safari cabin el capitan

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Glamping on the Santa Barbara Coast Since 2001 

Toll Free: (866) 352-2729

Embracing Cabin Life at El Capitan Canyon near Santa Barbara

Note: This review was written based on our stay at the end of May 2020. Facilities and services at the resort may have changed since then. We will do our best to keep current on what's open and what's not.

It's the summer of “nearcations” and for those living in Southern California, El Capitan Canyon gives you the best of both worlds—beach and wilderness—without having to rough it too much. 

Located in Goleta, just north of Santa Barbara, El Capitan Canyon rests at the base of the Santa Ynez Mountains with the Pacific Ocean just a mile away. Yet you don't even have to bring your camp tents and sleeping bags. Instead, El Capitan has cozy  cedar cabins of varying sizes for you to stay in overnight. All cabins have peak ceilings, beds, bathrooms, kitchenettes with microwaves and fridges, and heating. Each cabin also has its own picnic table out back and firepits.

And best of all, these are all stand-alone cabins, perfect for minimizing social distancing.

WHAT ROOM TO BOOK:

Being a family of five, we booked a Canyon Loft cabin which had a king bed in a private room downstairs and a loft with three twin mattress pad for the kids to sleep on. Downstairs was also a small living room area and a table that can expand to seat four people. We even had a bathtub in the bathroom! 

However, our cabins were located high up on the property and it was about a 10 minute walk down to the larger grassy area where the rest of the cabins are. This section of the canyon feels a bit like a college campus—in a fun way since everyone is close to one another to hang out—and is near the pool and the playground. Just something to keep in mind when you book. 

(Usually, El Capitan has yurts and safari tents for guests to book but because of Covid-19 , these are currently unvavailable. Other parts of El Capitan are closed including the pool and the playground, although that may change as the state progresses its reopening plan.) 

WHAT TO DO:

Since staying at El Capitan is pretty much a make-your-own-adventure, there's no wrong way or right way to spend your day. Ideally, I hoped to wake up, get coffee and spend some time reading out in the back of the cabin before going on a hike and then taking a picnic lunch to the beach. But with three kids in tow, all of whom stayed up late goofing off in the loft, our mornings were a hurried blur of breakfast, walks, visits to the llama and goat farm (about a 10-minute walk from the market), and then getting ready for the beach. 

Later in the afternoon, after a couple of hours at the nearby beach, we did get some quiet time to chill. And in the evening, after making dinner and s'mores, we all managed to relax while looking at the stars and listening to the frogs hanging out in the creek. Most importantly, everyone minimized their screen time drastically. 

Speaking of the beach, you can drive or walk to El Capitan Beach. Driving means paying a fee to park while walking means you'll have to be spartan with what you bring. It's a quiet, small beach but there are some natural black tar deposits in the water and in the sand. Don't wear your newest beach gear here. 

WHAT TO BRING:

El Capitan has a list on their website of items you may want to bring  such as plates and cups, and any food that you want to make, but we would recommend bringing a few other items too. High on my list? Tablecloths, folding chairs, bug spray, balls, grilling utensils, and bikes or scooters. Oh and Calamine lotion. The creek has lots of Poison Oak near it. El Capitan reminds you of this at check-in and there are signs telling you to stay away, but just in case. Of course, if you forget something, the Canyon Market usually stocks it, but save yourself the extra expense and go over your packing list twice.

As for food, there aren't any hot pots or stove plates in the cabin. All your cooking is done on the fire pit so do your grocery shopping accordingly. An easy and fun option is buying one of the barbeque kits that the market sells. These come with a main dish and a few sides. They also sell s'mores kit which come with nifty marshmellow roasting sticks. The Canyon Market is also open for take-out service, which is pretty tasty. 

BOTTOM LINE:

Expect to pay about $400 on a weekend for a Corral Loft cabin, but between $200 and $300 for other cabins.  Like most places, the cabins are completely booked for the weekends this summer, especially since they are operating at a lower capacity and waiting 72 hours in between guests. But we were told to check back frequently as cancellations are ongoing. And if you can swing a midweek stay, your chances of nabbing a cabin are better. 

We are already booked to return to El Capitan with friends in October and we can't wait. Perhaps this is the true mark of a good nearcation: our three-year-old keeps asking, “Can we go back to the cabin?”

