We really enjoyed our time here. The cabins are a bit pricey for what you get and you have to bring just about everything or pay "convenience mart" type pricing. The staff were all super friendly but we had to call twice to have our cabin serviced/cleaned and then it didn't happen until after 4pm. We were there in the off season (early January), so there weren't a lot of people or activities scheduled/happening. We took a walk on our own to the goat farm and we're happy we did. The Saturday morning schedule hike to farm was FILLED with screaming kids....
We rented the creekside queen cabin. There was no water in the creek... that was a bummer but on the upside, it was quiet and away from the families area.
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Wonderful break from urban life. We sat outside the market on our first evening here and watched 2 skunks wandering about. Looking forward to the Saturday night BBQ!
Nice, clean campground. Close to the beach. Only complaint is the $45 a night is the cheapest site. Other than that it's a great campground that's close to civilization.
Great camping resort, with amenities that let you choose how much you are either camping, or glamping. Our family of four stayed in a double bed tent cabin that was perfect for us. It's close to the beach, and has a great pool. There were a lot of activities like a barbecue and wine tasting, both with live music. The food that is available at the canyon store is great and reasonably priced. The staff at the resort are amazing and helpful at all times. Thank you El Capitan Canyon, we will see you again!
I would have given this place a 4, had I not been expecting to see water. They say their rv campground has water views, and you're really looking forward to it. So when we arrived and saw that it was a sliver of water, from a certain angle, if you tilt your head, etc. we were disappointed. I also felt, that management could do something to help with the smell of foul sewer caps not properly closed. I had to call three times to complain about this. They sent someone out each time, but they just closed one or another, yet they were a lot still left open. I couldn't sit outside because of the smell and had to personally walk around and figure which ones were open to tell them exactly which ones to close. I felt that for the money we paid, we shouldn't have to tell them how to do their jobs, plus mislead people with boasting "water views".
The rv sites are private from each other, and the people who were staying were considerate. They do implement a lot of rules, and regulations to make sure it stays like that, and at 10:00 it's quiet time. So, you cannot be outside with electronics. Therefore, no tv's, radios, iPads etc. are allowed on. It's seems a bit ludicrous that adults need to be told this, but I guess it's been an issue before. I was outside with my tv on, and had security come and tell me, "it's lights out, and although no one has complained, and I can't even hear your tv, I'll allow you to keep it on". I think this is a bit extreme, that you're being told what you can and can't do when you're not being inconsiderate. I felt like I had to hide every night to sit outside, enjoy a drink while watching tv, and enjoying the mild weather.
They have a nice pool, and a cute store equipped with lots of essentials, should you be stuck in the park without another means of transportation. You can walk to the beach across the street, but when I say across the street, you have to go through a state park, so it's like a mile and a half walk.
They have an adjoining campground that has cabins, and you're free to roam around those ground. Every Friday night they have events for guests, that guest from either parks can join. They had a fabulous band one week that sang for 2 hours straight. It was lovely to see everyone dancing and enjoying themselves. They had a lovely fire-pit for guest to keep warm too. The following week they had a wine tasting, which was great and informative. They had other daily activities, hikes, yoga etc.
I think there's something for everyone in this campground, but one thing you can definitely expect, is lots of kids on their skateboards, bikes, etc. So, be warned, if you want "quiet all the time" this is NOT the place for you.
Stopped in after a long afternoon of driving just to visit thier little store & grab something to eat. We absolutely love how beautiful it is. We plan on coming back in the future with our family for some camping/hiking.
If you are not a camper, this is a great alternative. You are outdoors and moving in nature, and the cabins are a place to shower and sleep. The cabins need maintenance. Screens have holes, moldings are missing around windows, little things, but for the price the cabins should be well maintained. It's a great concept. The canyon store and market are well stocked. We found most of the staff to be cheerful and helpful. They cheerfully replaced one of our screens that had holes in it so that we could open the windows during the day. The llama hike is super fun, especially for the kids. I think I would like to give it 4 or even 5 stars, it's just that for the price, it seems like the cabins should be in excellent condition. We were with a large group and there was a big range of what condition each cabin was in. Still, I recommend it!
What a blast: Glamping at El Capitan Canyon in beautiful Santa Barbara on the California Coast. It was part of my family's every-four-year reunion, and this place has everything! Mountainous hiking trails, a wonderful pool, and, right across the highway--PCH--is the ocean. Did someone say "Cowabunga" ?! Surfin' completes the picture. What a blast!
