Davy Brown Campground
4.0548 reviewsDavy Brown Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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 Nonelectric site fee is $30 per night, with an additional $2 surcharge for weekends and holidays. Noted fees do not include taxes or discounts.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Figueroa Mountain, Davy Brown Campground beckons adventurers seeking refuge from the modern world. Here, where Davy Brown Creek whispers ancient stories through 13 thoughtfully placed campsites, visitors discover a sanctuary where mountain melodies and rustling leaves replace digital notifications. Whether you're scanning the canopy for rare mountain birds, conquering nearby trails on foot or bike, or pursuing game during deer season, this hidden gem promises an authentic backcountry experience wrapped in California's natural splendor.
Davy Brown Campground supports standard nonelectric camping. It caters to both tent and RV campers, with limitations on RV length (25 ft max). Group sites are not explicitly mentioned, and no glamping options are available.
Historical SignificanceThe stories of this land remain quietly woven into the landscape, waiting to be discovered by those who take time to listen to the wind through the oaks and the creek's eternal song.
Weather and SeasonsThis mountain retreat enjoys a Mediterranean climate that rewards visitors with sun-drenched days and refreshingly crisp nights year-round. Even summer adventurers should pack warm layers, as temperatures can plummet once the sun dips behind the ridgeline. During the warmer months, the creek attracts its share of buzzing companions – gnats and mosquitoes claim their territory here, making insect repellent as essential as your sleeping bag.
ElevationPerched at a mountain elevation where the air feels lighter and the stars shine brighter, this campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry unfolds across the mountainsides, where ancient valley oaks stand sentinel alongside their blue oak and live oak cousins, their branches intertwining with stately gray pines. Below this majestic canopy, manzanita shrubs twist skyward while coffeeberry and redberry bushes paint splashes of color across the understory. The true star, however, is Davy Brown Creek itself – a liquid lifeline that tumbles over miniature waterfalls and pauses in crystal-clear swimming holes, offering both soundtrack and refreshment to weary travelers.
Geological RegionDeep within the legendary Los Padres National Forest, this campground occupies a special pocket where mountain ecosystems converge. The surrounding peaks showcase nature's architectural prowess, draped in a diverse forest of valley oak, blue oak, live oak, and gray pine, while the understory bursts with native shrubs including aromatic manzanita, coffeeberry, and vibrant redberry. Through it all, the creek carves its patient path, sculpting the landscape one season at a time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but other parts of the campground, such as trails and certain campsites, may not be suitable for individuals with disabilities due to the rugged terrain.
Sites SizeThe sites can accommodate RVs up to 25 ft long and are described as spacious by some reviewers.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies by site. Some are described as secluded and surrounded by trees, while others offer partial shade and less privacy.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site 9 due to poison oak and mud. Site 12 is ideal for families due to proximity to water features.
Best CampsitesSite 12 is described as spacious and close to a swimming hole and waterfall. Sites 5, 6, and 7 are recommended for groups. Sites 9 and 10 are considered less favorable due to mud and poison oak.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Camping fee includes one vehicle and one tent, trailer, or RV.
Groups
No specific group sites or policies for large groups are noted.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out along a single road following the creek. Sites vary in size and shade.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservable start dates begin on June 29, 2025, with peak season lasting from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-ups are not explicitly stated; reservations are strongly encouraged due to limited spots.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to the check-in date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations result in forfeiting the first night's recreational fee as well as additional penalties. Modifications outside original reservation dates incur $10 fees. No changes allowed on the day of check-in.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Davy Brown Campground can enjoy a range of nature-focused activities. Highlights include hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and seasonal creek swimming. Hunting is also popular during deer season. Wildlife observation is a key attraction, with a variety of birds often spotted.
Hiking
Several trails are accessible from the campground, including the Davy Brown/Fir Canyon Trail. Trails are noted for their beauty but are often overgrown and challenging, with poison oak being a recurring issue. Hikers recommend long sleeves and pants.Swimming
The creek offers invigorating swimming holes and diminutive waterfalls. However, the creek can dry up during summer.Biking
Mountain biking is available but limited details about trail conditions and difficulty were provided.Wildlife viewing
Bird species such as Stellar jays, kingfishers, and warblers are common, making the area ideal for birdwatching. Seasonal migrations bring additional opportunities for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
The campground is accessible year-round, and winter activities are not specifically outlined.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not applicable due to the lack of water bodies suitable for such activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but dependent on local fire bans. Fire rings and pedestal barbeques are available.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak and bugs (gnats and mosquitoes) are frequent issues as noted in multiple user reviews.
Active alertsPoison oak and overgrown trails are commonly reported issues. Bathrooms have also been noted as improperly maintained at times.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.6 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 ranger station is approximately 10 miles away. User review by Audria Abney suggests an isolated location with no camp host or nearby EMS.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo on-site trash bins. Trash must be taken to dumpsters located on Figueroa Mountain Road. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Davy Brown Creek with diminutive waterfalls and invigorating swimming holes.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include overgrown trails, poison oak, bugs, and poorly maintained bathrooms. One critical review noted unburied feces and graffiti. "The campground itself was very lovely, but the poison oak was lush and ubiquitous." (Review by Susan H).
HostUser reviews have contrasting opinions on camp hosts. Some mention helpful hosts while others say hosts were absent during their stay.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTo get there from Hwy. 154: Take the Armour Ranch Road/Happy Canyon Road 11 miles northeast to Cachuma Saddle, Sunset Valley Road, then 4 miles north.
The road to Davy Brown Campground has been described as narrow, curvy, and sometimes unpaved. User reviews mention it being a challenging drive, with washboard sections and potholes. "The road up to this campsite is not for everyone. Especially RVs..." (Review by B Sal). Trailers under 20 feet are generally permitted but "it is completely unsafe and should be avoided" according to Christine D.Nearby places
Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, Solvang, and Buellton are mentioned as being within an hour's drive from the campground.
Nearby supplies
The nearest grocery stores and gas stations are located in Los Olivos, about a 35-minute drive along Hwy. 154 per authoritative sources.
Camper Reviews
4.1
48 reviews
Davy Brown Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Most reviews highlight the campground's quiet and remote nature, as well as its natural beauty, including the soothing creek and surrounding wildlife. However, road access is described as challenging, and the lack of amenities such as potable water and cell service is a recurring complaint.
Review Summaries
Based on 48 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praise the peaceful environment, clean campsites, and proximity to a creek with swimming holes. Many enjoy the seclusion and opportunities for stargazing.
Based on 48 reviewsCommon Concerns
Criticisms include rough and narrow access roads, overgrown trails, poison oak, lack of potable water, and unclean or poorly maintained facilities. Bugs (gnats, mosquitoes, flies) are consistently...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray, water, and long sleeves/pants for hiking. Avoid site #9 due to poison oak and mud. Sites #5, #6, and #12 are highly recommended for their size and access to the creek.
Based on 48 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and early fall are highlighted as the best times to visit due to fewer bugs, moderate temperatures, and flowing water in the creek. Summer is noted for heat and dry conditions, while winter...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'We had a wonderful experience at site 12. It’s the biggest site I have ever been to and is along a creek just steps away from a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole.'
2. 'The bugs were horrible....
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #12: Spacious and next to the creek with a waterfall.
Site #9: Avoid due to poison oak and muddy conditions.
Sites #5 and #6: Spacious and ideal for group setups.
Site #13: Secluded with good...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Noted as difficult for individuals with mobility issues. Trails and the campground terrain are rugged, and the vault toilets are the only wheelchair-accessible feature.
Based on 48 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not specifically mentioned in the reviews or policies.
Based on 48 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025