Finding a place to park your rig in Santa Barbara, let alone a spot with full hookups, can feel like searching for a needle in a very expensive haystack. This is the American Riviera, after all, where charming Spanish revival architecture meets stunning coastal bluffs, and everything comes with a premium price tag. That’s what makes the Earl Warren RV Park such a fantastic discovery for those of us cruising up or down Highway 101. It’s an urban oasis tucked away at the city’s showgrounds. This isn’t some remote, dusty lot; it’s a chance to have on site water, electricity, full sewer hookups, and even hot showers, all while being just minutes from the beach. For the road weary traveler, it represents an opportunity to take a real break, dump the tanks, plug in, and fully recharge without having to stomach the shocking fees you’d find at a waterfront resort.
The location is a huge part of its magic. You’re not just near Santa Barbara; you’re in it. Within a five mile radius, you have access to everything that makes this city a world class destination. You can take a leisurely stroll down the historic Stearns Wharf, breathing in the salty air and watching the boats bob in the harbor. You can step back in time by touring the incredible Old Mission Santa Barbara, which was founded way back in 1786 and stands as a testament to California’s history. For the wine lovers, the trendy Funk Zone is a must visit, with its collection of urban wineries and tasting rooms where you can sip on local Pinot Noir. It’s all right there. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the opportunities are endless. You can hike up to Inspiration Point for breathtaking panoramic views of that famous red tile skyline against the blue Pacific. Or, for a truly unforgettable experience, you can catch one of the day trip boats out to the Channel Islands National Park for some world class kayaking. And when you get hungry, the Santa Barbara Public Market on State Street offers an amazing array of farm to table food that showcases the best of the region’s agricultural bounty.
Staying at a park that’s part of an active event venue like the Earl Warren Showgrounds has its own unique character. You can expect things to be well organized and clearly marked. The back in pads are numbered, the hookups are easy to find, and the staff is accustomed to managing the flow of people and vehicles for everything from equestrian shows to the county fair. It’s a professional operation. One thing to be aware of is that the gates do close at night, so if you’re planning a late arrival, you’ll likely have to park in an overflow area until the morning. When it comes to setting up, it’s pretty straightforward. The sewer risers are located at the rear of each pad, which makes alignment a breeze, especially for motorhomes. In fact, the dump station essentially is your full hookup outlet at your site, so emptying your tanks is as simple as connecting your hose and pulling the valve. There’s no need to pack up the whole rig just to go to a separate sanitation station.
Let’s talk about the amenities, because this is where the Earl Warren park really shines for an urban location. You get both 30 and 50 amp service, along with potable water at your site. This is perfect for topping off your batteries and fresh water tank, especially if you’re planning to do some coastal boondocking after your stay. The showers and restrooms are a real highlight. They’re located in a modern bathhouse near the main arena, and I’ve always found them to be well maintained and clean. Best of all, they are free to use, no tokens or quarters required, which is a small but deeply appreciated luxury on the road. For those traveling with pets, you’ll be happy to know they are welcome here. There are designated dog walk areas around the perimeter of the grounds. Just be sure to keep your furry friend on a leash. And if they need a good run, the beach is only about five blocks away. You will need to plan for a couple of things, however. There’s no gas or propane sold on site, so it’s a good idea to fill up at the Chevron on Las Positas Road before you pull into the showgrounds. Also, there’s no designated guest laundry or trash disposal. Dumpsters are usually available during large events, but as a regular camper, you should plan to carry your trash out with you and use public bins or a rest stop.
When it comes to cost, the pricing isn’t always listed online, as it can fluctuate based on the season and what events are happening at the showgrounds. Based on what fellow RVers have reported recently, you can expect to pay somewhere in the neighborhood of $55 to $65 per night during the peak season. While that might sound a bit steep at first, it is actually very competitive for Santa Barbara, especially considering the full hookups and unbeatable proximity to downtown. My advice is to always call ahead or check their online booking system for the exact rate and to confirm their policies on payment. To ensure you have a smooth visit, book as far in advance as you can, particularly if you’re planning to be there during the summer festival season. The RV spots are often tied to the fairground events and can sell out quickly. The park has a rule about arriving after 3 p.m., which is a good policy as it allows the departing rigs plenty of time to clear out without creating a traffic jam. Be sure to bring your longer hoses; as I mentioned, the hookups are at the back of the pads, so you might need that extra length. And here’s a great local tip: to avoid the notorious challenge of finding parking downtown, you can take a pleasant walk to State Street via the Las Positas trail. In summary, the Earl Warren RV Park is a full service haven right in the heart of the American Riviera. It’s a gem that offers easy highway access, clean showers, and the convenience of on pad sewer. Just remember to bring your own trash bags and fill up your tanks before you arrive, and you’ll be all set for an amazing stay.
Las Positas Entrance, 3400 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
(805) 687-0766
Cost: Price not available
Category: RV park
Has Water
earlwarren.com