Morro Strand State Beach Campground

Wind patterns shift around 2pm at this oceanfront campground, where sites spread across what reviewers describe as a converted beach parking lot. Morro Strand State Beach Campground sits directly behind sand dunes along Highway 1, providing immediate beach access through breaks in the vegetation.

The layout divides into distinct zones that create different camping experiences. Beach-side sites include spots A-D and odd-numbered sites 1-45, with the prime locations being odd sites 35-45 at the far end. "Not all beachside sites have views of the oceans since some sit further down," notes Anne O., who recommends site D for its size and elevated position. Even-numbered sites 2-46 occupy a narrow median strip with tighter spacing, while RV hookup sites line the eastern edge of the property.

Sites sit close together with minimal privacy between neighbors. The proximity means conversations carry between campsites even over ocean sounds. Two central restroom facilities serve the entire campground, though no shower facilities exist on-site. Campers can access showers at nearby Morro Bay State Park using their camping receipt for entry.

Afternoon winds intensify tent camping challenges, particularly on exposed beach-side sites. Extra-long tent stakes become necessary for sand anchoring, and several reviewers mention securing additional tie-downs. The campground allows pets but prohibits dogs on the beach to protect endangered species. "Bathrooms were clean enough and a short walk to the beach," observes Hattie R..

The California State Parks reservation system handles bookings for this popular location. For campers exploring beyond this oceanfront spot, campgrounds near Morro Bay provide additional coastal options. The combination of immediate beach access and Morro Rock views makes advance planning essential during peak seasons.

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Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect

There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

RV Rentals on the Central Coast is currently the only approved RV and trailer delivery and pick-up service permitted within the campground. For more information on rental deliveries, please visit: RV Rentals on the Central Coast

The following camping facilities are each restricted to an occupancy limit of (20) twenty days, in total by the same person, equipment or vehicles in any calendar year:

  • Montana de Oro SP
  • Morro Bay SP
  • Morro Strand SB

The twenty (20) day limit resets on January 1st of a new calendar year.

No persons, equipment, or vehicles shall occupy a campsite(s) for more than ten (10) consecutive days at any park unit or campground.

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Location

Public Campground

Morro Strand State Beach Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Address

State Park Road
Morro Bay, CA 93442

Coordinates

35.401568 N
120.867559 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 22 users
    Last on 3/15/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 23 users
    Last on 3/15/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 27 users
    Last on 3/15/26

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 22 users
    Last on 3/15/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 23 users
    Last on 3/15/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 27 users
    Last on 3/15/26

Access

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time


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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

40 Reviews

Campers appreciated the unbeatable beachfront location with direct beach access and stunning views of Morro Rock. However, feedback commonly touched on the parking lot-style layout with extremely cramped sites and lack of shower facilities on-site.

Reviewed Feb. 20, 2026

Nice campground during storm

We spent 4 nights hunkering down during the recent storms first at a standard site 7 and then moved to a full plugged in site 49. Route 1 was closed again due to these storms. In between downpours we were able to take short walks on the beach. Drove up to the elephant seal rookery. Would definitely like to go back during better weather

Site7
Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Ursula , February 20, 2026
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Ursula , February 20, 2026
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Reviewed Feb. 1, 2026

Close to beach

Everything is close to the beach. The sites are on the smaller side. Its almost like they took an old parking lot and turned it into a camp ground. No showers on site bjt you can go down to the morro state park and shower.

Site10
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Jeremy S., February 1, 2026
  • Play button icon
Reviewed Jan. 22, 2026

A nice morning surprise

Camped here for a night. Pulled up at 8pm and did the self serve registration. We drove around and picked an available spot then put the money in the box. When we woke up we didn’t realize had the view of the ocean from the camper. We were very excited! Parked in dry camping for $35. Took a long morning stroll on the beach and collected sand dollars. Fire pits are available

Site23
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Candyse D., January 22, 2026
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Candyse D., January 22, 2026
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Candyse D., January 22, 2026
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Aug. 13, 2025

Beach Access is Main Highlight

Description is accurate. Beach walks can be nice... with scenic views up and down coast. Also neighborhood walks along bluff above campground are relaxing. Restrooms clean but basic. Dry sites tend to be small, dry and basic. Weather can be fickle with cold, wind and fog even in summer. Quiet at night. A few sites have beach views. Most views are hidden by scrubs between parking area and beach. Surfers, kids playing in sand, kiting and other beach activities popular. Not my favorite beach campground, but it is a very popular spot for those avoiding the high heat of California deserts this time of year. NO SHOWERS.

