We went summer camping at Lake Cachuma, CA (Santa Barbara), the past few days and wanted to share the details about our trip to help you plan your next adventure with your doggo. Lake Cachuma is in the Santa Ynez Mountains, 2.5 hours (104 miles) from Los Angeles, just west-northwest of Ojai. Solvang and Los Olivos are close by for day-tripping from camp.
Excellent Day Hike for the Family
Nojoqui Falls Park Trail offers a beautiful and accessible day hike that is perfect for families and dog-friendly. It’s an ideal spot for a morning hike and picnic before the temperature rises. El Rancho Market (west on the 154) is a must-see for picnicking goods.
Know Before You Go
First and foremost, check the weather! I thought it would be in the low 80s (28 Celsius), and it turned out to be 92 degrees (33 Celsius) at its hottest one day. I did check the weather, too. I was concerned about my dog and her fur being too hot outside, even in the shade. I misted her down with this fan/mister (a game-changer for both of us). Campfires are allowed, but I was too hot to cook. Warming up some pre-made breakfast burritos in the morning would be an outstanding idea (time-saving for an early start of the day). Mornings are cozy, calm, and peaceful, and it is the best part of the day to enjoy nature around you.
The small inflatable kiddie pool is a must since you can’t swim in the lake (more info on that here)! They have a swimming pool, but it’s closed due to construction. You can go boating, canoeing, and kayaking on the lake; pontoon boat rentals, fishing, and lake cruises are available (info here). There is an excellent restaurant, Hook’d Bar and Grill, on the marina; it is air-conditioned, and the tacos and burgers are outstanding! The general store is top-notch; they will probably have it if you forget something.
Tent Spot 445
Many remarkable trees are perfect for hammocks, but I forgot mine. You can drive your car into the site and set up camp. The bathrooms and showers were nearby. It is a perfect location with a partial lake view (one camper is in front of you, but it’s not too close).
Which Season is Best to Camp Here?
I have been several times during the winter; this is my first time in the summer. I prefer winter in the yurts or cabins. You have to book ahead of time for those cabins and yurts and would book now. Camping here is fun and safe for women who want to camp alone. Campers with their dogs are super friendly; everyone smiles, waves, and says good morning as they pass by on their walks. There are a lot of trees for shade; consider bringing a canopy for additional shade, too.
Happy Campers
Later that day, a neighbor brought me pasta salad. It was the best pasta salad on the hottest day. I highly recommend pasta salad as a great camping meal if you need a meal idea. Thank you, neighbor!
Your Dog’s Fur
If your dog has long hair (like mine), there are foxtails and little spiky round spurs (the size of a pea)that would stick to her fur. Bring a brush and tweezers and inspect their paws throughout the day so they don’t get caught between their toe beans (paw pads). I plucked off a lot, but it was manageable, and my dog had a blast. Consider getting your dog’s puppy cut before you go.
New Sounds and Experiences for You & Your Dog
Summer camping at Lake Cachuma was remarkably peaceful. Initially on high alert, my dog soon found her rhythm and could nap outside peacefully while I enjoyed a good book. It was a serene, bonding moment and a relaxing experience for both of us.
3 PM It’s Hot Here
If your dog doesn’t mind them, consider having them wear booties! The asphalt around the marina can get hot. I picked my dog up a lot. I had an all-terrain stroller (rubber wheels are key), which was convenient for running to the store or the restaurant. My dog does not like to walk far.
Another Lesson Learned When Summer Camping!
Ensure your camp chair is comfortable to relax in before you leave; I bought a cheap one (don’t do it; invest in a good chair). I wish I had brought a more comfortable chair for my dog, and I like this loveseat. This experience taught me the importance of preparation and ensuring comfort for yourself and your dog.
Recommended summer camping items I had and will have next time for another smooth and enjoyable trip:
- Beach towels (I brought three)
- Travel John (A MUST!)
- Dog Life Jacket (we brought ours in case we went boating; highly recommend the pontoon boat to explore the lake)
- Picnic Blanket (next time)
- Camping mat ( I should have brought two)
- Screened tent (next time)
- Hatchback small SUV tent (worked great)
- Tablecloth (any size works; those picnic tables are long, 8 to 10 ft)
- Camping Cookware Set (next time)
- Stove (next time)
- Butane fuel (next time)
- Car Fridge (next time)
- Dog Travel Bag (we share it, lol)
- Easy up Canopy (next time and would be better than an umbrella)
- Camping Wet Wipes (these are key; wipe those hands, feet, arms, and neck, and thank me later)
- Unsalted shelled peanuts (for the birds)
- Washing Bucket (next time, I used my flower watering bucket it was good to shower the doggo with the mister mentioned above to keep her cool)
We will go back no matter the season. It is worth the tent fee (all that peace for $35 to $50 per night). They also have group spots for around $200. This was a long post and thank you for reading. Bookmark this post to refer to items you may need for future adventures.