#carpinteria state beach camping

[stillcamp]

Ultimate Guide to Beach Camping: Best Sites, Tips, and Reservations

Beach camping is a loved outdoor activity that merges the thrill of camping with the calmness of the coastal areas. A growing number of people are looking for innovative ways to relieve stress and reconnect with nature, thus beach camping is becoming a popular choice. This comprehensive guide will take you through the best beach camping sites in California and Florida, give vital tips for getting reservations, and provide useful advice to make sure your trip will be a happy and successful one.

1. Introduction to Beach Camping

Beach camping is not only a tent on the beach but it is also a process of being one with nature and being able to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the comforting sound of waves.. This unique camping experience offers several advantages:

Proximity to the Ocean: You enjoy your mornings sunbathing, unbeached swims and beachcombing when you have immediate beach access

Natural Beauty: The coastal terrain offers lavish views and a peaceful environment.

Relaxation and Recreation: Leisure activities such as fishing, kayaking, and tide-pooling have significant additive values to the outdoor adventure.

With the constant rise of beach camping as the peak choice for outdoor camping, it becomes difficult to select the right place among a plethora of spectacular options. From the majestic shores of California to the gentle beaches of the Florida coast, there is a camping site that will satisfy every taste. The options on offer are for those looking for a beach bursting with amenities or one which is quiet and far removed from everything. This guide provides the exact location you are searching for.

2. Best Beach Camping Spots in California

California’s coastline boasts some of the most unique and breathtaking beach camping California options. The beaches of Southern California and the jagged shoreline of Northern California offer a seemingly limitless number of camping locations for those seeking beach fun. Here are some top picks:

Pismo Beach Camping

Pismo Beach is truly the place for the users of the word combination, ‘beach camping California.‘ Being situated along the central coast of California, Pismo Beach offers long sandy shores and remarkable views of the sea. Such a place is a perfect match for both thrill-seekers and those who want to rest.

Highlights:

Scenic Views: From the harmony with nature viewpoint, one can admire the beautiful dusky sun and the heavenly ocean views.

Activities: Take part in such actions as riding on the ATV, mounting on horseback atop the beach, and paddling in a kayak.

Amenities: The campground has a variety of facilities including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.

Apart from viewing the dunes just a few miles away or soaking up the sun in the ocean, Pismo Beach is a perfect spot for camping by the beach for all the fun and thrill you seek.

Jalama Beach Camping

A truly secluded beach camping experience can find its way to Jalama Beach, a hidden treasure on the north of Santa Barbara. This place is ideal for those who are looking for peace and natural beauty.

Highlights:

Seclusion: Enjoy a more private beach experience away from the crowds.

Sunsets and Wildlife: Witness stunning sunsets and spot local wildlife.

Fishing and Hiking: Take advantage of nearby fishing spots and hiking trails.

Jalama Beach offers a peaceful retreat where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a more serene beach camping experience.

Carpinteria State Beach Camping

For families and inexperienced campers, Carpinteria State Beach is probably the best choice. This beach situated south of Santa Barbara is a family-friendly spot with mellow waves and gentle winds.

Highlights:

Family-Friendly:  It is an ideal family vacation spot because of its safe swimming areas and amenities.

Tide Pools:  You will enjoy the experience of exploring the tide pools and getting familiar with the coastal marine life.

Facilities:  The campground offers well-kept amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables.

Carpinteria State Beach is a great place to spend a day with the family, as it provides a convenient and fun camping experience for kids and adults alike.</

Doheny State Beach Camping

Doheny State Beach in sunny Orange County is a thrilling place for both inexperienced surfers and advanced ones. This beach is known for its gentle waves and stunning sunsets, which create a casual and friendly ambiance.

Highlights:

Beginner-Friendly: Great for first-time campers and neophytes in the surf.

Surfing: Take advantage of steady air and the exclusive surfing section.

Scenic Beauty: Campers can view the sunset across the Pacific Ocean.

Doheny State Beach is a great place to experience beach camping and try your hand at surfing.

Carlsbad State Beach Camping

Nature has caressed the San Diego County coastline and brought Carlsbad State Beach to life. The last stop of this campsite which is found on a bluff provides you with an impressive view of the entire beach.

Highlights:

Ocean Views: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and views from your campsite.

Beach Access: Direct access to the sandy beach for swimming and beachcombing.

Sunsets: Experience some of the most beautiful sunsets along the Southern California coast.

Carlsbad State Beach is ideal for those who want to combine beautiful coastal views with beachside camping.

Avila Beach Camping

The intimate setting of camping on the beach Avila Beach is a lovely town tucked away by the ocean. Just outside the city of San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach offers sea air, relaxation, and serenity.

Highlights:

Coastal Charm: Enjoy a quaint beach town vibe with local shops and restaurants.

