Best Campgrounds near Los Osos, CA

The Los Osos area of California's central coast offers a mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping options, with proximity to both coastal and inland environments. Montana de Oro State Park's Islay Creek Campground provides year-round tent and RV sites in a natural setting, while Morro Bay State Park Campground features water hookups and showers within walking distance to the bay. These established sites generally sit within 5-10 miles of Los Osos proper, creating a network of camping areas spread across the coastal region's varied ecosystems.

Access to most developed campgrounds requires advance reservations, particularly during summer months when coastal camping is in highest demand. The region experiences mild coastal weather year-round, though mornings often bring fog and evenings can be cool even in summer. "The campground is always clean and quiet. You can hike up the mountain to get a great view of the coast, Morro Rock and Morro bay," noted one visitor describing their experience at Morro Bay State Park. Most established sites provide drinking water and toilets, while amenities like showers and hookups vary by location. Cell coverage is generally reliable near developed areas but can be spotty in more remote locations, particularly in the inland hills where TV Tower Road offers free dispersed camping.

Several visitors mentioned the convenience of coastal campgrounds' proximity to local attractions and outdoor activities. Waterfront camping locations receive consistently positive reviews, with campers citing the ability to easily access kayaking, fishing, and beach activities directly from their sites. Though sites at popular locations like Morro Bay State Park tend to be somewhat close together, the trade-off is proximity to town amenities. More remote options exist for those seeking solitude, with TV Tower Road dispersed camping offering free primitive sites for self-sufficient campers. Public lands in the region typically permit stays of up to 14 days, though exact regulations vary by managing agency. Morning and evening coastal fog can create dramatic lighting conditions for photography, particularly at higher elevation camping areas with views of Morro Rock and the bay below.

Best Camping Sites Near Los Osos, California (85)

    1. Morro Bay State Park Campground

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

    $35 - $165 / night

    "Local tips: Try legends for a local dive bar in Morro bay, visit Montana de oro in Los osos for out of this world beach bluffs & Kuma ramen. Weather superb year round"

    "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
    6 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. Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park

    29 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-6101

    $25 - $150 / night

    "Small campground in a beautiful area surrounded by hills right next to the beach. Hidden gem & a MUST see. Local firewood in Los osos on the corner of 9th street & pismo street for cheap."

    "Ignore CAMPGROUND FULL sign at north end near Los Osos as you drive into park about 5 miles north of campground. People cancel and sign is not updated on regular basis."

    4. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Santa Margarita, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 865-0416

    "We were trying to find a spot to camp near San Luis Obispo and hoped to find a place in Los Padres Natl Forest. We saw the road in our map book and aimed to follow it."

    "You can see Morro Bay, Los Osos, and San Luis Obispo. And to top it all off, you also get an ocean view in the distance."

    5. Morro Dunes RV Park

    23 Reviews
    Morro Bay, CA
    5 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!"

    6. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    64 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    18 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!)"

    7. El Chorro Regional Park

    16 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    5 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."

    8. 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."

    9. North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

    22 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 473-7220

    $25 / night

    "The beach is steps away. And the community has a good walking path and restaurants within walking distance."

    "Turns out they had 8 and the park ranger let me drive in to scope it out. I picked a site close to the beach and even better my Oceano reservation could be transferred. Yay."

    10. Avila-Pismo Beach KOA

    14 Reviews
    Avilla Beach, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 595-7111

    $225 / night

    "Campground is tucked away within the mountain and there are many things to do just outside the campground. Beach, trails and golfing all within 5min."

    "Located just north of Pismo Beach, Avila is tucked away down a hill that is totally worth venturing off to."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 85 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Los Osos, CA

692 Reviews of 85 Los Osos 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.

  • K
    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 Los Osos

Los Osos camping options range from near-sea level coastal sites to inland areas reaching elevations of 1,500+ feet at TV Tower Road, creating dramatic temperature variations between locations. The region's morning marine layer burns off by midday at most coastal campgrounds during summer months, but inland sites can remain 10-15 degrees warmer throughout the day. Campfires aren't permitted at all dispersed camping locations during high fire danger periods, typically from late spring through early fall.

What to do

Beach hiking and coastal exploring: At Oceano Campground, you're positioned for immediate beach access. "You are truly minutes away from the beach at this campground! Facilities are nice. Sites are decently spaced," notes Lindsay F. The location makes water activities particularly convenient. "There's a nice lagoon walking path but some parts flooded right now. Campground protected from blowing sand because dunes in front of it," adds Leonard H.

Monarch butterfly viewing: Winter visitors should check out Oceano Campground for a unique natural event. "We went in January and had no idea about the Monarch Butterflies. About 300 feet from the campsite is a grove of trees where thousands of Monarchs fly and mate. Apparently it's the end of their Northern Migration trail," says Garrett M.

Summit hiking: For panoramic views, the trails at Cerro Alto Campground offer significant elevation gain. "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!" explains Chanel C. Be aware of trail conditions, however. "There is poison oak EVERYWHERE so do not go wandering off into the brush. TICKS TICKS TICKS. Make sure you read the warnings and stay on the trails," warns the same reviewer.

What campers like

Secluded wilderness feel: Islay Creek Campground offers a nature-immersed experience unlike more developed sites. "Oh, hello you beautiful cove with your heavy waves and moss laden boulders. Hello more birds, more deer, more meddling raccoons than expected. Hello hiking and biking trails," writes Ryan W. The remoteness creates a special atmosphere. "Pretty basic but nice camp ground. Close enough to walk to a cute little beach. Bathrooms but no showers," notes Kelly S.

