Cayucos offers several distinctive camping options within a 30-mile radius. Located on California's central coast at just 60 feet above sea level, the area maintains mild temperatures year-round with daytime averages between 65-75°F. Camping near Cayucos provides access to both coastal settings and inland woodland environments, with most campgrounds reporting significant temperature differences between shoreline and interior locations.
What to do
Beach exploration at Pismo State Beach: Oceano Campground puts you minutes from the shoreline. "Just a short walk from each site to the water. Many sites are pull through. Each has paved parking, fire ring and picnic table," notes camper Keven I. The surrounding area features monarch butterfly migration sites with walking paths through the groves.
Hiking inland trails: Cerro Alto Campground offers immediate trail access. "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. The trails wind through oak woodland with opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Water recreation at Lopez Lake: Lopez Lake Recreation Area provides multiple water activities. "The lake is wonderful and usually very mellow. Kayaking and fishing are both nice at Lopez as well," writes Crystal J. During summer months, the Mustang Waterpark offers additional entertainment options for families looking to cool off.
What campers like
Private, rustic settings: "Our site (#18) was awesome! It was spacious enough for our 10-person tent and more. It even had a water faucet for easy cleaning. We were impressed that the bbq grill was exceptionally clean upon arrival and no trash were left behind from previous campers," shares Christine O. about her experience at Cerro Alto.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lake Nacimiento Resort provides habitat for various species. "We had read reviews about the vault toilets onsite, so we mentally prepared ourselves before going. But in actuality, it is not as bad if everyone just put down the toilet seat covers after use," notes a camper who enjoyed the natural surroundings despite basic facilities.
Proximity to local attractions: "There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears. No cell reception, not for us on Verizon anyways, but you can drive about 1/2 mile down the road for it," mentions a Lopez Lake visitor highlighting the balance between seclusion and convenience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Cayucos fill quickly during peak season. "We were nervous getting there but when we did they were hardly anyone there so we got a lot of space to ourself," notes Anthony O. about Cerro Alto's first-come system, which works better during off-peak times.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Pacific Dunes Ranch offers relatively modern facilities. "The bathrooms were clean and warm showers available during the day. Easy check-in experience. You can walk off the property and directly into the sand dunes," reports James O. However, other campgrounds may only provide vault toilets with limited maintenance.
Weather considerations: "When we stayed here they were on fire watch, so obviously that was not a possibility. The sites are well maintained and basic services are available. Get a site with shade and you're good to go," advises Brandon B. about Cerro Alto, highlighting the importance of checking seasonal restrictions before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation essential: "Bring a lot of Deet spray cause that place was crazy in bugs day and all night. They had good trails and a lot of nice green forest when we went around June," warns Anthony about Cerro Alto, suggesting families pack adequate insect repellent.
Kid-friendly amenities: Santa Margarita KOA offers structured activities. "They even have an Emu that is friendly and your kids can pet. The place is very clean and the staff is friendly. There is frisbee golf and horse shoes," notes David H. The campground also features a bounce pad popular with younger campers.
Beach access options: "You are truly minutes away from the beach at this campground! Facilities are nice. Sites are decently spaced. Only drawback was the abundance of RVs, noisy mornings as a tent camper," shares Lindsay F. about glamping close to Cayucos, California at Oceano Campground, suggesting families consider noise levels when selecting sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: "Our site was on the side of a large hill overlooking everything. We were king of the mountain. A bit pricy but each site has concrete patio along with patio furniture and a nice charcoal grill," advises Roxanna L. about Santa Margarita KOA, suggesting RVers request elevated sites for better views.
Hookup availability: Le Sage Riviera RV Park offers necessary amenities despite tight spacing. "Level sites, small rocks. Quiet park. Close to the beach," notes a recent visitor, while another mentions "Spots are close and no pool, but the beach is a 5 minute, easy walk."
Parking logistics: "The actual campground is pretty deep-in from the main road, but it's a very narrow and winding one car lane that goes for about a mile. Drive slow!" cautions Chanel C. about Cerro Alto, highlighting access challenges for larger RVs on campground approach roads throughout the Cayucos region.