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El Capitan Canyon

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Zulu Safari Lodging Adults Only

Congo Suite at the Zulu Lodge

Pets Prohibited

Starting at $200 per night | Ages 18+ only | 2 guests | No pets

• The Congo Suite offers a beautiful reminder of Africa. The color scheme is tan with pops of color in the art that D. Wilson and Lisa Wilson placed throughout. With the rolling hills of Ozarks surrounding the Congo, you will get the full “Africa in the Ozarks” experience! The private deck of this suite boasts views of the sprawling valley and beautiful sunrises.
• This suite sleeps 2 guests above the age of 18-years old.
• The Refuge is a nonprofit organization and the cost of your stay goes toward the care of our animal residents

Check Availability

Room Features

• Complimentary Wifi
• 2 Complimentary tours per day per stay during scheduled tour times for the number of guests staying in the room.
• Queen bed with mattress topper + bamboo waterproof mattress protector
• Queen memory fiber support pillows encased in allergy-free 500ct pillow protectors
• Large pull-out sofa comparable to a queen size bed
• Single-person shower (only)
• 32″ Flat-Screen LED TV with a 50-mile range HDTV antenna
• Mini-fridge
• Complimentary (1 per person per day) bottled water, juice, muffins, fruit cups, and oatmeal in the mini-fridge upon arrival
• One-cup coffee maker, regular coffee, decaffeinated coffee, assorted teas, creamer, and sweeteners (Splenda, Sugar, Sweet-N-Low, and Truvia)
• Disposable TCWR coffee cups
• Use of wine glasses and wine opener
• Use of ceramic coffee mugs
• Complimentary paper plates, bowls, and spoons
• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and bar soap
• Disposable plastic cups
• Use of 2 One-Size-Fits-Most TCWR Logo Robes and Hot Tub Towels
• Private back deck with table and 4 chairs
• Spacious community deck with seating areas, hot tub, and gas-lit fire pit that all Safari Lodge guests may use.
• Split-System Air-Conditioner and Heater
• Gas Heater in-suite for winter use.

Kalahari Suite at the Zulu Lodge

• The Kalahari suite is a cozy escape with an exotic theme of bamboo and jewel tones throughout. The artistic bamboo headboard above the Queen bed is complemented by original abstract art from Lisa Wilson and D. Arthur Wilson’s Wild Expressionism limited editions. As you relax on either the front or back decks, the gentle caroling of the big cats is music to your ears!
• This suite sleeps 2 guests above the age of 18 and is open from March until November.
• The Refuge is a nonprofit organization and the cost of your stay goes toward the care of our animal residents.
• 2 complimentary tours per day during scheduled tour times for the number of guests staying in the room (Base Price includes 2 tickets)
• Complimentary (1 per person, per day) bottled water, juice, muffins, fruit cups, and oatmeal in the mini-fridge upon arrival
• Spacious Community deck with seating areas, hot tub, and gas-lit fire pit that all Safari Lodge guests may use.

Kilimanjaro Suite at the Zulu Lodge

• The Kilimanjaro suite offers a luscious, exotic palette of color throughout. Delicately carved African masks adorn the cabin as well as the art of Lisa and D. Arthur Wilson. The large, rustic entertainment unit is home to familiar games and books as well as Scott Smith’s charming photos of some of the residents at TCWR! The private deck of this suite boasts views of the sprawling valley and beautiful sunrises.
• inside seating area

Okavango Suite at the Zulu Lodge

Starting at $200 per night | Ages 18+ | 2 guests | Ramp-Accessible (not ADA)

• The Okavango suite is artistically styled with a beautiful blue hue and aluminum colors providing you with a feeling of relaxation and rejuvenation. Meerkats are waiting to greet you in D. Arthur Wilson’s “No Meer Family” giclee print. The spacious bathroom offers a shower large enough for two people. A shower seat is available if needed. Also available if needed are the toilet safety frame and rails in the shower. Both decks are charming with the back deck boasting lovely views of the sprawling valley and beautiful sunsets.
• 2 Complimentary tours per day per stay during scheduled tour times for the number of guests staying in the room (Base Price includes 2 tickets)
• Shower large enough for two people with grab bars to use if needed
• shower seat available if needed
• toilet with safety rails available if needed

Serengeti Suite at the Zulu Lodge

Starting at $200 per night | Ages 18+ | 2 guests | Sunset motifs

• The Serengeti suite is designed in a purple and red combination delivering the colors of our breathtaking Ozark sunsets. This suite’s artwork by D. Arthur and Lisa Wilson might have you believe you are actually in Africa! The presentation of Lisa’s Mixed Media original art, Passion 2 and Passion 4, hangs over the Queen size bed. The Serengeti suite has many giclee prints like along with a beautiful male lion print over the love seat. Wildebeest, zebras, and giraffes fill this room along with fantastic photographs taken by Scott Smith, our TCWR resident photographer. The private deck of this suite boasts both views of the sprawling valley and beautiful sunrises.

