The central California coast near Avila Beach features Mediterranean climate with foggy mornings and mild afternoons, averaging 65-75°F in summer and 45-55°F in winter. Camping options range from beachfront sites with ocean views to wooded inland areas where temperatures can drop 10-15°F at night. Wind protection is essential when pitching tents, especially at coastal sites where evening gusts commonly reach 15-20 mph.
What to do
Beach hiking and wildlife viewing: From Oceano Campground, visitors can explore Pismo State Beach and observe migratory wildlife. "Awesome campsite. We went in January and had no idea about the Monarch Butterflies. About 300 feet from the campsite is a grove of trees where thousands of Monarchs fly and mate," notes Garrett M.
Horseback riding on dunes: Pacific Dunes Ranch offers horseback riding tours through the coastal dunes. "They had horseback riding and a small playground. Our site was night to the dunes so easy walk to the sand, but about 30 minute hard walk to the ocean, it was worth it," shares Ryan S.
Hiking mountain trails: The Cerro Alto Campground provides access to coastal mountain trails with ocean views. "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!" reports Chanel C.
Lake activities: Located 15 miles from Arroyo Grande, Lopez Lake Recreation Area offers boating, fishing, and hiking trails. "The lake is wonderful and usually very mellow. Kayaking and fishing are both nice at Lopez as well," mentions Crystal J.
What campers like
Ocean sound and wildlife: At Jalama Beach County Park, campers appreciate the natural surroundings. "The beach is very big and beautiful. Sunsets are beautiful! There are plenty of areas along the river and on the beach to explore!" notes Kathleen D.
Privacy between sites: Many campsites offer separation from neighbors. "Campsites are spread pretty far apart, are fairly large, and have most have pretty good privacy. I think Campsite #18 is one of the best! It's HUGE, tucked in the far corner, close to the hiking trail," explains Chanel C. about Cerro Alto Campground.
Convenience to local attractions: Coastal glamping near Avila Beach places visitors close to regional highlights. "The location of this place is perfect with lots to do in the area. 1 hour south of here was Solvang and Ostrich farm, 1 hourish north is Cambria and San Simeon," explains Crystal about Avila-Pismo Beach KOA.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and common areas. "Clean, close to beach & eateries, yet private," writes Cindy I. about Oceano Campground, while another camper notes, "Bathrooms were fine. There was running water. Beach is a 2 minute walk (past a tiny creek!)"
What you should know
Wind conditions: Coastal locations experience significant winds. At Flying Flags Avila Beach, "The sites are sand so if it ever rains makes it a bit messy," explains Patrick J., who adds, "When they designed it, they didn't really make enough room to maneuver. I watched a Class A next to plow up a bank with his front end."
Reservation requirements: Many popular glamping sites near Avila Beach require advance planning. "The place isn't cheap and it isn't easy to get reservations. You will need months of advanced notice," notes Patrick J. about Flying Flags Avila Beach.
Wildlife awareness: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. "There are a lot of different birds here as well. We fell asleep to the sound of a resident Pygmy Owl hooting and woke up to Acorn Woodpeckers, Toweys, Robins, Steller Jays, and Warblers singing," reports Chanel C. about Cerro Alto, while also warning, "There is poison oak EVERYWHERE so do not go wandering off into the brush."
Bug protection: Insects can be prevalent in certain areas. "They're out and about and it's not fun if you're not prepared. After the citronella incense weren't working, we went to Walmart and it was war!" warns Barbara M. about Oceano Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Lopez Lake Recreation Area offers family-friendly water recreation. "Lopez Lake is the home of the Mustang Waterpark, a small, but super fun water park. I believe the park is closed during the fall and winter months, but is open during the spring and summer," shares Amanda M.
Playground amenities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. At Santa Margarita KOA, "There is a pool, jumping pillow, playground, etc. Very friendly staff. The lake is 1/2 mile away, so very convenient. The park is loaded with really nice hiking trails," reports Sherry D.
Educational wildlife opportunities: Oceano Campground offers educational nature experiences. "We went in January and had no idea about the Monarch Butterflies. About 300 feet from the campsite is a grove of trees where thousands of Monarchs fly and mate. Apparently it's the end of their Northern Migration trail," shares Garrett M.
Special events: Some campgrounds organize activities for children. "The highlight for my kids was the Easter egg hunt put on by the staff. A happy surprise for sure," recalls Angel Q. about Santa Margarita KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose RV sites carefully based on specific needs. "If you have a rear living trailer this is the place to be, we wake up to the beautiful dunes of the central coast," recommends Teresa S. about Pacific Dunes Ranch.
Hook-up limitations: At Oceano Campground, "Hook-up sites close together... non-hookup have more separation. Most parking spots close to level but bring some blocks," advises Leonard H.
Connectivity issues: Internet and cell service vary widely. "No cell reception at all, you have to drive about 1/2 mile down the road for it," notes Crystal J. about Lopez Lake Recreation Area, while another camper mentions, "The campground has Starlink internet, but it's kinda spotty. If you have a Cell Booster(WeeBoost), I got two bars with TMobile."
Bathroom access hours: Check facility availability times. "Restrooms and showers close at 6p, so only potter potties are available after that," warns Stanley about Avila-Pismo Beach KOA.
