Paradise Campground
4.30107 reviews5050 Paradise Road, Santa Barbara, CA, USA 93105
Paradise Campground
$40.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
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
Standard non-electric sites are priced at $40-$80 depending on occupancy. Extra charges apply for additional people ($10 per person per night beyond standard occupancy limits) and vehicles ($10 per additional vehicle per night).
About this campground
Escape to Paradise Campground, a hidden gem tucked within the enchanting Los Padres National Forest where ancient oak trees create a natural cathedral overhead. This intimate retreat features just over a dozen thoughtfully spaced campsites, each offering a perfect blend of seclusion and community. Whether you're seeking a family adventure or a peaceful weekend immersed in nature, Paradise delivers an authentic outdoor experience where the only sounds are rustling leaves and birdsong echoing through the woodland canopy.
Paradise Campground caters primarily to tent and RV campers, with accommodations for single and double-family groups. Group camping and luxury options are not mentioned.
Historical Significance.null
Weather and SeasonsParadise Campground transforms with the seasons, each offering its own unique charm. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for lounging in the shade of mighty oaks, though temperatures can climb high under the California sun. Winter ushers in a cooler, more contemplative atmosphere with occasional rain showers that awaken the forest floor. But it's spring that truly lives up to the campground's name—when wildflowers carpet the meadows, temperatures hover in that perfect sweet spot, and the entire landscape bursts with vibrant green renewal.
ElevationPerched at an ideal 1,000 feet above sea level, Paradise Campground enjoys the best of mountain living without the extreme conditions of higher elevations. This gentle altitude creates a temperate microclimate where cool mountain breezes temper the California heat, making for comfortable camping conditions throughout much of the year.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to dappled sunlight filtering through a canopy of majestic oak trees, their gnarled branches creating natural art against the sky. Paradise Campground embraces you in this living gallery, where each campsite nestles beneath protective boughs offering welcome shade. At the heart of the campground, an inviting meadow beckons—perfect for afternoon frisbee games or stargazing sessions. Adventure awaits just beyond, with the pristine Santa Ynez River winding nearby and a network of hiking trails ready to lead you deeper into the forest's secrets.
Geological RegionParadise Campground claims its place in the rugged beauty of the Santa Ynez Mountains, standing as a gateway to the western reaches of Los Padres National Forest. At 1,000 feet elevation, this oak woodland sanctuary represents a unique ecological zone where coastal influences meet mountain terrain, creating a diverse landscape that has sheltered travelers and nature lovers for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityFlush toilets are accessible, and parking spurs are paved. However, some users mentioned challenges with backing large RVs due to boulders and low-hanging tree branches.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; some are spacious enough for multiple tents, while others may feel more compact, especially for larger RVs.
Sites PrivacySites are organized in a circular loop with moderate spacing. Some sites provide better privacy (e.g., Site #11, described as 'tucked away'), while others are close to the road or adjacent sites.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #11 is secluded and away from other campers. Site #14 offers proximity to rock formations but is noted for red ant issues during summer.
Best CampsitesSite #11 is highly recommended for privacy and shade. Sites near the meadow (#1, #9) are also praised for their spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of people per single site is 8. For double sites, up to 16 guests are permitted.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in a loop around a central meadow. Parking spurs are paved and can accommodate most RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservations available for rolling 6 months in advance.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, mobile apps, or by contacting the office.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available, but not guaranteed during peak times. Reviews suggest weekdays are less busy compared to weekends.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations are subject to a $10 change fee. Cancellations made at least one day prior are subject to a $10 fee. Late cancellations will incur the first night's recreation fee plus a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Paradise Campground offers a range of activities including hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Nearby Cachuma Lake Recreation Area provides additional opportunities for boating and fishing. The Santa Ynez River offers seasonal swimming and fishing opportunities. The campground is close to popular trails like the Aliso National Recreation Trail (2.5 miles) and Santa Cruz Trail (18 miles).
Hiking
Hiking trails are plentiful. The 2.5-mile Aliso National Recreation Trail begins nearby, while the 18-mile Santa Cruz Trail offers more challenging options. Trails near the Santa Ynez River are also accessible.Fishing
Fishing is available at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area (10 miles away), where trout, carp, and bass are common catches. The Santa Ynez River offers seasonal fishing opportunities.Swimming
Swimming is feasible in the Santa Ynez River, though seasonal water flow may affect usability. 'We swam at the river nearby via an access tunnel,' said one reviewer.Biking
Campground roads and nearby trails are suitable for biking. 'Bring bikes for the nearby trails!' recommended a reviewer.Boating
Boating activities are primarily available at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, a no-body-contact reservoir.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include wild turkeys, bobcats, and various bird species. "Wild turkeys running around campsites!" noted a reviewer.Winter Activities
Winter camping offers fewer bugs and cooler temperatures but lacks specific winter sports activities.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are available 10 miles away at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are subject to fire restrictions. Charcoal fires may also be regulated during dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include red ant infestations (reported at site #14), poison oak near tree lines, and dry, windy conditions during summer. Low water levels in nearby rivers during drought.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather. Check campone.com for updates.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.5 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
The nearest emergency services are located in Santa Barbara, 18 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing applies year-round.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are present, although some reviews mentioned leftover trash from previous guests. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAccess to Santa Ynez River is available via a tunnel beneath Paradise Road, featuring seasonal swimming holes.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include dry conditions in summer, insect infestations (flies, red ants), lack of water pressure in spigots, and poor road conditions (large potholes).
HostCamp host 'Stephanie' frequently praised for attentiveness and maintaining clean facilities. Firewood available for purchase from host.
Campground Map
5050 Paradise Road, Santa Barbara, CA, USA 93105
Driving directionsFrom Santa Barbara, take Highway 154 for approximately 9 miles to Paradise Road. Turn right and continue on Paradise Road to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal road conditions may apply and travelers should check for closures during extreme weather events. Reviews indicate some challenging road terrain such as large potholes.Nearby places
Santa Barbara (18 miles, ~25 min drive), Cachuma Lake Recreation Area (10 miles), Solvang (~25 min drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be procured in Santa Barbara (~18 miles away). The nearest fee dump station for RV users is at Cachuma Lake County Park, about 11 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
107 reviews
Paradise Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews vary significantly, with ratings ranging from 1 to 5 stars. Complaints often focus on summer heat, bugs, restroom cleanliness, and lack of water in the nearby river, while positive feedback highlights the natural beauty, spacious sites, and helpful camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 107 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive themes include clean restrooms, attentive camp hosts, proximity to hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and peaceful surroundings. Several users praised the spaciousness and shade provided by...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include extreme summer heat, flies, ants at certain sites, trash left by previous campers, and limited privacy at some sites. Some users also noted challenges with RV maneuverability...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include avoiding summer months due to heat and bugs, bringing bikes for nearby trails, stocking up on supplies beforehand, and checking for seasonal river water levels. Site #11 is recommended...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews highlight cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and quieter conditions during off-peak winter months. Summer reviews often complain about heat, dust, and flies.
Based on 107 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'We swam at the river nearby via an access tunnel.' 2. 'Bathrooms were spotless and had real flushing toilets.' 3. 'The sites are nicely spaced apart and shaded under trees.' 4. 'Be cautious with...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #11 is frequently praised for privacy and spaciousness. Site #14 has complaints about ant infestations and challenges for RVs. Site #15 offers sunny conditions but limited shade.
Based on 107 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features include paved parking spurs and accessible flush toilets. However, RV users noted difficulties with maneuvering due to boulders and trees.
Based on 107 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, and many users enjoyed bringing their dogs, especially for nearby hikes and river access.
Based on 107 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025