Relaxation: The calm waters and gentle waves are perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Activities: Explore nearby hiking trails and enjoy local attractions.

Avila Beach offers a more relaxed and personal beach camping experience in a picturesque setting.

3. Top Beach Camping in Florida

Florida is the place where the weather is hot, the sandy shores are cleared up, and the wildlife is rich, which is why it is a great place for beach camping Florida. One place that will make the next beach camping trip pop up as a hit with ease:

Navarre Beach Camping Resort

Navarre Beach Camping Resort is a premier beach camping Florida destination, offering a range of amenities and activities for campers.

Highlights:

RV-Friendly: The resort caters to RV campers with full hookups and spacious sites.

Beach Access: Enjoy direct access to the pristine Gulf Coast beach.

Activities: Take part in activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

Navarre Beach Camping Resort provides a blend of comfort and coastal adventure, making it an ideal choice for a beach camping vacation.

4. Finding Beach Camping Near You

Finding beach camping near me is easier than ever with the help of online tools and resources. Here are some tips to help you locate the best beach camping sites near your location:

Online Tools and Apps

ReserveAmerica: A comprehensive resource for finding and reserving state beach camping sites across the U.S.

Recreation.gov: Offers a database of camping sites, including beach locations, with the ability to check availability and make reservations.

Campendium: A user-friendly platform for finding campgrounds, including beach camping sites, with reviews and detailed information.

Using a Beach Camping Map

Exploitation of a beach camping map makes it possible to show the locations amenities. Numerous state parks and recreational organizations provide interactive maps that allow you to see your potential choices and arrange your travel accordingly.

Planning a Local Trip

If you’re looking for beach camping near me, of course, you can explore the nearby waterfront. Almost all local and state parks in the area offer the opportunity to camp right on the beach, with different amenities and activities.

5. Beach Camping Reservations: How to Secure Your Spot

Securing a reservation for beach camping can be crucial, especially during peak times. Follow these tips to ensure you get the campsite you want:

Booking in Advance

Many popular beach camping sites require reservations well in advance. Websites like ReserveCalifornia and Florida State Parks allow you to book campsites several months ahead of time.

Peak Times

Be aware of peak camping seasons, such as summer and holidays, when demand is high. Booking early can help you secure a spot at your preferred campground.

Reservation Platforms

First of all, it is recommended to use online platforms to check the current status of campsites available and make reservations. These platforms usually give comprehensive details about each camping site, which include the list of amenities and interests around.

First-Come, First-Served Sites

Some state beach camping aces allow customers to book by first come first serve basis. If you are one of the lucky early birds that make it to the campsites, your chances of getting an available camping place will increase, and also, take into account camping during off-peak periods for a more satisfying trip.

6. Beach Camping Tips for a Successful Trip

To make the most of your beach camping experience, follow these essential tips:

Weather Preparation

Coastal weather can be unpredictable. Find out the forecast information before the trip and stand by for the weather changes. Take more clothing with you to be more comfortable “transporting through different temperatures.”

Tide Awareness

Grasping tide schedules is one of the most important aspects of beach camping. Ensure your campsite is located above the high-tide line to prevent flooding. Most beach camping sites give out these tide charts or info to help with the planning of the trip.

Packing Essentials

In addition to standard camping gear, pack beach-specific items such as:

Sunscreen: Protect your skin from UV rays.

Beach Chairs: For relaxation by the shore.

Waterproof Footwear: For wet and sandy conditions.

Cooler: To keep food and drinks fresh.

Environmental Responsibility

Practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment and preserve the beauty of coastal areas. Clean up all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow campground regulations.

7. Conclusion

Beach camping is an extraordinary way to enjoy the ocean’s calmness and at the same time, discover first-hand the magnificence of the coastal areas. If you’re searching for California’s expansive and diverse coastline or Florida’s serene beaches, there’s one for you. By utilizing this guide, you are able to search for the ideal spots, book them out in advance, and organize your trip.

Don’t wait any longer; start planning your next beach camping trip right now and take full advantage of this chance to bond with nature, have fun in the ocean, and build those sweet memories. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to go beach camping? The proper time for camping near a beach is different according to the location. In the state of California summer and the first part of fall are the best times of the year because of the nice weather. Florida is the place where you can enjoy the heat in late spring and early fall before summer’s peak of heat and humidity.

Do I need a permit for beach camping? Most beach camping sites require a reservation or permit. Check with local park authorities or use platforms like ReserveAmerica to secure a spot in advance.

What should I bring for a beach camping trip? The basic elements entail a long-lasting tent, sunscreen, insect spray, a cold storage unit, beach equipment (stuff like towels and chairs), and layers for chillier nights. Besides those camping gadgets, you should also remember to pack your personal stuff.

