Morro Bay sits on California's central coast at just 63 feet above sea level, offering mild temperatures averaging 55-65°F year-round. The coastal fog often rolls in during summer mornings, creating a natural cooling effect that keeps campgrounds comfortable even during peak season. Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Morro Bay maintain elevation profiles under 100 feet, making them accessible for campers with mobility concerns.
What to do
Hike to scenic viewpoints: Islay Creek Campground in Montaña de Oro State Park offers access to the Cerro Alto summit trail. "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. There's plenty to do here--visit the beach, walk on the cliffs, see the wildflowers," writes Kathy B.
Explore dunes and lagoons: Oceano Campground sits behind protective dunes that block harsh winds. "Nice lagoon walking path but some parts flooded right now. Campground protected from blowing sand because dunes in front of it. Nice area to start beach walks or rent dune buggies," notes Leonard H.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Watch for the seasonal monarch butterfly migration near Oceano. "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," reports Garrett M.
What campers like
Protected campsites: El Chorro Regional Park offers sites with natural windbreaks. "Great location to post up if you want to spend some time in SLO. The sites on the dry loop (Bishop) have little privacy, but most are pull-through. The loops with services have much more tree coverage," explains Chan B.
Quiet natural settings: TV Tower Road provides peaceful dispersed camping despite being rough to access. "The spot is honestly wonderful! Such great views, quiet, not even too windy. The road up here is indeed a little challenge: first there is pavement but the last 1/3 of the road is dirt only; also very bumpy," shares Ala B.
Shoreline proximity: San Simeon Creek Campground offers easy coastal access. "Tucked in among trees and only a 5minute walk to the beach: it's the best of both worlds. Nice clean bathrooms and showers. Plus a place to wash dishes! We love camping here and will come back every year," states Kat B.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Morning fog and afternoon winds are typical at coastal campgrounds. "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 State Beach.
Wildlife precautions: Ticks and other pests can be issues at some locations. "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 Islay Creek.
Ground squirrels: These animals are common and can be problematic. "This campground is awesome. It's very beautiful, with lots of wildflowers, trees, trails, beach dunes…and squirrels. Lots of them. They're not afraid. They ate through my little pantry that's canvas that's connected under my table," cautions Barbara M. about Oceano Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Secure family sites: Cerro Alto Campground offers larger spaces for groups. "Our site (#18) was awesome! It was spacious enough for our 10-person tent and more. It even had a water faucet for easy cleaning. We were impressed that the bbq grill was exceptionally clean upon arrival and no trash were left behind from previous campers," shares Christine O.
Pet-friendly beach access: Dogs can enjoy shoreline walks at multiple locations. "The best part about the RV park is its location, right next to the dunes! The RV park is clean and well maintained. Sites are spaced close together but no major issues with noisy neighbors. Nice little dog run. Family friendly," notes Esther Y. about Morro Dunes RV Park.
Educational opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide nature learning experiences. "There is a little camp store, but it was closed during my visit (closes at 4pm). The state park offers days worth of outdoor activity and views forever and ever, with the ability to feel alone only miles from town. The sunset from the cliff is a must," recommends Ryan W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Morro Dunes RV Park offers premium spaces for optimal views. "Nice RV stop for the night 55$ for 1 night. Sites are very close together but some great neighbors. 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!" advises Dennis V.
Road conditions awareness: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. "I was going up these hills and like I've been on some bumpy roads and it started out fine so I wasn't worried about it but the farther we went, the worse the roads got. Like fucking waves in the earth and just straight rocks," cautions Silas M. about TV Tower Road.
Waste disposal planning: Several campgrounds offer dump stations for self-contained RVs. "We have stayed here many times. Very clean, friendly staff, and the best thing of all is the access to the beach is across the street," shares Robbie G. about Morro Dunes, which provides full hookups and a sanitary dump.
