Upper Oso Campground

3.87

61 reviews

5050 PARADISE RD.

Quick Facts

1,040 ft

Price

$40 - $45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens CampOne site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,040 ft

Price

$40 - $45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens CampOne site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Upper Oso Campground

$40.00 - $45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard Nonelectric, Tent Only Nonelectric, and Walk-To sites are $40 per night during peak season, with an additional $2 charge for weekends and...

Standard Site Fee$40.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$40.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

805-434-1996parksman@fix.net

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What Campers Say

3.87

Mixed Reviews

Based on 61 reviews

35 Google reviews

Most mentioned

shadespaciousfriendlysites

Some mention

noise

"User reviews of Upper Oso Campground highlight its scenic beauty, spacious sites, and variety of recreational opportunities. However, some users express dissatisfaction with issues such as unkept campsites, insect infestations, noise from off-road vehicles, and variable restroom cleanliness."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

5050 PARADISE RD.

Upper Oso Campground

5050 PARADISE RD.

Driving directionsFrom Santa Barbara, travel north on Highway 101. Exit onto Highway 154 and continue northwest for about 10 miles. Turn east onto Paradise Road and travel about 6 miles. Turn north onto Forest Route 5N15 and continue less than two miles to the campground.

The road to the site from Paradise Road is single-lane, bumpy, with patches of gravel, and has potential water crossings. This route is not suitable for larger RVs or big rigs.

Nearby places

Santa Barbara (25 miles, approximately 40 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, can be found in Santa Barbara, approximately 25 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Upper Oso Campground

Experience the dramatic seasonal personality of Upper Oso, where summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched haven perfect for early morning adventures before the afternoon heat takes hold. As autumn arrives, the scorching temperatures give way to crisp, comfortable days ideal for exploration. Winter brings its own magic with chilly nights that can dip to 37°F, creating perfect conditions for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. Spring emerges as the campground's crown jewel, when wildflowers paint the hillsides, temperatures find their sweet spot, and the landscape bursts with vibrant green hues.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.5 / 5

Summer often brings extreme heat; mornings good but afternoons can be very hot per reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Peak season runs into fall; milder weather and retained scenic appeal make fall pleasant.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring highlighted as best season: green landscapes, comfortable temps and trout stocking in river.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Open year-round but winter visits are less common; limited winter activities noted.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 - November 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Peak season runs from May 15 through November 30, with reservations available from June 23.
Current Alerts: Flooding has damaged parts of the campground, and some crossings to horse corral sites are washed out.

About Upper Oso Campground

Nestled in the heart of California's coastal mountains, Upper Oso Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of outdoor excitement and family-friendly comfort. This versatile mountain retreat welcomes everyone from hiking enthusiasts to equestrian explorers, with dedicated facilities for horse camping and easy access to winding trails and babbling streams. Whether you're navigating mountain bike paths through oak-studded hillsides, exploring on horseback, or tackling off-road vehicle routes, Upper Oso serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures.

Upper Oso Campground provides a variety of camping options, including primitive, equestrian, RV, and tent camping. Some sites are reservable, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal personality of Upper Oso, where summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched haven perfect for early morning adventures before the afternoon heat takes hold. As autumn arrives, the scorching temperatures give way to crisp, comfortable days ideal for exploration. Winter brings its own magic with chilly nights that can dip to 37°F, creating perfect conditions for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. Spring emerges as the campground's crown jewel, when wildflowers paint the hillsides, temperatures find their sweet spot, and the landscape bursts with vibrant green hues.

ElevationPerched at 1,040 feet above sea level, Upper Oso occupies a sweet spot in the coastal mountains where elevation works its magic on the climate. This modest but meaningful altitude creates a microclimate that delivers refreshingly cool evenings even after warm days, offering campers natural air conditioning and comfortable sleeping conditions that make mountain camping such a delight.

Natural Features and SceneryMajestic oak trees create a natural cathedral at Upper Oso, their spreading branches providing generous shade across spacious campsites. A seasonal creek meanders alongside the campground, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack while offering a refreshing respite during flowing months. Dramatic valley walls rise on all sides, creating an intimate amphitheater of wilderness that makes you feel wonderfully removed from the everyday world while still maintaining easy access to adventure.

Geological RegionUpper Oso Campground claims its place in the lower Santa Ynez Recreation Area, where California's coastal mountains reveal their rugged beauty. This geological wonderland showcases the region's characteristic oak woodlands thriving in steep-walled valleys carved by ancient waters. The seasonal creek that graces the campground tells the ongoing story of erosion and renewal, while the surrounding peaks and valleys create a dramatic backdrop that defines the coastal range experience.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in starts at 2 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is at 11 AM.