Can I camp directly on the sand? Some campgrounds allow camping directly on the beach, while others have designated areas nearby. Always check the specific rules of the campground where you plan to stay.

How do I find beach camping sites near me? Use online tools such as ReserveAmerica or Recreation.gov to search for beach camping near me. These platforms provide information on available sites, amenities, and booking options.

[theoriginalmarke]

FUNCTIONARY FRIDAY

When I left the house on the bike yesterday it was right around 100 degrees, by the time I got to the bottom of the hill it was 80. It felt like I was in air conditioning. On the way home it was down to 70 degrees, but once I was a 1/2 mile away I stepped into an oven and it jumped to 90. 

In other words, it’s hot up here in the hills.

It felt good to be back on two wheels, with the bike put back together. I stopped and picked up a few groceries on the way. It even felt good stuffing the groceries into the saddlebags.

I’m tempted to take a ride today, just because I can. But I may wait, because I’m still thinking of going camping next week. Maybe leave Monday and come back back Wednesday. 

An overnight trip to Carpinteria State Beach would be perfect, except they are $70 a day for a tent site. Crazy. And they are booked up! Instead, I’ve been considering the farm I camped at in Cambria last year. I loved that trip, and as long as the bike starts it would be great. 

Then again, maybe I’ll just leave the house Tuesday by 7am when Fucking SoCal Edison closes the road and shuts the power again and go for a long ride. Sigh. Decisions decisions.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a Friday to do.

I love you, baby. You are hot hot hot! Mwah.

Y’all have a great day.

[blueadventurewoman]

Morning beach walk in Carpenteria, CA. Tide coming in & fog! 🙌🏻🤙🏻 . . . . . . . . . . #adamsrtca2021 #carpenteria #california #beach #fog #tidepools #ocean #waves #seabirds #beauitful #travel #explore #rv #instagood #instadaily #vacation #getaway #visitcalifornia #camping #breathe #bluemind #gratitude #letgo #wednesday #explorepage #sandinmytoes (at Carpinteria State Beach) https://www.instagram.com/p/CTkPK13HbRK/?utm_medium=tumblr

[olybug]

They call me Nerd Girl. #telescope #space #nerd #camping #awesome #spacecamp #kidatheart #nightbefore #nfl #flyeaglesfly (at Carpinteria State Beach) https://www.instagram.com/p/B2I3TFsJUW4/?igshid=36q5bba3lanc

[serenityreiki]

Woke up in complete paradise this morning! 😍🌅💛#carp #carpinteria #santabarbara #carpinteriastatebeach #sunrise #beach #ocean #sunrise_sunset #centralcoast #california #beautifuldestinations #camping #wanderlust #travel #optoutside #sb #happy #magical #instagood #igers #photography #photooftheday #igphotography #landscapephotography #blessed #inspiration #instamood #onelove (at Carpinteria State Beach Campgrounds) https://www.instagram.com/brittanyleehealing/p/BvzY2kNHgEc/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=17h4obcl3yqcc

[kylesbikeadventure]

Day 37 - Carpinteria State Beach to Leo Carrillo State Park Campground

Today got off to a great start. Once the sun rose the morning chill lifted and warmed right up. I made my way to the beach at the campground and saw a bunch of dolphins just off shore. It was fun watching them for a few minutes. I'm assuming they were feeding, but I like to think they were playing - racing around and jumping clear out of the water.

The campground itself wasn't anything special, but I really liked it. The location is perfect - right in the town itself and on the beach. They also do a good job of making it feel very secure. I did a quick tour of the town centre after leaving camp, grabbing some breakfast at a small Mexican deli.

There was a bike path shortly after leaving Carpinteria that kept my on the ocean side of the freeway and was really nice to bike along. It lasted for a good while before leading into Rincon Parkway which has RV camping spots lining the ocean side. Nice idea and a great place to camp out for RV owners.

Ventura was next. I did quickly ventura into the downtown. It was pretty quiet with streets closed to vehicle traffic. I was there just before 11am and most of the shops looked to be still closed. I didn't stay long, and the ride after Venture through Oxnard before rejoining Hwy 1 was fairly unremarkable (except for a nasty headwind).

The Pacific Coast route through Oxnard keeps you away from the city centre, but also offshore a little bit, so wasn't too exciting. There is a military base just before rejoining Hwy 1 that had a display of aircrafts by the roadside. Kind of interesting.

From there Hwy 1 took me to Leo Carrillo along the water. I think at this point I don't appreciate the ocean views quite the same, though in retrospect it is a pretty scenic roadway. Pretty flat too which helps the kms fly by.

