Best Camping near Paso Robles, CA

Join the fun near Paso Robles. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Paso Robles, CA (89)

    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground

    1. Morro Bay State Park Campground

    58 Reviews
    223 Photos
    894 Saves
    Los Osos, California

    Morro Bay State Park campground features lagoon and natural bay habitat. The bay's most prominent landmark is Morro Rock. The park has opportunities for sailing, fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The park museum has exhibits that cover natural features and cultural history, Native American life, geology, and oceanography. The park also has a colorful marina and an 18-hole public golf course. On the bay's northeast edge is a pristine saltwater marsh that supports a thriving bird population.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $165 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    2. San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    52 Reviews
    137 Photos
    1013 Saves
    San Simeon, California

    The San Simeon Creek Campground offers 115 campsites for tent camping or recreational vehicles. The maximum length for an RV is 35 feet. Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table. There are currently flush toilets and shower facilities in place. Chemical toilets are available. A dump station and pay phone are available. Firewood is for sale from the campground host. Recreational activities include camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, surfing, beachcombing, bird watching and whale watching. The Junior Ranger Program is a regularly scheduled interpretive program for children. Interpretive walks of the San Simeon Trail may also be available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Strand State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Strand State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Strand State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Strand State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Strand State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Strand State Beach Campground

    3. Morro Strand State Beach Campground

    34 Reviews
    137 Photos
    177 Saves
    Morro Bay, California

    Morro Strand Campground (sites 19-66)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    4. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    28 Reviews
    107 Photos
    707 Saves
    Santa Margarita, California

    Contact the Santa Lucia Ranger District for information about dispersed camping.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort

    5. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort

    17 Reviews
    80 Photos
    92 Saves
    Paso Robles, California

    Take your RV experience to the next level when you stay at Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, formerly known as Cava Robles RV Resort. The inspiring wine country setting offers more than just stunning views. Discover a resort designed by nature and immerse yourself in our beautiful natural setting, whether you arrive by RV or stay in one of our villas and cottages.

    Built for relaxation, our resort is the perfect destination for vacations and RV camping on the Central California coast. Located in the gorgeous Paso Robles wine region - 30 minutes from the Pacific Coast - our resort boasts incredible amenities including two pools, a spa, fire pits, a wellness center, trails, and dog parks. You'll find something for everything at Sun Outdoors Paso Robles.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $119 - $219 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    6. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    61 Reviews
    257 Photos
    68 Saves
    Grover Beach, California

    Oceano Camp (sites 1-42)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Dunes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Dunes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Dunes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Dunes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Dunes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Dunes RV Park

    7. Morro Dunes RV Park

    21 Reviews
    44 Photos
    371 Saves
    Morro Bay, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $62 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Hot Springs

    8. Franklin Hot Springs

    13 Reviews
    32 Photos
    176 Saves
    Paso Robles, California

    Hot springs or medicinal waters with high mineral content are those which emerge spontaneously from the core of the Earth, or are caught by means of drilling and, as a result of their physical and/or chemical characteristics, Paso Robles Hot Springsmay exert therapeutical effects which relieve or restore people’s health.

    These waters may have energetic factors such as the powerful ionization, mineralization, gases and PH variations.The mineral content of the waters may increase metabolism, accelerate healing, soothe muscles, improve blood circulation and detoxify the body’s lymphatic system.

    These mineral hot springs located near Paso Robles may impart a wide range of benefits and are at times recommended for individuals who suffer from such conditions as arteriosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, burns, arthritis, poor circulation, and other disorders.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    9. Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    34 Reviews
    87 Photos
    381 Saves
    Arroyo Grande, California

    Located just ten miles east of Arroyo Grande, California, Lopez Lake Recreation Area is one of the top choices for camping and leisure trips. With 22 miles of shoreline and summer lake temperatures around 70°F, there is something for everyone; camping, fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking and equestrian trails, mountain biking, zip-lining, birdwatching and so much more. The warm climate of the Central Coast makes Lopez Lake the ideal, year-round recreational destination. Once covered by the sea, the surrounding hills of Lopez Lake are rich with relics of ancient days and studded with oak trees. Over 175 species of flowering plants, and more than 150 species of birds have been identified within the park. The naturally beautiful canyons were once hunting and fishing grounds for the Chumash Indians. Later, homesteaders and ranchers inhabited the area and harvested grain crops for Mission San Luis Obispo. Lopez Lake was then created in 1969 to provide domestic water for the Five Cities area of the Central Coast.

