This article has everything you need to know about San Luis Obispo camping!
San Luis Obispo County is one of my favorite places to visit on a short getaway. Located about 200 miles from Los Angeles, we can drive there in less than three and a half hours.
The county is full of gorgeous beaches, beautiful reserves, natural features, restaurants serving delicious food, and good people. The other great plus is that attractions are never crowded. And, I need to mention that prices are lower when compared to other places in California.
We have camped all over the county. This has been a great way to get to know the natural offerings of the area. Campgrounds are located near restaurants, markets, and other facilities. Therefore, we are talking about the “easy” type of camping a lot of us crave.
If you are a camping fan or are looking to add a little bit more adventure into your life, here is a full camping guide for San Luis Obispo County.
About Camping in San Luis Obispo
Below, you will find a comprehensive list of campgrounds located in San Luis Obispo County. To make things easier, I have grouped the entries in the list by the major cities and areas in the county.
For each major city and area, I may provide resources about what to see, do, and eat. As mentioned in the intro, I have explored the county at depth.
You will find a mix of public and private campgrounds.
We tend to associate camping with tents. However, there are different types of camping. This list includes options for tents, recreational vehicles (RVs), trailers, and even boats. Notice some of the places mentioned here do not accommodate tents at all.
I am providing direct links to the campgrounds booking sites. When you see these links, it means that you can reserve in advance. In theory, you can forget about reservations and look for a place once you arrive at your destination. I advise against this during the high season and holiday weekends.
If camping is not your preferred accommodation option and you are considering because of budget reasons, I encourage you to take a look at hotels. I have stayed in fantastic places for $40 – $50 per night.
San Luis Obispo Camping – Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach, Oceano and Grover Beach have one of the highest concentrations of campgrounds and RV parks in the county. This is because of the Pismo State Beach length and the off-road vehicular area.
Check the following links to learn more about the area:
Shell Beach: Neighborhood in Pismo Beach
North Beach Campground
Pismo State Beach offers all kinds of activities such as hiking, swimming, surfing, fishing, kite surfing, horseback riding, and digging for the famous Pismo clam.
In addition, the area is the winter home of a Monarch butterfly colony. Volunteers set up equipment that allows visitors to see the butterflies up close.
This campground is located meters away from the beach and from the famous CA-1.
Type of Camping: Tents, Trailers, RVs
Number of Sites: About 100
Amenities: Accessible Campsites, Camp Host, Campfire Center, RV Sanitation Station, Showers, Restrooms, Fire Rings, Trail Connecting to the Beach
Reservations: Yes, check availability here
Fee: $35 – $50, depends if the campsite is standard or hook-up, fee changes seasonally
Notes: Only one vehicle is allowed per site. Additional vehicles are allowed for an additional fee. Campers without reservations who wish to re-register for another night must contact the entrance station at 9 a.m. in the morning they are due out.
Oceano Campground
The Oceano Campground is part of the many improvements made during the 1950s to help enhance the community of Oceano, as well as San Luis Obispo County.
Do not get confused. People may use the “Oceano Campground” term for different campgrounds in the area. This one is managed by California State Parks and it is part of Pismo State Beach.
Type of Camping: Tents, Trailers, RVs
Number of Sites: 80
Amenities: Picnic Table, Fire Ring, Water, Restrooms, Shower, Camp Host, Accessible Sites, Trails (connecting to the beach and around the Oceano Lagoon), Visitors Center
Reservations: Yes, check availability here
Fee: $35 – $50, depends if the campsite is standard or hook-up, fee changes with the season
Notes: Each campsite accommodates up to 8 people. Dogs are allowed in the campground.
Oceano Park & Campground
This campground is operated by the San Luis Obispo County. It is also known as the Oceano Memorial Campground. A stay here puts you near restaurants, small markets, and ATV rentals.
Besides being near the beach, the campground offers a lagoon for your fishing pleasure.
Type of Camping: Tents, Trailers, RVs
Number of Sites: 24, each site is equipped with full hook-ups
Amenities: Water, Restrooms, Coin-Operated Showers, Picnic Areas
Reservations: Yes, check availability here
Fee: $35 – $50, depends if the campsite is standard or hook-up, fee changes with the season
Notes: Each campsite accommodates up to 8 people. Dogs are allowed in the campground.
Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground
Coastal Dunes RV Park is located right on CA-1, across one of the entrances of Pismo State Beach. This is another campground operated by the San Luis Obispo County.
I feel this site is superior to Oceano Park since it is bigger (you have more chances of finding a spot) and has more amenities.
Type of Camping: Tents, Trailers, RVs
Number of Sites: 230 (includes a mix of big, small and hiker/biker sites)
Amenities: Water, Restrooms, Showers, Tables, Fire Pits, Swimming Pool, Laundry
Reservations: Yes, check availability here
Fee: $35 – $50, depends if the campsite is standard or hook-up, fee changes with season
Notes: The campground is adjacent to train tracks. Therefore, expect noise all night long.
Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreational Area
The Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreational Area is located three miles south of Pismo Beach, off Highway 1. Activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing, and hiking can be practiced.
The peculiarity about this campground is that sites are located in an open dune area. To reach the sites, you need to drive your vehicle over the sand. This is the only state beach in California that allows this.
People staying here look forward to driving ATVs or dirt bikes on the dunes. If you are interested in this activity, rentals are located nearby.
Type of Camping: Tents, Car Camping
Number of Sites: Information not found
Amenities: Take into consideration amenities are minimal due to the campground location. Vault toilets are available. Services like water delivery are available too.
Reservations: Yes, the phone number is 1-800-444-7275. This is a popular campground during high season and holiday weekends. Reservations are encouraged. Reservations may be made up to six months in advance, but they must be made at least 48 hours prior to arrival.
Fee: $10
Notes: It is recommended to use a 4-wheel drive while camping at this site. Other vehicles may get stuck in the sand. Access to the campground may be restricted during bad weather conditions. Dogs are permitted on leash.
Pismo Coast Village RV Resort
This huge facility is ideal for those traveling on an RV and looking for upgraded amenities. The resort is located within walking distance of Downtown Pismo Beach, a place full of restaurants, boutiques, and a picturesque beach framed by cliffs.
Type of Camping: RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: 400
Amenities: General Store, Wi-Fi, Restrooms, Showers, Security, DUmpsters, Recycle Bins, Clubhouse, Arcade, Swimming Pool, Observation Deck, Mini-Golf, Basketball Court, Beach Access
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $59 – $76, prices vary per season and day of the week, weekday specials are available
Notes: Some restrooms contain separate accessible stalls (these are for the exclusive use of wheel-chair users)
San Luis Obispo Camping – Avila Beach
Avila Beach is located only 7 miles away from Pismo Beach. However, I gave it its classification on the list because it is a place that is skipped by many visitors.
Guys, this place is gorgeous! This is truly a hidden gem of the Californian Coast.
Learn more about this town bu clicking on the article shown below:
Avila Hot Springs Spa & Campground
Avila Beach is famous for its hot springs. Staying at this place will give you the opportunity to test the waters.
In addition, this campground is located within walking distance of the Avila Valley Barn and the trailhead of the Ontario Ridge Trail. A 5 minutes drive will take you to Downtown Avila Beach, a cute town with several piers, tasting rooms, and outdoor dining.
Type of Camping: RVs, Trailers, Tents
Number of Sites: About 50 (20 tents, 30 RVs)
Amenities: Picnic Bench, Fire Pit, Swimming Pool, Hot Pool, Bike Rentals, Access to Bob Jones Trail
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $45 for 2 people and 1 vehicle, additional people and vehicles are allowed for an extra fee
Notes: Each night’s stay includes a pass to the pool and hot springs (per person). Massages are available for an additional fee. Notice that during the high season, not all tent sites come with a table and fire pit.
Avila / Pismo Beach KOA
This private site is located 5 miles north of Pismo Beach, 3 miles from Avila Beach, and 5 miles south of San Luis Obispo.
I have stayed several times at KOA operated sites and had a phenomenal time. The only thing is that you feel like staying on-site making use of all the facilities instead of going out to explore.
