Expert: Steve Summers - 5/11/2007

Question
Hi! I just managed to snag the last 4 consecutive days available for Tent camping in this campground during the summer. We have site 035. I've been trying to find decent pictures and can't seem to. Do you know if this is a decent spot? Shady? Are there tables and BBQ pits at every site? There may be two families here, with two good-size tents. Is that okay? Will they fit? My hubby is the big camper in the family, but we've never camped at El Capitan before. We also have a 5 yr old daughter. We're hoping another family with child similar age joins us so she'll have someone to play with! Any advice, suggestions, etc. will be appreciated!  

Answer
Hi Lisa,

El Capitan is a great beach. All the campsites have fire pits and tables at every site. If you are taking two families, remember that the site limit is 8 people, and they are strict about site limits. The good news is that two tents should be able to fit into your site. There's also plenty of shade, as shown in the photo: http://www.californiacoastline.org/cgi-bin/image.cgi?image=3004&mode=big&lastmod...

Site 35 is in a good location, close enough to the bathroom and close to beach access. http://www.reserveamerica.com/ca/El_Capitan_Sb/Campsite_Map/r/campgroundMap.do?c...

We usually camp at Carpinteria and Refugio (just a couple miles from El Cap), and it's been awhile. I think you'll be fine and have a GREAT time. The nice part is that you're just a few miles from the Albertson's and Costco at Isla Vista.

Also, be sure to grab a meal at Woody's, the best BBQ on the Central Coast. I't on Hollister Ave, between Patterson and Turnpike.

We have a 6yo that could always use a friend. Shoot me an email at steve pcguy at adelphia dot net, we're always looking for a few more camping friends.

Have a great time!

Steve