Carpinteria to Refugio bike camping trip 37 miles

This is one of our most used and enjoyable routes. Refugio is just about everyone’s favorite Hiker/Biker campground. The distance is moderate, the hills are low, and the campsite is right near the water.

ROUTE: We will begin in the parking lot of the Amtrak station in Carpinteria near the end of Linden Ave (close to the beach). Please arrive by 10:00. We ride north on scenic country roads, through downtown Santa Barbara via State St., the Obern Trail bike path, and the final 11 miles on the wide shoulder of Hwy 101. We will pass through Santa Barbara and Goleta. Our destination is Refugio State Beach, where we will camp for the night. On Sunday, we return to Carpinteria.
Most everyone has done this trip already so please don’t think of me as the leader. You’re more than welcome to ride at your own pace or start when and where you want. That being said, if you are new to this route you will not be left behind. The distance each way is about 38 mostly easy miles.

SHORT MILES OPTION. If anyone finds 34 miles too daunting, they may shorten their distance by joining us in Goleta (which saves about 20 miles). Just let me know, and I will recommend a place to start.
FOOD: We will stop for a quick lunch (30 minutes) in Goleta, but I suggest you bring your dinner and breakfast. The camp store is not very well stocked. We can also stop for groceries (we usually do) at a nearby Albertsons after lunch.

CAMPGROUND: The hiker-biker camp fee is $10.00 per night. The campground has flush toilets and hot showers (you'll need a few quarters or tokens for the showers). We will camp next to the beach. It is flat and has plenty of room for tents.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING? You will need to pack as you would for a backpacking trip (but no backpack), and a multi-gear bike in good repair with very low gears. You should also have a spare tube, pump, tire levers, etc. You will need panniers or a trailer to carry your stuff.
If you have any questions, please call or text me at 310-266-8592. You can also write a note on this site's messenger.