Red Rock Pools

Red Rock Pools is a relatively popular swimming hole located along the Santa Ynez River about an hour outside of Santa Barbara, California. The trail to the swimming hole is relatively short, but more pools can be found if you follow the Gibraltar Trail down to the Gibraltar Dam (an additional 3 miles down the trail).

The trail is dog-friendly on a leash. There is a fee for parking at trailheads in the Santa Ynez Recreation Area (learn more).

Poison oak exists along the trails and in the area to access the pools. Keep an eye out and consider wearing pants down to the pools.

NOTE: This trailhead may be closed due to high water levels. Check with the Santa Barbara Ranger District to confirm: (805) 967-3481 or visit the Forest Service website.