    Lopez Lake with its 22 miles of shoreline is the ideal year-round recreational destination for everyone. There are 377 campsites to choose from. Many overlook the lake, and others are nestled among picturesque oaks. There are primitive, electrical, full hook-up, and group campsites available. Hot shower facilities are at several campgrounds. Camping reservations can be made up to one year in advance.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $60 - $70 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground

    10. Cerro Alto Campground

    15 Reviews
    83 Photos
    195 Saves
    Atascadero, California

    Overview

    Cerro Alto Campground is a well-known hiking and mountain biking paradise. It is located a short distance from the sandy beaches of Morro Bay, where visitors enjoy surfing, fishing, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving and more. While the campground offers a serene, relaxed environment, both Morro Bay and the nearby town of Atascadero offer numerous dining opportunities, shopping, museums and other activities. Wine Tasting in the Tempelton, Paso Robles Area is also a very popular experience.

    Recreation

    Visitors enjoy ample hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding opportunities, along with a 360-degree view of the Central California coast and inland valleys. The 4-mile Cerro Alto Trail, which leads to the peak, begins within the campground. Morro Bay beaches are less than 10 miles from the campground, offering wide sandy stretches and swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving and more. An 18-hole championship golf course is located in the oceanside town.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated in a mixed oak, pine and sycamore forest at an elevation of about 1,000 feet. It lies in a verdant canyon pass along a semiannual mountain creek. The roads are paved, but narrow, winding and single lane with turnouts to each site.

    Nearby Attractions

    Paso Robles, which is quickly becoming known as a premier spot for Central Coast wines, is located 20 miles from the campground. Wine tasting tours are offered daily, or visitors can select individualized tours of numerous wineries located in the area. The campground makes a great base camp for motorcyclists or day-trippers to visit the quaint, neighboring towns of San Luis Obispo, Cayucos, Harmony and Cambria, all of which are within 35 miles of the campground. Tours of historic Hearst Castle are also available. Visitors can spend time relaxing at the many available day spas located at nearby Avila or Grover beaches. Off-road vehicle trails are available on famous Pismo Beach.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $35 - $39 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 89 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Paso Robles

Recent Reviews in Paso Robles

699 Reviews of 89 Paso Robles Campgrounds


  • michael D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort
    Dec. 8, 2024

    Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort

    Resort style park with 2 pools

    This is a resort style park with all the amenities. We used both pools and spas daily even in December. Sites are gravel with concrete pads. All have fireplaces and seemed appropriately level. We stayed for 14 days, but would have saved a BUNCH if we could have stayed for longer and gotten the monthly rate (they call it "Park and play"). The area is surrounded by natural grassy areas with some trails. The park was busy and a bit loud over the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend, but otherwise not busy and very quiet. The check in was quick and smooth. The pleasant and helpful staff is available 24/7 in the welcome center.

  • Louis F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Nov. 30, 2024

    Morro Bay State Park Campground

    Great Spot In Morro Bay

    Nice Campground. RV Park Style. We have a fire ring, food locker, table and benches. It’s like being in a RV neighborhood. Location, Location, Location. Quick walk to the harbor, cafe, waterfront and walking trails. We have family in the area and bring our rig when visiting. We will definitely be back. Nice spot very comfortable.

  • Michell C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Hot Springs
    Nov. 28, 2024

    Franklin Hot Springs

    So Much Potential

    When we rolled in to this property, we were almost certain we had the wrong place. The road going in was pretty sketchy right off the bat with a crumbling, concrete ‘bridge’ spanning an overflowing creek or drainage ditch. The water was running over the bridge but since we’d been driving through torrential downpours all day, we figured it was to be expected. When we pulled onto the actual property, there appeared to be several permanent tenants on property, their travel trailers and motorhomes surrounded with miscellaneous “stuff and things”. We were tired and decided that $30 to stay the night with electric hookups was worth it ($10 extra per person to swim in the hot spring). I should mention, the water provided at the site felt and smelled like it was straight out of the hot spring, so we didn’t hook that up to the RV. There was a lot of garbage and micro trash surrounding our site and I even stumbled across several large (some rusted) nails in the gravel in and around our site. Yikes! The swimming area was a bit run down but definitely serviceable. The bathrooms as a whole were pretty grimy, lots of junks built up in corners and flat surfaces, but the toilet and sink itself were clean. We ended up not using the pool in the morning as we were anxious to hit the road…

