Los Osos sits at the southern edge of Morro Bay, with an elevation around 60 feet above sea level and a mild Mediterranean climate averaging 65°F year-round. The area maintains relatively stable temperatures even during summer months when inland regions experience much higher heat. Camping options range from primitive forest sites to fully-equipped RV parks with several pet-friendly campgrounds accommodating different outdoor experiences.
What to do
Beach exploration: 5 minutes from Islay Creek Campground. Walk the Bluff Trail along the coastline for stunning ocean views. "Beautiful beach in this area. The beach area is very popular. But I was able to get a campsite no problem on a beautiful week in March," notes Kathy B. about Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park.
Hiking trails: Various difficulty levels. The inland trails provide opportunities for wildlife viewing and exercise. "Nice paved almost level parking lot with views of Morro Bay about half-way between entrance and campground. Beautiful beach with non-RV parking right below Ranch House," explains Leonard H. about the trails near Montaña de Oro.
Kayaking: Accessible from Morro Bay. Rent kayaks from vendors near the harbor for paddling through the protected estuary waters. "In the Bayside Café has a good food which is right across the street," shares Wayne S. about amenities near Morro Bay State Park Campground, where "you can walk to rent a canoe to paddle around the bay."
Birdwatching: Early morning recommended. The Morro Bay estuary hosts over 200 bird species throughout the year. According to Jessica P., "There's also a natural history museum across the street" from Morro Bay State Park where visitors can learn about local wildlife before heading out.
What campers like
Proximity to beach access: Short walking distances. Many campgrounds provide quick routes to shorelines. "Close to many good activities... golfing, kayaking, walking around estuary, bay nature museum, bird watching, local restaurant," reports Leonard H. about Morro Strand State Beach Campground, noting you can "walk or bike about a mile to downtown Morro Bay and waterfront for shopping and dining options."
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained. Campers appreciate the attention to site cleanliness. "Clean, close to beach & eateries, yet private," shares Cindy I. about Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach, which maintains "individual large restrooms with flush toilets and sinks."
Spacious sites: Room to spread out. Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Big spaces, well run, nice managers," notes Mike D. about Morro Dunes RV Park, while Val H. reports Montaña de Oro's "location is very scenic and a 10 min walk to the beach."
Dog-friendly policies: Designated pet areas. Many campgrounds near Los Osos welcome pets with clear guidelines. "Lots of families and dogs. Noise wasn't a problem other than generators constantly running," says Vincent B. about the dog-friendly campgrounds at North Beach, mentioning that "staying here gives free access to driving onto the beach."
What you should know
Tick prevention: Essential in wooded areas. Take precautions at certain campgrounds, especially in warmer months. "Although the location is very scenic and a 10 min walk to the beach, I wouldn't return because there are ALOT of ticks at the campground. We went with a party of 11 and found multiple ticks on 5 people," warns Val H. about Cerro Alto Campground.
Weather patterns: Coastal fog common. Morning fog can persist until midday, especially in summer. "Weather can be fickle with cold, wind and fog even in summer," notes Leonard H. about Morro Strand, while Helen F. describes North Beach Campground as "nice park. Quite busy mid Aug but not rowdy. Pretty views and close to town centre."
Site selection strategy: Research layouts. Some campgrounds have significant differences between sites. Ryan W. points out that at Cerro Alto, "Sites 17-19 have a decent amount of shade and the most foliage separation."
Reservation timing: Plan months ahead for summer. Most campgrounds fill quickly from June through August. Patrick M. shares that North Beach Campground has "well-placed sites, with easy access to the beach. The lack of electricity, water, etc at each site keeps the tenor of the place pleasantly low-key."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer facilities. Children can enjoy designated play areas while parents set up camp. "Big Rigs, but good access. Great beach access and sites are spread enough apart," notes Kerry G. about North Beach Campground, adding that "the updated bathrooms and showers are worth it!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Morning and evening viewing. Take children to observe harbor seals, sea otters, and various bird species. "This campground is pretty and ideally located right in front of a stunning beach," says Olga N. about TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping, while Caitlyn R. adds "The stars are beautiful and it's very quiet and cool."
Beach-friendly campgrounds: Consider proximity. Choose sites that minimize hauling gear to and from the beach. "Well-placed sites, with easy access to the beach," reports Patrick M. about North Beach Campground, describing it as "a perfect alternative to the commercial, packed-in-like-sardines options that surround this little green oasis."
Insect protection: Bring supplies. Some coastal areas have sand flies and mosquitoes, especially in evenings. "Oh, and about the squirrels. They're not afraid. They ate through my little pantry that's canvas that's connected under my table. Also, mosquitoes! How could I forget. Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills," advises Barbara M. about Oceano Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Varies by campground. Check reservation systems for the most current information. "Short drive to the beach. The facility is very clean," reports Alisa K. about Avila-Pismo Beach KOA, though she notes "the camp sites are very tight but the staff is very helpful with parking."
Site leveling considerations: Bring blocks. Some campgrounds have uneven parking pads. Leonard H. notes about Oceano Campground: "Hook-up sites close together... non-hookup have more separation. Popular with families and groups. Most parking spots close to level but bring some blocks."
Generator restrictions: Observe quiet hours. Many campgrounds limit generator usage, especially at night. "The location is amazing! Just walk across the dunes to hang out at Morris beach!" shares Shannon K. about Morro Dunes RV Park, adding that "bathrooms were clean and well-maintained!"
RV size limitations: Check before booking. Some campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. "We went in sites 19 and 10. Site 19 faced the beach but it was really the shrubs. Some sites that face the beach do have a nice view of the ocean," explains Lynna C. about Morro Strand State Beach, describing its layout as "literally a parking space with a strip of dirt and table and fire ring."
Legend
