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Best Campgrounds near Cayucos, CA

724 Reviews

Camping near Cayucos, California centers around coastal state parks and private campgrounds with ocean views and beach access. The area includes established campgrounds like Morro Bay State Park with its eucalyptus groves and Morro Strand State Beach Campground situated directly behind sand dunes. San Simeon Creek Campground lies 15 miles north, while more inland options include TV Tower Road dispersed camping near Santa Margarita for those seeking free, primitive sites. Most campgrounds in the region provide standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, with varying levels of hookups for RVs.

Reservations are essential for coastal campgrounds, particularly during summer months when sites fill quickly. Most state park campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though coastal fog and wind can be significant factors, especially in summer mornings. Winter brings milder temperatures but increased chance of rain. Cell service is generally reliable at developed campgrounds near Morro Bay and Cayucos, but becomes spotty in more remote areas. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer and fall months, and campers should check current regulations before arrival.

The camping experience varies significantly between coastal and inland sites. Coastal campgrounds like Morro Strand offer immediate beach access but with more compact sites and exposure to wind. According to reviews, "You can't get much closer to the beach than this campground between Morro Bay and Cayucos, with RV parking basically a parking space whereas tent camping is along the dunes." Inland options like Cerro Alto Campground provide more shade and protection from coastal elements. Many campgrounds serve as convenient base camps for exploring the Central Coast, with Morro Bay State Park described by campers as "a great base camp for coastal exploring, either north to Cayucos or south to San Luis Obispo and Pismo." Bike trails connect many coastal campgrounds, allowing car-free exploration of nearby towns.

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Best Camping Sites Near Cayucos, California (81)

    1. Morro Bay State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-2560

    $35 - $165 / night

    "There is plenty to see and do in town, and the campground has a kayaking company within walking distance. There's also a natural history museum across the street."

    "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."

    2. Morro Strand State Beach Campground

    37 Reviews
    Morro Bay, CA
    3 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."

    3. Morro Dunes RV Park

    23 Reviews
    Morro Bay, CA
    4 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!"

    4. San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    60 Reviews
    San Simeon, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-6101

    $35 / night

    "General: Two campgrounds: San Simeon Creek, close to Highway One and the beach and Washburn Primitive, located about a mile inland."

    "This is a quaint campsite along California’s Central Coast. Not a lot at the site but in great proximity to Hearst Castle, elephant seals, zebras (no joke) and cute towns."

    5. Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park

    29 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    11 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."

    6. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Santa Margarita, CA
    15 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."

    7. Cerro Alto Campground

    15 Reviews
    Atascadero, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 434-1996

    $35 - $39 / night

    "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."

    "Easy access to hiking trails (Cerro Alto summit) from campsite. About a 20 min drive to Morro Bay/ Morro Rock. Pit toilets. No showers."

    8. El Chorro Regional Park

    16 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    12 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. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    64 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    27 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!)"

    10. Bay Pines Travel Trailer Park

    4 Reviews
    Morro Bay, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-3223

    "Sonia allowed us to park in a space and fill up then drive away - free of charge. What a legend"

    "Pets allowed, great water pressure in the showers, laundry is cheap and it's also right around the corner from the beach!"

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Recent Camping Photos near Cayucos, CA

197 Photos of 81 Cayucos Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cayucos, CA

724 Reviews of 81 Cayucos Campgrounds

  • Sophia L.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    Raccoon Attack

    the overall site was nice and everything went smoothly during the day. There are no bear boxes (big metal boxes at most campsites to store food so animals can’t get to it) so we put all our food in a big cooler that we thought nothing could get into. Wake up after 30 mins of sleeping to noises outside, a whole family of raccoons are eating our food. they destroyed a good amount of our food and our camping materials and the problem was they wouldn’t leave us alone. they were aggressive and would not leave, climbing the trees above us and popping left and right out of the bushes. we have no where to put our food (since raccoons can get into your car through the engine and cause major damage). They were surrounding us, we were yelling and jumping to try and scare them away but they were persistent. We thought they might even attack us as they did not seem very scared and were very aggressive. We had no choice but to quickly pack up all our stuff while someone was on raccoon guard and leave in the middle of the night. I was very disappointed.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Camping spot

    Great spot with fire pits & gazebos it’s first come first serve also has a bathroom, no water or electricity, park ranger comes up nd does routine check but it’s great camping spot over all very quiet came up here an their was others but everyone minds their own really great place to camp, I’ll definitely becoming back again

  • Bobbii J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Vinyl Vineyards

    GORGEOUS !

    I had such an unforgettable stay at Vinyl Vineyards! I stayed at the David Bowie trailer, and it was pure nostalgia full of vintage charm, character, and cozy vibes. Everywhere I looked felt like stepping into a different era in the best way possible. The property itself is expansive and breathtaking. I got a private UTV tour across their 120 acres of vineyards, and it was absolutely unbeatable, wide open views, rolling vines, and that peaceful Paso Robles magic. The vibe on the property was incredible, and the outdoor shower was such a unique, refreshing touch that made the stay even more memorable. And the wine? Unforgettable. Their rosé is absolutely on point, hands down my favorite. Do the tasting, you won’t be disappointed! I felt completely at home here, and I can’t wait to come back, next time with my pets and my daughter in tow. Vinyl Vineyards is such a gem, and I’m already counting the days until I return.

  • Michael S.
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground

    Use your 4x4 for what it was intended for, but use caution

    Just spent the weekend in the Oceano SVRA, and some things I noticed:

    1. Even with the reduced number of campers, the camping area still seemed really full.

    2. The sand was very soft and deep in the camping area, and I saw multiple 4x4 trucks getting stuck, including a Lexus GX460, 2 Toyota Tacomas and 1 4Runner, and a stock Jeep Wrangler. 

    3. The dunes are ridiculously fun to drive on, but they are also dangerous. They are also very devoid of other vehicles due to the limited number of entries, so DO NOT go out alone. There are plenty of places to get lost in, and if you're at the bottom of a dune, you cannot see where you are and will be lost. 

    So much fun, even the mariachi bands blasting music until 3 in the morning was fun.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Flying Flags Avila Beach

    Great place

    Views are amazing. You can hear the sea lions at Port San Luis, birds of paradise and other lovely flowers, palm trees and eucalyptus. Very well maintained. 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. Staff were very attentive and helpful. There are areas with community fires for gathering, small store. Bocce ball and other games. I dry camped which worked out just fine. $10 dump fee when you leave is available for dry campers. Full hookups also available but they fill up so advance reservations needed.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    The Beachhouse RV Park

    Ok if you just need a basic place and is near Beach

    Misremembered names, ended up at Morro strand RV park when meant to be at Morro dunes RV park. This one, Morro strand is in a depressing area and park itself is gravel everywhere not grass or plants. At least it's only a 10 min walk to the Morro beach, with great view of Morro Rock. It does have ok facilities including coin laundry on site

  • Michael R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    San Simeon Camping

    Great campground with plenty of space between sites! Sites have plenty of shade and facilities are clean and well kept! No more than two vehicles are allowed in a site, but there’s free parking on the road that runs next to the campground and it’s easy to walk up the embankment and get to your site from the road.

Guide to Cayucos

Camping near Cayucos, California, offers a fantastic mix of beach access, scenic views, and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are just a short walk from the beach. For example, at Morro Strand State Beach Campground, one camper mentioned, "We could see the ocean from our bed, very nice." This makes it easy to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or beachcombing.
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the beautiful trails nearby. Campers at Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach enjoyed the "nice walking trail that connects the two sides" of the campground, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike.
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. One visitor at Morro Bay State Park Campground noted, "We got to visit the museum this time as well, small and cute and well worth the $3 entry fee," highlighting the local fauna and flora.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views. A review for Kirk Creek Campground said, "There is a small trail to go down the beach right next to camp site #22," showcasing the beautiful surroundings.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds maintain clean restrooms and showers. A camper at Morro Dunes RV Park mentioned, "Bath and showers, while older are super clean," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the welcoming vibe. One visitor at San Simeon Creek Campground said, "The camp host, Shelby, was delightful and very accommodating," making for a pleasant stay.

What you should know:

  • Crowded During Peak Season: Some campgrounds can get packed, especially in summer. A review for Morro Bay State Park Campground noted, "This year when we stayed it was packed, and definitely not as nice of an experience."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Kirk Creek Campground has "pit toilets and trash cans, but basically no other amenities," so be prepared.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be cautious of wildlife. A camper at Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach warned about squirrels, saying, "They’re not afraid. They ate through my little pantry."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach, there's a fun scavenger hunt app for kids, making it an engaging experience.
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on your kids, especially near water. One parent at Morro Strand State Beach Campground mentioned, "Dogs are not allowed on the beach to protect endangered species," so be mindful of rules.
  • Pack Essentials: Bring everything you need, as some campgrounds lack stores. A camper at San Simeon Creek Campground advised, "Make sure you have what you need."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Morro Dunes RV Park noted, "Sites are tight but not overly cramped FHU with cable," so plan accordingly.
  • Be Prepared for Wind: Some areas can be windy. A camper at TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping said, "The wind was shaking my tent all night," so secure your setup.
  • Dump Stations: Know where to find dump stations. Campers at San Simeon Creek Campground mentioned a $10 fee for using the dump station, so plan for that expense.

Camping near Cayucos, California, offers a variety of experiences, from beach fun to wildlife watching. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there campgrounds near Cayucos for weekend trips?

Several excellent campgrounds near Cayucos make perfect weekend getaways. Plaskett Creek Campground - Los Padres National Forest offers spacious sites with tables, fire pits, and bathrooms, plus it's walking distance to the beach and hiking trails. For beach lovers, San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park provides coastal camping with easy access to Hearst Castle and elephant seal viewing areas. Both campgrounds are within a short drive of Cayucos, allowing you to enjoy the town's amenities while having a natural retreat to return to. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend trips, especially during summer months.

Where can I find camping in Cayucos, California?

While Cayucos itself has limited camping options directly in town, several excellent campgrounds are located within a short drive. Morro Strand State Beach Campground offers beachfront camping just off Highway One between Morro Bay and Cayucos, with RV spaces and easy beach access. For a more forested setting, Morro Bay State Park Campground is nestled among eucalyptus trees near the water, offering scenic coastal views and proximity to downtown. Both locations provide convenient bases for exploring Cayucos, with amenities including fire pits, picnic tables, and restroom facilities. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer and holiday periods.

Is camping allowed at Cayucos State Beach?

Camping is not allowed directly on Cayucos State Beach. The beach is primarily a day-use area without overnight camping facilities. For beach camping experiences near Cayucos, Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach offers sites with varying levels of privacy, flush toilets, and showers about 30 minutes south. Alternatively, North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach provides another beach camping option in the same general area. Both offer the coastal camping experience while being close enough for day trips to Cayucos. Always check current regulations and make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons.

What RV parks are available in Cayucos?

While Cayucos itself has limited RV accommodations, several excellent options exist nearby. Morro Dunes RV Park offers beachfront RV camping with easy access to downtown Morro Bay, located just minutes from Cayucos. Sites cost around $55 per night and include beach access via a convenient bike path. For another option, Le Sage Riviera RV Park provides well-maintained waterfront sites, though reservations are essential due to high demand. Both parks are full-service with hookups and amenities, making them convenient bases for exploring Cayucos while enjoying comfortable RV accommodations.

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