Recreational vehicle sites near Guadalupe, California provide camping access to the surrounding Central Coast region. The majority of RV parks in this area are located in neighboring towns like Oceano, Pismo Beach, and Santa Barbara, all within 45-60 minutes of Guadalupe. Winter temperatures typically range from 45-65°F, making year-round camping viable though coastal morning fog is common from May through August.
What to do
Beach access from camp: Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort connects directly to sand dunes leading to the ocean. "You can walk off the property and directly into the sand dunes. Multiple bathroom and dumpster locations. Clean and warm showers available during the day," reports James O. The beach requires "about 30 minute hard walk to the ocean, it was worth it," according to Ryan S.
Horseback riding: Explore dunes on guided horseback tours at Pacific Dunes Ranch. "They had horseback riding and a small playground. The dunes are a great backdrop to this place," notes Esther D.
Explore the monarch butterfly sanctuary: Located adjacent to camping areas in Grover Beach. "Hop away from water and another highlight are the nearby monarch groves where the butterflies migrate to the trees and you can walk through on paths," explains Rachel A. from Le Sage Riviera RV Park.
Wine tasting and tours: Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort offers convenience to local wineries. "Lots of wineries along the road. We did the wine line and they pick up and drop off at the campground," shares Tonya C.
What campers like
Proximity to beaches: Many sites are within walking distance of beaches. "It's easy walking distance (~1 mile) to the water, and right off of Hwy 1. We love to go on the sand dunes and take disc sleds down them," writes Julie P. about Coastal Dunes RV Park.
Pool facilities: Several parks maintain heated pools year-round. "We used both pools and spas daily even in December. Sites are gravel with concrete pads. All have fireplaces and seemed appropriately level," explains Michael D. about Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort.
Walking paths to town: Pismo Coast Village RV Resort provides convenient beach town access. "Love how close the ocean was, and a short walk downtown. Spaces were a little tight but lots to do," mentions William S. The resort is "walking distance from downtown Pismo."
RV maintenance support: On-site stores carry essential parts. "Great infrastructure with pool, spa, laundry, club house. Require kind carpet or artificial grass because the pavement is dirt. Good location and nice staff," notes Andre P. about Holiday RV Park.
What you should know
Reservations essential: Demand exceeds capacity at oceanfront locations. "We came in late and it was hard to find our map and site reservations. No one ever answered the phone whenever we tried to call, days prior, day of, etc. that was disappointing," reports Ryan S.
Site spacing varies significantly: Some parks feature tight quarters. At Avila Hot Springs, "The tent camping section was a narrow patch of grass, with sites slotted in together along a tight corner of the property. Get to know your neighbors, because you'll be close!" explains Shari G.
Highway and rail noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic disruptions. "The campground is narrow and situated directly between PCH and the railroad tracks on either side. So traffic noise was significant, and as an added bonus, every now and then Amtrack would roll past," writes John Y.
Shower facilities: Token-operated showers available at some locations. "Shower house with laundry down near the wharf as well as a restaurant. There are also some really nice places to eat and shop in town," notes Annie C. regarding Port San Luis RV Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated children's play areas. "They also have a great playground for the kids. There is also a little hiking/walking trail around the campground," Devon H. mentions about Sun Outdoors Paso Robles.
Swimming options: Multiple pools for different age groups. "Has a large pool for everyone and smaller lap pool for adults. When not in Covid there is wine tasting. No mature trees or water outside of pools," reports Candi A.B.
Biking opportunities: Family-friendly trails connect to beaches. "There is a bike path (5 miles ish round trip) that leads to the beach. The path is along a creek, surrounded by trees, and goes through a golf course. It is relatively flat and our 7yr old had a blast," shares Raf A.
Sand dune activities: Bring sleds for dune surfing. "Without the OHV activity, it was safe to hike or dune surf. Horseback riding, basketball court, and remote controlled car track were other amenities," notes Annette A.
Tips from RVers
Water and utility connections: Most parks provide full hookups. "Nice sites, all on sand/hard pack. Sites are well maintained but hard to come by—make reservations in advance!" explains Rachel A.
Leveling requirements: Surface conditions vary between parks. "My site #171 was a pull-through and was completely level, a definite plus. The roads inside the park are paved, but the sites are gravel which will invariably end up inside your RV," cautions Rainer M.
Pet policies: Rules differ between facilities. "Friendly and helpful customer service, front clerk and groundskeeper. Super clean bathrooms/showers. Level sites, small rocks. Quiet park. Close to the beach," notes P.S. about Le Sage Riviera RV Park's dog-friendly environment.
Site assistance: Some parks provide parking help. "Expect to unhitch and have maintenance move your trailer into the spot for you… but make sure you remind them you need to level if yours isn't a self-leveling rig," advises Kat B.
