Guide to Refugio State Beach Camping: Sun, Sand, and Tidepools

Refugio State Beach is one of the beautiful beaches located north of Santa Barbara along the Gaviota Coast. This palm-tree-lined beach is popular with day users, beach loungers, coastal anglers, surfers, bird watchers, picnickers, and overnight campers. Gaviota Coast is a special place because it represents one of the last stretches of the undeveloped California coastline. Refugio Beach is one of the public recreation areas along this coastline; the others include El Capitan and Gaviota State Park.

Refugio State Beach Camping

Campsites are located very close to the beach, with some nestled in shady palm trees. Imagine falling asleep to the sounds of crashing waves. Both tent and RV campers can enjoy Refugio State Beach. There are 63 standard sites and 3 group sites available year-round.

Best Campsites

All sites are located close to the beach, nestled in shady palm trees. The best Refugio State Beach campsites with beach views 23 -27 are directly behind the day-use area. Sites 34,35,36,60, 61, and 62 are all near the beach. To get a hotel room this close to the sand, you would have to pay hundreds of dollars a night.

Campground Reservations

Check with the rangers if your RV is over 35 feet to ensure you select a site that fits your RV. Campsites fill up quickly on weekends and during the summer vacation season. You will want to plan if you hope to score a coveted camping spot. Reservations can be made online at the ReserveCalifornia™ website.

Refugio State Day Use

Refugio SB’s day-use parking area is only steps from the sand. If you want to enjoy a picnic lunch or sunset dinner, you can enjoy it right on the sand or grab one of the picnic tables in the grassy picnic area. If the urge to grill strikes you, you can use one of the on-site grills.

Biking Along The Beach

If you enjoy the freedom of biking, an easy bike trail connects Refugio to El Capitan State Beach. It is a 2.5-mile round-trip, affording lovely coastal views the entire way. The trail is suitable for all ages and is a great way to work up an appetite for a beach BBQ back at the campground.

Wildlife Viewing

The coastal location is ideal for observing diving seabirds, shorebirds, and other marine wildlife. Bring a pair of binoculars. You can see migrating whales during the right time of year or catch playful porpoises frolicking in the waves. On a wildlife note, be sure to keep your picnic items secure and under watch at all times. Feisty gulls and little rodents have been known to enjoy a snack or two from unsuspecting beachgoers. Make sure you do your part to keep the wildlife wild.

Kayaking

The Gaviota Coast can also be enjoyed from the ocean. Bring your kayak and enjoy the open coastline, or arrange a kayak rental and tour with a local vendor, such as Santa Barbara Adventure Company. You’ll get to soak in the sun, the gorgeous views, and coastal wildlife sightings from your ocean perch.

Getting There

Refugio State Beach is located off Highway 101, approximately 20 miles north of Santa Barbara. Look for the Refugio Road exit. Day-use fees at Refugio also grant you free access to the nearby El Capitan State Beach and Gaviota State Beach on the same day. Address: 10 Refugio Beach Rd, Goleta, California.

Nearby Beach Camping Spots

El Capitán State Beach, located 20 miles from Santa Barbara, California, along U.S. Route 101, is a popular coastal destination known for its scenic beauty and family-friendly amenities. The park spans 2,600 acres and features a campground with 132 sites for tents, trailers, and RVs (no hookups), plus amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a general store. Hiking trails, including those connecting to nearby Refugio State Beach, provide coastal and mountain views. Day-use fees are $10 per vehicle, and dogs are allowed on leashes in designated areas.

Gaviota State Park Beach, located 33 miles from Santa Barbara along U.S. Route 101, is part of a 2,800-acre park featuring sandy shores, rocky cliffs, and a historic wooden fishing pier. Popular activities include swimming, surfing, picnicking, and fishing, with a nearby hot springs trail. The park has a campground with 39 sites for tents, trailers, and RVs, but there are no hookups. Open year-round, it’s a quieter alternative to busier Southern California beaches, though it can be windy. Day-use fees are $10 per vehicle, and dogs are allowed on leashes in certain areas.