River Park

For Californians exploring the scenic Central Coast, or those seeking a convenient and amenity-rich base in the Lompoc Valley, River Park presents a unique and evolving option. More than just a campground, River Park integrates an RV camping area with a much larger public park, offering a diverse experience for day-use visitors and overnight guests alike. This blend of recreational space and practical amenities makes it a noteworthy destination for locals looking for both leisure and essential services.

As of 2025, River Park has seen positive changes and ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities, aiming to provide a more welcoming and functional environment. This article will provide a detailed and factual overview of River Park, covering its strategic location, the services it offers for both short-term and extended stays, its notable features, and crucial contact information. Drawing from recent customer feedback and publicly available data, we aim to offer a clear picture for local Californians considering River Park for their next outdoor adventure or as a temporary home. Understanding its evolving landscape is key to appreciating its value as a local resource.

River Park is conveniently located at CA-246 & Sweeney Rd, Lompoc, CA 93436, USA. This address places it just off California State Route 246, approximately half a mile east of Highway 1. Its position at the eastern border of Lompoc, adjacent to the Santa Ynez River, provides a picturesque backdrop while maintaining easy access to the city's amenities. Lompoc itself is nestled in Santa Barbara County, within the heart of California's beautiful Central Coast. This region is known for its mild climate, agricultural fields, vineyards, and proximity to the Pacific Ocean, offering a diverse array of nearby attractions.

The park's direct access from CA-246 makes it highly accessible for vehicles of all sizes, including large RVs and trailers. The internal roads within the RV campground are described as well-maintained, with solid surfaces rather than gravel, which is a plus for many campers. Each RV space is designed for back-in parking, offering ample room for slide-outs and toad vehicles. Parking is available directly at each campsite.

While River Park feels connected to nature with its riverfront location and views of agricultural fields, its proximity to Lompoc means easy access to urban conveniences. Gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and other services in Lompoc are just a short drive away, adding to the practicality for visitors. For those looking to explore beyond Lompoc, the park's location offers straightforward connections to Highways 1 and 101, facilitating trips to other Central Coast destinations like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and various wine regions. This balance of natural setting and urban accessibility makes River Park a highly convenient option for local Californians.

River Park offers a range of services primarily catering to RV campers and day-use visitors to the larger park area. As of recent updates (2025), there have been ongoing improvements to the facilities.

• RV Campground with Full Hookups: The RV campground boasts approximately 35 campsites, many of which offer full hookups including water, electricity (30 amp and 50 amp service available), and sewer connections. While some older sites might have shared posts, newer spots are being upgraded with concrete pads and dedicated utilities.
• Dump Station: River Park is notably home to the only public dump station in Lompoc, a highly convenient and essential service for RV travelers in the area.
• Restroom Facilities: Public restrooms are available within the park. While some past reviews mentioned concerns, ongoing maintenance efforts suggest improvements. Showers are also available, though their operating hours may be limited.
• Individual and Group Picnic Areas: The larger River Park area features numerous individual picnic tables and five group barbecue areas, four of which are sheltered. These group areas are reservable, making them ideal for family gatherings or larger events.
• Park Hosts and Ranger Presence: The park benefits from the presence of several park hosts and a resident City Park Ranger, contributing to security and visitor assistance.
• Trash Receptacles: Designated areas for waste disposal are provided throughout the park and campground.
• Pet-Friendly: The park and RV area generally welcome pets, with designated areas, though standard leash laws and cleanup rules apply.
• Fire Pits: Individual campsites often include fire pits, allowing for campfires (subject to local fire restrictions, and firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host).
• Laundry Facilities: While not explicitly detailed, some larger RV parks of this type may offer laundry facilities; it's advisable to inquire directly.

It is important to note that as of recent reviews, tent camping may be unavailable due to remodeling or ongoing upgrades. All camping is currently offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations. A 21-day maximum stay limit generally applies for recreational visitors, though exceptions can be made for those on temporary work assignments.