Type of Camping: RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: About 90, deluxe lodging (cabins) is available
Amenities: Dog Park, Pool, Mini-Golf, Showers, Restrooms, Laundry Room, Movie Theater, Basketball Court, Game Zone, Playground, Clubhouse, Bike Rentals, Common Areas
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $65 to $85, rates depend on seasonality and day of the week
Notes: No tents allowed
Port San Luis RV Campground
As the name suggests, this campground is located on the Port San Luis district of Avila Beach, in the northernmost part of the San Luis Obispo Bay.
I like this campground because it has gorgeous ocean views and it is located within walking distance of a historic pier, a beach, and water-related rentals (kayaks, stand-up paddleboards).
Type of Camping: RVs, Boats (on Trailer)
Number of Sites: About 40
Amenities: Showers, Restrooms, Water
Reservations: Yes, check availability here. Reservations are required (no walk-ins are allowed)
Fee: $65 to $85, rates depend on the type of site (full hook-up or no hook-up)
Notes: No tents allowed. Pets are allowed on-leash
San Luis Obispo Camping – Morro Bay
Morro Bay is one of my favorite places in California. My husband and I dream about this place.
If you have never been, well, it is famous because of Morro Rock, a huge volcanic plug. The surrounding areas are full of state beaches, parks, and preserves. There is so much to do here!
Morro Strand State Beach
The Morro Strand State Beach extends for 3 miles and it is popular with those looking to fish, windsurf, run, jog or fly a kite. You can walk south to Morro Bay or north to Cayucos.
I recommend bringing a good jacket or sweater since the wind makes nights and mornings chilly. However, sunsets are glorious here.
If you bring dogs, they must be leashed in the campground. Dogs are prohibited on the beach.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: 85 (25 RV Sites)
Amenities: Water, Restrooms, Tables, Fire Ring, Campground Host, Firewood Available for a Fee
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $35 for standard sites, $50 for hook-up sites
Notes: Entrance to the campground is through Yerba Buena Street. You have to drive north on CA-1 to find the entrance. There are no showers on this campground.
Morro Bay State Park
This is my top camping choice for Morro Bay. The campground has natural shade and it is within walking distance of the bay, boardwalk, viewpoints, a natural history museum, a cafe, and rentals. There are plenty of opportunities for sailing, fishing, hiking, golfing, and bird watching.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: 134 (30 RV Sites)
Amenities: Water, Restrooms, Tables, Fire Ring, Campground Host, Boat Ramp, Boat Rentals, Group Sites, Token-Operated Showers, Firewood Available for a Fee
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $35 for standard sites, $50 for hook-up sites
Notes: Once again, this is one of the best camping options in the area
Islay Creek Campground
The Islay Creek Campground is located within the limits of Montaña de Oro State Park, one of the most beautiful coastal parks in California. Staying here is a treat since the park is full of trails taking hikers to beautiful places.
The conveniently-located campground is just a short walk away from the Spooner’s Cove, the biggest and most popular beach in the park. Also, the campground is within a short distance of several trailheads.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: About 50
Amenities: Picnic Tables, Fire Rings, Vault Toilets, Water
Reservations: Yes, check availability here, reservations are accepted during the summer season. During the winter, sites are first-come-first-served.
Fee: $25, $23 for seniors
Notes: Bring all supplies needed since there are no restaurants or markets located within walking distance
Cerro Alto Campground
The Cerro Alto Campground is located 1,000 feet above sea level in the Los Padres National Forest. Therefore, it is a well-known hiking and mountain biking paradise.
Even though this is a mountain campground, it is located a short distance from the sandy beaches of Morro Bay. This allows a mix of fun activities.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: 22
Amenities: Water, Toilets, Grills, Tables
Reservations: Yes, 15 sites are on the reservation system, check availability here. 7 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis
Fee: $25
Notes: The campground is located at the base of Cerro Alto. Hiking to the top of the Cerro is a popular activity.
Morro Dunes RV Park
I love to stay in Morro Dunes because it is within walking distance of the beach. Plus, it feels like you are staying right in front of Morro Rock. You are able to wake up early and observe the morning light over the Rock.
While staying here, you will be able to enjoy hiking, biking, golfing, wildlife viewing, hunting, beachcombing, horseback riding, and golfing.
