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Best Campgrounds near Atascadero, CA

700 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 (87)

    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

    36 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. Franklin Hot Springs

    16 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."

    "Has a few campsites adjacent to the small pond. Some sites are assigned with a table and others are in a large field where you pick your own spot."

    6. 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."

    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

    65 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

182 Photos of 87 Atascadero Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Atascadero, CA

700 Reviews of 87 Atascadero Campgrounds

  • marcus K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 30, 2025

    Franklin Hot Springs

    Awesome sulfuric hot baths

    Awesome lil private hot spring in Paso. Has a few campsites adjacent to the small pond. Some sites are assigned with a table and others are in a large field where you pick your own spot. We were there mid week and hardly anyone else there.

    Sulfuric hot spring are a joy. There are multiple pools of varying temperature. Don’t miss the little hot tub at the far end.

  • kThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 29, 2025

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful view / very windy

    Hard to access. Rutted dirt road. We are traveling in a truck/cabover combo and we did see a camper van along with day use cars. I wouldn’t try to tow anything up here. It is busier than I was expecting with other overnighters and day hikers and mountain bikers but worth the sunset and sunrise.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 29, 2025

    Washburn Primitive Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    Nice Hilltop Basic Campground

    Compacted gravel roads and mostly level pads in good condition. Most sites nicely spaced apart. Modern pit toilets inside buildings in good condition. Most sites have views of mountain range. A few sites with shade next to trees. Only 20% occupied late October. Close to Hearst Castle, elephant seals, State Beach w/ pier, nice coastal overlooks. $20 without typical discounts. Showers and dump station bottom of hill (1/2 mile) in adjacent state park campground.

  • kThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Washburn Primitive Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    Basic campground

    The upper grounds: Washburn campgrounds are primitive but nicely kept and do have pit toilets and some water spigots as well as fire rings and picnic tables. This area is a little less ($20) vs the lower grounds ($35). But the lower grounds do have showers. We did find Washburn quieter with less freeway traffic

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Peaceful and quiet.

    A really nice and quiet camping spot. Only negative was the vault toilet. Dirty and almost full. Also there is a ban on fires here right now.

  • Patrick J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Our Third Visit

    Our 3rd visit here. 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. Bathrooms are close by and clean. Getting a reservation is moderately easy, with sites being limited. Will be back for sure.

  • 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.

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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