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Cachuma
Public Campground

Cachuma

Santa Barbara, California
4.5 (465 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Cachuma

Campground in California.

Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara County, Cachuma offers RV campers an exceptional gateway to one of California's most picturesque regions. This public campground sits near the sparkling waters of Lake Cachuma, a 9,300-acre reservoir that serves as the centerpiece for outdoor recreation and natural beauty. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills, oak woodlands, and vistas that capture the essence of Central Coast California.

The lake itself is a major draw for visitors seeking water-based activities. Anglers appreciate the excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, and crappie, with the lake being well-stocked throughout the year. Those who prefer calmer waters can enjoy peaceful boat rides, kayaking, or simply floating and taking in the serene atmosphere. Swimming is available at designated areas, making it ideal for families looking to cool off during warmer months.

Beyond the water, the area offers tremendous appeal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding terrain, offering glimpses of native wildlife including deer, bobcats, coyotes, and numerous bird species. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding here, with opportunities to spot eagles, hawks, herons, and many other species throughout the year. The mild California climate means that outdoor activities are enjoyable across most seasons.

The location provides convenient access to Santa Barbara's cultural attractions, wine country experiences, and charming coastal towns. The town of Santa Barbara itself, about 40 minutes away, features historic architecture, excellent restaurants, galleries, and beautiful beaches. For wine enthusiasts, the nearby Santa Ynez Valley offers numerous wineries and tasting rooms showcasing exceptional wines from the region.

Cachuma is an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a well-rounded camping experience that combines water recreation, hiking, wildlife viewing, and proximity to cultural attractions. The public campground setting attracts a friendly community of RV enthusiasts and creates an welcoming atmosphere for those looking to disconnect from daily routines while still having excellent amenities and activities nearby.
4.5

Rating

465

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Santa Barbara is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Santa Barbara.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Santa Barbara. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Cachuma Reviews

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Georgina Curry

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Georgina Curry

I have to say I was a little worried before arriving, some of the reviews stated that the grounds and bathrooms were disgusting. I was so pleasantly surprised with the cleanliness of both grounds and bathrooms. I really enjoyed our stay here. Hot showers clean restrooms, they have a cleaner crew come every morning and clean the restrooms. They views were amazing and we had alot of privacy.

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Mary M

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Mary M

We come here as a family every year during the summer and we love. Some family stay in a cabin and the rest of us camp out in our tents. I love here because of the little amenities it has to offer like, coin hot showers, flush toilets, swimming pool, a small convenience store, and there bar and grill that serves amazing food and drinks not to mention the people there are so nice and hospitable. We... We come here as a family every year during the summer and we love. Some family stay in a cabin and the rest of us camp out in our tents. I love here because of the little amenities it has to offer like, coin hot showers, flush toilets, swimming pool, a small convenience store, and there bar and grill that serves amazing food and drinks not to mention the people there are so nice and hospitable. We have come to a few problems the last couple of years though, last year the pool was not in service and we weren't notified ahead of time, also normally they are on it so that people respect the quiet time last year not so much another issue was they let the restrooms stay dirty a whole weekend which was left pretty bad, this year we had a power outage and not once did the ranger come to talk to us or give us some kind of information on the situation, because of the power outage you are unable to use some of there amenities like shower, or the store, we drove 30 minutes out to the nearest store to get ice, and we drove over an hour out trying to find a place to shower, thankfully we decided to call around 6:30pm when they told us the power was back on. We never got a sorry or anything, it was very disappointing but it is what it is. This year's there were a lot of bugs so bring bug spray.

G
Mary M

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Mary M

We come here as a family every year during the summer and we love. Some family stay in a cabin and the rest of us camp out in our tents. I love here because of the little amenities it has to offer like, coin hot showers, flush toilets, swimming pool, a small convenience store, and there bar and grill that serves amazing food and drinks not to mention the people there are so nice and hospitable. We... We come here as a family every year during the summer and we love. Some family stay in a cabin and the rest of us camp out in our tents. I love here because of the little amenities it has to offer like, coin hot showers, flush toilets, swimming pool, a small convenience store, and there bar and grill that serves amazing food and drinks not to mention the people there are so nice and hospitable. We have come to a few problems the last couple of years though, last year the pool was not in service and we weren't notified ahead of time, also normally they are on it so that people respect the quiet time last year not so much another issue was they let the restrooms stay dirty a whole weekend which was left pretty bad, this year we had a power outage and not once did the ranger come to talk to us or give us some kind of information on the situation, because of the power outage you are unable to use some of there amenities like shower, or the store, we drove 30 minutes out to the nearest store to get ice, and we drove over an hour out trying to find a place to shower, thankfully we decided to call around 6:30pm when they told us the power was back on. We never got a sorry or anything, it was very disappointing but it is what it is. This year's there were a lot of bugs so bring bug spray.

