TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping offers free primitive camping approximately 10 miles from Atascadero at an elevation of 2,300 feet. The access road becomes increasingly rough and rocky in the final third of the journey, with several steep sections requiring vehicles with higher clearance. Summer temperatures at this site often reach 15-20 degrees cooler than downtown Atascadero due to the elevation gain.
What to do
Hike to panoramic viewpoints: From Cerro Alto Campground, access multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "Cerro Alto Trail is located right inside the campground. Day Use parking is $10. The hike is really beautiful and on a clear day you can see the ocean at peak!" as noted by camper Chanel C.
Explore coastal caves and trails: At Montaña de Oro State Park, walk along dramatic bluffs just a short distance from your campsite. "Spooner Ranch House open daily 10am-4pm provides good historical background before taking scenic coastal walk along the Bluff Trail. Other more adventurous inland hike/bike trails also available," writes Leonard H.
Visit nearby hot springs: When staying at dog friendly campgrounds near Atascadero, consider day trips to mineral pools. "Sulfuric hot spring are a joy. There are multiple pools of varying temperature. Don't miss the little hot tub at the far end," advises marcus K. about the thermal pools at Franklin Hot Springs, located north of town.
Beach activities for dogs: Drive 25 minutes to dog-friendly coastal areas where your pet can explore shoreline trails. "Nice paved almost level parking lot with views of Morro Bay about half-way between entrance and campground. Beautiful beach with non-RV parking right below Ranch House," notes a reviewer about Montaña de Oro State Park.
What campers like
Secluded sites with privacy: Morro Bay State Park Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "Nice Campground. RV Park Style. We have a fire ring, food locker, table and benches. It's like being in a RV neighborhood. Location, Location, Location," reports Louis F.
Stargazing opportunities: At high elevation sites like TV Tower Road, nighttime views are exceptional. "Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites. Would for sure camp again if in the San Luis Obispo area," shares Sebastian D.
Proximity to wineries: Pet-friendly accommodations near Atascadero provide access to Paso Robles wine country. At Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort, "We did the wine line and they pick up and drop off at the campground. They also have cabins you can rent if friends want to go but they don't have a trailer," mentions Tonya C.
Beach access: Many campers appreciate coastal sites within walking distance of the ocean. "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!" says Dennis V. about Morro Dunes RV Park.
What you should know
Terrain challenges: TV Tower Road requires appropriate vehicles. "The road was a bit sketchy, any 4WD would be fine I think. I took my mini van and camped at a turn out along the road because I was a bit hesitant," reports Caitlyn R. Some portions have steep, uneven terrain with limited turnaround options.
Weather variability: Coastal campgrounds experience frequent fog and wind. "Weather can be fickle with cold, wind and fog even in summer. Quiet at night. A few sites have beach views," notes Leonard H. about Morro Strand State Beach Campground.
Wildlife precautions: Tick prevention is essential when camping with dogs. "Although the location is very scenic and a 10 min walk to the beach, I wouldn't return because there are ALOT of ticks at the campground. We went with a party of 11 and found multiple ticks on 5 people," warns Val H. about Montaña de Oro State Park.
Seasonal closures: Verify campground status before travel. "Closed due to fire hazard since 9/7. Gate blocking road up," reported a camper about TV Tower Road during fire season. Many dog-friendly camping areas near Atascadero implement fire restrictions during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Protected beach options: Oceano Campground offers calmer shoreline access for families with dogs. "Campground protected from blowing sand because dunes in front of it. Nice area to start beach walks or rent dune buggies," explains Leonard H.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can observe diverse animal species at multiple locations. "We can here in September and camped in a small tent. The day we arrived it was fairly windy, so the tent was not that pleasant, but the view and the animal live that was ever present was a delight," shares Tim S. about Morro Dunes RV Park.
Designated recreation areas: Several dog-friendly campgrounds provide dedicated spaces for children. At Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort, "We saw the two pools which were very nice. Didn't use them because it was too cold. They also have at least two dog parks and took our high energy dog there to run. They also have a great playground for the kids," reports Devon H.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning experiences at natural history exhibits. "And within walking distance, there is a Museum of natural history. In the Bayside Café has a good food which is right across the street," suggests Wayne S. about facilities near Morro Bay State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose camping locations based on your power needs. "Hook-up sites close together... non-hookup have more separation. Popular with families and groups. Grass around tent sites still green. Most parking spots close to level but bring some blocks," advises Leonard H. about Oceano Campground.
Beach accessibility: When traveling with dogs and an RV, consider direct shore access. "Sites are pull through, Power and water. Asphalt pads are in good condition. Easy access to the beach from your site, or turn right out of the camp and drive on the beach," explains Patrick J.
Weather preparation: Coastal camping requires planning for fog and wind. "The stars are beautiful and it's very quiet and cool. Got cold at night but nothing unbearable, lovely sunrise too! I'd recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag and any essentials for dispersed camping," suggests Caitlyn R. about TV Tower Road.
Dog-specific amenities: Some RV parks offer specialized facilities for pets. "Best part about the RV park is its location, right next to the dunes! The RV park is clean and well maintained. Sites are spaced close together but no major issues with noisy neighbors. Nice little dog run," notes Esther Y.
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