This is a great tent camping option since people assume this is an RV site only. I have found availability even of a busy weekend.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: 170
Amenities: Full Hook-Ups, 30/50 Amp Service, Wi-Fi, Water, Disposal Station, Restrooms, Laundry, Store, Clubhouse, Dog Walking Area, Horseshoe Pit
Reservations: Yes, the phone number is (805) 772-2722
Fee: $35 – $40 for tents, $35 – $45 for RVs
San Luis Obispo Camping – Cambria/San Simeon
A lot of people stop by the area to visit Heart Castle or on their way to Big Sur.
I recommend taking a day or two to dedicate to concentrate on the area. Once again, there are coastal preserves, plenty of wildlife, and libations such as wine tasting.
I have several articles on what to do, see, and eat.
Piedras Blancas and the Elephant Seals
Ragged Point: The Gateway to Big Sur
San Simeon Creek Campground
This campground is part of the Hearst San Simeon State Park. While staying here, you can enjoy picnicking, fishing, surfing, beachcombing, bird watching, and whale watching. Hikers will have a wonderful time discovering a 3.3-mile trail that traverses a natural preserve and seasonal wetlands.
Keep in mind this is also a good base to explore everything the town of Cambria has to offer. A short drive will take you to gorgeous places such as Leffingwell Landing and Moonstone Beach.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: 134 (plus 2 sites designated for hikers and bikers)
Amenities: Fire Ring, Picnic Table, Water, Toilets, Coin-Operated Showers, RV Sanitation Station
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $35, $5 for hiker/biker campsites
Notes: Bicycles are allowed on paved roads. A short walk will take campers to the beach. Dogs are allowed on the campground (but not on trails or beach).
Washburn Campground
Washburn is San Simeon Creek’s primitive brother. The campsite is also part of the Hearst San Simeon State Park and it is located about 1 mile from the coast. There is a trail connecting both campgrounds.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: About 60
Amenities: Fire Ring, Picnic Table, Water, Toilets
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $20
Notes: Bicycles are allowed on paved roads. Dogs are allowed on the campground (but not on trails or beach).
San Luis Obispo County – San Luis Obispo
There are several options if you want to stay close to the head of the county.
Santa Margarita Lake Recreation Area
Santa Margarita is a place that an outdoor lover will cherish! Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, bird watching, horseback riding, cycling, horseshoes, or swimming, this is an area you should check.
The Recreational Area is a bit off the tourist/visitor path. Therefore, you will be able to experience a more local vibe. Plus, you will be located close to the mountains (Los Padres National Forest) and several vineyards.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: About 60 (primitive, no hook-ups)
Amenities: Water, Toilets, Coin-Operated Shower, Marina, Fishing Docks, Swimming Pool, Picnic Areas, Hiking Trails
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $25 to $36, depends on season and day of the week
Notes: The swimming pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Swimming on the lake is not allowed.
Santa Margarita KOA
As previously mentioned, KOA manages very cool campgrounds with all sorts of resort amenities. GIve it a try if you are in the area.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers, Cabins, Yurts
Number of Sites: About 30 tent sites and 25 RV sites
Amenities: Pool, Store, Basketball Court, Volleyball Area, Dog Park, Dump Station, Group Fire Pit, Laundry, Propane, Restrooms, Showers
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $45 -$55 for tent, $70 – $75 for RV, a two night minimum stay was required at publication time
Notes: The resort offer family activities on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day
El Chorro Regional Park
Located on scenic Highway 1 between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay, the camp was initially used for training purposes during WWII and the Korean Conflict. The park offers a large number of activities to visitors and it is located across a golf course.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: 61
Amenities: Restrooms, Coin-Operated Showers, Hiking Trails, Picnic Areas, Off-Leash Dog Park, Botanical Garden, BBQs, Volleyball Courts, Softball Fields, Group Campsites
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $25 to $36 for tents, $40 to $50 for RVs, price depends on season and day of the week
Notes: Bring all the supplies you need since there are no restaurants or markets within walking distance of the campground
Lopez Lake Recreational Area
Located just ten miles east of Arroyo Grande, California, there is something for everyone who is eager for an outing. You can enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking, horseback riding mountain biking, zip-lining, birdwatching, and much more in this huge campground.
Camp French, an event center located within the recreational area, is an excellent location for weddings, birthday parties and other events.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers, Cabins
Number of Sites: 350 (some are close to the lake while others are under trees, a bit away from the shore)
Amenities: Restrooms, Coin-Operated Showers, Marina, BBQs, Boat Ramp, Store, Snack Bar, Tackle Shop, Boat Rentals, Full Hook-Ups, Picnic Area, Hiking Trails, Adventure Park
Reservations: Yes, check availability in here
Fee: $25 to $36 for tents, $40 to $50 for RVs, price depends on season and day of the week
Notes: A rugby field, regional park, farms, and vineyards are located near the campground
San Luis Obispo Camping – Paso Robles
I wanted to include some options in Paso Robles since it is one of the most popular destinations in the county.
The closest tent camping options are located in Lake Nacimiento. Or, you can stay in San Luis Obispo or the Hearst San Simeon State Park campgrounds. There is a road connecting Cambria to Paso Robles (CA-46).
Paso Robles RV Ranch
The Paso Robles RV Ranch has wonderful reviews and it is one of the top recommendations of Good Sam, a company that has provided services to RVers for decades.
However, this park does not seem to have a website. Reservations are made by phone. This Facebook page offers details about the spot.
Type of Camping: RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: 67
Amenities: Swimming Pool, Outdoor Games, Nature Trails, Restrooms, Showers, Dumping Station, Picnic Tables, Water, Wi-Fi, Park
Reservations: Yes, the phone number is (805) 237-8685.
Fee: $60 – $65
Notes: Good Sam members get a discount on their stay
Cava Robles RV Resort
I will call Cava Robles a luxury RV park. With amenities such as gourmet market, on-site bistro, on-site wine tasting, wellness center, and golf cart rental, it is easy to deduce this is not the typical place where you stay with your RV.
Type of Camping: RVs, Trailers, Cottages
Number of Sites: About 300 (including cottages)
Amenities: Restrooms, Showers, Swimming Pool, Splash Zone, Hot Tub, Picnic Tables, Spa, Fire Pits, Dog Park, Outdoor Movie, Bocce Court, On-Site Bistro, Market, Concierge, Bicycle Rental, Clubhouse
Reservations: Yes, check availability here
Fee: $84 – $110 for RV sites, there was a 2-night minimum stay requirement at publication time
Notes: A banquet room is available for events such as weddings, birthdays, and meetings. Catering can be arranged through the park.
Lake Nacimiento Resort
Located at the mid-way point between Los Angeles and San Francisco, the resort offers fun and adventure for the entire family, from kids to adults.
Guests can enjoy multiple activities at the lake and its surrounding oak and pine forests, including water sports, fishing, hiking, camping, lodging, wildlife viewing, seasonal dining at The Dragon Lake Grill, and much more.
Type of Camping: Tents, RVs, Trailers
Number of Sites: About 500
Amenities: Marina, Store, Hiking Trails, Fishing Facilities, Pool, Waterskiing, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding, Tubing, Jet Sking, Dog Path, Store, Grill, Restrooms, RV Dump Station, Basketball Court, Volleyball Court, Showers, Laundry, Marina
Reservations: Yes, check availability here, reservations are required (no walk-ins are allowed)
Fee: $30 – $35 for tents, $40 – $45 for RVs
Notes: A banquet room is available for events such as weddings, birthdays, and meetings. Catering can be arranged through the park.
Simplifying the Camping Process
I have tried to present as many options as possible. However, if you are quicky looking for options, go to the Reserve America site to look for campgrounds operated by the State Parks and to the San Luis Obispo County Parks site for the campgrounds operated by the county.
You will find most campgrounds mentioned here in one of those 2 sites. If you do not find availability, you can start checking the private campgrounds.
Hope you have enjoyed this article. Happy camping!
Have you done any San Luis Obispo Camping? What is your favorite campground?
Pin “San Luis Obispo Camping” for later!
The post San Luis Obispo Camping: Everything you Need to Know! appeared first on Tanama Tales.