    I should mention that we never once felt unsafe at all and the area was peaceful and quiet. The people we interacted with were very friendly and welcoming as well, so that was a plus. Even so, I don’t think we’ll be staying here again. I’m not sure if the pictures posted were taken well before the trash and stuff and things were scattered about, but what we saw when we arrived was a far cry from what the photos here and on their website represented. We were just really disappointed. But, not every place you stay is going to be stellar.

    With a little cleaning, sprucing up and/or maybe some sort of privacy fence or barrier around the piles of stuff and things on the property, this could be an amazing spot.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from San Lorenzo Park
    Nov. 25, 2024

    San Lorenzo Park

    Easy, Convenient & Pretty

    What a find! Mostly level, mostly gravel and grass, mostly pull through sites. Water, and 30 amp and 12 V available. Not sure about 50 amp. Good cell service, bathrooms, showers and a dump station round out the on-site conveniences. Firings and picnic tables with a choice of well-shaded or solar-friendly sites. A nice walking path, circles the campground and is well used in the mornings and evenings by locals running or walking dogs and babies. The first half of the park has a rustic agriculture, museum, and lots of old farm equipment on display. There are also spaces to rent for parties and events with their own parking area separate from the campground. King City has grocery, gas, some restaurants and some shops just outside of the park.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Oct. 27, 2024

    North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

    A winner

    I skipped out on Oceano and came here hoping they might have something open. Turns out they had 8 and the park ranger let me drive in to scope it out. I picked a site close to the beach and even better my Oceano reservation could be transferred. Yay. Loved this campground so much. It’s well laid out and all the sites are well spaced and clean. The evening was much quieter, with a sunset and sounds of waves. A ten minute walk to the beach and right next to the butterfly grove. I have already made another reservation to see about the butterflies when they are in season. Pismo Beach is fantastic!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    You can do better

    Probably just due to the time of year but this campground was way too rowdy for my taste, all the sites are close together and it seemed almost every site was a very large group, generators running after 10pm, amplified music and tv! If that’s your jam you’ll love it. I took off after 1 night.

  • Connor B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Good spot for a quick night

    pretty easy to find, road is also easy to drive. found a pretty good level spot, definitely camping right off the side of the road. pretty nice and low key tho

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wine Country RV Resort, A Sun RV Resort
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Wine Country RV Resort, A Sun RV Resort

    Very nice!

    Very well kept and clean. Shower area is very nice. Need a key code to go anywhere. Great amenities. Beautiful pool. An outdoor bar, but only open certain months. Nice group camping area. Green grass areas. Mini concrete pads though not perfectly level? Close to lots of wineries and a water park but not really safe to walk or bike to. Probably one of the most beautiful hot tub areas I've ever seen in an RV park

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Williams Hill Recreation Area
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Free established BLM campground

    We stayed here for 3 nights in the summer, arriving on a Sunday, and it was great. I was worried about the heat, but it really wasn’t too bad, even on the hot days (low 90s) it cools down in the evening and didn’t get hot until early afternoon. Just be sure to get one of the shady spots! We set up in site #1 when we first arrived because it was private and had nice views, but it was way too much direct sun. We moved to #4 and it was much better- shady and even better views. 

    There were other people here when we stayed here but everyone was very quiet and respectful, and we didn’t hear any shooting like other reviews have mentioned— this may be due to the ban on shooting (and camp fires) at this time because of fire danger, but I was still impressed and surprised that people respected the ban. There is one pit toilet that we didn’t check out, but man you can smell it if you camp in one of the sites near to it. 

