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Cuyama Badlands

99%

· Cuyama, Santa Barbara, California

164 acres hosted by Songdog Ranch J.

3 lodging sites · 15 RV/tent sites · 2 tent sites

Great for groups

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for larger groups.

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

Family-friendly

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.

Best in California: Finalist

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.

If you've ever wondered what it might be like to camp on the moon, this is it. Completely removed from civilization and surrounded by a barren nature that is alive with the subtle presence of the universe. Seasonally, Spring wildflowers burst across the landscape. Cave paintings of Chumash Indians at Painted Rock remind us of those who lived before us. **Read on for more details.** Our Carrizo Camp is surrounded by the Carrizo Plains National Monument. This is truly a get away from it all camping. That's it. You, the coyotes and your own private moon. Our Songdog Camps are sparsely scattered atop a 200 foot mesa that looks west over a valley offering stunning desert sunsets and amazing stargazing. These UPPER SITES are NOT OHV friendly, but any of our canyon bottom sites are a great base for your riding adventures up in Ballinger Canyon OHV. We'll be happy to recommend a site for you. Our Ranch House and Glamp sites are available on occasion. This is our home but we love to share our life in the outback. We believe it will give you a better appreciation of life's simpler side. Our offerings include fresh air and sunshine, amazing night sky, endless views, and plenty of space and privacy to enjoy your moments in nature. You'll find our amenities and activities puposefully sparse here. Upon booking, there are about 5 miles of dirt road on the property that you are welcome to explore on foot or by bicycle. Rustic is the theme here. There is no shower, no wifi, and no electricity available, but you will enjoy your own private spigot and the cellular service is acceptable. Within a short drive, you'll find plenty of hiking/biking and adventuring, and if you enjoy exploring by car, definitely take a loop drive through Carizzo Plains National Monument, or Mount Pinos and Lockwood Valley. Enjoy a beautiful dinner at the Cuyama Buckhorn and take in the view of the Caliente mountain range. For any sites located south of Ballinger Wash, your vehicle length is limited to 22' and no more than 4' overhang from the rear axle, so you don't get stuck in the crossing and block access for others. Towing services are 1-3 hours away. The AllTrails app will give a pretty good birds eye view of hiking in the area. Our friendly cancellation policies vary between 24 hours for simple campsites and 72 hours for our Glamp sites and Group sites. We do offer a buyout opportunity for the mesa, however the cancellation policy for that much stricter at 50% refund up until 1 week before check-in time. Be sure to check the Google for distance to Cuyama Valley, and your dates for availability and site descriptions. Upon booking, you can look forward to an information packed email to help you make the very best of your trip! We look forward to seeing you! *This land was sparsely populated by the Chumash Indian and is evident by the numerous cave painting that remain here near the Caliente mountain. In the era of the California Missions, this land was a part of the Spanish land grants. Currently the property is privately owned and is adjacent to large sections of publicly held lands.

Activities

Biking

Hiking

Horseback riding

Off-roading (OHV)

Natural features

Cave

Desert

Forest

Canyon

99%

4185 ratings · 1923 reviews

Royce B.recommends

November 11, 2024

Draw Camp in the Far West

Songdog Ranch is a hidden gem, but you'll want an SUV or truck to handle the drive in—it's a bit rugged for a sedan. Once you’re there, though, it’s pure magic. The low light pollution makes for stunning night skies, and the sounds of wildlife add to the peaceful, natural vibe. The grounds are beautifully maintained, and the firewood is affordable. Overall, an incredible spot; I’ll definitely be back!

Bonnie R.recommends

November 4, 2024

Grand View

Great Camping Experience

One of the most enjoyable camping experiences I've had! We were on a beautiful pinion pine covered hill with a 360 degree view of beautiful valleys. Each campsite has a covered picnic table and a great firepit.

Kailynn T.recommends

November 3, 2024

Draw Camp in the Far West

Western, dry dirt, activities

Love love love!! First time being here and it was better than expected. Jenny was so so helpful and was lucky to get to speak to her a few times. She was one of the sweetest souls. Maybe it was just me but I could not find the coordinates to get to our campsite, and got very lost, thankfully Jenny came by knowing we were lost! My friend that came later in the dark was having a hard time too but Jenny again to the rescue found her. The campsite was old western themes with all the right amenities, we added the tub and it was well worth it! The only part I wish was different was seeing the farm life lights at night. I like camping with nothing around in complete dark. Not the biggest deal! Lots of places to hike, explore and do! The rolling hills were beautiful and would definitely come back.

Denise R.recommends

October 30, 2024

Site 2 - Songdog East Campsites.

I booked this site for my 2 sons. They had a wonderful time. They loved the fact that they felt like they had the place to themselves. The sites are spaced far enough apart so even when there are other people you do not see them. They also enjoyed the night sky start gazing with no light pollution.

Suzanne R.recommends

October 26, 2024

Grand View

A great hipcamp

We all loved camping at songdog! Night sky and open space. 360° views. Great hosts, friendly and helpful. The best. Will come again.

Gavin E.recommends

October 25, 2024

Site 4 - Songdog West Campsites.

Songdog was great - plenty of space and a great atmosphere, great spot to explore the area.

Location

Cuyama, Santa Barbara, California, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Chumash, Salinan, and Kuyam First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking