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Best Campgrounds near Pismo Beach, CA

742 Reviews

Pismo Beach on California's central coast draws campers with its mix of beach time and outdoor fun. Hearst San Simeon State Park lies a short drive north, with both developed and basic campsites. The park sits close to Hearst Castle and has good beach access. North Beach Campground inside Pismo State Beach puts you right by the water with good facilities. Nice Campground gives you a more basic experience with fewer amenities. Spring and fall bring the best weather to Pismo Beach - mild and comfortable. Summer gets crowded with temps in the high 70s, while winter is cooler and less busy. Many campgrounds need reservations, particularly in busy seasons. The area has some great spots to check out including the Monarch Butterfly Grove and Oceano Dunes. You'll find plenty of hiking trails and fishing spots nearby. Campground facilities range from those with showers and flush toilets to more basic setups. Pack wisely if you're staying somewhere with limited amenities. Pismo Beach works well for both quick trips and longer stays, with camping options for different needs.

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Best Camping Sites Near Pismo Beach, California (94)

    1. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    64 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 473-7220

    $25 - $40 / night

    "Popular with families and groups Grass around tent sites still green. Most parking spots close to level but bring some blocks. Individual large restrooms with flush toilets and sinks."

    "This campground is in a very cool location. You can walk straight out to the beach. There’s a monarch Grove right next to you."

    2. Morro Bay State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-2560

    $35 - $165 / night

    "Unlike many state campgrounds you find near the highway or railroad tracks, this one is located a nice distance from the road.  Still, it is within walking distance to a small marina and restaurant."

    "This Is a fantastic site that has not only the fun of camping and being outdoors, but it is conveniently located walking or biking distance from the town."

    3. Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    35 Reviews
    Arroyo Grande, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 788-2381

    $60 - $70 / night

    "Long time campers in California are probably familiar with the feeling that the prep work required simply to get a reservation at the most popular national and state parks is more than prepping for the"

    "It was located right next to the water park but they had already closed for the season."

    4. North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

    22 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 473-7220

    $25 / night

    "I love Pismo Beach! The sites are large and perfect for a group of friends. They have incredible amenities. The beach is steps away."

    "I love pismo beach, dune and the town, very convenient!"

    5. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Santa Margarita, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 865-0416

    "The drive up is a bit treacherous but nothing unbearable. Our car can off road quite well, but our friend had a Volkswagen Golf and it also did perfectly fine and never bottomed out."

    "It’s best to have an offroader to come here, but van can do too."

    6. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort

    17 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 773-1811

    "Steps away from the ocean. We will return."

    "This is a pricey rv park, but great location and very busy. It is competitive with the others around and think it was the best one in the area."

    7. Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park

    29 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-6101

    $25 - $150 / night

    "Quiet, peaceful and surrounded by skies perched out atop a hill."

    "This campground is near the beach on the central California coast . It has tent and RV sites. The only amenities are non-flushing toilets and water . There are no lights at night, so it is very dark."

    8. Avila-Pismo Beach KOA

    14 Reviews
    Avilla Beach, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 595-7111

    $225 / night

    "Located just north of Pismo Beach, Avila is tucked away down a hill that is totally worth venturing off to."

    "Campground is tucked away within the mountain and there are many things to do just outside the campground. Beach, trails and golfing all within 5min."

    9. Pacific Dunes Ranch

    11 Reviews
    Oceano, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "No OHV activity nearby, Pacific Dunes Resort is a somewhat secluded RV park. Close spaces, picnic tables, but must bring your own fire pit. No grass, but hard packed sand and gravel."

    "There are two levels of this campground, I stayed at the upper level just steps from the sand dunes which will lead you to the Pacific Ocean about 1/2 mile away."

    10. El Chorro Regional Park

    16 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 781-5930

    $25 - $50 / night

    "Near San Luis Obispo & Pismo Beach. When we stayed here it was for the Renaissance Faire (which has moved to San Luis Obispo proper). There were tons of loud people."

    "They do charge extra for dogs, $3.50/day/dog, but was well worth it as they have beautiful large dog parks a mile behind the campsite."

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Recent Camping Photos near Pismo Beach, CA

195 Photos of 94 Pismo Beach Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Pismo Beach, CA

742 Reviews of 94 Pismo Beach Campgrounds

  • Sophia L.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    Raccoon Attack

    the overall site was nice and everything went smoothly during the day. There are no bear boxes (big metal boxes at most campsites to store food so animals can’t get to it) so we put all our food in a big cooler that we thought nothing could get into. Wake up after 30 mins of sleeping to noises outside, a whole family of raccoons are eating our food. they destroyed a good amount of our food and our camping materials and the problem was they wouldn’t leave us alone. they were aggressive and would not leave, climbing the trees above us and popping left and right out of the bushes. we have no where to put our food (since raccoons can get into your car through the engine and cause major damage). They were surrounding us, we were yelling and jumping to try and scare them away but they were persistent. We thought they might even attack us as they did not seem very scared and were very aggressive. We had no choice but to quickly pack up all our stuff while someone was on raccoon guard and leave in the middle of the night. I was very disappointed.

  • Bobbii J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Vinyl Vineyards

    GORGEOUS !

    I had such an unforgettable stay at Vinyl Vineyards! I stayed at the David Bowie trailer, and it was pure nostalgia full of vintage charm, character, and cozy vibes. Everywhere I looked felt like stepping into a different era in the best way possible. The property itself is expansive and breathtaking. I got a private UTV tour across their 120 acres of vineyards, and it was absolutely unbeatable, wide open views, rolling vines, and that peaceful Paso Robles magic. The vibe on the property was incredible, and the outdoor shower was such a unique, refreshing touch that made the stay even more memorable. And the wine? Unforgettable. Their rosé is absolutely on point, hands down my favorite. Do the tasting, you won’t be disappointed! I felt completely at home here, and I can’t wait to come back, next time with my pets and my daughter in tow. Vinyl Vineyards is such a gem, and I’m already counting the days until I return.

  • Michael S.
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground

    Use your 4x4 for what it was intended for, but use caution

    Just spent the weekend in the Oceano SVRA, and some things I noticed:

    1. Even with the reduced number of campers, the camping area still seemed really full.

    2. The sand was very soft and deep in the camping area, and I saw multiple 4x4 trucks getting stuck, including a Lexus GX460, 2 Toyota Tacomas and 1 4Runner, and a stock Jeep Wrangler. 

    3. The dunes are ridiculously fun to drive on, but they are also dangerous. They are also very devoid of other vehicles due to the limited number of entries, so DO NOT go out alone. There are plenty of places to get lost in, and if you're at the bottom of a dune, you cannot see where you are and will be lost. 

    So much fun, even the mariachi bands blasting music until 3 in the morning was fun.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Flying Flags Avila Beach

    Great place

    Views are amazing. You can hear the sea lions at Port San Luis, birds of paradise and other lovely flowers, palm trees and eucalyptus. Very well maintained. Beach is 10 minute walk and allows dogs. Near to San Luis Obispo and so much more that the lovely Central Coast has to offer. Staff were very attentive and helpful. There are areas with community fires for gathering, small store. Bocce ball and other games. I dry camped which worked out just fine. $10 dump fee when you leave is available for dry campers. Full hookups also available but they fill up so advance reservations needed.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    The Beachhouse RV Park

    Ok if you just need a basic place and is near Beach

    Misremembered names, ended up at Morro strand RV park when meant to be at Morro dunes RV park. This one, Morro strand is in a depressing area and park itself is gravel everywhere not grass or plants. At least it's only a 10 min walk to the Morro beach, with great view of Morro Rock. It does have ok facilities including coin laundry on site

  • Michael R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    San Simeon Camping

    Great campground with plenty of space between sites! Sites have plenty of shade and facilities are clean and well kept! No more than two vehicles are allowed in a site, but there’s free parking on the road that runs next to the campground and it’s easy to walk up the embankment and get to your site from the road.

  • Patrick J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Bella Vista By The Sea

    Walk to beach, pier, trails and nice town of Cayucos.

    Accurate description in other reviews. This is a mobile home park with RV sites(FHU). This lends to a different experience, but a good one. Walking distance pretty much anything. Ride or walk out of Bella Vista to beach, pier, trails and town. Had back in site# 66. Lots of maneuvering room for our 35 feet TT. I'd go back.:-)

Guide to Pismo Beach

Camping near Pismo Beach, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery, fun activities, and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are just a short walk from the beach. For example, at Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach, you can easily stroll to the dunes and enjoy the ocean. One camper mentioned, "Short walk to the dunes, 5 minute drive to downtown Pismo Beach."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. Campers at Morro Bay State Park Campground enjoyed spotting various birds and even a cute little weasel. One review noted, "We also saw and heard hawks, turkey vultures, owls, and many other birds."
  • Hiking Trails: There are several trails for hiking and biking. At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, visitors can explore trails that lead to stunning views of the lake. A reviewer said, "Hiking and mountain biking trails are abundant throughout the area."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park, one camper remarked, "Lots of bathrooms, very clean, lots of dumpsters and water spigots, all conveniently located."
  • Scenic Views: Many campgrounds offer beautiful views. A visitor at El Capitán State Beach Campground shared, "First night unobstructed views of sunset over the ocean."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Jalama Beach County Park are great for families. One review highlighted, "Jalama Beach offers great walks along a long beach that is nestled in a cozy bay."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially those near roads or train tracks. A camper at Refugio State Beach Campground mentioned, "Next to train tracks (don’t run frequently at night, but could still wake tent campers)."
  • Limited Privacy: Many sites are close together, which can affect privacy. A review for Morro Strand State Beach Campground noted, "Sites very close together. Many squirrels. Mostly RV sites."
  • Bring Your Own Water: Some campgrounds, like Lopez Lake Recreation Area, do not have drinking water available. A camper advised, "Be sure to fill up tanks at El Capitan before entering."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby attractions. At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, families can enjoy boating and fishing. One review mentioned, "The lake is perfect for boating."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. Campers at Jalama Beach County Park enjoyed the on-site store for quick bites. A visitor said, "Great sunsets and wide sandy beach."
  • Bring Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance. A camper at Oceano County Campground warned, "Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Morro Bay State Park Campground mentioned, "The pull-in for site 118 isn't quite level."
  • Be Prepared for Fees: Some campgrounds have fees for amenities like showers. A camper at Morro Bay State Park Campground noted, "Showers became coin-op some time within the past year."
  • Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Oceano County Campground mentioned, "No dump station here, but there's one just 2 miles north at North Beach Campground."

Camping near Pismo Beach, California, has something for everyone. With beautiful beaches, wildlife, and family-friendly activities, it’s a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Pismo State Beach and Pismo Beach State Park campgrounds?

Pismo State Beach offers two distinct campgrounds: North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach and Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach. North Beach features larger sites ideal for groups with immediate beach access and is closer to town amenities. Oceano Campground is located behind the dunes with a mix of hookup sites (which are closer together) and non-hookup sites that offer more separation. Oceano is adjacent to a Monarch butterfly grove and about a 15-20 minute walk to downtown Pismo. Both campgrounds offer amenities like flush toilets and showers, though they differ in layout and proximity to attractions.

What are the best tent camping options at Pismo State Beach?

For tent camping at Pismo State Beach, Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach offers the best experience with dedicated tent sites that still have some green grass. The non-hookup areas provide more separation between sites compared to the RV sections. For a different tent camping experience near Pismo, Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground offers tent sites just south of Pismo Beach along Highway 1. While space between sites is limited at both locations, tent campers should try to secure spots adjacent to the dunes at Oceano for the best beach access and a bit more privacy.

Where are the campgrounds located near Pismo Beach?

Several campgrounds are located in and around Pismo Beach. Within the immediate area, you'll find Holiday RV Park located downtown near the pier with easy beach access. Just north of Pismo, Avila-Pismo Beach KOA offers a convenient location tucked away but still accessible. Other nearby options include Pismo Coast Village RV Resort in downtown Pismo, Pacific Dunes Ranch in the Oceano dunes area, and Pismo Sands RV Park. For those willing to venture slightly further, Morro Strand State Beach Campground is within driving distance to the north, and Lopez Lake Recreation Area offers camping inland about 15 miles from the coast.

Can you camp directly on Pismo Beach?

No, you cannot camp directly on the main Pismo Beach shoreline where the pier is located. However, camping is permitted on certain sections of Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, which is contiguous with Pismo Beach to the south. This area allows beach camping with proper permits for vehicles equipped for sand driving. For traditional campground experiences with beach access, North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach offers sites just steps from the beach without actually being on the sand. The dunes area is popular for off-road enthusiasts, but regulations regarding where exactly you can camp are strict and should be verified with park authorities before planning your trip.

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