Blue Sky Center — Hotel in Montecito

This review is my own opinion based in my experience. I'm sharing this for any artist or creative considering a fellowship at Blue Sky Center. In my experience, you would be better off investing your time, energy, and talent elsewhere.

The leadership at Blue Sky Center is, in my opinion, deeply irresponsible and careless. The travel stipend is insulting, and to make matters worse, I was left stranded after weather conditions made it unsafe to leave Cuyama. The response from the Blue Sky team was both inappropriate and alarming. I was told their cost-saving solution was to drop me off in the town where the executive director’s partner lives, have me sleep on their couch for the night, and catch a bus from there, rather than having a proper contingency plan or any safety protocol in place.

There were no efforts to ensure I could leave Cuyama safely as my residency ended and the bad weather threatened to trap me there without a way out. This is rural California, there are limited ways to get out safely in bad weather conditions. I had to find my own way out, pay out of pocket, and in doing so, was placed in an unsafe situation where I was harassed by individuals at the nearest Amtrak station. It was such an unnecessarily distressing experience for me, when I had the best hopes and excitement to contribute to the community there through my fellowship. The lack of accountability, foresight, and basic care for fellows is unacceptable.

Shame on this organization. I would never recommend this fellowship to anyone.

EDIT AS OF 07/2025: This review is for anyone interested in learning how and what the culture is at Blue Sky Center. I witnessed a lack of accountability, and performative apologies as evidenced by the response from Blue Sky Center below my review here. I’m not acknowledging or commenting on that because I have no interest in communicating with them. I’m only interested in alerting and being transparent to potential people interested in applying or being involved with BCS in any capacity but particularly as part of their programs, as that’s what I can speak to directly. Anything else is irrelevant and my sentiment...

Blue Sky Center is more than just a non-profit; it’s a heartbeat for the rural community of New Cuyama. Their work goes far beyond what you might expect: they support local food systems, creative arts, education, economic revitalization, community safety, and maintain the local airport. I respect the resilience and prioritization of contributing to a small and rural voice when often these communities don't have one.

Blue Sky Center also has a small hospitality arm: their glampsites are some of the coolest accommodations around. They were built by designer and metalworker Mattie Shelton, from Santa Barbara. The views of the surrounding mountain ranges are absolutely stunning, and the Khalili Cantina shared kitchen creates a communal space that feels both intentional and inviting. It’s an off-the-beaten-path experience in the best way. Mind you, it's closer to camping than a 5-star hotel... There are a few reviews here that rate this experience low. This makes sense depending on the expectations of a rural getaway. This is a non-profit property at the edge of town in a large lot with interesting accommodations and offerings. It's not a premium glamp experience like you will find near a National Park that comes with an all you can eat buffet and access to a sauna.

Yes, nature is 20–30 minutes away in any direction — whether it's the Los Padres National Forest, Carrizo Plain, Pine Mountain, or Bitter Creek Wildlife Preserve — but that distance is part of what makes this place so unique. It’s remote, quiet, and spacious. Some visitors arrive with urban expectations and miss the beauty of the stillness and simplicity. But for those willing to slow down and see with open eyes, this place has a richness that’s rare.

If you’re drawn to nature, community, creativity, and thoughtful connection, New Cuyama — and especially Blue Sky Center — offers something truly special. You just have to be looking for the right...

We were blown away by L88 New Cuyama airport campground operated by the friendly non-profit Blue Sky Center. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and efficiency, a testament to the professionalism of the Blue Sky team and the fellow aviators we shared our weekend with for the first ever New Cuyama Fly-In.

The facilities were wonderful, boasting clean bathrooms and invigorating hot showers, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing experience. We appreciated the thoughtful amenities, including platforms for tents and charming glamping huts that offered a touch of luxury amidst nature's embrace. For those seeking a communal vibe, the dorm rooms provide cozy accommodations.

One highlight of our stay was the walkable farm-to-table restaurant, “The Buckhorn” where we savored delectable dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. It was a true culinary delight, complemented by our meals at the campsite.

Impressive resources such as filtered water stations, fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars, and well-equipped cooking areas enhancing our stay.

Overall, our time at the Airport Campground exceeded all expectations, thanks to the impeccable hospitality of the Blue Sky Center team. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a nature enthusiast seeking refuge, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for all aviators. Please consider sharing this unique spot with friends, and spread the word to help keep this airport...