Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park
Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park preserves a small sandstone cave adorned with ancient rock art created by the Chumash people. The site offers a rare glimpse into Native American history and features intricate pictographs that are protected behind a secure grate. The park is easily accessible and provides interpretive signage for visitors.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed on leash in parking and path; not inside cave. Owners must clean up and supervise pets at all times.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors love the unique Chumash rock art, scenic mountain setting, and quick, educational stop, despite the narrow road and limited parking.
Tips from Visitors
- Parking is very limited; plan for a quick visit.
- Bring a flashlight for better cave painting visibility.
- Respect barriers; do not touch the cave walls.
- Watch for narrow, winding mountain roads.
- Visit early to avoid crowds and heat.
- No restrooms or water available on site.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park:
- Santa Barbara Botanic GardenA 78-acre garden showcasing California native plants and scenic trails.6 miles away
- Santa Barbara MissionA historic Spanish mission founded in 1786, offering tours, gardens, and a museum.7 miles away
- Old Mission Santa InésA historic mission in Solvang with beautiful architecture and tranquil grounds.27 miles away
Things to Do at Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park
Camping at Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park
No camping at Chumash Painted Cave SHP; try nearby El Capitán State Beach or Cachuma Lake for camping.
Hiking Trails
Chumash Painted Cave SHP offers a short, easy walk to a small sandstone cave adorned with ancient Chumash rock art. The trail is brief but steep, with limited parking along a narrow road. Visitors enjoy the unique historical site and scenic mountain views, making it a quick but rewarding stop for those interested in Native American history and natural beauty.
Chumash Painted Cave Trail
EasyShort, steep path leading from the parking area to the historic Chumash Painted Cave featuring ancient rock art.
Painted Cave to Inspiration Point Connector
ModerateScenic route connecting Chumash Painted Cave to the Inspiration Point overlook, offering sweeping views of Santa Barbara.
East Camino Cielo Ridge Walk
ModerateRidge trail with panoramic vistas of the Santa Ynez Valley and Pacific Ocean, accessible from near the cave.
San Marcos Pass Overlook Trail
EasyShort out-and-back trail to a viewpoint overlooking San Marcos Pass and the surrounding mountains.
Directions
From Highway 154, take Painted Cave Road for 2 miles. The cave is on the left; parking is limited along the roadside.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I see at Chumash Painted Cave SHP?
You can view ancient Chumash rock art painted on the cave walls, featuring colorful symbols and figures created hundreds of years ago.
Is the cave open to the public year-round?
Yes, Chumash Painted Cave SHP is open year-round from dawn to dusk, but the cave itself is protected by a metal gate to prevent vandalism.
How do I get to Chumash Painted Cave SHP?
The park is located off Painted Cave Road in the Santa Ynez Mountains near Santa Barbara. The road is narrow and winding, so drive carefully.
Is there an entrance fee or parking available?
There is no entrance fee, but parking is extremely limited and located on the roadside. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Can I go inside the cave?
Visitors cannot enter the cave, but you can view the paintings through a protective metal grate at the cave entrance.
How long does a visit usually take?
Most visitors spend 15–30 minutes at the site, as the cave is small and there are no hiking trails or additional facilities.