    We saw one volunteer/employee come and clean things up while we were here. We were pleasantly surprised that the trash wasn’t too bad here. No trash service so please pack out your waste. Cell service is good up at the campground, though you do lose it in parts on the drive up. We made it up in our 26ft class c no problem, though the road is narrow at times and we were glad we didn’t come across any oncoming traffic. Sites are relatively flat/ fixable with levels. Two of the sites are huge/ pull throughs so would be good for bigger rigs or big groups. If you get up here and all the sites are taken, there are several spots outside of the campground where you can disperse camp. 

    This is an OHV area but we didn’t see any while we were here. We hiked along the OHV trails and there was nothing- but I could see it getting busy on the weekends. 

    There's a 14 day stay limit. No water provided up here.

    My only complaint was the BEES! They were everywhere and aggressive, and all in our face, but didn’t sting us. One of the campers said that this was unusual though. Really nice campground, amazing that it’s free! Thanks BLM!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Boondocking - Coalinga
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Boondocking - Coalinga

    Waste of time

    If you aren’t sleeping in a camper or in your car, don’t waste your time. It’s a parking lot. Didn’t clearly specify

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Lovely hillside spots

    Picked the first nook from the GPS pin but hiked up road and there are quite a few others, some shaded, some exposed. Bit of highway noise.

  • makenna W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags Avila Beach
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Flying Flags Avila Beach

    Second Time Staying. Disappointed

    This is our second time at this location, first in dry camping, second time in the Jupe tents. As much as I was begging for this stay to be worth the $470 for two nights, it definitely wasn’t. The concept is great but really faulty when executed. 1) they disclose when booking that power to the tents may or may not work. The truth? The solar panels don’t charge whatsoever if there is fog/cloud cover in the mornings. Was told this directly by management. Soooo…. Considering this is a bay site, right on the ocean…. We didn’t have power once. Morning fog happens every single day. (Even though it was completely sunny from 12pm-5pm) this was frustrating, and we would’ve packed accordingly given knowledge that we would’ve been powerless all weekend. The blankets they provide don’t keep you warm either, so if you stay on a night below 50 without an electrical blanket or backups, prepare to freeze. During our stay we were also told that there was only one overnight maintenance man, on a Friday, during Labor Day weekend. That poor man didn’t get a break once all evening and definitely deserves a raise and to be treated better by his employers. He’s the only reason this review deserves a star. For such a beautiful location, this company is really fumbling. Disappointing.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 20, 2024

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Spots along road when pavement ends

    Didn't have to go as far as GPS pin led me to believe, spot on right shortly after pavement ends. A bit trashed, wish I had a bag to clean up, some bigger stuff like a kids bike, to etc

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    Not our scene: hot, crowded, buggy

    We had reservations for 2 nights on an Augugst Friday / Saturday at Lopez Lake in a full-hook-up site in Bandtail (Site 38). The reviews of this place were great, and the photos were beautiful. We arrived to find a HUGE park (yes, I should have noted how many campsites there are). Check-in involved parking our van and standing in line like Disneyland. The park employees were nice though. There were big signs all around "NO FIRES" (more on this later) and I was also told at check in that there were no fires. We found our site easily enough, only to realize how closely packed the sites were in Bandtail. Some nice folks to our right had three sites - 11 kids and 21 people between them. The kids rode their bikes all over, and even onto our site (while also running around our van chasing a chipmunk). We had our daughter's dog, so tried sitting outside in the shade, only to find that in addition to the heat (it was mid 80s), there were biting flies. :( Poor puppy got bit or stung more than once. So we went in our van and turned on the AC (it could run on low with the 20A service there). Then, after dark, a dad and his young son arrive on our other side and had to back in their boat in the dark. We got out of our rig and helped them (twice) with our portable lights and guidance. In the morning, they spoke in very loud voices and we were right next door. We did take one of the trails in the heat, but they are not at all well maintained - basically trampled grass that could easily hold a snake. While the area is pretty, it is just way too crowded for our taste. Oh, and the bathrooms were dimily lit, had a couple of non-functioning toilets, and were dirty. We were ready to get out of there and will not be back. Lastly, though the fire danger was marked as extremely high and "NO FIRES" signs at check-in, along with verbal warnings of no fires, I saw two campsites had open fires in the fire pits. This blatant lack of regard for rules and safety didn't sit well with me. And no one was enforcing the fire ban. Sad.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Great Campground

    We stayed here a few years ago, but on the primitive / non-hookup side. We stayed on the E/W hookup side this time and liked it as well, though it does have the more typical RV/parking lot feel as compared to the other side.  There's a nice walking trail that connects the two sides. It's $50 for an E/W site, plus an $8.25 reservation fee.

