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Best Campgrounds near Atascadero, CA

693 Reviews

Atascadero lies within reach of diverse camping options throughout San Luis Obispo County, including both primitive and developed sites. Cerro Alto Campground, located in the coastal mountains between Atascadero and Morro Bay, provides shaded tent and RV sites with access to hiking trails and natural areas. The region includes everything from dispersed camping on public lands to full-service RV resorts with cabins like Sun Outdoors Paso Robles. Most campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while some offer additional amenities such as drinking water and shower facilities.

Camping conditions vary significantly by season and location throughout the Atascadero area. Many campgrounds operate year-round but experience different levels of visitation depending on the weather. Summer brings warmer temperatures and drier conditions, making it the most popular time for camping, while winter months typically see fewer visitors but may involve occasional rain and cooler temperatures. The terrain ranges from oak woodlands to coastal scrub, with elevations varying across the region. Cell service can be limited or nonexistent at more remote locations like Cerro Alto Campground. "The sites are well maintained and basic services are available. Get a site with shade and you're good to go, very close to Morro Bay as well," according to one camper's experience.

Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of the area's campgrounds. Cerro Alto Campground receives positive feedback for its spacious, private sites and proximity to hiking trails. "We had such a wonderful time staying 3 nights at Cerro Alto campground. Most sites are spaced for privacy. Very quiet & peaceful. Easy access to hiking trails from campsite," noted one visitor. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with many campers reporting bird watching as a highlight of their stay. Franklin Hot Springs offers a unique camping experience with access to natural hot springs, though reviews indicate facilities are rustic. The proximity to coastal attractions like Morro Bay and urban amenities in San Luis Obispo makes the Atascadero area appealing to campers seeking both outdoor recreation and convenient access to services.

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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

    17 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

    $25 - $40 / 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 Camping Photos near Atascadero, CA

181 Photos of 86 Atascadero Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Atascadero, CA

693 Reviews of 86 Atascadero Campgrounds

  • R
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Pismo Coast Village RV Resort

    Great

    We try to stay at this campground every chance we get. Has all the amenities you could ask for. Walking distance from the beach and town. Perfect vacation destination

  • Greg W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    El Chorro Regional Park

    El Chorro

    It's clean, quiet and your belongings are safe. The stsff takes great care of the grounds, and are friendly. I use this when I'm working locally.

  • Sophia L.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    Raccoon Attack

    the overall site was nice and everything went smoothly during the day. There are no bear boxes (big metal boxes at most campsites to store food so animals can’t get to it) so we put all our food in a big cooler that we thought nothing could get into. Wake up after 30 mins of sleeping to noises outside, a whole family of raccoons are eating our food. they destroyed a good amount of our food and our camping materials and the problem was they wouldn’t leave us alone. they were aggressive and would not leave, climbing the trees above us and popping left and right out of the bushes. we have no where to put our food (since raccoons can get into your car through the engine and cause major damage). They were surrounding us, we were yelling and jumping to try and scare them away but they were persistent. We thought they might even attack us as they did not seem very scared and were very aggressive. We had no choice but to quickly pack up all our stuff while someone was on raccoon guard and leave in the middle of the night. I was very disappointed.

  • K
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Camping spot

    Great spot with fire pits & gazebos it’s first come first serve also has a bathroom, no water or electricity, park ranger comes up nd does routine check but it’s great camping spot over all very quiet came up here an their was others but everyone minds their own really great place to camp, I’ll definitely becoming back again

  • Bobbii J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Vinyl Vineyards

    GORGEOUS !

    I had such an unforgettable stay at Vinyl Vineyards! I stayed at the David Bowie trailer, and it was pure nostalgia full of vintage charm, character, and cozy vibes. Everywhere I looked felt like stepping into a different era in the best way possible. The property itself is expansive and breathtaking. I got a private UTV tour across their 120 acres of vineyards, and it was absolutely unbeatable, wide open views, rolling vines, and that peaceful Paso Robles magic. The vibe on the property was incredible, and the outdoor shower was such a unique, refreshing touch that made the stay even more memorable. And the wine? Unforgettable. Their rosé is absolutely on point, hands down my favorite. Do the tasting, you won’t be disappointed! I felt completely at home here, and I can’t wait to come back, next time with my pets and my daughter in tow. Vinyl Vineyards is such a gem, and I’m already counting the days until I return.

  • Michael S.
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground

    Use your 4x4 for what it was intended for, but use caution

    Just spent the weekend in the Oceano SVRA, and some things I noticed:

    1. Even with the reduced number of campers, the camping area still seemed really full.

    2. The sand was very soft and deep in the camping area, and I saw multiple 4x4 trucks getting stuck, including a Lexus GX460, 2 Toyota Tacomas and 1 4Runner, and a stock Jeep Wrangler. 

    3. The dunes are ridiculously fun to drive on, but they are also dangerous. They are also very devoid of other vehicles due to the limited number of entries, so DO NOT go out alone. There are plenty of places to get lost in, and if you're at the bottom of a dune, you cannot see where you are and will be lost. 

    So much fun, even the mariachi bands blasting music until 3 in the morning was fun.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Flying Flags Avila Beach

    Great place

    Views are amazing. You can hear the sea lions at Port San Luis, birds of paradise and other lovely flowers, palm trees and eucalyptus. Very well maintained. Beach is 10 minute walk and allows dogs. Near to San Luis Obispo and so much more that the lovely Central Coast has to offer. Staff were very attentive and helpful. There are areas with community fires for gathering, small store. Bocce ball and other games. I dry camped which worked out just fine. $10 dump fee when you leave is available for dry campers. Full hookups also available but they fill up so advance reservations needed.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    The Beachhouse RV Park

    Ok if you just need a basic place and is near Beach

    Misremembered names, ended up at Morro strand RV park when meant to be at Morro dunes RV park. This one, Morro strand is in a depressing area and park itself is gravel everywhere not grass or plants. At least it's only a 10 min walk to the Morro beach, with great view of Morro Rock. It does have ok facilities including coin laundry on site

  • Michael R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    San Simeon Camping

    Great campground with plenty of space between sites! Sites have plenty of shade and facilities are clean and well kept! No more than two vehicles are allowed in a site, but there’s free parking on the road that runs next to the campground and it’s easy to walk up the embankment and get to your site from the road.

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.

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