Lake Cachuma Recreation Area

Welcome to Cachuma Lake

~ Your Perfect Getaway in the Great Outdoors!

Nestled between the majestic Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains, Lake Cachuma Recreation Area sparkles like a hidden gem amidst acres of wilderness.  Looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-packed vacation? Cachuma Lake has everything you need to create unforgettable memories. With its mild climate, sunny skies, and renowned fishing spots, this lakeside paradise is a dream destination year-round, especially during the winter months when the crowds thin out, and nature truly shines.

A Little History

In 1953, the County of Santa Barbara entered into a long-term lease with the Federal Bureau of Reclamation to manage the sprawling 9,000-acre Cachuma Lake Recreation Area. The lake itself was created that same year with the construction of Bradbury Dam. Since then, Cachuma Lake has become a beloved destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a relaxing escape in one of California’s most scenic settings.

A Location That Has It All

Situated off the picturesque Highway 154 in the Santa Ynez Valley, Cachuma Lake is perfectly positioned midway between the vibrant beaches of Santa Barbara and the charming Danish village of Solvang. No matter your age or the season, Cachuma Lake Recreation Area offers a fun and relaxing getaway that’s easy to access yet feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Accommodations for Every Adventurer

Planning your stay at Cachuma Lake is a breeze! Whether you prefer to pitch a tent, hook up your RV, or enjoy the comfort of a cabin or yurt, we’ve got you covered. Our 1- and 2-bedroom cabins come equipped with full bathrooms and kitchenettes, offering a cozy retreat after a day of exploring. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try one of our yurts—a delightful cross between a tent and a tepee, complete with stunning views of the lake.

For larger groups, we offer dedicated camping plots that are perfect for family reunions, group get-togethers, or special events. All sites can be reserved up to six months in advance, so you can plan your perfect escape with ease. Just keep in mind there’s a 2-night minimum stay for weekends (Friday and Saturday) and a 3-night minimum for holiday weekends.

Recreation Facilities That Cater to Your Every Need

At Cachuma Lake, we’ve thought of everything to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Need to stock up on essentials? Our fully stocked general store has you covered. Running low on gas? We’ve got a gas station right on-site. Laundry piling up? Our coin-operated laundromat is ready to help. And after a long day of fun, nothing beats a hot shower in one of our well-maintained facilities.

But the real star of the show is the endless array of activities available to you and your family. The kids will love our playgrounds, and everyone can enjoy a scenic lake cruise or a visit to the nature center. For the anglers among you, our fishing piers offer the perfect spot to cast a line, and our hiking trails provide breathtaking views and a chance to reconnect with nature.

The Marina is open year-round, offering everything you need for a day on the water. From bait and tackle to fishing licenses and fuel, we’ve got it all. Plus, our full rental fleet means you can easily get out on the lake and start exploring.

Bring Your Furry Friends Along

We know your dogs are part of the family, so we’re happy to welcome them to Cachuma Lake! Dogs are allowed throughout the park, as long as they’re on a leash of six feet or less. We do ask that you bring a current copy of proof of rabies vaccination and, of course, clean up after your pet to keep our park beautiful for everyone.

Dogs are welcome on boats, too—just make sure they don’t come into contact with the water. Please note that dogs are not allowed in Heron, Kestrel, Merlin, and Raven cabins, but they are welcome in Condor, Eagle, Falcon, and Hawk cabins. There is a small fee per pet, per night for these cabins.

To ensure everyone has a great experience, we kindly ask that dogs are not left unattended at any time and that noisy or aggressive animals are kept in check. After all, we want everyone—two-legged and four-legged—to have a fun, relaxing time at Cachuma Lake!

A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Cachuma Lake isn’t just about camping and fishing—it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you’re birdwatching, hiking, or simply soaking in the serene landscape, there’s something for everyone. The area is home to a rich variety of wildlife, from soaring hawks to playful otters, making every moment spent here a chance to connect with the natural world.

Lake Cachuma Recreation Area Events and Activities

Throughout the year, Cachuma Lake hosts a variety of events. These bring the community together and offer even more ways to enjoy this beautiful setting. From guided nature walks and stargazing nights to fishing tournaments and educational programs, there’s always something happening. Be sure to check our events calendar when planning your visit—you won’t want to miss out on the fun!

Why Choose Cachuma Lake?

Cachuma Lake offers more than just a place to camp—it’s an experience. You’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty of the great outdoors, with all the comforts of modern amenities. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, solo travelers, and groups alike.

How to Get Here

Cachuma Lake is easy to reach, yet far enough from the everyday to feel like a true escape. Located off Highway 154, it’s just a short drive from both Santa Barbara and Solvang. This makes it an ideal stop on your Central Coast road trip. Whether you’re coming from near or far, the journey to Cachuma Lake is as beautiful as the destination itself, with scenic views around every bend.

From the South: Take Highway 101 north to Santa Barbara. Take the “Cachuma Lake/Highway 154” exit and follow the signs.

Make Your Reservation Today!

Ready to experience the magic of Cachuma Lake for yourself? We can’t wait to welcome you! Make Reservations online, so start planning your trip today. Lake Cachuma Recreation Area offers a variety of accommodations, activities, and amenities. For this reason, Cachuma Lake is the perfect place to relax, explore, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So pack your bags, grab your fishing gear, and don’t forget the dog. It’s time to discover all that Cachuma Lake has to offer. See you by the lake!

 

Lake Cachuma Recreation Area

You'll find a fully stocked general store, gas station, coin-operated laundromat, and hot showers. Great care has been taken to make our facilities accessible to everyone. Children's playgrounds, lake cruises, the nature center, fishing piers, and hiking trails await you and your family. The Marina is open year-round and sells bait and tackle, fuel and fishing licenses with a full rental fleet to get you out on the water.
Dogs are Welcome! The money collected from the dog fee program has paid for and will continue to upkeep a dog park for you to take advantage of when you come to stay with us! Please be sure to read the signs before you enter and remember all other rules still apply. Dogs are required to be on a leash of 6 ft. or less anywhere else in the Park. We ask all dog handlers to bring a current copy of proof of rabies vaccination. Don't forget dogs are allowed in boats, as long as they have no contact with the water at any time. There is a fee per day per dog.