details about campground hosts provided.
Campground Map
El Capitán State Beach, Goleta, CA 93117
Driving directionsFrom Hwy 101, take Exit 117 for El Capitán State Beach and proceed south toward the ocean and the park entrance.
Accessible via Hwy 101; roads are paved. Construction closures are expected starting January 2025, impacting entrance road and camping accessibility.Nearby places
Santa Barbara (17 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Goleta (8 miles, approximately 10 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies and camping items available at the park's camp store. Additional supplies in Goleta, approximately 8 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
48 reviews
El Capitan State Beach Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic views, proximity to the beach, and recreational amenities. While most visitors praise the location and overall experience, some note the outdated facilities and occasional noise from nearby traffic and trains.
Review Summaries
Positive aspects include ocean-view campsites, clean showers, and diverse recreational activities. "Lovely spacious campground with beautiful views," writes a reviewer. Another adds, "We camped in...
Show more
Common complaints involve outdated restroom and shower facilities, occasional noise from nearby highways and trains, and the lack of RV dump stations. "Restrooms could be cleaner," notes a user,...
Show more
Recommendations advise campers to bring quarters for showers, baby wipes for tar removal, and coconut oil for cleaning feet. "Campsites 120's and mid 80's have the shortest walk to the beach," writes...
Show more
Fall and winter seasons attract surfers due to west swell conditions, while summer months bring cool fog. Late summer and fall are described as sunny and warm.
"Bring quarters for the hot showers." "Naturally occurring tar in the sand, pack baby wipes." "Very beautiful site and when you are going to fall asleep you hear the sound of the beach waves."...
Show more
Best campsites include 7, 8, 16, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 37, 39, 40, 42, 52, 53, 70, 71, 72, 73, 82, 83, 84, 85, 88, 92, 93, 94, 96, 97, 99, 101, 103, 105, 107, 108, 115, 116, 118, 120, 121, 124, 126,...
Show more
Positive reviews highlight accessible features such as a combination restroom/shower building, accessible group camps, and picnic facilities near the beach.
Pets are allowed on leashes in campsites and day-use areas but are prohibited on the beach itself. "Awesome camping experience with my dog," writes a reviewer.
Last updated July 31, 2025