Details & Policies

• The Zulu Safari Lodges suite offers a luscious, exotic palette of color throughout decorated themes of Africa and animals at the Refuge. The large, rustic entertainment unit is home to familiar games and books.
• Each lodge has its own full bathroom and outdoor deck area with views of the Ozark Mountains.
• The Zulu Safari Lodges share a common area in the center, featuring a fire pit, patio furniture, and a hot tub.

$200 -$220  (depending on chosen reservation date)  per night for  two guests only

• Two guests maximum. Must be 18+
• A minimum two-night stay
• Prices vary depending on the season and holidays.
• Please see the calendar for live availability.
• All registered guests will receive 2 open-air tram tours during our daily tour times of 9 am-4 pm (9am-3pm from Mid-November through Mid-March)
• Check-in is  3:00PM . Check-out is no later than  10:00AM
• If you arrive before check-in, you will be able to tour the Discovery Area at no extra charge while you wait for your room to become available.
• If you do not check your email often or do not have one, you may opt into text messaging. Please let us know at the time you make your reservation what is the best way to get in touch with you.

CHECK-IN PROCEDURE : We will send you an email before your arrival date that contains our check-in procedure (as well as after-hour check-in procedures and a gate code).  If you do not check your email often or do not have one, You may opt into text messaging. Please let us know at the time you make your reservation which is the best way to get in touch with you.

CANCELLATION :

• If you cancel at least 2 weeks (14 or more days) prior to your arrival date, you will receive full reimbursement for your stay.
• If you cancel 2-13 days prior to your arrival date, you will be charged a $50 cancellation fee, and we will refund the difference back to you.
• If you cancel within 48 hours of your reservation, you will be charged a cancellation fee of one night and we will refund the difference back to you.
• If you cancel at least 24 hours before your arrival date, you will also be given the option of receiving a lodging gift certificate in the full amount that you paid to redeem on a stay with us at a later date in lieu of a refund.

PET POLICY : This unit is NOT pet-friendly. Non-service animals, including emotional support animals (per ADA and Arkansas State Law), are not allowed in this lodge. The Siberian and Bengal Suites are pet-friendly and can be rented if you wish to travel with your furry companion! Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge reserves the right to charge the guest’s credit card for the non-refundable pet fee if a pet has been brought to one of these rooms without the approval of management.

INCLEMENT WEATHER:  Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge does close during extreme weather conditions. We do not typically close for basic weather like rain or wind, but it depends on the severity of the weather. The team will monitor weather situations to make the call to close the refuge when the weather is deemed too dangerous for visitors and staff. Announcements will not be made until the day of the closing since the weather in North West Arkansas can change quickly. Some weather conditions that might constitute closing the refuge are lightning(which may delay tours), tornados, fires, extreme temperatures, blizzards, freezing rain, icy road conditions, and other violent acts of nature. If any of these situations are predicted please check for closing information on our social media accounts or call the refuge to double-check.

QUIET TIME : 11 pm to 8 am is designated as a quiet time for all overnight lodging guests.

NON-SMOKING : All of our rooms are non-smoking, non-vape rooms. If you smoke in your room, a $250.00 Smoking Penalty Charge will be charged to the credit card on file. If you are a smoker, please ensure that any doors or windows in ​your room are closed to prevent cigarette smoke or vape fumes from getting into the room. Smoking of any kind is prohibited in the Self-Discovery area, on the tour loop, or within 6 feet of any animal enclosure.

GRILL POLICY : Due to fire hazards, no grills or portable heaters are allowed.

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Quick stats about vacation rentals in Moscow

Total rentals.

190 properties

Total number of reviews

9.7K reviews

Family-friendly rentals

100 properties are a good fit for families

Pet-friendly rentals

30 properties allow pets

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80 properties have a dedicated workspace

Wifi availability

180 properties include access to wifi

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the weather in moscow.

Moscow has a four-season climate. Summers are warm, reaching up to 85°F (29°C), while winters can drop to 20°F (-6°C), with snowfall that brings opportunities for winter sports like snowshoeing and sledding.

What are some of the best things to do in Moscow?

Visitors can explore the vibrant farmers market, indulge in the cultural performances at the University of Idaho's Hartung Theatre, or enjoy bird watching at the Virgil Phillips Farm Park.

What is the best time of year to visit Moscow?

Spring and summer are popular for visiting Moscow, when the weather is mild and the town hosts events like the Moscow Renaissance Fair in May, and the Rendezvous in the Park music festival in July.

