Primitive and glamping options near Los Osos, California range from minimalist tent spots to upscale accommodations. The coastal climate keeps temperatures moderate year-round, with summer highs rarely exceeding 75°F and winter lows seldom dropping below 40°F. Morning fog along Highway 1 typically burns off by mid-day, especially between May and September.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: The Cerro Alto Trail provides a challenging 4-mile roundtrip hike with 1,600 feet of elevation gain. "Easy access to hiking trails from campsite. Short drive to Atascadero and Morro Bay," notes a visitor at Cerro Alto Campground.
Beach exploration: Oceano Campground offers direct beach access within a short walking distance. "Awesome campsite. 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," shared one camper at Oceano Campground.
Water activities: Lake Nacimiento provides options for boating, fishing, and swimming. "The lake is huge with narrow passages where you can get off the main lake and fish or just have fun. Jet skis, kayaks etc are permitted. There is a beach for kids near the marina area campground," according to a review of Lake Nacimiento Resort.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Cerro Alto offers more secluded camping spots. "Campsites are spread pretty far apart, are fairly large, and have most have pretty good privacy. I think Campsite #18 is one of the best! It's HUGE, tucked in the far corner, close to the hiking trail, fairly close to toilets, and has its own water spigot."
Beach proximity: Most campers appreciate the short distance to coastal access. A camper at Pacific Dunes Ranch mentioned, "Our site was night to the dunes so easy walk to the sand, but about 30 minute hard walk to the ocean, it was worth it."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers abundant opportunities to observe local fauna. "We fell asleep to the sound of a resident Pygmy Owl hooting and woke up to Acorn Woodpeckers, Toweys, Robins, Steller Jays, and Warblers singing," reported a visitor to Cerro Alto Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. At Flying Flags Avila Beach, "The place isn't cheap and it isn't easy to get reservations. You will need months of advanced notice. All are back in."
Wildlife precautions: Ticks and poison oak are common in the area. "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. We actually saw ticks during our hike."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant noise issues. At Lake Nacimiento Resort, a camper noted, "The campground is definitely a party site and camp sites are on top of each other... don't go here to relax and hear nature."
Tips for camping with families
Campground amenities: Santa Margarita KOA offers numerous family-friendly features. "There is a pool, jumping pillow, playground, etc. The park is loaded with really nice hiking trails. We are enjoying our weekend stay," shared one visitor.
Beach day preparations: When visiting coastal sites, prepare for changing conditions. "Driving on the beach was fun, but it was so windy and so cold! This was the end of May. Not sure what the weather is over months. The actual campground was not as cold or windy, since it's behind the dunes."
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy the animal sightings in the area. A camper at Lopez Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears. The lake is wonderful and usually very mellow."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Lopez Lake Recreation Area, "None of the full hookup sites have a view but some of the tent sites do. There isn't much fishing now, because the water is so low, but there are still pretty hikes to be had and water slides if it's hot."
Maneuvering challenges: Some glamping facilities near Los Osos have tight spaces. At Flying Flags Avila Beach, "When they designed it, they didn't really make enough room to maneuver. I watched a Class A next to plow up a bank with his front end. Some scratches resulted and some plowed earth."
Hookup availability: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Avila CA. Wooded nice spaces with 20 amp electric and water. 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!"
