Santa Barbara’s Cahuma Lake Recreation Area is a scenic county park surrounded by the San Rafael and Santa Ynez Mountains. The 9,000-acre area includes Lake Cachuma, which was created in 1953 by construction of the Bradbury Dam. Facilities within the park include a charming and fully stocked general store, playgrounds for children, fishing piers, and a marina that sells bait, fishing licenses, and boat rentals. Swimming is not allowed in Lake Cachuma itself, although there are several area pools at the lake for swimming in the summer months. Ranger led programs at the lake include nature walks and a 2-hour lake cruise that departs from the park’s marina.
1 Lakeview Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93105, Phone: 805-568-2460