Tomorrow I'll be riding through LA. I'll be sticking to the coast/beach paths and not going into the city. I figure I'll come back another time to try to do it justice. It's just too big and too much to see, and with the bike not ideal. I'm looking forward to riding along the beaches though! Should be good people-watching.

[hikertrashprincess]

It’s been a long adventure just to get to the beginning of the trail. First I had to pack up everything I own and put it in my car. With everything behind me, I headed out and crossed five states to get back to my parents house in California, stopping for naps in rest stops along the way. I got to experience 110 degree weather, which was… a treat. The desert has its unique beauty, and even though it feels like it’s trying to kill you with its aggressive heat, and even though 15 hours of red rocks and joshua trees starts to get tiring, I can’t help but fall in love with it again. I made a brief stop to revisit the PCT. The route back home crosses the PCT at Cajon Pass, the site of the cause of infinite hiker excitement, a McDonalds on trail! It’s too late for hikers to be in the area, so no trail magic or reminiscing with hikers.

I got home and immediately jumped back in the car with my parents to go to every Californian’s first stop back home- In N Out. Even though there are now three locations in the Denver area, it still just tastes better in California.

I had hurried home not only for the free storage in my parents’ house (thanks Mom and Dad!) but to help with a big move for my grandparents. My grandparents have given me a lot- trips with my cousins to amazing National Parks like Bryce, Canyonlands, and Death Valley. We shared camping trips along the beach in Carpinteria. Being able to connect with them was the only right way to start my adventure.

After the big move it was time for me to get on a plane to Spokane. I reconnected with a friend who picked up up there and was able to bring me to the train station. I walked a few blocks to a delicious burger place where I had a calorie dense meal. I headed back to the train station and found another hiker there, named Top! There is a tradition on the long trails of “trail names-“ nicknames used on trail that usually are given to you with a funny story. “Top” was hiking on the PCT when he met his doppelgänger- a guy who already had the trail name “Bottom.” We killed some time around town and then returned to wait for our 1:30 am train. We met another set of hikers- they were doing the Pacific Northwest Trail. We boarded the train and tried our best to sleep before the big day. I had to laugh at a fellow train rider. Face masks were required but he “creatively” employed it as a sleep mask over his eyes. Reverse face mask.

The last leg of the journey began at West Glacier, where we disembarked from the train and met up with my friend Jake and his girlfriend Leah who happened to be camping in the park that week. When we got off the train we met a stranded hiker who had walked 24 miles from the Kalispell airport only to get told the train is “reservation only” and he could not get a ticket. “Too Hot” was hiking the PCT when the weather prompted him to say he was “too hot.” He must have been hiking with a bunch of dads because they said, “Hi, Too Hot, nice to meet you!” And now he’s still going by Too Hot. He joined our crew and we crammed in the back of Jake’s Subaru with our packs on our laps.

We arrived at the ranger station hoping to get permits to start that day. Bad news. They didn’t have permits available until Friday. We were anxious to start, but you need backcountry permits to hike in Glacier National Park. Then we got extremely lucky. A new friend Connor showed up who had prebooked his permits- and he was able to add 3 people to it! We had our permits for the first six days through Glacier NP. After that we will not need permits.

Jake and Leah had already planned to camp in Babb for the night so we went with them and hung out at a lovely campground run by the Blackfeet Tribe- Chewing Black Bone campground. It was strange to spend a day sitting around when we were so antsy to get going, but we figured it wasn’t a bad thing to take the beginning slow and enjoy the National Park.

This far North the sun sets very late and it was light until 10 pm. We all tried wearing our face masks over our eyes as we attempted to get to sleep earlier than the sun.

[adventureattorney]

Living in Calistoga. July 31, 2020 It’s been 14+ days since our last post. For many reasons. First and foremost, having very poor internet service, it would take 10 hours, on average, for any of our previous posts, to post. Frustration levels high. Additionally, we were busy hosting, volunteering, packing, figuring out what we needed, and didn’t need, on the road. We didn’t agree on everything, but we agreed we needed to figure it out together. Olivia’s birthday was July 21. Lance brought us to Santa Barbara pier for a delicious sea food lunch. Absolutely beautiful day. Later, we had a few friends up for the day at our Carpinteria spot. Melissa (aka Smile), Patricia, Bob and Liz! It was such a great day with wonderful people. Teddy, the Ranger, stopped by to say hello and grab a cupcake. One of many cupcakes that Mel and Patty so graciously brought. The rest of the camp hosts appreciated them as well, as we passed them out over the next few days. Liz brought some delicious meat we cooked up for hamburgers for everyone. It was an all in all fabulous day! The next two days were our days off at Carpinteria. They were overcast and gloomy (weird fun fact, when we had guests it was bright and sunny. When we didn’t, it was gloomy all day), and we spent them slowly packing our one month home on the beach. (at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDX8BXzJhct/?igshid=sx6om36kfi41

