About SAGE HILL
Overview Nestled in the Santa Ynez Mountain Range, Sage Hill Campground is a great group camping spot with easy access to the Santa Ynez River. Spend time fishing or take in the epic scenery on one of the trails designed for both hikers and horseback riders. One of the campsites is designed for group equestrian camping and includes 12 corrals and a hitching post.Recreation Fishermen are likely to find carp, catfish, bluegill and the occasional bass that swim up from Cachuma. The Aliso Canyon Trail begins at the rear of the facility and continues to Upper Oso Campground, which is where the Santa Cruz Trail begins. The nearby Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is perfect for boating, fishing and kayaking. Facilities Each campsite accommodates up to 50 people, and the group equestrian site accommodates up to 60. Flush toilets, drinking water and paved roads are included, in addition to an extra large parking area to accommodate horse trailers. The closest dump station is at Cachuma Lake.Natural Features The campground sits in a flat area with some sites shaded by oak trees. Sage Hill is near the river, which flows into Cachuma Lake about seven miles west. The Santa Ynez Mountains make up part of the Transverse Range along the Pacific Coast of California. The landscape may become very dry by mid-summer. Nearby Attractions The campground is half an hour from the thriving beach city of Santa Barbara.
How to Get There
From highway 101, take highway 154 approximately 15 miles to paradise road. Turn right and continue 5 miles to Los Prietos road. Turn left past the ranger station to the camp entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SAGE HILL
Heading to SAGE HILL? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SAGE HILL?
No central reservation system listed for SAGE HILL. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231960) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SAGE HILL?
From highway 101, take highway 154 approximately 15 miles to paradise road. Turn right and continue 5 miles to Los Prietos road. Turn left past the ranger station to the camp entrance.
How do I contact SAGE HILL?
You can reach the park at phone: 805-434-1996 or email: parksman@fix.net.
References & Official Resources