Elevated views: For campers seeking dramatic vistas, TV Tower Road dispersed camping area provides exceptional panoramas. "I woke first thing in the morning and the view to the west is stunning, a sea of clouds and islands of distant mountain peaks all the way to the coast," shares Kyle K. The challenging access keeps crowds down. "The road was a bit sketchy, any 4WD would be fine I think. The stars are beautiful and it's very quiet and cool," says Caitlyn R.

Central location: El Chorro Regional Park serves as an ideal base for exploring the broader region. "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. It is a short drive to San Luis Obispo or Morro Bay where you can hike, shop, relax on the beach, and eat great food," explains Hannah O. The convenience factor is significant for many campers.

What you should know

Seasonal wildlife considerations: Spring and summer bring increased pest activity at most campsites. At Islay Creek Campground, "We went with a party of 11 and found multiple ticks on 5 people. I remember combing the reviews on this site and saw someone posted two years ago that there were a lot of ticks and just wanted to confirm that there still are, so camp with caution," warns Val H. Similarly at Cerro Alto, "Bring a lot of Deet spray cause that place was crazy in bugs and day and all night," advises Anthony O.

Site selection matters: At Morro Strand State Beach Campground, location within the campground significantly impacts experience. "Some sites are on the sand. Full hook-up sites are not on beach but very close. Very basic bathrooms but no showers," explains Jeanne M. The layout creates challenges: "The sites are so close together that I felt like I was camping with strangers. My fire ring was about ten feet from my neighbor's fire ring," adds Andre V.

Weather variability: Coastal fog can affect camping comfort at beach locations. "Weather can be fickle with cold, wind and fog even in summer. Quiet at night. A few sites have beach views. Most views are hidden by scrubs between parking area and beach," reports Leonard H. about Morro Strand. Inland sites typically receive more consistent sunshine.

Tips for camping with families

Select family-friendly sites: Some campgrounds cater better to children's needs. "The campsite is pretty and ideally located right in front of a stunning beach. However, note that the toilets are dry composting toilets — so there are no standard facilities," advises Olga N. about Islay Creek Campground. For more amenities, consider El Chorro Regional Park where "Clean flush toilets and coin operated showers" are available according to Laura M.

Watch for wildlife encounters: At some campgrounds, animal interactions require preparation. "Also, note that the squirrels. They're not afraid. They ate through my little pantry that's canvas that's connected under my table," warns Barbara M. at Oceano Campground. The same reviewer adds, "Also, mosquitoes! How could I forget. Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills. They're not fun if you're not prepared."

Plan for beach activities: When staying at coastal sites, beach equipment enhances the experience. "Fun to watch the sea otters typically between three stacks and the ROCK. You can walk or bike about a mile to downtown Morro Bay and waterfront for shopping and ding options. Inexpensive shuttle available summer weekends," explains Leonard H. about Morro Bay State Park Campground.

Tips from RVers

RV space limitations: At certain campgrounds, larger vehicles face significant constraints. "The sites are almost on top of each other and there are only two restrooms for the 80 or so sites. They do keep the bigger camper/RV sites along the back row, but any rig under 24' can get all other sites," advises Annie C. about Morro Strand State Beach Campground.

Hookup availability varies: Campgrounds offer different utility options for RVs. "We stayed in the non electric spots in our camper. The site next to ours was occupied which made parking the trailer a little tricky- almost like parallel parking and the sites are close together like a parking lot," explains Hattie R. At El Chorro Regional Park, "Chumash and Romauldo are full hookup sites (20 and 30 amp only), and are much more expensive ($40-50 depending on weekday/weekend/holiday). These sites have much more space and privacy in between the sites," shares Laura M.

Beach parking considerations: For RVs wanting ocean proximity, Morro Dunes RV Park offers practical advantages. "Great location, easy access. 100+ sites for all different size trailers. Across from the beach. Bike path access as well. Walking distance to harbor restaurants. View of Morro Rock from sites," notes Craig F. The beach access comes with minimal amenities: "You'll want an RV or trailer for this campsite. Pro: right on the beach, great location close to the rock and downtown. Con: parking lot campsite, small spaces, and lots of wind," adds Ashley C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots in Los Osos?

Los Osos offers several excellent camping options. Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park is a hidden gem surrounded by beautiful hills and located close to the beach. This small campground provides a peaceful setting with scenic coastal views. Another great option is Valley View Farm, a perfectly simple place to stay while exploring the area while supporting an organic farm. For those seeking dispersed camping with spectacular views, TV Tower Road provides beautiful vistas just a short drive from Los Osos. The area also provides convenient access to Morro Bay's camping options, making it an ideal base for exploring the Central Coast region.

Do I need reservations for camping in Los Osos?

Yes, reservations are highly recommended for camping in Los Osos, especially during peak seasons. Morro Bay State Park Campground fills up quickly, particularly on weekends and during summer months. However, even when the campground appears full, it's worth checking for cancellations as signs aren't always updated regularly. At Morro Dunes RV Park, reservations are essential due to its prime beachfront location and popularity. For TV Tower Road dispersed camping, no reservations are needed, but spots fill up on weekends, so arriving early is advised. Most developed campgrounds in the area can be booked online through their reservation systems, typically 6 months in advance.

What amenities are available at Los Osos campgrounds?

Amenities vary across Los Osos area campgrounds. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach offers hook-up sites, individual large restrooms with flush toilets and sinks, and nice large showers. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping is primitive with no facilities—you'll need to pack in water and pack out waste. At Montana de Oro State Park, you'll find basic amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restrooms, plus the Spooner Ranch House is open daily 10am-4pm for historical information. Valley View Farm provides simple accommodations with the benefit of supporting local agriculture. For RV campers, Morro Bay area offers several options with full hookups, shower facilities, and proximity to restaurants and marina access. Most campgrounds in the region provide fire pits, though firewood is often available for purchase locally in Los Osos.