What are the best places to stay in Moscow?

Downtown Moscow is frequently suggested for its close proximity to local shops, eateries, and parks. East City is another favored location, as it's near the University of Idaho, presenting a lively, academic atmosphere.

What are the best places to visit in Moscow?

Visitors often recommend the Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center, the Renaissance Fair for its unique crafts, or the historical McConnell Mansion. Randal Park is also a common suggestion for nature lovers.

What are some hiking trails in Moscow?

Moscow Mountain's popular trail network entices hikers with panoramic views of the Palouse. The Paradise Path, a 7-mile (11 km) trail, is also often recommended for a more urban exploration, connecting Moscow with Pullman, WA.

What are some family activities to do in Moscow?

Families can explore the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden, experience science hands-on at the Palouse Discovery Science Center, or have a picnic while observing wildlife at the Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center. Older children might enjoy cycling on the Latah Trail.

What are some of the best day trip ideas in Moscow?

Day trips can include exploring the Nez Perce National Historical Park, about 35 miles (56 km) south, or visiting the nearby city of Pullman, Washington, home to Washington State University and various museums.

Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Moscow?

Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 80 vacation rentals in Moscow featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Moscow?

Four-legged friends are welcome in Moscow. Choose from more than 30 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

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Glamping on the Santa Barbara Coast Since 2001

Phone: (866) 352-2729

El Capitan Canyon: Santa Barbara’s Green ‘Nature Lodging’

El Capitan Canyon: Santa Barbara’s green ‘nature lodging’ 11 MARCH 13

| Comfort Amid Critters | Cedar cabin, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, Calif., USA The bobcat was the first indication that El Capitan Canyon isn’t just another green glamping “resort.” Just across California Highway 101 from historic El Capitan State Beach, fewer than 20 miles north of Santa Barbara, this eco-friendly “nature lodging” lures city slickers and locals alike to its luxury safari tents and cabins.

Less than an hour after my arrival, I was touring a bit of the 360-acre property when I spotted a bobcat the size of a cocker spaniel. To put the sighting into perspective, I’m a Golden State native, and I’d only seen one bobcat before. That was more than 30 years ago. This particular feline creature was far more concerned with soaking up the late February sun and lazily observing gopher holes for activity than paying me any mind.

Llama, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, Calif., USA Llama: eye-candy for El Capitan visitors

Wildlife sightings are by no means unusual at El Capitan; the resort’s Kendra Summers tells me of the resident herd of deer that browse under the oak trees at dusk, and the foxes, skunks (which are gently and carefully relocated), raccoons, owls, red-tailed hawks, and bats that also call this semi-wilderness home. There are also El Capitan’s own llamas, goats and donkey, which serve as domesticated eye-candy for visitors.

‘Discovered’ in 1542 El Capitan, the canyon, was “discovered” by explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542, and claimed as a part of Spain; its original inhabitants were the Chumash Indians, who lived in the region more than 8,000 years. El Capitan, the nature lodging, was founded in 1970 as a primitive campground used as overflow for the state parks system.

Hiking, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, Calif., USA El Capitan Creek: part of the ‘outdoor experience”

In 2001, the current owners (a husband-and-wife team) purchased the property from the state, and transformed it into this back-to-nature retreat: what Kendra describes as an “outdoor experience”; they also built the neighboring Ocean Mesa Campground. The emphasis at El Capitan is on providing a sense of community while still maintaining the feel and integrity of the natural environment. Not surprisingly, it’s popular with school and other youth groups, as well as for corporate retreats, weddings and family reunions.

The resort works closely with the California Coastal Commission, Santa Barbara County and the federal government, because the property borders the Los Padres National Forest. The property is also involved with the Dream Foundation, which works to grant wishes for terminally ill adults. These relationships, coincidentally, are exactly what the owners envisioned when they first purchased the land.

Minimizing the footprint And to ensure that visitors and the property itself leave as small a footprint as possible, a number of green initiatives are also in place at El Capitan.

Organic garden, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, Calif., USA Green initiatives: organic produce for guests

A native vegetation enhancement project uses an on-site nursery, and prohibits chemical fertilizers or other industrial products. In addition to saved seeds and cuttings, transplanted propagates of indigenous plant stock are used to enhance the property. The aim is to create an environment that attracts beneficial insects and birdlife to control pests.

The property encourages guests to conserve water, and has its own water-saving initiatives—especially critical given the dry Mediterranean climate. Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and dish soap amenities are made from natural and eco-sensitive ingredients.