[eatrz]

Carpinteria State Beach Campgroung

Carpinteria State Beach Campgroung

 4/5 https://vimeo.com/343091856

CARPINTERIA STATE PARK CAMPGROUND California Camping is the best            There is no better way to soak in our nature.  We loved the location and that we were allowed to gather and burn the driftwood, which there was plenty of.  We went June 2019, and the weather was a bit cold.  3 hours away in our hometown of Fresno, the heat exceeds 100, but in…

[traviswsoul]

Day 5 Leo Carillo to Santa Barbara

The first night camping was enjoyable, it its going to take a while to get used to sleeping on the pad though. I feel like I adjust and rollover every hour when I sleep like that. What I would give to be able to sleep on my back for 8 hours, like a Vampire.  I wonder if animals that hibernate move around during that time? When I woke up my campmates were gone, except the squirls, the brave and determined animals that run that place!  One of them hauled off two bananas from the table and had one open and was eating before I looked up from packing away my tent and realized.  It’s hard to be too mad at squirrels but these sure push you to your limits. I got camp packed away quickly then had time for a quick yoga flow before I took off.  Breakfast consisted of a roll, some jerky, a granola bar and i didn’t make a protein shake because I didn’t know how far it would be to more drinking water, which was limited.  Riding out of the camp was pretty desolate, there was nothing for a while except more hill climbs followed by gorgeous views on the backsides.  Eventually I hit a T in the road and had to turn right under the highway after which I saw a Pacific Coast Trail sign right below the freeway entrance sign. Not what you expect; I peddled half way up it, realized I was getting on a major highway and then double backed because it felt so wrong.  It turned out not to be so I got on and rode on the shoulder of I-101 for one exit, not so bad.  Up the exit ramp, left turn over the highway and drop in on Hueneme rd that takes you into Oxnard. Here I had the highlight of the day, stealing strawberries at the berry fields. Miles and miles of strawberries, I was reminded of the essay I read in the Refer Madness book years ago about the migrant workers who pick the berries and make them available to fulfill our expectations in the grocery store.  I saw them working, hunched over picking berries, and considered so many aspects of our economy of labor, food supply, taking it for granted and the heart breaking lack of compassion and appreciation for the immigrant and migrant worker that makes our happy spoiled American life possible. I probably ate a pound of fresh strawberries as I rode down that road, it was at least enough to satiate my hunger for a while, and thirst, it’s really a nice trick on your senses to satisfy your thirst with all the water in fruit. At the end of the road as you get to Oxnard is the Naval Construction Battalion Center Port Hueneme. It had a couple jets, which is common, on display but also several missiles ranging in size and “effectiveness” I’m sure, a typical military show of force, or power, or machismo.  The little boy in me thinks “COOL” but the rest of me has very mixed feelings about glorifying our ability to create so much destruction. I stopped for the first time at a fast food joint, a Wendy’s, and had a burger and a chicken sandwich, It doesn’t feel as bad for me when I burn it all off immediately in the following few hours, not ideal but cheap and highly caloric. Then on to Ventura, Dulah and several other beaches that all seemed to welcome RV’s to park and spend the days there.  It was full of campers parallel parked for miles at a time.  This was the first day that I had to full head wind experience,  it was ruff at times.  In places I normally would have been traveling 17 mph it was hard to keep up 13.  They warned me this was the case traveling north, I knew it, I just hadn’t seen it yet, but now I know, woohoo!

There was a strong marine layer for most of the day giving me and my thighs a good break from the sun. It’s really great having the arm sleeves and gloves to protect from the sun, watching how dark the tops of my thighs are getting is telling of how important it is to have protection. I wish I had some three quarter link leggings.  That would be a valuable part of a touring kit. I never thought I’d say I wish I had some capri’s….. but putting on sunscreen makes so much road dirt stick to you.  It reminds me of how dirty your front wheels get driving a car, That’s your legs on bike over 60 miles. A few different times I started to notice the bike felt pretty wobbly, If I stood up I noticed so much sway in the back that I knew something was up.  I stopped in Carpinteria for a big salad to counter act the Wendy’s and inspect my bike.   I had a great local IPA as well, there’s something so delicious about a cold one during a bike ride, like you have really earned it!  It was the perfect refreshment for disassembling my gear and figuring out what was up.  It was the quick release axels, they had both loosened up, the rear one a lot, the wheel was wobbing so much back and forth it’s a miracle I stopped before anything went wrong.

