Mt. Figueroa Campground
4.1566 reviewsMt. Figueroa 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
The peak season nightly fee for standard nonelectric campsites is $30. An additional $2 per night applies for weekend or holiday reservations.
About this campground
Perched high atop Figueroa Mountain in the heart of Los Padres National Forest, Mt. Figueroa Campground offers an escape into nature's embrace with 33 thoughtfully spaced campsites. Here, beneath a canopy of red manzanita, ancient oaks, and towering pines, campers find a perfect balance of comfort and wilderness. Each site comes equipped with fire rings for evening gatherings, pedestal barbecues for outdoor cooking, and sturdy picnic tables for meals under the stars. The campground features wheelchair-accessible vault toilets, ensuring everyone can enjoy this mountain retreat. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach without drinking water on-site, this only adds to the authentic wilderness experience—just remember to pack plenty of water for your adventure.
Mt. Figueroa Campground is primarily suited for primitive camping and accommodates both RVs and tents. The campground is popular for its remote and natural setting, offering basic facilities without modern hookups.
Historical SignificanceBordering the pristine San Rafael Wilderness, Mt. Figueroa Campground sits within a landscape that has captivated humans for generations. This sacred natural sanctuary has long served as a haven for wildlife and a source of inspiration for those seeking connection with California's wild heart. The surrounding wilderness preserves not just trees and trails, but a living testament to the region's commitment to protecting these precious ecosystems for future generations to discover and cherish.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain's elevation creates a dynamic climate that shifts dramatically with the seasons, offering unique experiences year-round. Summer days bring warm sunshine perfect for hiking and exploration, while evenings cool down to sweater weather around the campfire. Autumn and winter transform the campground into a windswept wonderland where gusts whistle through the pines—ideal for those seeking solitude and dramatic skies. But it's spring that truly steals the show, when moderate temperatures combine with nature's most spectacular display: carpets of wildflowers painting the mountainsides in brilliant colors, creating a photographer's paradise and hiker's dream.
ElevationFrom its commanding position atop Figueroa Mountain, the campground offers visitors a true mountaintop experience. This elevated perch provides more than just cooler temperatures—it delivers sweeping vistas that remind campers why they seek the high country. The altitude creates perfect conditions for stargazing on clear nights and offers relief from the heat of the valleys below, making it a coveted destination for those who know the rewards of camping at elevation.
Natural Features and SceneryA living gallery of California's diverse ecosystems unfolds around every campsite, where groves of red manzanita display their distinctive burgundy bark alongside the gnarled branches of native oaks and the aromatic needles of mountain pines. Spring transforms this already beautiful setting into something magical, as hillsides explode with wildflower blooms that attract clouds of butterflies and a symphony of migrating birds, including the vibrant western tanager with its sunset-colored plumage. Lucky campers might spot deer grazing in the early morning mist or catch a glimpse of an elusive bobcat padding silently through the underbrush, reminding all who visit that this is truly wild country.
Geological RegionMt. Figueroa Campground crowns one of the most scenic peaks in the Los Padres National Forest, where the ancient geology tells a story written in stone and soil. The mountain's unique position creates a remarkable blend of ecosystems—from the characteristic red manzanita and oak woodlands to pine forests more typical of higher elevations. This elevated landscape offers ever-changing perspectives, from intimate forest glens to expansive vistas encompassing rolling hills that stretch toward the horizon. On clear days, sharp-eyed visitors can even catch glimpses of the Pacific Ocean shimmering in the distance, a reminder of California's incredible diversity packed into this single, spectacular location.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features hard-packed soil, wheelchair-accessible vault restrooms, and accessible picnic tables at some sites.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and moderately large, with varying levels of tree cover for shade. Some sites are reported to be off-level, particularly challenging for trailers or RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. While some sites are spacious and separated by trees, others provide limited privacy, especially when the campground is busier.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites further from restrooms to avoid odors and walking traffic. Sites near the periphery offer more privacy and quiet.