Second time here. Glamping (glamour camping) has never been better. And the best place to do it is at El Capitan. Beach access is close, hiking, outdoor pool, and tons of exploring. You can bring your own food to cook over the fire, or pick up a dinner kit with everything you need (including firewood) from the Canyon market. We love this place, and will be returning for years to come.
We visited the market/deli while staying at the RV resort next door. We didn't know this little piece of heaven existed. Great place to sit, relax and enjoy the area while dining on great food. Very reasonable prices on the menu too. Will definitely stop in there again for a quick meal when driving through the area.
Wonderful glamping experience here. We stayed in the double tent and had a comfortable bed and heat to sleep in. The double tent has 2 full sized beds and cost the same as the queen tent, so in my opinion better value for money if going in a group. Bathroom was excellent! Very clean and there was even service in the tents with new towels given everyday and toiletries refilled. Perfect mix of comfort and nature.
If your an early riser and single this may be relaxing. We could not get the bright light to stop coming in our cabin from the high windows. The heating system was either sweltering hot or too cold. Woke up several times. The walk to the market and deli is too far. There were excessive ants. The loft ladder too dangerous for children. Save your money and stay at the beach!
The camp site: 30 minutes drive north of Santa Barbara. Very close by the freeway exit. Every camp has it's own fire pit and picnic table.
We stay at the cabin that can sleep 6, two bunk bed and loft above the bathroom (two twin mattress). There is a microwave, sink and small refrigerator in each cabin. Bedding are comfortable. There is heater inside the cabin too so won't be freezing at night. Bathroom is tiny, shower only. But still better than showing in the public bathroom.
The Service: Very strict security, they would check your reservation on their check-in list. Then they will instruct you where to park your car and where to check-in. Front desk staffs are very friendly and helpful. They will give you the room key and map of the camp site. Since it is a huge camp site, the security will escort you to your camp. Very thoughtful that you won't get lost. After they guide you to your camp site to upload your luggage, they will tell you where to park your cars.
They staffs drive around the property all the time, very secure. The housekeeping drive around the property to change trash bags.
The Parking: About few minutes walk from your camp site. There are a few parking lots through out the property.
The camp site is pretty empty during winter time because it is off-season. The price is only $50 cheaper than summer (high-season). Wish they discount more so more people will come and enjoy the camp site.
Just opened again after Covid shutdown. All employees are nice and helpful. Number of rooms available is still restricted. Scenery is beautiful. Oh yeah, and the breakfast burritos at the market are Soo good!
Can't say what it would be like to stay there but the grounds appeared well maintained. Food at the small deli was good and reasonably priced. The model of cabin and yurt at the entrance were interesting.
Great Glamping spot. Went in December and had the place almost to ourselves. Camp site has bikes to use for free. We took them to the beach which is less than a mile away. Fire pits have a removable grill to bbg on which was perfect. Overall great spot. Definitely coming back soon.
This place is awesome. Stayed in a safari tent (one of many on the property which is huge) and loved it. Traveling from across the country without a tent or sleeping bag this is the perfect campground to setup camp, without the setup. Within walking distance or a shrot bike ride on one of the free campground bicycles to the waterfront. Lots of open space and more than enough things to keep you interested. Would definitely stay here next time in the area.
Only negative is poison oak is abundant...other than that....we had a great family and friend glamping Experience. Great cabin, great cafe/ gift shop, loved ease of checking out cruiser bikes with d.l., loved lama hike and petting baby goats, walking to beach, tide pools, felt safe, lovely running Creek...loved it
El Capitan is the ideal camping vacation spot in central California. There are accommodations to suit everyone. Cabins for glampers as well as yurts and canvas cabins for the more adventurous types. All have regular beds. The cabins have kitchenettes and full bathrooms with showers. The public showers were clean. We had the creekside queen cabin. Not the largest of the cabins offered but perfectly suited to our little family. (Two adults and two kids) there is a sleeping loft suitable for children. Our neighbors had two teens and the teens were not happy with the loft size. You can t stand in the loft at all but for two little girls the experience was magical. The loft is too small for teens and adults. They had a little window up there and a ladder to get up, they loved it.
Because we drove from Southern California I was able to pack EVERYTHING we needed. Turns out I really didn t need to pack so much. The canyon market has everything, fire wood, charcoal, lighter fluid, all of the food you need and their barbecue kits are a pretty good value. Pack barbecue cookware of you plan on cooking a lot. The market prices aren t inflated like one would expect. They sell toiletries, diapers, toys, clothing all at prices you d expect to see in a regular grocery store. They also have a restaurant with coffee bar and lots of breakfast and lunch items. My kids loved the cinnamon rolls and cocoa. I suggest getting a free bike rental and using that to trek back and forth from cabin to store if you re high up the hill as you re not able to drive cars in the cabin area except to unload and load. For disabled or elderly I d suggest getting a cabin closer to the market.