Another 15 miles from there to Santa Barbara.  I rode up the main road called State St, full of shopping, it was a nice slight up hill to finish the day with.  I needed some inspiration for the final leg so I put on one of my favorite albums, Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughn.  Such a blues classic and the high energy of those guitars kept me going.  My legs were shot,  it took a real effort to have them pedal like normal, the exhaustion of 5 days was really getting to me and they were simply not outputting like before.  When I made it to John and Jill’s beautiful new home my old friend, Bella the dog, who used to be Ella Blue’s best friend back in Brooklyn greeted me from the porch with her new partner in crime, Milo.  He looks like he could be here daughter, also a pit mix, he’s a soft tan brindle with the same sweet pale yellow eyes.  Bella and I had a long over due reunion and I believe she remembered me, it was sweet and made me feel good, and miss my puppy of course.  Mia and Bodie were babies when I saw them last and now they are full on people, little ones, yes, but each full of personality and things to say, and each so beautiful!   As with all good friends it was like no time had passed at all, even though so much has and there is very little in my life that’s the same as it was last we saw each other.  Jill and John seem happier than ever being out here, close to family and the beach and having enough space for being a family.  Mia is excited about the garden and the dogs have a huge back yard, I’m so happy for my friends to be living life so right! Their friend Kate came over to help Jill with things for her photo shoot the following day for Apartementtherapy.com and we all ended up hanging out.  She happens to be a massage therapist, was really into my adventure and wanted to help so she offered her craft and gave me a much needed short Thai massage, my trail angel for sure!  Maintaining these legs during all this work is quite a high task, they literally fell swollen, they are.  Kate did a bunch of foot message too which was amazing because I could feel the work she was doing there resonate through out all of my legs and back. I had a beer with John then hit the sack.  This morning there was a lot to do to get ready for the photo shoot of the house, Jill is and was an interior designer. They bought this house gutted, so it was designed and built inside from scratch,  It’s so amazing. After my yoga this morning I saw her sweeping the porch, knew she had better things to do so I grabbed  the broom and didn’t stop helping clean for a couple hours, the giant windows in the living room are spotless too, it was a meditation, and allowed me to procrastinate getting back on the bike.  I am glad that I did because I realized how much I needed rest and after speaking with John, who is the most advanced personal trainer and body guru that I know, decided to actually take a days rest.  Better now than when it’s too late.  Another friend, Jenny, that was here this morning helping connected me with Michelle in Orcutt, CA because my warmshowers.com host had to cancel on me last minute.  So had I not stayed and served I would have been riding north right now, going too hard on my legs with no place in mind to stay.  Instead, because of the wonderful people I keep seeing on my journey I have a safe plan, a new friend to meet that will host me for a night and an opportunity to give back to those I love when they were in need. Life sure does know how to work itself out!

[travelswithwendy]

Carpinteria is a quaint small coastal town between Santa Barbara and Ventura in southern California. The historical town has the most beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets of any beach in Southern California.

sunset on the beach in Carpintaria

Gregg photo bombing my sunset pic

sunset on Carpentaria Beach

Our hotel is our RV. We camp at the Carpinteria State RV Park on Palm Avenue.

Soon as we park we leash up Bella, our dog, and take our first long walk, usually catching our first sunset. We walk to the end of the RV park, past San Miguel Campground towards the oil rig pier. This area of the beach you can let the dogs run and play in the surf & sand without getting a ticket. Our dog loves it and after the drive it is a wonderful way to burn some energy off her.

After our walk we change for dinner and take a short walk to Linden Street where we select from several restaurants what to eat each night. We love The Palm. A bar and grill restaurant that’s been there over a 100 years. A friendly, comfortable atmosphere where you grill your own steaks and feast from all you can eat salad, potato, baked beans & bread bar! The handmade croutons on the salad bar are so yummy. We eat here every trip.

Another great place we frequent is Siam Elephant Thai Restaurant. We sit outside on the patio to enjoy the Southern CA weather and enjoy chicken satay with a peanut sauce and pad see ew. They make everything from scratch. They are popular for their red & green curry and pumpkin in the fall. Gregg and I love relaxing here with a glass of wine and the ocean breeze.

Siam Thai in Carpinteria on Linden Ave and outside patio

It is a nice stroll through the park on a wooden boardwalk to & from Linden St.  A great opportunity to walk off the fullness of dinner each night.

Sly’s Steak House is our “to go to place” for a martini and appetizer. They know how to serve their drinks with style. They always have a cocktail of the day. A jumbo shrimp cocktail will set you back $20 but it will be the biggest and best you’ve ever had. We order the red onion straws to share. They are addicting and they keep bringing us back again and again. We always visit Tacos Don Roge & Ice Cream! We laugh and love our cheap lunch. Authentic street tacos for $1.75 each. Choose from your normal shredded chicken, beef, pork or carne asada. You can also try lengua (beef tongue), Cabeza (cow head) tripe (intestines) and buche (pig stomach). They also have a great salsa bar and make delicious handmade guacamole. I just love their tables with umbrellas outside to enjoy your tacos and finish it off with a ice cream cone in the sunshine.

