Encounter the great outdoors from distinctive dwellings that put a new twist on camping trips

By Becca Bergman and J. Gabriel Boylan

Sherman's Travel magazine

With Santa Barbara, California only 20 miles away, El Capitan Canyon's (www.elcapitancanyon.com) 300 wooded acres offer a cushy spot for camping trips that are only slightly removed from civilization. Located adjacent to El Capitán State Beach (www.parks.ca.gov), the camp makes a terrific launching point for outdoor activities like ocean kayaking, horseback riding, and hiking the surrounding hills. The 26 spacious (12 feet by 14 feet) canvas safari tents come with a whole range of extras, from linens and towels to a small heater for chilly nights. The grounds also encompass 108 rustic cedar cabins, a small (heated) swimming pool, and playground areas. The site is popular with families, so those seeking seclusion should request a remote creekside location and consider weekday visits. The Canyon Market and Deli serves meals all day, but eager campground cooks will find an outdoor fire pit at each site. Barbecue kits - with food, beverages, firewood, plates, utensils, and s'mores - run $45 and up.