Oceano, California offers diverse camping experiences at an elevation of just 11 feet above sea level along the Pacific coast. With average temperatures ranging from 45°F to 77°F throughout the year, the area's Mediterranean climate creates ideal conditions for yurt camping and other outdoor accommodations. The region's unique dune ecosystem extends nearly 18 miles along the shoreline.
What to do
Dune exploration beyond vehicles: While many visit the Oceano Dunes for off-roading, the area offers quieter dune experiences. At Pacific Dunes Ranch, you can access secluded dunes with less activity. "No OHV activity nearby, Pacific Dunes Resort is a somewhat secluded RV park... Without the OHV activity, it was safe to hike or dune surf," notes camper Annette A.
Wildlife watching: The region hosts diverse wildlife viewing opportunities beyond butterflies. "We saw and heard hawks, turkey vultures, owls, and many other birds. We also saw a cute little weasel," reports barbara M. from Oceano Campground. Lopez Lake visitors note: "There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears," according to Crystal J.
Astronomical programs: Some campgrounds offer guided stargazing events. At Santa Margarita Campground, visitors appreciate the educational opportunities: "I liked the location very much... we had some great views, great trails for hiking and I enjoyed the fact that they had an astronomer one of the evenings to star gaze," shares Genie N.
What campers like
Lake access alternatives: For water activities beyond ocean beaches, Lopez Lake Recreation Area provides freshwater recreation options. "Canoeing and kayak rentals available," mentions Rachel A., who cautions: "beware of spiders!" The lake offers fishing and boating in a serene setting just 15 minutes from Arroyo Grande.
Privacy between sites: Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds. "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," recommends Chanel C. at Cerro Alto. Many Lopez Lake sites provide shade and separation: "None of the full hookup sites have a view but some of the tent sites do," advises Linda S.
Proximity to local food: Multiple campgrounds offer convenient access to local dining. At Jalama Beach County Park, campers rave about on-site options: "The burger shack offers the famous 'jalama burger' that will definitely knock your socks off. Seriously, if you come all the way out to Jalama and don't try a Jalama Burger, then you are messing up on life," insists Codee C.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. Jalama Beach requires significant driving on narrow roads: "I commend the RVs and Trailers that drive down the narrow road," notes Mike G. Similarly, Cerro Alto Campground has "a very narrow and winding one car lane that goes for about a mile. Drive slow!" advises Chanel C.
Seasonal weather patterns: Coastal winds affect camping comfort. At Jalama Beach, "it can get windy sometimes, but it's a beautiful site and well-maintained," says Mike G. Another camper elaborates: "This can be an extremely windy stretch of beach. During the day it will blow onshore and at night it will blow offshore."
Variable cellular service: Connectivity varies dramatically between sites. "No cell reception at campgrounds (0 bars with AT&T)," reports Chanel C. about Cerro Alto. At Jalama, Mike G. found: "The site has Starlink internet, but it's kinda spotty. If you have a Cell Booster(WeeBoost), I got two bars with TMobile, but outside of that, there is no cell reception."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Santa Margarita KOA provides extensive family facilities. "Great for young families. There is a pool, jumping pillow, playground, etc.," shares Sherry D. The campground also organizes special events: "The highlight for my kids was the Easter egg hunt put on by the staff. A happy surprise for sure," reports Angel Q.
Wildlife concerns: Be prepared for local fauna. At Oceano Campground, barbara M. warns: "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."
Yurt options for non-tent campers: Families wanting yurt camping in Oceano, California have options beyond traditional tenting. Santa Margarita KOA and Avila-Pismo Beach KOA both offer yurt accommodations. "We stayed here in a cabin for 2 yrs because of work in area. Quiet, clean and away from the city," shares Claudia H. about Pacific Dunes Ranch, which offers similar glamping options.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing realities: Many RV sites are closer than advertised. At Pacific Dunes Ranch, "one downside is there is no grass and very tight space between RVs," notes Esther D. Similarly at Avila-Pismo Beach KOA, "The campground itself is small and old so the sites can be a little small for the larger rigs," reports Shannon W.
Hook-up availability: Oceano-area campgrounds offer varied services. Patrick J. notes at Oceano Campground: "Sites are pull through, Power and water. Asphalt pads are in good condition." For full hookups, Avila-Pismo Beach KOA works well: "I loved staying here. The site was clean, we had full hookups, and the bathrooms were very clean too," reports Deanna P.
Leveling requirements: Site grading varies between locations. At Lopez Lake, Linda S. advises: "Most parking spots close to level but bring some blocks." Similarly, Rainer M. found at Pacific Dunes Ranch: "My site #171 was a pull-through and was completely level, a definite plus."
