Best Campgrounds near Morro Bay, CA

Camping near Morro Bay, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a beachside retreat or a forest escape, there’s something for everyone in this area.

What to do:

• Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Morro Strand State Beach Campground, are right by the beach. One camper mentioned, “We could see the ocean from our bed, very nice.” This makes it easy to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or beachcombing.
• Hiking Trails: Explore the trails around Morro Bay State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “There are paths around the camp that go around the estuary type lagoon.” It’s a great way to see local wildlife and enjoy nature.
• Bird Watching: The area is known for its birdwatching opportunities. One reviewer at Oceano County Campground shared, “There’s a cool lagoon that you can walk all the way around on, with lots of birds.”

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views. A visitor at Kirk Creek Campground said, “Amazing place to stay! Great view, access to the beach through a small path.”
• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Morro Dunes RV Park, are praised for their cleanliness. One camper mentioned, “Bath and showers, while older, are super clean.”
• Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate the helpfulness of campground hosts. A reviewer at San Simeon Creek Campground noted, “The camp host, Shelby, was delightful and very accommodating.”

What you should know:

• Crowded Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get packed, especially during peak season. A camper at Morro Bay State Park Campground said, “This year when we stayed it was packed, and definitely not as nice of an experience.”
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Kirk Creek Campground has no showers or drinking water, so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
• Wildlife Encounters: Be cautious of wildlife. A camper at Oceano County Campground warned about squirrels, saying, “They’re not afraid. They ate through my little pantry.”

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At Oceano County Campground, there’s a fun scavenger hunt app for kids to enjoy.
• Private Sites: Choose campgrounds with spaced-out sites for more privacy. A visitor at Morro Dunes RV Park mentioned, “Sites are tight but not overly cramped.”
• Bring Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance. A camper at Morro Bay State Park Campground advised, “Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills.”

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at San Simeon Creek Campground noted, “The camper pads are level, paved, and designated as either 25 - or 35-foot campsites.”
• Early Reservations: Book your spot early, especially in summer. A camper at Morro Dunes RV Park said, “Make reservations early for this campground. It’s usually booked solid all summer.”
• Bring Cash for Showers: Some campgrounds have token-operated showers. A visitor at Morro Bay State Park Campground reminded, “You need tokens for the showers and the machine only accepts cash.”

Camping near Morro Bay, California, offers a unique blend of outdoor fun and relaxation. With its beautiful landscapes and friendly campgrounds, it’s a great spot for your next adventure!