Best Campgrounds near Atascadero, CA

Camping near Atascadero, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

• Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach, are just a short walk from the beach. Campers love the easy access to the sand and surf. One reviewer mentioned, "The beach is a short walk away," making it perfect for a day of sun and fun.
• Bird Watching: If you enjoy nature, check out the lagoon at Oceano County Campground. A visitor noted, "There's a cool lagoon that you can walk all the way around on, with lots of birds," which is great for bird enthusiasts.
• Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails around Morro Bay State Park Campground. One camper shared, "Dune trails are nice for hiking," offering a chance to enjoy the local flora and fauna.

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Morro Bay State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms have hot water and flush toilets," which is a big plus for many.
• Friendly Atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the welcoming vibe at local campgrounds. One visitor at Oceano County Campground mentioned, "The rangers were very present," which helps create a safe environment.
• Great Views: Campers love the stunning views from sites like Kirk Creek Campground. A review highlighted, "Amazing sunrise and sunset view," making it a picturesque spot for nature lovers.

What you should know

• Crowded During Peak Season: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially in summer. A camper at Morro Bay State Park Campground noted, "This year when we stayed it was packed," which can affect your experience.
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kirk Creek Campground, have few amenities. One visitor mentioned, "There are pit toilets and trash cans, but basically no other amenities," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
• Wildlife Encounters: Be aware of local wildlife, especially at campgrounds like Lopez Lake Recreation Area. A reviewer warned, "There are black bears that roam the area," so take precautions with food storage.

Tips for camping with families

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with fun activities for kids. At Oceano County Campground, there's a scavenger hunt app that kids can enjoy. One parent mentioned, "There's a fun game for kids where you download an app and go on a scavenger hunt."
• Private Sites: Choose campgrounds with more space between sites for family privacy. A review for Morro Dunes RV Park noted, "Sites are tight but not overly cramped," which can help with family comfort.
• Bring Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in warmer months. A camper at Kirk Creek Campground advised, "Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills," to keep the bugs at bay.

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Size: 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," which can be tricky for larger rigs.
• Bring Cash for Showers: Some campgrounds, like Morro Bay State Park Campground, require tokens for showers. One visitor noted, "You get two tokens for a dollar," so be prepared with cash.
• Dump Station Availability: Check for nearby dump stations. A camper at Oceano County Campground mentioned, "There's no dump station here, but there's one just 2 miles north," which is helpful for RVers.

Camping around Atascadero, CA, offers a variety of experiences, from beach access to beautiful views. With a little planning, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor adventure!