Best Campgrounds near Atascadero, CA

Camping areas around Atascadero connect campers to several good spots within driving distance of this central California town. Highway 101 runs right through Atascadero, making it easy to reach places like Morro Bay State Park Campground, which has flush toilets, hot showers, and sits close to Morro Bay itself – a big plus for families with kids. If you drive a bit further, you'll find Oceano County Campground with its beach access and practical facilities including recycling bins and food waste disposal. Many campers head to Kirk Creek Campground on the Pacific Coast Highway for its ocean views, picnic tables, and fire rings that work well for evening meals. Weather varies by season – summers can get hot while winters stay fairly mild with some rain. Watch for deer and birds around your campsite, and store food properly to avoid unwanted visitors. The road to Kirk Creek gets windy, so bigger vehicles might have a tougher time. Most locals recommend camping in spring or fall when the weather's nice and you'll see fewer people. Hiking trails near these campgrounds let you see more of the central coast landscape. Always check if any areas are closed before you leave home. Both tent and RV campers can find good spots near Atascadero, but pack based on which type of camping you plan to do and what the weather might bring.

Best Camping Sites Near Atascadero, California (86)

    1. Morro Bay State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    13 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."

    "It is only 2 miles away from Morro Rock and the adorable tourist town full of shops and eateries."

    2. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Santa Margarita, CA
    10 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."

    3. Morro Strand State Beach Campground

    37 Reviews
    Morro Bay, CA
    12 miles
    Website

    $35 - $50 / night

    "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."

    "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."

    4. Morro Dunes RV Park

    23 Reviews
    Morro Bay, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-2722

    $35 - $74 / night

    "California, Morro Dunes RV Park

    Located right on the beach and ocean near Morro Rock. Within walking distance from Downtown Morro Bay.

    Directions: From highway 1 exit at E. G."

    "Great access to bike path and just a few minutes walk or bike ride to down town/harbor with harbor shops and restaurants. Amazing view of Moro rock, super close by!"

    5. Cerro Alto Campground

    15 Reviews
    Atascadero, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 434-1996

    $35 - $39 / night

    "Trail head is at the back of the campground day use parking is available. Short drive to Atascadero and Morro Bay."

    "Found a location on fcf basis. Campsite #2 was nice but had to walk through campsite no. 1 In order to get to my car, which was kind of a hassle."

    6. Franklin Hot Springs

    15 Reviews
    Paso Robles, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 712-5372

    $28 / night

    "The area around the pool is covered. The lake next to the pool is used for fishing.
    The camp fee includes a fee per person to access the spa."

    "We also enjoy the surrounding wildlife and lack of noise.

    Friendly owners."

    7. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort

    18 Reviews
    Paso Robles, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 242-4700

    $119 - $219 / night

    "There is also a little hiking/walking trail around the campground."

    "The area is surrounded by natural grassy areas with some trails. The park was busy and a bit loud over the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend, but otherwise not busy and very quiet."

    8. El Chorro Regional Park

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

    $25 - $50 / night

    "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."

    "This is a great campground close to San Luis Obispo. It is great for tent or RV camping and is located near a park, garden, and golf course."

    9. Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park

    29 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    18 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."

    10. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

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

    $35 - $50 / 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."

    "Tucked behind the dunes (and you definitely want a site next to the dunes!)"

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Recent Reviews near Atascadero, CA

683 Reviews of 86 Atascadero Campgrounds


  • 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.:-)

  • Steffanie & Joshua The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Quiet, easy to locate spot

    Slightly bumpy dirt road to get to the campsites, but easy enough to follow. We camped here with a rooftop tent and had no difficulty parking. There were only two other campers there - 1 tent and 1 RV. Beautiful sunrise off the hill in the morning and plenty of birds hanging out to watch while making our camp breakfast.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park

    Great Staff

    This campground is only 25 minutes from the beach. The staff is extremely helpful and friendly and we're very accommodating to me and my dog during a heat wave that was moving through.

    Showers are available, they take quarters.

    Would absolutely stay here again.

  • Kyle K.
    Aug. 28, 2025

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    The views in the morning are amazing!

    I arrived on motorcycle at 10:30 at night. I hate being that guy that shows up late while everyone is in their tents, but it happens. First 90% of the road/trail is pretty easy, but the last 10% did get a little sketchy at night, while on a motorcycle and being my first time there. It was fairly crowded when I got there but was able to find a spot so quickly pitch my tend and get some well needed sleep. I woke first thing in the morning and the view to the west is stunning, a sea of clouds and islands of distant mountain peaks all the way to the coast. I would only recommend experienced riders take a large street motorcycle up there, but it is doable. I set up my tent on the first spot on the left, on the little ridge.

  • Zenaida O.
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Vines RV Resort, A Sun RV Resort

    Found my place in life here at the Vines!

    I came to the Vines in an old vintage beat up RV with quite the traumatic story trailing and I have been blessed beyond what I could imagine would be possible. Not only did the staff go out of their way to make accommodations for me, they have adjusted and readjusted and accommodated again and again just to make sure I felt like I was comfortable and my needs were met. They taught me all I know about RVing full time and have been the perfect community of people I have needed to carry me thru tough times. This may not be the best most perfect place and some may have things to complain about but as for me and my household we are filled with nothing but gratitude for the home I have found here.

    The bathrooms are always clean and the showers are hot, the pools are clean and always open, the gym has new equipment and the game room is stocked for a good time. The general store provides basic things that I've needed along the way as well as parts for the RV that I could not do without but didn't even know I needed. Teri is the manager there now and her heart for the people she serves is so evident that you can't help but to love her. All of the dogs are well behaved I don't hear all the barking that the other review complained about nor do I find that my privacy is that compromised considering how close we are I do feel like I have some sort of privacy still.

    The spaces are spacious enough to enjoy outside time with friends and family and it's a perfect place to come escape from all the noise of life and tune into what's going on inside our own minds and bodies which is why I'm here and away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

    If you're looking for a retreat, quiet and stable but embracing friendly and warm - this is the spot!!

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Morro Bay State Park Campground

    Nice state parks

    Nice park. Quite busy mid Aug but not rowdy. Pretty views and close to town centre. Showers (need to pay) and firewood available

  • Tommy B.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    pismo state beach

    Busy campground

    This used to be a really nice park. Now, there doesn’t seem to be any pride in taking care of it.

  • Rio S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Clean well kept spots

    Good place to crash for a few to days. Decent cell service. Nice put toilet. Only 6 spots first come first serve and decently spaced out so that's good too. The road in was dusty and kinda long way up a hill. So everything was covered in dirt. I wouldn't advise big RVs coming up here. Most of the spots only accommodate like van size and down.


Guide to Atascadero

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!

Frequently Asked Questions

What RV parks are available in Atascadero?

While Atascadero itself has limited RV park options, several excellent facilities are available within a short drive. Morro Dunes RV Park is located about 20 miles west near the beach with full hookups, though sites are close together. The park offers excellent access to downtown Morro Bay and coastal attractions. Closer to Atascadero, Le Sage Riviera RV Park provides well-maintained sites with water proximity, though reservations are essential due to high demand. Both parks offer good amenities for RVers looking to explore the Central Coast region while staying near Atascadero.

Are there any campgrounds near Atascadero?

Yes, there are several campgrounds near Atascadero. Cerro Alto Campground is a short drive from Atascadero and offers a small, quiet camping experience with vault toilets and running water. The campground includes trail access and is convenient to both Atascadero and Morro Bay. For those willing to drive a bit further, Morro Bay State Park Campground provides a peaceful setting about 20 miles from Atascadero, with amenities like showers and larger campsites. Most sites in the area require reservations, especially during peak seasons, so booking in advance is recommended.

Are there camping places with cabins in Atascadero?

While traditional cabin accommodations are limited directly in Atascadero, nearby options offer alternatives. Pismo Dunes Travel Trailer Park provides rental units about 30 minutes from Atascadero with a peaceful setting and access to nearby dunes and beaches. Another option is Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort, which offers cabin rentals in a resort-style setting just north of Atascadero. For the cabin experience, these nearby facilities provide comfortable accommodations while maintaining easy access to Atascadero attractions.