River Park stands out for its blend of RV camping convenience and extensive recreational features within the public park area, offering a diverse experience for locals.

• Ongoing Upgrades and Improved Aesthetics: Recent reviews (as of 2025) highlight positive changes, with "new spots looking fantastic" and more care being given to cleanup and maintenance. This indicates a commitment to improving the overall park experience.
• Kiwanis Lake: A small, man-made fishing pond located within the park, Kiwanis Lake attracts wildlife, including a recovering duck population, making it a peaceful spot for observation and fishing (with appropriate licenses).
• Walking/Jogging Trail: A popular walking/jogging trail meanders through the park, offering a pleasant environment for exercise amidst lush greenery and scenic views of the Santa Ynez River and agricultural fields.
• Recreational Courts and Fields: The park includes amenities such as horseshoe pits and sand volleyball courts, providing opportunities for active recreation and friendly competition.
• Kids Moto Fun Park (New!): A recent addition, the Kids Moto Fun Park, offers a dedicated space for younger visitors, enhancing the park's family-friendly appeal.
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial: The presence of a well-maintained Vietnam Veterans Memorial adds a solemn and respectful landmark within the park.
• Open Grassy Spaces: Large areas of grassy open space are available for general recreation, picnics, or simply relaxing.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: River Park serves as an excellent base for exploring Lompoc's attractions, including the restored La Purisima Mission, and the "Wine Ghetto," known for its tasting rooms. Its central location also provides easy access to the region's diverse beaches and vineyards.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Despite being a public park and campground, many visitors describe the RV area as very quiet, contributing to a relaxing stay.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding River Park in Lompoc, including current availability, rates, and any specific rules or advisories, it is recommended to contact the City of Lompoc Parks and Recreation Department directly.

Address: CA-246 & Sweeney Rd, Lompoc, CA 93436, USA

Phone: (805) 736-6565

Mobile Phone: +1 805-736-6565

For camping-specific questions, including the first-come, first-served policy and the 21-day stay limit, or inquiries about extended stays for work assignments, calling the listed phone number is the best course of action. Additionally, the official City of Lompoc website often provides detailed information about park facilities and campground rules under its Parks & Recreation section.

For Californians, particularly those in the Central Coast region or traveling through, River Park in Lompoc offers a highly suitable and multifaceted option for recreation and overnight stays. Its appeal to local users stems from a blend of convenience, evolving amenities, and its unique position within the community.

Firstly, the recent positive changes and ongoing upgrades highlighted in customer reviews for 2025 demonstrate a commitment to improvement and maintenance. This continuous effort to enhance the camping spots and overall park cleanliness assures locals that their experience will be increasingly positive. The presence of new, fantastic-looking RV spots with concrete pads signifies a move towards modern comforts, even as the park retains its established charm.

The dual nature of River Park—as both an RV campground and an expansive public park—provides diverse recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. Locals can enjoy serene walks or jogs along the trails, engage in sports at the horseshoe pits or volleyball courts, and utilize the group barbecue areas for family gatherings. The return of the duck population to Kiwanis Lake and the presence of abundant wildlife further enhance the natural appeal, offering peaceful observation opportunities. For families, the addition of the Kids Moto Fun Park makes it an even more attractive destination for children.

From a practical standpoint, River Park offers essential services that are particularly valuable for RV owners. The designation as the only known dump station in Lompoc makes it an indispensable resource for local RVers. The straightforward access from major highways and its proximity to Lompoc city services ensure that campers are never far from necessities. While the 21-day stay limit requires planning, the option for extended stays for work assignments demonstrates flexibility for those on temporary relocation in the area. The friendly park rangers and hosts also contribute to a welcoming and secure environment.

In essence, River Park in Lompoc provides a convenient, increasingly well-maintained, and versatile outdoor destination. It allows Californians to experience both the peace of an RV retreat and the active enjoyment of a community park, all within easy reach of the Central Coast's attractions. It's a pragmatic and enjoyable choice for a local escape.

River Park

CA-246 & Sweeney Rd, Lompoc, CA 93436, USA