The most well know place of all time to eat is THE SPOT. A burger & shake shack that only takes cash It is located right next to the ocean and across the street from the park. There is always a line, you can smell the grill cooking for miles. You can pass without getting a burger and fries to eat in the park with an incredible view of the ocean.

the famous SPOT burger & shakes in Carpinteria

A new pizza place opened recently on the street, Pizza Man Dan’s. The salad bar is large and fresh, there are TVs to watch sports. They have a large outside patio and you can bring your dog on a leash. Gregg isn’t too crazy about the place, but he is a pizza snob. It’s a great place to gather with large groups – and if you don’t want to go out – Pizza Man Dan’s delivers to the campsite day and night – you always see his delivery cars.  805-658-6666

Brittany and Parker in surf on beach in Carpentaria

I never get disappointed at Carpinteria to get a view of sea lions and dolphins playing in the surf. I love taking several daily walks just to gaze out and catch a sight of a sea lion playing in the surf or a few dolphins swimming up the coast line.

heron in the bush by the wash

The one mile RV campsite does run along the Metro Train Station. Yes, the train does run a couple early morning trains 7 days a week. Most of the amazing RV Parks in California are located next to railroad tracks. The railroad runs along the entire coastline, so if you want to camp at the beach you will have to suffer the train passing by.

Last trip we walked to the train station and boarded for a day trip to Santa Barbara for lunch and some wine tasting. Brittany and Chris had never been wine tasting there and our little grand-daughter, Parker, had never rode a train before! It was a great day.

took the train to Santa Barbara to go wine tasting – getting a bite first!

Carpinteria State RV Park Carpinteria is a quaint small coastal town between Santa Barbara and Ventura in southern California. The historical town has the most beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets of any beach in Southern California.

[olybug]

Getting my comfy on. #camping #carpinteria #beach #california #summer #itsalwayssummer #andchillyatthebeach (at Carpinteria State Beach) https://www.instagram.com/p/B2HXkJ1peOa/?igshid=11l7ls1hz6ymu

[serenityreiki]

This morning was absolutely magical!!! 💙😂💚✨ #carp #carpinteria #santabarbara #carpinteriastatebeach #sunrise #beach #ocean #sunrise_sunset #centralcoast #california #beautifuldestinations #camping #wanderlust #travel #optoutside #sb #happy #magical #instagood #igers #photography #photooftheday #igphotography #landscapephotography #blessed #inspiration #instamood #onelove #sunset (at Carpinteria State Beach Campgrounds) https://www.instagram.com/brittanyleehealing/p/Bvz20rEnLnu/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=l5v6mdbq4gdb

[live-fast-die-classy]

I could stare at fire for hours . . . . . #campfire #camplife #carpinteria #beachweek #firepit #firering #flame #camping (at Carpinteria State Beach) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm2fH0MnKc7/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=kpln0pqaetdx

[adventureattorney]

GENIUS! Biscuits on a stick! You cook them over a campfire however you desire, then fill it with whatever you like - Nutella, potatoes, stuffing etc. We’re definitely going to give this a try! #camping #campinghacks #carpinteria #california #beach #fulltimerv #ollanciaadventures #newtricks #camphost #camphostlife #fulltimetravel #ontheroad #wanderlust #explore (at Carpinteria State Beach)
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDB9YxgJf5Z/?igshid=xe0wwa2f3iwt

[chasecampen]

6 awesome campsites within an hour of Los Angeles

Photo: Shuttershock - 

One of Los Angeles’ best attributes is that it has mountains, beaches, and deserts all relatively close to its bustling urban zones.

It is sometimes easy to forget just how close those resources are, so we've compiled a list of a half dozen great campsites within about 65 miles of central LA (that’s about an hour of freeway driving in fair traffic).

Spots for the beach lovers, the mountain folks, the car-free, and the Angelenos looking to get far away from other people. Happy camping!

Buckhorn Campground

Photo: @_shy_loe_, Instagram

Buckhorn Campground in the Angeles National Forest, up the road from La Cañada Flintridge, keeps campers cool in a different way than beach campsites would: The campground is located at an altitude of 6,300 feet. (Because it's so high up, it usually closes around November, and reopens in the spring.)

RVs are allowed here, too, but have to be under 18 feet. (A note about the Angeles Crest Highway: Like most mountain roads, it winds. If you're traveling with people or animals who do not like that, plan accordingly.)

The campground isn't exactly a secret and often fills up by Fridays in the warmer months, so arrive as early as possible if you don't want a spot next to the toilets, which are vault-style (kind of like permanent port-a-johns). Buckhorn is a first-come, first-served campground with about 38 sites that fit two cars and up to eight people each. Sites cost $12 a night.

