The camping spots near Guadalupe, California offer direct beach access with vehicle camping at Oceano Dunes SVRA where deep sand requires 4WD capability. While the central California coast maintains mild temperatures year-round, summer mornings often bring fog and consistent winds, particularly at oceanfront locations. Campsites can range from primitive tent sites to fully developed RV parks with cabins, depending on your desired proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
What to do
Horseback riding near sand dunes: Pacific Dunes Ranch offers guided beach rides with their on-site stable. "They had horseback riding and a small playground. We came in late and it was hard to find our map and site reservations," notes Ryan S., who appreciated the easy walk to the dunes but mentioned the 30-minute trek to reach the actual ocean.
Visit the butterfly sanctuary: North Beach Campground at Pismo State Beach provides access to seasonal Monarch butterfly viewing. "There's a Monarch butterfly sanctuary within walking distance (they weren't there when I stayed in the park)," shares Alexandra T., who recommends checking seasonal timing for butterfly migration.
Water activities at Lopez Lake: Lopez Lake Recreation Area offers more than just camping with various water-based 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," explains Amanda M., adding that swimming areas have been cleared of lake plants and rocks for safer water entry.
Beach driving experiences: Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area provides a rare California opportunity to drive on beaches. "This is one of the few beaches you can drive on in CA. Come prepared with 4WD. Ride ATVs on the dunes and camp on the beach," recommends Emma, who notes it can get very windy.
What campers like
Direct beach access: Pismo Coast Village RV Resort offers proximity to the Pacific without camping directly on sand. "We have spent many weekends at this resort, they have great amenities. Walking distance to downtown Pismo. You can't beat the price and location. They have full hook-ups," reports Teresa S.
Shaded camp sites: Oceano Campground at Pismo State Beach provides tree cover that many beachfront sites lack. "Great location and nice and quiet, for the most part. Down side is most of the campsites are on the smaller side," explains Codee C., who appreciated the more sheltered location compared to exposed beach camping.
Clean facilities: North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach maintains well-kept amenities. "Nice, CLEAN, showers and restrooms. Staying here gives free access to driving onto the beach," mentions Vincent B., who notes the site works well for both families and dogs.
Level parking spots: Morro Bay State Park Campground offers practical benefits for camping equipment. "State Park gets a lot of use with some older facilities... but most sites are close to level and asphalt paved. Restrooms and token activated showers are older but mostly clean and acceptable," explains Leonard H.
What you should know
Deep sand challenges: Beach camping requires proper vehicles and preparation. "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," notes Laura M. about Oceano Dunes SVRA, emphasizing the need for 4WD vehicles.
Wildlife awareness: Lopez Lake Recreation Area has occasional wildlife visitors. "While it is unlikely, black bears and mountain lions have been spotted on the Big Falls trail, so be aware of your surroundings," cautions Amanda M., who recommends locking food in vehicles at night as the campground lacks bear boxes.
Insects and pests: Bug protection is essential at coastal campgrounds. "I forgot to mention the sand flies, mostly in the evenings, were fierce and left huge itchy welts on me (less so on my husband) so I highly recommend bringing bug spray," warns Alexandra T. about North Beach Campground.
Reservation timing: Most Guadalupe area campgrounds require advance planning. "We tried to reserve online but site said they were full and sign at entrance said they were full. We waited at check in gate at 2pm (check in time) for about 10 minutes. Staff came by in a car and registered us from their car! Strange but we were grateful. Many available spaces!" shares Nancy L. about her experience at Oceano Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pismo Sands RV Park offers dedicated kid-friendly amenities. "Game room, library, and outdoor kids playground that has a mock pirate ship for the kids to climb through," describes Mike E., who found the family-friendly atmosphere relaxing and respectful.
Beach proximity considerations: Choose sites based on walking distance to water. "Sites 7-31 are on the part of the loop closest to the beach, and some of those back up against the bluff between the campground and the beach," advises Patrick M. about North Beach Campground, recommending these specific sites for easier beach access.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Oceano Campground provides wildlife viewing for nature-interested kids. "This 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," shares Barbara M.
Storage security: Take precautions with food around campgrounds. "About the squirrels. They're not afraid. They ate through my little pantry that's canvas that's connected under my table," warns Barbara M., suggesting secure food containers for camping with kids who might leave snacks accessible.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At beachside campgrounds, consider which section offers the best experience. "There are two levels of this campground, I stayed at the upper level just steps from the sand dunes which will lead you to the Pacific Ocean about 1/2 mile away," recommends Rainer M. about Pacific Dunes Ranch.
WiFi reliability: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. "Their WIFI works the best of dozens of CGs we've stayed at. Streaming works well most all the time, even with lots of RVs on site," notes Mike E. about Pismo Sands RV Park, useful for those needing to stay connected.
RV storage options: Some campgrounds offer extended services. "These folks will even store and retrieve your RV for you if you wish to leave it here and come to the area periodically," explains Mike E. about Pismo Sands RV Park, which can be cost-effective for frequent visitors.
Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds differ in how closely they position vehicles. "Tight spaces but great infrastructure. Courteous staff, great store with all replacement parts you might need. Steps away from the ocean," notes Frank P. about Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, acknowledging the trade-off between proximity and spaciousness.