G
Koush

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Koush

Had a great time camping at Lake Cachuma! Our site was clean and well maintained, and it was awesome to be able to have a campfire at night. We had some great luck fishing and the star watching was absolutely incredible. You can see so many stars out there away from the city lights. The only things to be aware of are the market prices, which are a bit high, so it's a good idea to bring your own g... Had a great time camping at Lake Cachuma! Our site was clean and well maintained, and it was awesome to be able to have a campfire at night. We had some great luck fishing and the star watching was absolutely incredible. You can see so many stars out there away from the city lights. The only things to be aware of are the market prices, which are a bit high, so it's a good idea to bring your own groceries. Also, it can get pretty dusty,, so be prepared for that. Overall, a really fantastic camping trip and we'll definitely be back!

G
Koush

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Koush

Had a great time camping at Lake Cachuma! Our site was clean and well maintained, and it was awesome to be able to have a campfire at night. We had some great luck fishing and the star watching was absolutely incredible. You can see so many stars out there away from the city lights. The only things to be aware of are the market prices, which are a bit high, so it's a good idea to bring your own g... Had a great time camping at Lake Cachuma! Our site was clean and well maintained, and it was awesome to be able to have a campfire at night. We had some great luck fishing and the star watching was absolutely incredible. You can see so many stars out there away from the city lights. The only things to be aware of are the market prices, which are a bit high, so it's a good idea to bring your own groceries. Also, it can get pretty dusty,, so be prepared for that. Overall, a really fantastic camping trip and we'll definitely be back!

G
Goldie Gibbon

Mar 18, 2026

1.0

Google Review by Goldie Gibbon

Bathrooms were disgusting, doesn't anyone own a power washer? The campground is beautiful but sites are poorly maintained and rundown. A little creepy all around, did not see any patrols or staff the entire time we were there. The only high note is that views of the lake are beautiful.

G
Goldie Gibbon

Mar 18, 2026

1.0

Google Review by Goldie Gibbon

Bathrooms were disgusting, doesn't anyone own a power washer? The campground is beautiful but sites are poorly maintained and rundown. A little creepy all around, did not see any patrols or staff the entire time we were there. The only high note is that views of the lake are beautiful.

G
C M

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by C M

Our families come here every year, and we started off with a tent, and now my wife prefers the Trailer from Campos Campers. This is the second year with the trailer, and now we have added a projector. The Park Ranger is always out, and about so there are no real issues. You can rent a boat we did that held 12 passengers and it ran about $65.00 per family. The General Store is a bit pricey but expe... Our families come here every year, and we started off with a tent, and now my wife prefers the Trailer from Campos Campers. This is the second year with the trailer, and now we have added a projector. The Park Ranger is always out, and about so there are no real issues. You can rent a boat we did that held 12 passengers and it ran about $65.00 per family. The General Store is a bit pricey but expected oh and the have gasoline $5.49 per gallon. All together, not a bad spot for the family and friends.

G
C M

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by C M

Our families come here every year, and we started off with a tent, and now my wife prefers the Trailer from Campos Campers. This is the second year with the trailer, and now we have added a projector. The Park Ranger is always out, and about so there are no real issues. You can rent a boat we did that held 12 passengers and it ran about $65.00 per family. The General Store is a bit pricey but expe... Our families come here every year, and we started off with a tent, and now my wife prefers the Trailer from Campos Campers. This is the second year with the trailer, and now we have added a projector. The Park Ranger is always out, and about so there are no real issues. You can rent a boat we did that held 12 passengers and it ran about $65.00 per family. The General Store is a bit pricey but expected oh and the have gasoline $5.49 per gallon. All together, not a bad spot for the family and friends.

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