Lopez Lake Recreation Area offers several cabin options for those seeking cabin camping near Avila Beach, California. The cabins sit in a canyon surrounded by live oak trees, approximately 15 minutes from Arroyo Grande. Temperatures at this elevation typically range from 60-85°F in summer and 40-65°F in winter, with minimal rainfall from May through October.
What to do
Lakeside activities: At Lopez Lake Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy water recreation with boat rentals available at the marina. "The lake is wonderful and usually very mellow. Kayaking and fishing are both nice at Lopez as well," notes Crystal J. Swimming is permitted in designated beach areas that have been cleared of rocks and lake plants.
Beach exploration: Located about 5 miles from Flying Flags Avila Beach, Avila Beach offers a dog-friendly shoreline. "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," explains Barbara G. The beach path follows a creek, through a golf course, with relatively flat terrain suitable for families.
Trail hiking: Several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels wind through Lopez Lake Recreation Area. The Big Falls trail is particularly popular. Amanda M. describes, "The hike is through live oak trees most of the way, so most of the hike is nice and shaded. Keep an eye out for salamanders when crossing the creek beds!" The trailhead is approximately 20 minutes from the campground on a curvy, narrow canyon road.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin areas offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears," says Crystal J. about Lopez Lake Recreation Area. Bird watching is particularly rewarding in the early morning hours when wildlife is most active.
Easy beach access: Pacific Dunes Ranch offers cabin accommodations with direct access to sand dunes. "You can walk off the property and directly into the sand dunes," James O. explains. The dunes provide a unique landscape for hiking and photography, though the beach itself requires a longer walk, approximately 30 minutes according to Ryan S. who adds, "Our site was night to the dunes so easy walk to the sand, but about 30 minute hard walk to the ocean."
Recreational facilities: Cabin campers appreciate the additional amenities at campgrounds near Avila Beach. At Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, Frank P. found "great infrastructure. Courteous staff, great store with all replacement parts you might need. Steps away from the ocean." The resort includes recreation facilities within walking distance of downtown Pismo Beach.
What you should know
Site selection: When booking cabins, location matters significantly. At Santa Margarita KOA, David H. advises, "We stayed in site 28. AT&T cell service was zero to very poor at our site. WiFi was poor and slow. They advertised good WiFi in our spot but it just wasn't so." Most cabins require advance booking, particularly during summer months when occupancy rates reach 95%.
Weather considerations: The coastal region experiences morning fog frequently, even during summer. Temperatures vary significantly between coast and inland areas. "We've camped here many times over the last 15 years. We've tent camped on primitive sites and camped with a pop-up with electricity & water. None of the full hookup sites have a view but some of the tent sites do," notes Linda S. about Lopez Lake Recreation Area.
Facility limitations: Some cabin locations have restricted hours for amenities. At Avila Hot Springs, Brooke H. mentions, "Only one small shallow hot spring pool, usually crowded at peak hours. At the pool there is outdoor showers, lap pool, indoor bathrooms, changing rooms." Bathroom and shower facilities often close earlier than expected, with one campground closing facilities at 6pm.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. At Santa Margarita KOA, Angel Q. shared a positive experience: "Easter weekend visit. Staff was awesome. The cabin was exactly what we needed for a low impact weekend of camping. Proximity to the lake was great. We had so much fun out on the water doing some fishing. The highlight for my kids was the Easter egg hunt put on by the staff."
Cabin comfort: Families find cabins provide a good balance between comfort and outdoor experience. Jason M. explains about Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, "This is one of the most excellent coastal locations with full hook-ups. Our family loves heading to Old West Cinnamon Rolls, biking around the town, and visiting the beach. The park has excellent activities, and an on-site restaurant delivers to your site."
Safety considerations: Parents should be aware of wildlife and terrain challenges. Amanda M. cautions about Lopez Lake Recreation Area: "While the possibility of a black bear sighting is fairly uncommon, black bears are seen every year at Lopez Lake. You are in black bear county, and there are no bear boxes/food lockers at Lopez Lake. I would suggest locking your food and coolers up in the car at night to avoid attracting wild animals to your campsite."
Tips from RVers
Parking logistics: Many cabin areas also accommodate RVs but have space limitations. At Avila-Pismo Beach KOA, Alisa K. notes, "The camp sites are very tight but the staff is very helpful with parking. The facility is very clean. Short drive to the beach." Sites typically accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet, though some premium sites can handle larger rigs.
Utility connections: Cabins with RV hookups provide additional convenience. Mike E. found Pismo Sands RV Park exceptionally well-equipped: "Very clean very well kept, full service campground. Grounds are beautiful with lots of grass and trees well paved and maintained. Their WIFI works the best of dozens of CGs we've stayed at. Streaming works well most all the time, even with lots of RVs on site."
Road access: Some cabin areas have challenging access roads. For Lopez Lake Recreation Area, Jeremy F. advises, "Take some time to drive around the park when you arrive to see what area you would most like to camp in - there are a lot of great spots here there and everywhere!" Interior roads are often narrow with tight turns, requiring careful navigation for larger vehicles.