Site18
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jun. 12, 2025

Great Beach Access!!

Stayed in the non electric spots in our camper. The site next to ours was occupied which made parking the trailer a little tricky- almost like parallel parking and the sites are close together like a parking lot. Could not see the ocean from site 1 but had a little more space/privacy since it was a corner spot. Bathrooms were clean enough and a short walk to the beach! Some scattered litter, but nothing too crazy. We loved walking along the beach and watching the wild life. Our dog at the campsite kept the squirrels away, but they were definitely looking for food at other sites.

Site1
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Hattie R., June 12, 2025
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Hattie R., June 12, 2025
Reviewed Jun. 1, 2025

Great Location To See The Rock

This is just a glorified parking lot with tons of aggressive and loud chirping squirrels. We were in sites 19 and 10. Site 19 faced the beach but it was really the shrubs. Some sites that face the beach do have a nice view of the ocean but 19 did not. Site 10 is literally a parking space with a strip of dirt and table and fire ring. You are right next to your fellow campers and it at least makes for some great people watching because you are literally right in the middle of the street.

The beach is another story. I am from SoCal and my husband is from SoFlo and we were not impressed with the beach at all. It smells, has lots of unsightly and strange looking seaweed that I wouldn’t want to ever encounter if I was in the ocean. Morro Rock was there but the fog covered it up most of the time. Come if you want to but there are much better places out there. I hear that Point Magu State Park is way better.

Site10 & 19
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Nov. 2, 2023

Right by the beach

We really liked this campground. We arrived in the evening on a week day at the end of October and there were still plenty of sites. We picked a primitive site right by the beach for $35. We could see the ocean from our bed, very nice.

Site25
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Isabelle T., November 2, 2023
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Isabelle T., November 2, 2023
Reviewed Jun. 22, 2023

Beach camp

Sites very close together. Many squirrels. Mostly rv sites

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Michael , June 22, 2023
Reviewed Jan. 4, 2023

Sweet spot right on beach.

These sites are along paved parking area/ road loop- there are beachside spots, a few with ocean views and some blocked by shrubs. Dogs are not allowed on beach to protect endangered species but walking the camp road up to the main road gives enough elevation you can see the ocean and Morro rock in the distance, and the houses have lovely landscaping of aloe, rosemary, and other pretty plants. The sites are very simple with picnic table and firepit either in a grass median or along the edge. We were near a restroom, dumpster and water fill up. You can buy wood from camp host for $10. No showers but your pass gets you into nearby Morro Bay SP where they have nice clean token showers that get warm enough. The camp was not very full while I was there car camping and pleasant enough. There are signs warning of stolen generators and to lock up valuables.

Site13
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by cal K., January 4, 2023
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by cal K., January 4, 2023
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by cal K., January 4, 2023
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Dec. 20, 2022

Great location, not the cleanest

This is a great place with close beach access. It does tend to be a loud crowd. trash pick up when I was there was awful both times I stayed. Every site was trashed it was pretty empty & lots more sites available. This is the “winter” even though it was 73’…….Only 3 of us in the front section.

Siteb
Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Care B., December 20, 2022
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Care B., December 20, 2022
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Care B., December 20, 2022
  • (12) View All
Reviewed Nov. 3, 2022

Great beach front camping

Other reviewers mentioned that the spots are way too close together and that there were no amenities, but I feel like the spots are plenty far enough apart unless you're at a hookup site, and the amenity is the ocean! The bathrooms are fine, they have flushing toilets and mirrors and outlets if you need, and the site I'm in is beautiful and you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves.

SiteA
Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Olivia V., November 3, 2022
Reviewed Oct. 5, 2022

Great, on the beach

Nice , like big parking right on the beach. Perfect for overnight stay.

Site78
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Femke J., October 5, 2022
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Femke J., October 5, 2022
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Femke J., October 5, 2022
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 7, 2022

Great for kids

My kids love coming here to camp…small little trails on a hill plus instant access to the beach! No showers but you can use the showers at the state park a few miles away!

Site80
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Feb. 24, 2022

Old parking lot turned into campground

Okay for a one night stay. It’s the ok’d day use area turned into camping slots. Close together with no amenities. Pro is it is right on the beach. As long as you don’t need a shower, one night will get you by.

Site?
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Feb. 20, 2022

Great beach with beach front spots

It’s a bit of a parking lot but small enough it seems ok. Your in a residential neighborhood but right along the water. We love the sights right on the beach. Beach is great for morning walks and finding lots of sand dollars. Verizon signal is great if you need to work remote or want to stream.
Not sure why dyrt says it’s closed now as it’s open. We stay here a lot often as a stop going north or south on the coast.

