Mohawk Shores

For California residents seeking a refreshing escape to nature with the convenience of amenities, Mohawk Shores Campground, nestled within the expansive Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, presents an ideal destination. Located in the picturesque Santa Barbara County, this campground offers a fantastic opportunity to unwind by the lake, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains. It's a perfect spot for those who appreciate easy access to outdoor recreation without venturing too far off the beaten path, making it a beloved retreat for local families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a breath of fresh air.

Mohawk Shores, as part of the larger Cachuma Lake experience, caters to a wide range of camping preferences, from traditional tent pitching to comfortable RV setups and even yurts or cabins for a glamping experience. While it's not "off the grid," its proximity to the lake and the surrounding wilderness provides a genuine sense of getting away. It's renowned for its convenient location and generally well-maintained facilities, making it a popular choice for spontaneous weekend trips or well-planned vacations, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor adventure for Californians.

Mohawk Shores Campground is located at 2265 CA-154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA, which places it directly within the Cachuma Lake Recreation Area. This strategic location along State Route 154 (San Marcos Pass Road) makes it highly accessible for residents across Southern and Central California. It's situated in the heart of Santa Barbara County, offering a convenient drive from cities like Santa Barbara, Ventura, and even Los Angeles, typically avoiding the more rugged mountain roads found in other parts of the state.

The drive to Mohawk Shores is generally smooth, with well-maintained paved roads leading directly to the campground. For those with RVs or trailers, the access is straightforward, though some internal roads within the campground, particularly in certain areas of Mohawk, might have low limbs or require careful maneuvering for larger vehicles, as noted by past visitors. While you are immersed in a natural setting, the convenience of nearby Santa Barbara means that essential supplies, dining options, and other services are within a reasonable driving distance, providing a comfortable balance between rustic camping and modern accessibility. The campground is part of a larger recreation area, so general amenities are easily reachable.

• Diverse Campsite Options: Mohawk Shores, as part of Cachuma Lake Campground, offers a wide variety of camping experiences. This includes basic tent sites, as well as sites with partial hookups (water and electric) and full hookups (water, electric, and sewer) for RVs and trailers.
• Premium Lake View Sites: Many premium campsites are situated with direct views of Cachuma Lake, providing stunning vistas for campers.
• Yurt and Cabin Rentals: For those seeking more comfort, Mohawk Shores (and the wider Cachuma Lake area) provides options for renting yurts and cabins, which are furnished and offer a blend of camping with home-like amenities.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit or ring for outdoor cooking and enjoyment. Visitors should always check for current fire restrictions, as rules can vary by season.
• Restrooms and Showers: The larger Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, which includes Mohawk Shores, offers flush bathrooms and coin-operated showers, providing more comfort than typical vault toilets found in more primitive campgrounds.
• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store is available within the recreation area, offering essential groceries, ice, snacks, firewood, and camping gear for purchase.
• Boat Launch and Rentals: Cachuma Lake is popular for boating. The recreation area provides a boat launch, and various boats (kayaks, canoes, pontoons) are often available for rent.
• Fishing Access: Designated areas allow for fishing directly from the shore or from boats on the lake (California fishing license required).
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are typically allowed in the campground and day-use areas (though often not on beaches), making it suitable for those who want to bring their furry companions.
• Trash Collection: Conveniently located trash receptacles are available throughout the campground to help maintain cleanliness.

• Picturesque Lake Views: The most striking feature of Mohawk Shores is its beautiful setting directly on Cachuma Lake, with many sites offering unobstructed views of the water and the surrounding Santa Ynez and Rafael Mountains.
• Abundant Water Activities: While swimming directly in Cachuma Lake is generally not permitted (as it is a drinking water reservoir), the lake is a hub for other water-based recreation. This includes excellent fishing (trout, bass, catfish), boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
• Wildlife and Nature Cruises: Cachuma Lake is a significant habitat for various bird species, including bald eagles. Eagle and wildlife cruises are often available, providing unique opportunities for nature observation.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The wider Cachuma Lake Recreation Area boasts features like playgrounds, disc golf courses, and seasonal activities such as outdoor movie nights, making it an excellent choice for families with children.
• Accessibility to Outdoor Adventures: Beyond the lake, the surrounding area offers various hiking and mountain biking trails for exploring the diverse Santa Barbara County landscape.
• Year-Round Camping: The mild climate of Santa Barbara County makes Mohawk Shores and Cachuma Lake a desirable camping destination throughout the year, with pleasant temperatures even in winter. Some reviews suggest it's particularly nice in the winter when it's easier to get a spot.
• Convenient to Santa Barbara: The campground’s relatively close proximity to the city of Santa Barbara means campers can easily access city attractions, restaurants, and additional services if desired, blending outdoor adventure with urban convenience.
• Variety of Accommodations: The range from basic tent sites to full hookup RV sites, yurts, and cabins ensures that all types of campers, from rugged adventurers to those seeking more comfort, can find a suitable spot.

Address: 2265 CA-154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA

Mohawk Shores is part of the Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, which is managed by Santa Barbara County Parks.

Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

Recorded Info Line: (805) 686-5054

Gate Phone: (805) 686-5055

Reservations: (805) 568-2460 or visit the Santa Barbara County Parks website (sbparks.org) for online reservations.

It is always recommended to check the official Santa Barbara County Parks website for the most current information on fees, availability, specific site details, and any fire restrictions or lake conditions.

For California residents, Mohawk Shores Campground at Cachuma Lake stands out as an exceptional local resource for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its prime location in Santa Barbara County offers the ideal blend of accessibility and natural beauty, making it easy for families and individuals to escape the urban environment for a rejuvenating experience. The fact that it's "super close" and "easy to get to" is a significant advantage, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips without extensive travel planning.

What makes Mohawk Shores particularly appealing to locals is its versatility. Whether you prefer the simplicity of tent camping, the comfort of an RV with hookups, or the unique experience of a yurt or cabin, there's an option for everyone. The presence of well-kept grounds and clean facilities, as noted by past visitors, ensures a comfortable stay. While direct lake swimming might be restricted, the abundance of other water activities—from fishing to boating and kayaking—provides endless opportunities for enjoyment on the water.

The ability to have a campfire (when permitted) creates that essential camping ambiance, and the availability of firewood on-site adds to the convenience. For those with little ones, the family-friendly atmosphere and amenities like playgrounds make it a stress-free choice. Even in cooler months, the mild Santa Barbara climate makes winter camping a pleasant and often less crowded experience. Ultimately, Mohawk Shores offers Californians a cherished local spot to disconnect from the daily grind, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories by the beautiful Cachuma Lake, proving that a fantastic outdoor adventure is truly right in their backyard.

Mohawk Shores

2265 CA-154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA