Places to Camp near Santa Maria, CA
Camping near Santa Maria, California
Camping near Santa Maria, California offers a diverse range of experiences, from beachside retreats to serene lakeside spots. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, park your RV, or try out glamping, the campgrounds around Santa Maria have something for everyone. With beautiful landscapes, plenty of outdoor activities, and a variety of amenities, it's no wonder campers keep coming back to this area.
In this guide, we'll explore some of the top campgrounds near Santa Maria, what you can do while you're there, and what other campers have to say about their experiences. We'll also provide some helpful tips for families and RVers to make the most of their camping trips.
What to do
The campgrounds near Santa Maria offer a wide range of activities to keep you entertained. From hiking and biking to fishing and off-roading, there's something for everyone.
At Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach, you can enjoy the beach dunes, trails, and wildlife. One camper mentioned, "You can walk to the beach or drive on the beach. Driving on the beach was fun, but it was so windy and so cold!" (Barbara M.).
For those who love water activities, Lopez Lake Recreation Area is a great spot. "The lake level is at 100% and is amazing to see. With all the rain, some of the sites still have water running through them," said Zak.
If you're into off-road adventures, Pacific Dunes Ranch offers direct access to the sand dunes. "You can walk off the property and directly into the sand dunes. Multiple bathroom and dumpster locations. Clean and warm showers available during the day," shared James O..
What campers like
Campers appreciate the variety of amenities and the beautiful settings of the campgrounds near Santa Maria. Clean facilities, friendly staff, and convenient locations are some of the highlights.
At North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach, one camper noted, "Bathrooms were clean, campground seemed well maintained. Sites very close together with limited to no shade" (Shaun S.).
Another camper at Pismo Coast Village RV Resort mentioned, "Direct access to the beach and can stroll the beach all the way to downtown. Also walkable to state park with walking trails by the water" (Julia M.).
At Avila-Pismo Beach KOA, campers love the cleanliness and amenities. "This is one of the cleanest KOAs we have been to since we started camping many years ago. The amenities are great & the location is very conducive to beach lovers, hikers & cyclists," said Monica E..
What you should know
While camping near Santa Maria has many perks, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth trip.
At Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach, one camper warned about the wildlife: "There are lots of squirrels. They ate through my little pantry that's canvas that's connected under my table. Also, mosquitoes! Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills" (Barbara M.).
Another camper at North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach mentioned the lack of shade and close proximity of sites: "Sites very close together with limited to no shade" (Shaun S.).
At Avila-Pismo Beach KOA, one camper noted, "The spots are very small. The staff is less than friendly" (Jon).
Tips for camping with families
Camping with families can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you choose the right campground with family-friendly amenities and activities.
At Lopez Lake Recreation Area, one camper shared, "We've camped here many times over the last 15 years. We've tent camped on primitive sites and camped with a pop-up with electricity & water. There are still pretty hikes to be had and water slides if it's hot" (Linda S.).
Another family-friendly spot is Pismo Coast Village RV Resort. "This Campground is a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors, family and friends. We have been coming here for over 10 years for an annual reunion. The sites give you a lot of open space" (Richard T.).
At Avila-Pismo Beach KOA, one camper mentioned, "Not only was this campground clean, but so good if you want tons of things to do. We biked to the beach. Swam at the pool. Watched an outdoor movie. Played shuffleboard, etc." (Teri W.).
Tips from RVers
RVers have specific needs and preferences when it comes to choosing a campground. Here are some tips from fellow RVers who have camped near Santa Maria.
At Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, one RVer shared, "At first we were unhappy seeing we had a site close to the outside road (189), but quickly changed our minds. It was an end space with our curb side facing out, giving us no neighbors and extra grass" (Todd G.).
Another RVer at Pacific Dunes Ranch mentioned, "The roads inside the park are paved, but the sites are gravel which will invariably end up inside your RV. My site #171 was a pull-through and was completely level, a definite plus" (Rainer M.).
At Lopez Lake Recreation Area, one RVer noted, "Very popular but everyone stayed home! Hilly area, lots of trails, lots of rain" (George K.).
Camping near Santa Maria, California offers a variety of experiences and activities for all types of campers. Whether you're looking for a beachside retreat, a lakeside adventure, or a quiet spot in the dunes, you'll find it here. With helpful tips and insights from fellow campers, you're sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip.