The walk to the beach is a trek, with toddlers or very elderly just drive over. Otherwise it s a nice healthy walk and the kids loved seeing the wooden train tracks. Look out for poison oak. Expect a fifteen to twenty minute walk, not five as the front desk suggested. Also expect tar on your feet from the beach. This is a natural occurrence on the California Coast. No big deal, the canyon store sells tar remover (they were out at the time) but we were able to purchase baby oil at their store which worked.
Our cabin seemed equipped with a heater which wasn t needed and a small table fan. No ceiling fan which surprised me as there looks like their used to be one, but our cabin remained comfortable mid July as we were in a very shaded area. Most of ElCap Canyon is quite shaded. Our neighbors down the hill weren t so lucky and complained that their cabin was pretty warm.
The pool was nice, no towels at the pool though which was disappointing. Bring your own beach towels. No washer/drier on site but there is one at their sister RV camp ground next door. You can also go there for family movie night and to use their other pool which has a jacuzzi.
All in all we loved our stay.
Pros:
Everything in one spot Clean cabins Comfy beds Very kid friendly Good WiFi Spa Yoga Llama farm Free bike rentals Friendly staff Good food at restaurant Well stocked market Close to beach Pool
Quiet and peaceful place to visit. They have a variety of accommodations, from relatively simple tents to semi-luxurious cabins. We've been here twice throughout the years, and will definitely be back.
Overall, I really enjoyed El Capitan Canyon. I went there last July 4th weekend, &stayed in the middle section in a Yert. It was right near the pool restrooms, showers, so conveniently placed. It got hot during the day, & cold at night, so have a staff member open &close the windows for you. They're happy to help!! The round, wood beamed room, had a very comfy queen bed, a twin bed, plus a trundle twin bed underneath. The linens are good quality, & the pillows were great! There's a small fridge, pegs to hang clothes, & a kitchen like module.There's lots to do & see, or you can read, relax or vege out in front of your very own firepit. They offer free bicycles, walking tours of the farm nearby, & a really nice BBQ, with a great country, blues band, dancing, very family oriented, with babysitting services at night. They also have an evening astronomy expert, who is very knowledgeable, &ntertaining. Bring a flashlight everywhere you go at night! It's dark!! It's very safe, but still, you're in the woods, & there are mt Lions around, it's a good idea to have a buddy system for younger kids. Bring bikes, scooters, kites, frisbees, volleyball, soccer balls, outdoor games you enjoy. There's lots of open space to play no cars are allowed to drive thru unless checking in or out. Again, the staff is very accommodating, & go out of their way to help you with anything you need. If you're prone to frequently needing a restroom, esp at night, stay in a cabin or unit that has one, it's dark & cold at night, just convenient. There's a general store with Lots of fun stuff, but with practical things like clothes, bathing suits, sweatshirts, hats, sandals, etc, but a bit pricey. I bought nice books for my grandkids, plus fun little games, a cool walking stick carved from wood, & a nice coffee cup. They have another shop, but it's more artsy, with nice gifts like crystals, wood objects, wind chimes, candles, more. Again, pricey, but unique. The canyon is located across the street, down the road from Refugio State Beach. It's not an easy walk, esp with Lots of Beach gear, etc, take your car pay the parking, it's not worth shlepping the kids, grandma, gear, food, mom, etc, it's not very safe either(cars)...be a sport and pay the $10 fee, you'll be glad you did! The beach is beautiful, windy, very short from shore to sand, more ruggedly situated, but really relaxing once settled in. There a restroom, & cement path that's on an incline down to the beach. You can settle in close by, or venture left or right, away from the crowds. It's a beach frequented by locals, & visitors like yourself, & foreigners. The next day we took the bikes & rode over along the service road to the farm nearby. There were donkeys, goats, lots of hawks flying around looking for roadkill...there's a fence that separates the animals, but they're friendly, & fun to watch. Bring apples, carrots, let your kids feed them thru the fence, it's a lot of fun, & great photo opps! There are several different kinds of structures to stay in, I recommend that mom 'N dad stay in a Yert, or cabin, the kids stay in a tent. This way you have some privacy, & the kids have an adventure! They have tents that are right next to cabins, & it's really very safe. Only for kids that are at least 12-16 years old, who are responsible, & will watch their younger sibs! It's more affordable, & lots of fun. The pool area in the first section gets very busy, the kids were wild & there's no life guard. If you want more peace & quiet, ask if the upper section has less kids booked, worth questioning...we didn't get up their, but would venture to guess more people with kiddies stay near the pool & closer to the restaurant/gen store areas, near the entrance. The larger cabins are in the section further from the Check in desk. I believe there's a pool area, but all amenities, & a map of the canyon are on the web site. Overall, a great place to stay!!! The call it "Glamping," glamorous camping... You still need to bring everything you would camping, but it's definitely worth the experience!
