Best Campgrounds near Cambria, CA
State parks and coastal campgrounds dominate the camping landscape around Cambria, California, with Hearst San Simeon State Park offering two distinct camping experiences. The San Simeon Creek Campground provides developed sites with flush toilets and showers, while the more primitive Washburn Campground sits on a hilltop with pit toilets and panoramic ocean views. Both accommodate tents and RVs without hookups. Within a 30-minute drive, additional options include Morro Bay State Park Campground and Morro Strand State Beach Campground, both offering year-round access. For those seeking dispersed camping, TV Tower Road near Santa Margarita provides free primitive sites with expansive views of San Luis Obispo.
Reservations are essential for most established campgrounds in the region, particularly during summer months and weekends. San Simeon Creek Campground sites cost approximately $35 per night, while the more basic Washburn sites run about $20. As one camper noted, "San Simeon State Park is easy to get to, as it's right off Highway 1." The coastal location means cool nights year-round, with fog common in summer mornings. Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with most reporting limited Verizon coverage but better service for AT&T and T-Mobile users. Many campgrounds sell firewood through camp hosts during limited hours, and fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.
Beach access represents a major draw for campers in the Cambria area. Several campgrounds feature trails leading directly to the shoreline, with San Simeon Creek offering a boardwalk path to the beach. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with one visitor reporting, "There were otters in the lagoon in the morning and the sunset was gorgeous on the beach at night." The proximity to attractions like Hearst Castle, elephant seal viewing areas, and the village of Cambria provides convenient day trip options. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere despite highway proximity, though site spacing varies between campgrounds. The mild coastal climate supports comfortable camping year-round, with one long-time visitor noting "GREAT weather year round" as a key benefit of the area.