Site7
Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Michael S., February 20, 2022
Reviewed Jan. 14, 2022

Beautiful Location but Busy

The location was pretty sweet right by the beach. I tent camped while my family members RVd. My site was large with a fire pit but they were slightly crammed in and had no fire pit. Did notice that some had the pits so be careful if choosing which site. Overall a nice visit.

Month of VisitJanuary
Reviewed Oct. 5, 2021

Windy Beach Camping

Back in February, before my foot injuries hobbled me, we spent two nights here.    We chose to camp in the tent camping area, away from RVs and their generators and lights.

The location was great.....right next to the beach, with our car conveniently parked next to our tent campsite.     

We hadn't been tent camping for a long time before that, so we were surprised that we were one of the very few people in the tent camping area that actually camped in tents.  The rest of the people in the area just camped in the campervans, small camper trucks, or disconnected towable campers.     

We could hear the wind all night in our tent, but during the day, the weather was perfect....cool and sunny.

Restrooms were nearby and clean.   There were no showers, but we were told that we could (if we wanted) use the ones in another nearby State Park.

Rangers were friendly.  

Overall, a very nice experience.

Reviewed Sep. 18, 2021

Camp on beach

Nice and clean campground w/ dry camp and full hookups. The teacher is absolutely amazing. There are thousands of sand dollars

Site11
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Aug. 19, 2021

Ocean Front

We were in campsite D. Stepped right out of our tent trailer on to the sand. Beautiful sunsets. Next to restrooms that were well kept. Only downside was there were no shower facilities.

SiteD
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Mary K., August 19, 2021
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Mary K., August 19, 2021
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Mary K., August 19, 2021
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Mar. 14, 2021

A good little spot

My partner and I were able to get one of “beach front” spots. It’s your normal concrete campground for the most part, but our actual tent and fire ring were both in the sand. (Since we were beachfront, I can’t attest to what the other sites on the lot were like). There’s a small path that’s only a few meters long that puts you directly on the beach. The campground iself is nothing extraordinary, but we enjoyed it!! We met some great people, the views were nice, and HOLY SAND DOLLARS!! The amount of whole sand dollars on that section of the beach was incredible. I’d stay there again just for that, honestly.

  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Elizabeth A., March 14, 2021
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Elizabeth A., March 14, 2021
Reviewed Feb. 22, 2021

RV Yes

If you have a pull behind or 5th wheel trailer, this campsite is for you. The RV sites make this a breeze to back into and set up. This is the best ocean camping on the coast. Walk a mile on the beach and you are at the old fisherman’s wharf. If you walk another 1/2 mile, you’ll be at the tourist restaurants. The huge morro bay rock never gets old to look at. Make sure you bring your binoculars to see the many different types of sea life and birds. The sea lions and otters are always a pleasure to see. They make for hours of entertainment.

  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Mike C., February 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Mike C., February 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Mike C., February 22, 2021
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Feb. 14, 2021

Nice spot particularly if you get a beachfront site

Great spot right near Morro bay on a nice beach. A bit of a parking lot but if you get a good beach front spot you won’t care as you sit and look at the ocean. Back row you will be looking at other campers.

Beach is nice and we found tons of sand dollars here which was fun. Residential neighborhood is pretty quiet ocean is louder than road it seems. A brewery pretty close but need to drive really with the highway. Town is very close and nice options for food etc.

We often stay here while in transit but would be nice for a few nights.

No dump but morro bay state park is near by and you can use that.

Reviewed Dec. 26, 2020

Proximity to water

Proximity to water is definitely the highlight of this coastal grounds. Sites themselves are a bit small and very visible to neighbors, but we made a couple work for four families and were cozy. A stones throw away from the water, this campground is easy to visit at any point in the year weather-wise. Just don’t forget to make reservations!

Reviewed Oct. 8, 2020

Morro Bay Strand State Park Campground

You can’t get much closer to the beach than this campground in Morro Bay. Located just off Highway One between Morro Bay and Cayucos, the grounds look somewhat like a parking lot with trees and shrubs separating it from the sand dunes and the ocean. RV parking is basically a parking space whereas tent camping is along the dunes with protection from large shrub trees to keep the wind down. There are two large restrooms and a camp hosts. Bike trails head out at each end and breaks in the trees allow direct path access to the beach. This is not comfy cozy camping, but if you like the beach and crashing waves this is the place. Close to restaurants and stores, the fishing town of Morro Bay and the small coastal gem of Cayucos. Reservations made on the State website ..35$ tent/50$hook up..pics I have were taken when closed due to Covid in June 2020. Four stars for lack of showers but flush toilets are a plus.