This campground is very pretty situated by the beach and the hills. It is a good alternative to camping since it has more amenities (market is great). We booked a safari tent originally but when we arrived, the tent smelled and had mold spots on the tent. We thought the tents would be better maintained for $155/night. We decided to switch to a cabin and Vicki at the front desk was very accommodating and helpful. The cabin was a lot better but could be a bit updated I think for $205/night (newer bathroom). But it was a nice experience with our kids and we had fun.
Creekside king cabin was spacious, warm and cozy. Saw a family of deer right outside as we were leaving the cabin in the morning-- very cool.
The canyon market had all the amenities and supplies we needed, and there were several trails we walked along. The llamas proved an anticlimactic end to an otherwise lovely stroll up the hillside, but the beach was quite nice.
This place is great for a weekend outdoors. We brought our RV and parked in one of the areas with ocean views. It has a swimming pool, several shops and a restaurant with meals at reasonable prices.
El Cap 10 is the fun place if you're camping down by the beach the upper half I don't know it seems a little snooty so if you're that person and you like that up top would be your best bet but down below a bit more relaxed and fun good people I have been camping there for years very happy with the service an clean grounds and restrooms ect.
I came to view this as a potential wedding venue. El Capitan Canyon is gorgeous, and there are three separate options of blocks of cabins you can reserve for guests.
The El Capitan Canyon is a great experience of clamping and had great cleaning service. The cabin my family and I stayed at was a cabin with a loft, a bedroom, and a living room at the front with a kitchen.
I had a great time at El Capitan Canyon. The cabins were nice and cozy, the staff was extremely friendly and the food at the market was great. I can't wait to back. Excellent experience!
Wish we had more time for this place. Really cute, unfortunately our unit smelled like backed up sewage. The store had great food and my son's loved the night swimming.
I have been coming for many years. The views, space, ocean and mountains are just breathtaking. I have been taking my children from a young age now grown. They love coming here still. Always a treat. REMEMBER NOT TO FEED THE RACCOONS OR LEAVE FOOD IN TENT OR IN CAMP.PUT FOOD INSIDE CAR
My first ever glamping experience was at El Capitan Canyon was eye-opening. I never knew people could experience camping in this form before. The venue had all the amenities for those that need to be on the grid to check thier email or social media (electrical outlets + wifi). Like a hotel, beds were clean and there were complimentary soap and shampoo. I'd recommend staying here for those that need a quick outdoors fix while still being able to shower and sleep in a bed.
Great place if you want to be outdoors but with all of the optional luxuries. They have many different accommodation options depending on what options you want while "glamping". The cabins are great and many of them have lofts that sleep an additional 2 people. Each site has it's own fire pit and picnic table. Staff were very accommodating and friendly. The facilities were generally well maintained and clean.
Love camping here. It's a bit expensive but the convenience is through the roof. They have it set up to be whatever you want. If you want to cook at the campsite and chop wood. They're good with that. If you forgot to bring wood. They sell it onsite and will bring it to your site. They have a restaurant and spa on site hiking and activities all around. It's a great way to spend quality time.
Really lovely. Glad I got a chance to visit before it burns down. (Note: everything in California will burn down, there's nothing special about this place, though it may burn down sooner rather than later because of the way the fire pits sit right under the trees at so many camp sites.
. I thought it was funny to fist fight a bear from the boredom of having no devices and I was then forced to sleep in a soggy and cold tent in the middle of santa Barbra in the middle winter I had to eat my friends from starvation due to a bear eating my 20 pounds of Nutella and saltines. Human flesh tast s like pork just saying also got my A** kicked by a alpaca that ate my 5 pounds of crystal meth. I also was forced to work 24/7 all day all night one day they let us get up at seven And because I'm me I thought it was a funny idea do to call a swat team on my friends that I did not eat which the swat team ended up shooting them all perfect headshots this was no doubt one of the worse 4 day school trips
A very lovely place to have lunch or early dinner. They have a large variety of choices and they are generous portions with very reasonable prices . Wonderful beaches to go to, a perfect place to camp or spend a day, delightful for the whole family!
elcapitancanyon.com
