Lake Cachuma

Located off highway 154, picturesque Lake Cachuma sits in the Santa Ynez valley, between Santa Barbara and the Danish community of Solvang. The lake sits between two mountain ranges: the Santa Ynes Mountains and the San Rafael Mountains where visitors can enjoy excellent fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities.

Two-hour lake cruises are available and appropriate for those 4 years old and up. Visitors should make reservations at the main gate. In addition, tourists can visit the Cachuma Lake Nature Center to learn about area wildlife and biology.

Lake Cachuma offers single campsites on a first come, first served basis or group campsites with a reservation. In addition, Lake Cachuma has cabins, trailers, and yurts available for rent. Since this lake is reserved only for fishing and is a domestic water supply, swimming, skiing, canoeing, and other activities that involve body contact with the water is prohibited. However, during summer months, patrons may swim at the Cachuma Lake Pools from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Swimming sessions start at 10:00 a.m. and run in 50-minute sessions through 4:00 p.m.

Lake Cachuma is a two-hour drive north of Los Angeles International airport, but may be accessed also through the Santa Barbara Municipal airport. Surrounding attractions include Santa Barbara Wine Country, Old Mission Santa Ines, and Chumash Casino Resort.: