Nipomo is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Nipomo is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
Oceano Camp (sites 1-42)
$25 - $40 / night
Morro Bay State Park campground features lagoon and natural bay habitat. The bay's most prominent landmark is Morro Rock. The park has opportunities for sailing, fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The park museum has exhibits that cover natural features and cultural history, Native American life, geology, and oceanography. The park also has a colorful marina and an 18-hole public golf course. On the bay's northeast edge is a pristine saltwater marsh that supports a thriving bird population.
$35 - $165 / night
First come / First served camping Dec 1 - May 14. Site specific reservations available May 15 - Nov 30.
$25 / night
![Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping [Closed until Nov 3rd, 2021]](https://photos.thedyrt.com/photo/1851653/media/tv-tower-road_e5540446-14ae-4e4b-9502-0757eb1cd5e7.jpg?width=327&height=300&fit=crop&crop=smart&format=auto)
![Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping [Closed until Nov 3rd, 2021]](https://photos.thedyrt.com/photo/1114657/media/tv-tower-road_a9d9f6dd-8df8-4bfa-93ae-fd0a3d8278ab.jpg?width=327&height=300&fit=crop&crop=smart&format=auto)
![Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping [Closed until Nov 3rd, 2021]](https://photos.thedyrt.com/photo/728695/media/tv-tower-road_79bf72ee-8a1f-45b8-8fa7-8567d0208282.jpeg?width=327&height=300&fit=crop&crop=smart&format=auto)
![Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping [Closed until Nov 3rd, 2021]](https://photos.thedyrt.com/photo/media/tv-tower-road_b3624f1b-1a8c-4c4c-b55f-85c6e5d72c95.jpg?width=327&height=300&fit=crop&crop=smart&format=auto)
![Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping [Closed until Nov 3rd, 2021]](https://photos.thedyrt.com/photo/media/tv-tower-road_0a1fce4f-a286-4576-8f76-27f18e14c319.jpg?width=327&height=300&fit=crop&crop=smart&format=auto)
![Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping [Closed until Nov 3rd, 2021]](https://photos.thedyrt.com/photo/media/tv-tower-road_1fe6e0c8-b0ba-4462-b018-b265619783af.jpg?width=327&height=300&fit=crop&crop=smart&format=auto)
Official Temporary Closure Notice: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/lpnf/alerts-notices/?aid=61369
Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort is the most unique RV resort in California's Pismo Beach region, with rolling sand dunes and rollicking waves in the beautiful Oceano Preserve. At Pacific Dunes Ranch, you'll enjoy an RV resort that highlights breathtaking vistas and trails to the beach. In California, we call this a winning combination - secluded and quiet but not remote. With its coastal location, Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort lends itself to numerous water sports and activities. Swimming, boating, fishing and surfing are popular forms of recreation at our RV resort in California , and biking and hiking are at the top of list for those without their sea legs. Secluded RV Resort in California Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
Morro Strand Campground (sites 19-66)
$35 - $50 / night
Situated just 30 minutes outside of Lompoc California, Jalama Beach campground is a hugely popular destination spot for locals and travelers every year. People flock to these sandy shores every day to take part in surfing, kite-surfing, photography, hiking, fishing, camping, and more. The terrain is unique thanks to a wide variety of local California wildlife and vegetation. Subsequently, Jalama Beach camping gives plant enthusiasts a chance to enjoy the thriving presence of Sand Verbena, Salt Brush, and Sea Rocket. One of the most famous attractions here however is the nearby Beach Caves. Only accessible during low-tide about a mile up the beach, these caves are the site of many famous instagram photos and movie scenes. They’re also a welcome escape from the hot-sun that beats down during the warmer months of late summer. But don’t get too comfy because you'll have to remember to beat the tide! Nearby, the Jalama Beach Grill touts its famous Jalama Burger. The nearby beauty of the beach even makes the food taste better. Visit on any 7 days of the week for a yummy dinner sure to make your mouth water. While the nearby attractions are nice, beachfront camping is what attracts visitors to this park. Jalama Beach County Park is home to 107 campsites, each overlooking the ocean with a private fire pit, and picnic table. Among these sites, 31 offer electrical hook-ups. The campground itself also has full-service bathrooms, and dump stations available. Reservations can be made 24/7 online, but be sure to reserve in advance for the best campsite selection. Summer is their busiest time, which means you may want to start planning as soon as January when securing your spot.
Montana de Oro camping features rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Naturalists and backpackers enjoy the solitude and freedom found along the park's trails. There are also mountain biking and equestrian trails. The best-known beach is Spooner's Cove, across from the campground. The park's name, "Mountain of Gold," comes from the golden wildflowers that bloom in spring. Wildlife in the park includes black tailed deer and the black oystercatcher. The park includes primitive and equestrian campsites.
$25 - $150 / night
Oceano Camp (sites 1-42)
$25 - $40 / night
Morro Bay State Park campground features lagoon and natural bay habitat. The bay's most prominent landmark is Morro Rock. The park has opportunities for sailing, fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The park museum has exhibits that cover natural features and cultural history, Native American life, geology, and oceanography. The park also has a colorful marina and an 18-hole public golf course. On the bay's northeast edge is a pristine saltwater marsh that supports a thriving bird population.
$35 - $165 / night
First come / First served camping Dec 1 - May 14. Site specific reservations available May 15 - Nov 30.
$25 / night
![TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping [Closed until Nov 3rd, 2021]](https://photos.thedyrt.com/photo/1851653/media/tv-tower-road_e5540446-14ae-4e4b-9502-0757eb1cd5e7.jpg?width=260&height=260&fit=crop&format=auto)
Official Temporary Closure Notice: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/lpnf/alerts-notices/?aid=61369
Scout
Large sites with fire rings, picnic tables, some sites don’t have much shade and some do. Less than 1/2 mile walk to beach. Couple miles from Oceano dunes. Hot showers. Can get windy. Dog friendly.
TravelerI skipped out on Oceano and came here hoping they might have something open. Turns out they had 8 and the park ranger let me drive in to scope it out. I picked a site close to the beach and even better my Oceano reservation could be transferred. Yay. Loved this campground so much. It’s well laid out and all the sites are well spaced and clean. The evening was much quieter, with a sunset and sounds of waves. A ten minute walk to the beach and right next to the butterfly grove. I have already made another reservation to see about the butterflies when they are in season. Pismo Beach is fantastic!
Traveler
Probably just due to the time of year but this campground was way too rowdy for my taste, all the sites are close together and it seemed almost every site was a very large group, generators running after 10pm, amplified music and tv! If that’s your jam you’ll love it. I took off after 1 night.
Scout
pretty easy to find, road is also easy to drive. found a pretty good level spot, definitely camping right off the side of the road. pretty nice and low key tho
Guide
Very well kept and clean. Shower area is very nice. Need a key code to go anywhere. Great amenities. Beautiful pool. An outdoor bar, but only open certain months. Nice group camping area. Green grass areas. Mini concrete pads though not perfectly level? Close to lots of wineries and a water park but not really safe to walk or bike to. Probably one of the most beautiful hot tub areas I've ever seen in an RV park
GuidePicked the first nook from the GPS pin but hiked up road and there are quite a few others, some shaded, some exposed. Bit of highway noise.
Scout
Clean and very nice view. Easy access to the beach.
Traveler
This is our second time at this location, first in dry camping, second time in the Jupe tents. As much as I was begging for this stay to be worth the $470 for two nights, it definitely wasn’t. The concept is great but really faulty when executed. 1) they disclose when booking that power to the tents may or may not work. The truth? The solar panels don’t charge whatsoever if there is fog/cloud cover in the mornings. Was told this directly by management. Soooo…. Considering this is a bay site, right on the ocean…. We didn’t have power once. Morning fog happens every single day. (Even though it was completely sunny from 12pm-5pm) this was frustrating, and we would’ve packed accordingly given knowledge that we would’ve been powerless all weekend. The blankets they provide don’t keep you warm either, so if you stay on a night below 50 without an electrical blanket or backups, prepare to freeze. During our stay we were also told that there was only one overnight maintenance man, on a Friday, during Labor Day weekend. That poor man didn’t get a break once all evening and definitely deserves a raise and to be treated better by his employers. He’s the only reason this review deserves a star. For such a beautiful location, this company is really fumbling. Disappointing.
Guide![Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping [Closed until Nov 3rd, 2021]](https://photos.thedyrt.com/photo/1851653/media/tv-tower-road_e5540446-14ae-4e4b-9502-0757eb1cd5e7.jpg?width=327&height=200&fit=crop&crop=smart&format=auto)
Didn't have to go as far as GPS pin led me to believe, spot on right shortly after pavement ends. A bit trashed, wish I had a bag to clean up, some bigger stuff like a kids bike, to etc
Traveler
Located on Vandenberg base which requires a membership card (military I.D.) This helps keep the camp site more private. No one goes here. It is tranquil and has trails to hike and lakes to fish in. Hunting is also allowed during select seasons. If you like quiet and keep to yourself, this is the place. There are no trash cans and a permit is required for campfire. There are a couple of port-a-pots and they are very clean. Go SpaceForce! Lastly, watch out for poison oak. Stay on the trails and all is well. Semper Fi.
Traveler
This is tragi-comedy: I was invited to a wedding in Santa Barbara. It was summer and the most fleabitten motel prices were astronomical. I began to look at campsites within driving distance, I was desperate. Booked Catchuma and thought, hoorah, I’ve defeated the tourism trap.
Well… from the moment I arrived . . . I really could not care less about the wedding. My god. I think I’ll leave it at that.
Bring binos. Boat, bring your canoe/kayak.
LegendWe stayed here a few years ago, but on the primitive / non-hookup side. We stayed on the E/W hookup side this time and liked it as well, though it does have the more typical RV/parking lot feel as compared to the other side. There's a nice walking trail that connects the two sides. It's $50 for an E/W site, plus an $8.25 reservation fee.
There's a cool lagoon that you can walk all the way around on, with lots of birds, and much of it accessible as well which is nice. There's a cool visitor center, open 12-4. The beach is a short walk away. There's a great Mexican restaurant down the road also, Old Juan's, it's so good and has great vegan options.
The showers here are nice and clean, and $1 gets you 4 minutes. The showers are individual, private, and non-gendered. There was no host on site when we were there, but the rangers were very present. This campground, like all California State campgrounds we've been to recently, has trash, recycling, and a food compost bin which I love.
There's a fun game for kids where you download an app and go on a scavenger hunt and complete other challenges.
No dump station here, but there's one just 2 miles north at North Beach Campground, and it's $10 for dump and water fill there.
Legend
We love being able to camp directly on the beach, and have done so many times in Texas and in Louisiana, but wouldn't recommend it here unless you are in a 4wd. We did see 2 skoolies on the beach, but then we also saw a pickup truck stuck in the sand in the parking lot outside of the beach, so there's that.
Camping overnight is only $10, and the beach is wide open for camping. It was very busy during the day on a weekday in August, so I can imagine the weekends are packed.
This is a fun beach in a fun, low key beach town, and we love coming here.
TravelerPretty solid! Had great cell service and was a lovely drive to get there. Probably wouldn’t recommend if you have a tent or RV as the spots were a little small and rocky. But I only went a little past where the directions take you, so not sure what else is up there.
Arrived just at sunset and loved the views! It was very peaceful and far enough from the highway. It seemed like the same truck was driving up and down a couple times which was the only downfall.
Overall a good experience.
Legend
We stayed here last year when the area was getting hit by severe storms and flooding - so the campground was almost empty. We loved the campground then and gave it 5 stars. This year when we stayed it was packed, and definitely not as nice of an experience.
The previous review mentions the awkward walk to the showers, and I will agree with that. You either have to go through someone's site, or walk all the way to the end of the road. We got lucky and got to cut through some vacant sites to get to the showers.
We do still love this campground though, because of the boardwalk in the estuary and all the bird sightings there. We got to visit the museum this time as well, small and cute and well worth the $3 entry fee. The restaurant is still there but we didn't go this time. Next time we go we will rent kayaks and explore the water some more. There's a golf course here adjacent to the campground as well. The town of Morro Bay is cute and relaxed and fun to visit.
There's a dump station here but it's not free even for campers - it's a $10 fee you pay with your credit card right at the dump. Showers were ok, no complaints.
This is a good, low key and decently priced campground that we'll definitely stop at the next time we're going through the area.
Ranger- PROS -
Beautiful location <5 minute drive away from the beach and Morro rock. SLO is close, and the coast is always nice. There's a pretty boardwalk trail next to the site as well (see photos).
- CONS -
These aren't camp sites, they're parking spots with a fire pit on dead grass and weeds. You're packed like sardines next to adjacent campers. It's unclear where the boundary of each others' site is. For facilities, they do have big bathrooms, showers, and dumpsters… but they're all filthy and unkempt. And even though the bathrooms may be right next to your site, there's no way to get to them without walking through another person's camp site or going all the way around– down the road or around many camps. We had a crotchety old man get mad at us for walking somewhat through his site. I enjoyed my stay, but only because I wasn't the one paying for the site.
TLDR: This site functions moreso as an overnight parking spot than it does a campsite.
GuideAlong the road, there are lots of exposed options and a few camping options in the trees. I drove the entire road and would not recommend doing that without four wheel drive. Was pleased with all the options though. Stay in the trees to avoid the wind.
Traveler
Jalama Beach offers great walks along a long beach that is nestled in a cozy bay. Surfers, couples & families can enjoy this beautiful place. Watch for tar on the sand & pack some petroleum jelly to help remove it in case you step on it barefoot. There’s a small freshwater stream that flows right into the shore where your pets & kids like to splash around & play. Lots of driftwood & rocks pepper the shore so bring water shoes.
ScoutYou can’t beat the location- across from Marina , trails and walking distance to Morro bay town. , the restrooms and shower facilities were always filthy and running out of toilet paper. Bring your own soap and TP 
Guide
Large sites with plenty of room for tents and all the other camping necessities. This site backs up into the hills and there are black bears that roam the area so be sure to prepare for that. The lake is full and lots of areas to fish.
GuideA vehicle beach with unlimited things to do fishing, offroad sand dunes, hike, camp rv vehicle theres class A B C home made its awesome dogs allowed, after 10pm it's so quite
Ranger
I loved walking to the ocean in the morning. Many birds and bunnies hopping around.
I would not choose my spot again.
ScoutWhen I saw the TV tower road sign, that marked the last paved road until the actual TV tower hill. I rode all the way to the end with some medium difficulty off roading there are some steep bits with uneven terrain. Taking the road up to TV tower are some of the best views you can get from the surrounding area. John R.'s review accurately sums up the camping experience. The wind was shaking my tent all night until the morning. But thankfully I had bugspray the insect problem was solved. Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites. Would for sure camp again if in the San Luis Obispo area.
GuideThe 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, but again, others would probably be fine. There were lots of people going up the road until very late at night, then turning around and coming back down (I assume because there were no spots?) 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. Honestly such a beautiful place, next time I'd like to find a space to set up my tent. Loved it!
GuideThis campground is awesome. It’s very beautiful, with lots of wildflowers, trees, trails, beach dunes…and squirrels. Lots of them. But we also saw and heard hawks, turkey vultures, owls, and many other birds. We also saw a cute little weasel. There’s also lots of rangers, which makes for very well-mannered campers. Loved it!! You can walk to the beach or drive on the beach. Driving in the beach was fun, but it was so windy and so cold! This was the end of May. Not sure what the weather is over months. The actual campground was not as cold or windy, since it’s behind the dunes. The bathrooms have hot water and Flush toilets. Showers are huge and are self-contained and not in the bathrooms. Tokens needed. Starting in May there’s a market night at the main pier, small but fun to visit. Lots to do, from renting dune buggies to playing at the main pier. Loved it and can’t wait to go back. Oh, and about the squirrels. They’re not afraid. They ate through my little pantry that’s canvas that’s connected under my table. Also, mosquitoes! How could I forget. Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills. They’re out and about and it’s not fun if you’re not prepared. There’s a Walmart not too far away. After the citronella incense weren’t working, we went to Walmart and it was war! Another note, campsite 68 does not look like the photo. Tree is gone and the ice plant has invaded the site and made it smaller. One tent will fit, not another.
Scout
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.
Camping area is small and it’s basically a dirt parking lot. Loud road noise all night and day from the freeway. Lots of pincher bugs infested my gear. Not peaceful. Better to just visit for a soak, they have cheaper rates for a morning or evening visit.
RangerWe spent two nights at El Capitan State Beach. Our site had an ocean view, which is why I give this campground a 4-star rating. There isn't much to do here (limited hiking), so that is why it isn't a 5-star review. Still, other than one windy day, we had a lovely time relaxing here, walking the limited beach bluff-top walk down to the beach and west toward Refugio. The path used to go all the way to Refugio, but it is closed right after the walk/bike-in campsites at El Capitan due to the ocean erroding away the cliffs the path sits on. The bathrooms were fairly clean and there are showers (didn't use). Like many CA parks, the area has a run-down feel. We went into Santa Barbara on our way to and from the campsite. It is about a 20-mile drive, so a bit long. One of my photos is at Chase Palm Park in Santa Barbara (you can see the pier). It is a good place to park a van (up to 22 ft) or they have "motor home" spots for day parking.
Camping near Nipomo, CA, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a beachside retreat or a quiet spot in the woods, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Nipomo, CA, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Nipomo, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Nipomo, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 93 campgrounds and RV parks near Nipomo, CA and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Nipomo, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Nipomo, CA is Oceano County Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 61 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Nipomo, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Nipomo, CA.
What parks are near Nipomo, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Nipomo, CA that allow camping, notably Carrizo Plain National Monument and Los Padres National Forest.