As of publication, Buckhorn is still closed for the winter, but it’s expected to be open by the middle of the month, an on-duty ranger told Curbed. Interested campers can call the L.A. River Ranger District at (818) 899-1900 to make sure it’s open before heading up.

Carpinteria State Beach Campground

The year-round campground at Carpinteria State Beach is nearly two hours and 80 miles away, and that's in good traffic. But you don’t have to drive to get here.

This campground is just about a block away from the town’s train station, which is serviced by the Amtrak Coast Starlight. The train ride from Union Station takes about two hours, too, but during that time, you can sleep, watch a movie on your phone, or read.

This campground is not isolated— it's on a very well-trafficked beach and it's across the street from houses and a pretty tasty microbrewery—but the adorable, walkable and bikeable town is quiet. (It might be cool to hop on the train with your bike, then tool around the town on two wheels.)

And the campground has flush toilets, fire rings, ADA accessible sites, and a dump station for your RV or vintage trailer.

Reservations are required at the campground, and are available through Reserve California. Campsites start from $45 a night for a standard site; group sites cost more. If you arrive on foot or on a bike, you can use a "hike and bike" site, which costs $10 a night per person . Those sites should be reserved at least 48 hours in advance on the same website as campsite reservations.

Henninger Flats

Photo: @jennypretzel, Instagram

Henninger Flats campground is a short, three-mile hike above Altadena. From the get-go, this place is a little more rugged than the other campgrounds: There’s no drive-in option. Hiking is the only way to get here.

The campground is operated by the Los Angeles County Fire Department, and there's an LACFD forester on-duty at the campground 24/7. Their office is upstairs from the Henninger Flats Museum in the campground. (Ring the bell at the museum for service, an LACFD forester told us over the phone.)

Henninger Flats has more than two dozen, first-come, first-served sites spread across three campgrounds. Free permits are required to camp; they’re available with the on-duty forester.

Sites have camp stoves, which require a permit to use. Anyone over age 18 with a photo ID can get a permit, also available from the on-duty forester. Restrooms are outhouse-style pit toilets.

One thing the campground doesn’t have? Running water. So you'll have to cart in your own.

Parking to hike to the campground might get a little tricky. There are lots of parking signs and restrictions on the street where the trail to Henninger begins, and it seems the rules are well-enforced. (Directions can be found here; there is no overnight parking in Eaton Canyon's lot.) The forester recommends campers scout out the area around the trailhead before they come up to camp, so they can find a good, legal place to park ahead of time.

There's no official website for the campground, but the friendly, on-duty foresters are happy to answer questions via phone at 626-794-0675.

Horse Flats

Photo: @rawblin, Instagram

The aptly-named Horse Flats campground in the Angeles National Forest is equine-friendly and has corrals and hitching posts for ponies, but these days it’s more popular with the bouldering crowd than with horsefolk.

The campground has vault toilets and 26 spacious, Jeffrey-pine-filled campsites, all of which are first-come, first-served and cost $12 a night. (Tents and trailers, plus RVs up to 20 feet are allowed.) The drive-in campground doesn't have any drinking water available, so bring your own.

Since Horse Flats is above 5,500 feet, it can get cool at night, so be sure to check the weather. The campground is open now, but usually closes for the winter in November.

Sycamore Canyon Campground

Just across the Ventura County line, Point Mugu State Park's Sycamore Canyon Campground is a nice tent and RV campground near Oxnard with beach access. It hooks up to fun hiking trails, too.

The campground offers flush toilets, token-operated showers, fire rings, ADA-accessible campsites, and a dump station for RVs.

When you make reservations, be sure that you are in fact reserving for Sycamore Canyon: There's another campground called Thornhill Broome nearby with reservations on the same website, but those have no showers, chemical toilets, and no shade. Campsites cost $45 a night.

West Fork Trail Camp

Photo: @brandolambo, Instagram

Are all these suggestions a little too bustling? Campers seeking more isolation and a higher degree of roughing it should check out West Fork Trail Camp behind Mt. Wilson, off the 2 Freeway. To access it, park your car 5 miles away, then hike in. (Be sure to buy an Adventure Pass for your car. Rangers are vigilant!)

Not to be confused with the West Fork Trail that starts up Highway 39 in Azusa, this first-come, first-served camp is classified by the Forest Service as having "light" usage; it only has seven sites, and they don't get full, like, ever. The only water available is from a stream (so you have to filter, treat, or boil it first). There are vault toilets, at least.

These sites are free to camp in, and are a good jumping off point for those interested in hiking some of the Gabrielino or Silver Moccasin trails, which meet south of the campground.

Original article by Bianca Barragan, courtesy of LA Curbed.