Stay Limit

Maximum of 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

6guests included
up to a maximum of 8 with an additional $10 charge per person per night over 6.

Groups

Group sites are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content, but the Aliso trail leads to a group campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are well-spaced and shaded under oak trees. Some sites are 'walk-to' and offer more privacy. Equestrian sites include corrals and paved parking spurs.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, through the mobile app, or by contacting their call center.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before arrival. Late cancellations, starting from midnight one calendar day before the check-in date, will incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee. Early departures may not qualify for refunds. Same-day cancellations are at the facility's discretion. Changes to reservations incur a $10 change fee if new stay dates differ from the original ones.

AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible flush toilets and drinking water. Some sites are designed with extra-long, paved parking spurs for easier vehicle access.

Site SizeCampsites are large and scattered among oak trees, offering shade and accommodating tents, RVs, and equestrian setups.

PrivacyPrivacy levels are mixed. Some sites are open and lack privacy, while others are noted to be well-spaced apart, providing a more secluded experience.

Total Campsites24 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy, choose sites with more distance between them or shaded areas under oak trees. Avoid sites prone to insect infestations (e.g., Site 13).

Amenities available

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Upper Oso Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, and off-road vehicle (OHV) riding. The nearby Santa Ynez River and Cachuma Lake provide additional opportunities for water-based recreation.

HikingSeveral hiking trails originate from the campground, including the Santa Cruz Trail (18 miles) and the Aliso National Recreation Trail (2.5 miles). Trails vary in length and difficulty, with some also being dog-friendly.

FishingFishing is available in the nearby Santa Ynez River, stocked with trout in the spring. Cachuma Lake offers additional fishing opportunities for trout, carp, and bass.

SwimmingSwimming is available at White Rock Day-Use Area near the campground. Some users specifically note a 'swimming hole' as a highlight.

BikingMountain biking trails are accessible from the campground, and the Camuesa OHV Route is popular among both bikers and off-road vehicle enthusiasts.

BoatingBoating activities are available at Cachuma Lake, approximately 10 miles from the campground, where kayaking is also permitted.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsReviews mention poison oak, changing river levels leading to winter closures, and infestations of insects at certain sites including ants, gophers, and mosquitoes.

Active AlertsFlooding has damaged parts of the campground, and some crossings to horse corral sites are washed out.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed except during restrictions due to fire warnings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.

Emergency ServicesSanta Barbara Cottage Hospital is the nearest emergency facility, approximately 25 miles away in Santa Barbara.

Trash & RecyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities was provided in the authoritative content or user reviews.

Water FeaturesThe Santa Ynez River is stocked with trout in spring and offers swimming opportunities at the nearby White Rock Day-Use Area. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is 10 miles northwest, providing additional fishing and boating options.

Camp HostThe host, Sunny, is frequently noted as friendly and helpful. She keeps the restrooms clean and assists campers with firewood purchases and other needs.

Weather at Upper Oso Campground

Reviews

3.9

61 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Upper Oso Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Upper Oso Campground highlight its scenic beauty, spacious sites, and variety of recreational opportunities. However, some users express dissatisfaction with issues such as unkept campsites, insect infestations, noise from off-road vehicles, and variable restroom cleanliness.

Review Summaries

Based on 61 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the scenic beauty of the canyon, starry nights, and the spacious, shaded campsites. The camp host, Sunny, is frequently lauded for being friendly and helpful.

Based on 61 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include noise from off-road vehicles, insect infestations, and inadequate maintenance of some campsites and restroom facilities. Other issues raised include the poor condition of...

Based on 61 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend visiting during spring for green landscapes and stargazing during a new moon. They also advise bringing extra water due to occasional issues with the water system.

Based on 61 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring is highlighted as the best season to visit, with green landscapes and comfortable temperatures. Summer visits often come with complaints about extreme heat. Winter visits are less common and...

Based on 61 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The stars were INCREDIBLE and I highly recommend going on a night with a new moon!" - S S, "The toilet hut had one working toilet. The other side was out of order." - Jeff E, "Sunny the campground...

Based on 61 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #10 is frequently mentioned for its shade and location. However, some users complain about insect infestations and maintenance issues in other sites, such as Site #13.

Based on 61 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features such as paved parking spurs and flush toilets are noted in the authoritative content, but no specific user reviews address accessibility experiences.

Based on 61 reviews