Tents, yurts, cabins Luxury tent, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, Calif., USA Luxury safari tent: not exactly roughing it

New for 2013 will be three luxury yurts (maximum occupancy: four persons each), slated to open by Memorial Day. They’ll join the three existing yurts, which have proven exceptionally popular with families and small groups, and feature insulated siding, skylights, trundle beds and dressers. Like the 26 safari tents, which have a similar interior, the yurts have electricity but no running water. Three bathhouses throughout the property accommodate campers.

As much as I love camping and genuinely roughing it, I opted to go a little more luxe and stay in a Creekside King cabin, one of six models available (there are 109 cabins, nestled in groves of oak and sycamore trees). In addition to bunkhouses, there are options with doubles, suites, and the aforementioned kings, some with lofts and kitchenette. There’s also the new Safari Cabin, a two-bedroom house perched atop a hill overlooking the Pacific—popular for weddings and extended getaways.

Creekside Queen cabin, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, Calif., USA Creekside Queen cabin: genius green touch

The cabins are one of the more genius green touches here. All are made of cedar (which naturally repels insects) and pre-fabricated, and the décor, trim and picnic tables are made of reclaimed wood, which is usually supplied by local farmers. Each cabin features a gas stove and running water; my bathroom had gleaming, white tile walls and a deep soaking tub with a picture window. All of the cabins are on wheels and surrounded by wood skirting, should it be necessary to move them. Their mobility also eliminates the need to lay down concrete foundations.

The tents and cabins all have their own fire pits, and are located in “village” clusters that follow bike and footpaths along El Capitan Creek down the canyon. Tip: a winter stay will likely mean a chilly night if you opt for a tent. Even if you’re in a cabin, if you get cold easily, bring an extra layer or two (plus socks or slippers).

Easy passing the time Hot rock spa treatment, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, Calif., USA Aah, the spa cabin: hot rock treatment

While there are designated parking lots, the canyon is car-free (a shuttle is available) to minimize environmental stress. Grassy open areas join the clusters to form communal spaces; a playground and solar-heated pool (alas, not enough sunlight penetrates the canyon to power the entire resort) are located in the middle of the property, close to the yurts. Adults in need of relaxation should pay a visit to the adorable spa cabin, which is surrounded by a lovely native plant garden. Massages are offered on-site, outdoors, or in-accommodation.

The on-site Canyon Market sells everything one could possibly need for a night (or a week) of this camping lite, from wood bundles and eco-friendly bug repellent to S’more’s, tri-tip, and grilled chicken “kits.” There’s a gift shop featuring local crafts, and a restaurant serving three meals a day. The menus feature produce from the property’s own organic farm—they lease the land to a local farmer—and there are addictive chocolate chip-macadamia nut-coconut cookies (seriously, stockpile these baboes for your stay). A summer concert and BBQ series, on the market lawn, is held May through September, and open to the public; attendance for guests is free.

Dining, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, Calif., USA The ‘dining room’: the nature experience continues

Strolls to serious adventure When it comes to activities, El Capitan is the kind of place that doesn’t make you try too hard to pass the time. A fleet of free cruiser bikes is first-come, first-served, and four hiking trails, from beginner to strenuous, snake through the property, providing views of the ocean and Channel Islands.

Less than five minutes’ walk away, the smooth swath of El Capitan State Beach makes for ideal strolling, swimming, running or tidepooling. A bike path leads from El Capitan to gorgeous Refugio Beach, three miles north, but it’s fallen into disrepair, so you’ll have to hoof it. I highly recommend this coastal walk, but be aware you’re at the whim of the tides. Use caution if you decide to go for it.

Adventure, El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, Calif., USA And if you crave thrills with your nature…

If you’re interested in delving into the region’s adventure activities, El Capitan has partnered with Santa Barbara Adventure Company for surfing, climbing, horseback riding, sea kayaking, paragliding, stand-up-paddling and guided hikes. The resort can also help you arrange whale-watching or wine country tours by local outfitters.

But even if you hang close to your tent, yurt or cabin, adventure may well come to you. In fact, light sleepers and nervous types may not appreciate the pitter-patter, scuffle, scrabble and thump of outdoor nocturnal critters such as raccoons. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a gateway to experience Santa Barbara’s glorious nature, want to expose your children to it, or are already a devout lover of the outdoors, you’ll be right at home at naturally green and eco-friendly El Capitan Canyon. “Peace and Quiet” may be a subjective concept, but if it’s wind, waves, and wildlife you’re seeking, nothing else would sound as sweet.–Laurel Miller, Contributing Editor

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