  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Margo A., October 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Margo A., October 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Margo A., October 8, 2020
  • (12) View All
Reviewed Sep. 29, 2020

Small sites

We had a bigger family tent and it just barley fit. It was nice that it was close to the water. Bathrooms were okay. This trip was planned for quading at pismo beach and we just needed to came some were close.

Reviewed Aug. 2, 2020

Cool little beach place

Cool fishing town , there’s a sand bank on the ocean so no waves hit a certain side of the beach. Good for paddle surfing or kayaking for a few hours. There were otters swimming it was cool

  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Anthony O., August 2, 2020
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Anthony O., August 2, 2020
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Anthony O., August 2, 2020
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Dec. 17, 2019

Super small sites

[ PROS ]

  • The campground is super close to the beach! You can just walk over the tiny dunes and the waves are right there.
  • Nothing like falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves. So soothing and will knock you right out!
  • The beach itself is very calm and not very crowded/busy.
  • Driving distance to stores, restaurants, markets, and The Embarcadero (for a day trip)
  • Stunning view of Morro Rock 

[ CONS]

  • This campground is basically like one giant parking lot which mostly caters to RVS and trailers.

  • Not ideal for tent camping. There is very little space to pitch a tent, don't even think about 2 tents.

  • Sites are very, very close together with very little privacy. I could hear my neighbor's whole conversations even with the sound of the surf.

  • It was super windy here at night. We were camping in our tent trailer and our entire tent was rattling for hours. The tent next to us packed up in the middle of the night and left.

  • No shade at this campground so it's pretty awful when it's sunny. I wouldn't suggest bringing a canopy because it gets super windy here.

Overall, this campground was very disappointing. Especially for the price! The only redeeming quality is the beach. It was super hard to get a reservation and is normally completely booked.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Chanel C., December 17, 2019
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Chanel C., December 17, 2019
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Jul. 30, 2019

Decent Campground

Like others mentioned, it’s a place to park and plug in, right next to the beach. No showers. Bathrooms are stocked with tp, no soap, no dryers/towels. Nice views of Morro Bay rock and mountains to the north. Lovely sunsets.

  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Amber H., July 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Amber H., July 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Morro Strand State Beach Campground by Amber H., July 30, 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

What do visitors say about camping at Morro Strand State Beach?

Morro Strand State Beach Campground offers unbeatable proximity to the beach with beautiful views of Morro Rock. Campers love falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves and enjoy the easy access to a relatively uncrowded shoreline. The beach is known for sand dollars and wildlife viewing opportunities, including sea otters. The area tends to get windy in the afternoons, so secure tent stakes are recommended. While the location is praised, many note the campground feels more like a parking lot with tight spacing between sites and minimal amenities. The campground works well as a base for exploring Morro Bay and surrounding attractions.

What is the layout of Morro Strand State Beach Campground?

Morro Strand State Beach Campground features approximately 80 sites arranged in a compact, parking lot-style layout. The campground is divided with larger RV and camper sites positioned along the back row, while sites suitable for vehicles under 24 feet are located throughout. Sites on the west side offer unobstructed ocean views. The campground has a concrete surface throughout, with some sites directly on the sand. There are only two restroom facilities serving the entire campground. The proximity to the beach is the standout feature, with just a small dune separating the campground from the shore.

What does Morro Strand State Beach Campground look like?

Morro Strand State Beach Campground has a utilitarian appearance with concrete pads and minimal natural landscaping. The sites are tightly packed together in a parking lot configuration rather than a traditional wooded campground setting. What makes this location special is the stunning beach access, with some sites positioned right on the sand. From the campground, you'll enjoy views of Morro Rock to the south and mountains to the north. Beautiful sunsets over the ocean are a highlight, and the beach itself features clean sand with minimal crowds. The overall aesthetic is focused on function rather than ambiance, but the oceanfront location compensates for the lack of natural surroundings.

How do I make reservations for Morro Strand State Beach Campground?

Reservations for Morro Strand State Beach Campground can be made through the California State Parks reservation system. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially for summer months and weekends, as this oceanfront campground is popular despite its basic amenities. When making reservations, note that sites on the west side offer direct ocean views and are typically in higher demand. Consider your vehicle size when booking, as sites for RVs over 24 feet are limited to the back row. For current availability, reservation windows, and fees, contact California State Parks directly or visit their official reservation website.