Best CampsitesCampsite 23 is described as spacious and flat, ideal for families. Sites like 13, 14, and 15 are praised for their proximity to clean bathrooms and scenic surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Camping fee covers 1 vehicle and 1 tent, trailer, or RV. Additional vehicles require a $10 fee each.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a loop layout with 33 sites, including 3 wheelchair-accessible vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins January 1 and closes November 1, with reservations starting June 28.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned, and the campground operates on a reservation-only basis during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or through the app prior to the check-in date for a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (after midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) incur an additional fee of forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mt. Figueroa Campground offers a variety of recreational activities in a serene natural environment. Activities include hiking, horseback riding, off-road vehicle use, mountain biking, fishing, seasonal hunting, and wildlife viewing. The area is especially popular in the spring for its stunning wildflower displays and is a central hub for accessing nearby trailheads.
Hiking
The campground serves as a central hub for several trailheads, including the Davy Brown/Fir Canyon and Ballard Trails. Trails vary in difficulty and offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and scenic vistas, such as the Pacific Ocean from Figueroa Lookout Road.Fishing
Fishing is mentioned as an available activity, though specific details about fishing locations or types of fish are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is popular in the area, with trails accommodating various skill levels.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and spring-migrating birds such as the western tanager. Some user reviews mention sightings of bobcats and other local fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though some reviews note that the area can be windy during colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted year-round in designated fire rings provided by the Forest Service, though restrictions could apply during dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated, but reviews mention hosts regulating noise during the evenings.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include swarms of flies and gnats during spring and summer, cold nights even in summer, occasional strong winds, and wildlife like bobcats or deer.
Active alertsCampground hosts have reported occasional issues with site mismanagement. Fire restrictions may be imposed during particularly dry periods.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
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
Emergency services such as fire stations are located en route to the campground. The nearest hospital is in Solvang, approximately 40 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 – November 1 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is facilitated by three dumpsters located along Figueroa Mountain Road. Numerous trash cans are also scattered throughout the campground for convenience.
Proximity to water featuresNo water bodies are found near the campground.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints from reviews include swarming flies and gnats, lack of running water, slanted and narrow campsites, and occasional noise disturbances from other campers.
HostAmber, the camp host, is frequently praised in reviews for being kind, professional, and knowledgeable about the area.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Santa Barbara, travel to Los Olivos via Hwy. 154 or take Hwy. 101 to Hwy. 154. Turn onto Figueroa Mountain Road, which crosses Hwy. 154, and becomes Grand Avenue in Los Olivos. Follow Figueroa Mountain Road about 10 miles to the top of the mountain, at which point continue until you see the campground.
Figueroa Mountain Road is steep, narrow, and winding. The road to the campground is paved but challenging due to blind corners and steep grades, especially when towing trailers. There are pull-over spots along the road for cars traveling in opposite directions.Nearby places
Los Olivos (15 minutes via Hwy. 154), Solvang, Santa Ynez, Buellton (all within an hour's drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in Los Olivos, a 15-minute drive down Figueroa Mountain Road along Hwy. 154. Firewood must be purchased before arrival.
Camper Reviews
4.2
66 reviews
Mt. Figueroa Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Mt. Figueroa Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment rating of 4.0. Positive feedback highlights the scenic beauty, spacious sites, and clean facilities, while complaints focus on the prevalence of bugs, lack of running water, and occasional noise from neighboring campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 66 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers appreciate the campground's spacious sites, stunning views, and tranquility. The area is described as 'off the grid' with excellent stargazing opportunities. Clean bathrooms and the...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the abundance of bugs, particularly flies and gnats, during warmer months. Some visitors also mention difficulties with uneven campsites, the lack of running water, and...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing plenty of water, bug spray, and warm clothing for cooler nights. Arriving before dusk is advised due to the challenging drive up Figueroa Mountain Road. A mosquito net is...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring offers stunning wildflower displays and is less buggy compared to summer. Summer sees an influx of flies and gnats, making it less favorable for some visitors. Cooler months like February are...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The campground is beautiful and sites are pretty large, but the flies were just so horrible we had to get out of there from sunrise to sunset.'
- 'Lovely area, far off the beaten path. Would have...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 23 in Loop 2 is noted for its spaciousness and proximity to restrooms. Campsite 13 in Loop 1 has mixed reviews due to uneven ground but offers good shade. Loop 2 generally offers larger...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, and some sites feature accessible picnic tables. However, uneven terrain may pose challenges for some visitors.
Based on 66 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific pet-friendly amenities are mentioned. Some reviews note the presence of yellow jackets and flies, which could be bothersome for pets.
Based on 66 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025