Camping sites near Atascadero, California range from rustic tent areas to well-developed RV resorts nestled within the coastal mountains of San Luis Obispo County. The region sits at elevations between 800-1,000 feet, creating a moderate climate with warm summers (75-90°F) and mild winters (40-60°F). While many Atascadero campgrounds operate year-round, autumn brings particularly favorable camping conditions with decreased wind and more stable temperatures compared to coastal locations.
What to do
Beach access exploration: Morro Dunes RV Park offers quick beach access via a short walk across the dunes. "Just a short walk over the Dunes to the beach. This RV park has tent and RV sites. The weekly and monthly rates are reasonable for CA," notes a visitor. The park provides a convenient base for coastal activities just 25 miles from Atascadero.
Hot springs soaking: At Franklin Hot Springs, campers can enjoy therapeutic mineral pools. "Sulfuric hot springs are a joy. There are multiple pools of varying temperature. Don't miss the little hot tub at the far end," writes one reviewer. The springs offer a natural retreat 15 miles northeast of Atascadero, with day use fees of $10 per person to access the pools.
Dispersed mountain camping: For those seeking more remote experiences, TV Tower Road offers primitive sites with panoramic views just 12 miles from Atascadero. "Taking the road up to TV tower are some of the best views you can get from the surrounding area. Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites," reports one camper. The road requires moderate off-road driving skills, with increasing difficulty toward the top.
What campers like
Stunning coastal vistas: Montana de Oro State Park provides dramatic ocean scenery. "This place is 10/10. Clean bathrooms, quiet and quaint. Close to one of the most beautiful beaches," writes a camper. The park sits about 35 miles southwest of Atascadero and offers direct beach access via short walking trails from the campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently mention animal sightings at many area campgrounds. "We also saw and heard hawks, turkey vultures, owls, and many other birds. We also saw a cute little weasel," notes a visitor at Oceano Campground. Squirrels are particularly abundant at several sites, sometimes becoming intrusive if food isn't properly secured.
Diverse camping options: From tent sites to full RV hookups, the Atascadero area offers varied accommodation types. "Sites are gravel with concrete pads. All have fireplaces and seemed appropriately level," writes a visitor about Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort. The resort also offers cabins for those without RVs, making group trips more accessible.
What you should know
Access challenges: Several campgrounds require careful navigation. TV Tower Road becomes increasingly difficult: "The road up here is indeed a little challenge: first there is pavement but the last 1/3 of the road is dirt only; also very bumpy." Some visitors report vehicle damage on these routes.
Wildlife interactions: Squirrels, raccoons and insects require attention at many campgrounds. "Raccoons will 100% rush your site as soon as you go to sleep to see if there are any fun goodies laying about," warns a Montana de Oro visitor. Ticks are present in some areas, particularly during spring months.
Reservation realities: Despite online systems showing full campgrounds, personal visits sometimes reveal availability. "We tried to reserve online but site said they were full and sign at entrance said they were full. We waited at check in gate at 2pm for about 10 minutes. Staff came by in a car and registered us from their car! Strange but we were grateful. Many available spaces!"
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Coastal conditions can change quickly around Atascadero. "Weather can be fickle with cold, wind and fog even in summer. Quiet at night. A few sites have beach views," notes a reviewer at Morro Strand State Beach. Pack layers even in summer months when coastal fog can keep temperatures cool.
Activity planning: El Chorro Regional Park offers family-friendly features beyond camping. "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," writes a camper. The varied activities within the park itself make it ideal for families with different interests.
Bug protection: Several campgrounds report significant insect presence. "They're out and about and it's not fun if you're not prepared. There's a Walmart not too far away. After the citronella incense weren't working, we went to Walmart and it was war!" Bring repellent and protective clothing, particularly for evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Campground selection: "The weekly and monthly rates are reasonable for CA. The best time to go is in the fall and winter when it is quieter, with not a lot of campers in the park," suggests an RVer about Morro Dunes RV Park. Many campgrounds offer significant savings for longer stays, with monthly rates sometimes costing just twice the weekly rate.
Site selection: At coastal campgrounds, protection from wind becomes important. "Get a site with shade and you're good to go," advises one camper. Sites backed by vegetation or terrain features typically offer better wind protection than exposed locations.
Water quality notes: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water that affects taste. "I should mention, the water provided at the site felt and smelled like it was straight out of the hot spring, so we didn't hook that up to the RV," reports a visitor at Franklin Hot Springs. Consider bringing drinking water if staying at campgrounds with mineral water supplies.
