This is an above average campground with good amenities, proximity to Solvang, and access to a nice lake/reservoir. The RV sites are ample & have full hook-ups. Tow vehicles are not counted as a 2nd car so you can actually have a 3rd vehicle for $10 per night extra. Make sure the rangers designate your tow vehicle as a tow vehicle with the window permit on check-in.
You can have a tent buddy-camp next to an RV on the RV sites, but tenting only at RV sites is not permitted.
Notable Pros: (1) Proximity to lake via various marked hiking trails from most camp areas (2) Fairly well-stocked General Store with firewood, ice, liquor, RV accessories, etc. (3) Rangers were very helpful, present & courteous throughout - unlike the CA State Parks/Beaches (4) boat rentals available & being on the lake with a motorized boat was GREAT!
Cons: (1) Dog run was horrible, dry, foxtail & burr infested and simply not suitable for pets. Our neighbor stated she would take her dog to Solvang for morning walks. Keep the pooches on the pavement at all times. (2) Disc Golf course was a mixture of dirt, dry grass, and back trails...not inviting in the least & scenery was dismal. (3) General Store, restaurant & most camp amenities closed on Mondays (4) fishing is advertised, but it is clear the lake is lacking in fish stock - prepare for an all-day fishing excursion with little or nothing to show for it (from shore, in boat, etc.) - this based on inquiring with other fishermen & trying various spots (5) Aggressive racoons ransacking campsites looking for food - we had 4 little burglars in our campsite moving stuff around at 3 AM.
So this camp ground is about a 3.5 star which can easily be a 5 star with some noted fixes. Very dry and dusty and not environmentally pet friendly, but a great location...
Read moreGreat family friendly park! Many things for everyone to do. There is fishing, a pool, boats and bikes for rent, movie night in an amphitheater (Fridays) and someone takes in telescopes for people to look at stars on Saturday nights. Big restrooms are well maintained, there are coin operated showers, and a washers/dryers. Definitely warmer than Santa Barbara, but we weren't planning to be there a lot during the day. Lots of things to do and go see in the area: a waterfall, Solvang, Santa Ynez (Chumash Casino), Santa Barbara blueberries (pick your own or just buy them), a drive in movie (only one screen left), Santa Barbara Zoo, a new science museum for kids, farmer's markets, and so much more! There was a big fire very close to the campground 2 weeks after we left. We're hoping the campground remained intact. (Side note: with varying drought levels the lake is often low and not much of a lake. It was at about 50% this year, but only...
Read moreBeautiful Lake with Wild Peacocks.
My family has been coming here for Generations. Remember you are on Native Land be respectful. Don't drive fast, and be mindful of sound pollution. Loop hiking trail is incredibly beautiful and majikal. It's a nice place for a day trip, camping and hiking.
During Covid-19 the Lake is not open to the public for swimming or water play. Boating for SB and S Firefighters crew is all that is currently allowed. Remember in this space Nature is all that Matters, not you Humans so don't leave any trash or waste. And if you have any pets pick up after them. No-one wants your dog feceus in their camping space so be respectful. Take back anything your brought in.
This is a State protected space so there are plenty of restrooms, fire pits, grills and resources. Gas station and general store.
Respect. Protect. Be intentional. You are on Native Land. Leave the animals alone your...
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