    There's a cool lagoon that you can walk all the way around on, with lots of birds, and much of it accessible as well which is nice. There's a cool visitor center, open 12-4. The beach is a short walk away. There's a great Mexican restaurant down the road also, Old Juan's, it's so good and has great vegan options.

    The showers here are nice and clean, and $1 gets you 4 minutes.  The showers are individual, private, and non-gendered. There was no host on site when we were there, but the rangers were very present.  This campground, like all California State campgrounds we've been to recently, has trash, recycling, and a food compost bin which I love.

    There's a fun game for kids where you download an app and go on a scavenger hunt and complete other challenges.

    No dump station here, but there's one just 2 miles north at North Beach Campground, and it's $10 for dump and water fill there.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground

    4 x 4 recommended

    We love being able to camp directly on the beach, and have done so many times in Texas and in Louisiana, but wouldn't recommend it here unless you are in a 4wd. We did see 2 skoolies on the beach, but then we also saw a pickup truck stuck in the sand in the parking lot outside of the beach, so there's that.

    Camping overnight is only $10, and the beach is wide open for camping. It was very busy during the day on a weekday in August, so I can imagine the weekends are packed. 

    This is a fun beach in a fun, low key beach town, and we love coming here.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Nice Car Camping Spot

    Pretty solid! Had great cell service and was a lovely drive to get there. Probably wouldn’t recommend if you have a tent or RV as the spots were a little small and rocky. But I only went a little past where the directions take you, so not sure what else is up there.

    Arrived just at sunset and loved the views! It was very peaceful and far enough from the highway. It seemed like the same truck was driving up and down a couple times which was the only downfall.

    Overall a good experience.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Morro Bay State Park Campground

    Nicer when it's not crowded

    We stayed here last year when the area was getting hit by severe storms and flooding - so the campground was almost empty. We loved the campground then and gave it 5 stars. This year when we stayed it was packed, and definitely not as nice of an experience.

    The previous review mentions the awkward walk to the showers, and I will agree with that. You either have to go through someone's site, or walk all the way to the end of the road. We got lucky and got to cut through some vacant sites to get to the showers.

    We do still love this campground though, because of the boardwalk in the estuary and all the bird sightings there. We got to visit the museum this time as well, small and cute and well worth the $3 entry fee. The restaurant is still there but we didn't go this time. Next time we go we will rent kayaks and explore the water some more. There's a golf course here adjacent to the campground as well.  The town of Morro Bay is cute and relaxed and fun to visit.

    There's a dump station here but it's not free even for campers - it's a $10 fee you pay with your credit card right at the dump.  Showers were ok, no complaints.

    This is a good, low key and decently priced campground that we'll definitely stop at the next time we're going through the area.

  • Jack W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Aug. 2, 2024

    Morro Bay State Park Campground

    "Last resort" campground, 3 stars at best

    - PROS -

    Beautiful location <5 minute drive away from the beach and Morro rock. SLO is close, and the coast is always nice. There's a pretty boardwalk trail next to the site as well (see photos).

    - CONS -

    These aren't camp sites, they're parking spots with a fire pit on dead grass and weeds. You're packed like sardines next to adjacent campers. It's unclear where the boundary of each others' site is. For facilities, they do have big bathrooms, showers, and dumpsters… but they're all filthy and unkempt. And even though the bathrooms may be right next to your site, there's no way to get to them without walking through another person's camp site or going all the way around– down the road or around many camps. We had a crotchety old man get mad at us for walking somewhat through his site. I enjoyed my stay, but only because I wasn't the one paying for the site.

    TLDR: This site functions moreso as an overnight parking spot than it does a campsite.

  • Andrew S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 31, 2024

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Lots of options

    Along the road, there are lots of exposed options and a few camping options in the trees. I drove the entire road and would not recommend doing that without four wheel drive. Was pleased with all the options though. Stay in the trees to avoid the wind.

  • Jack J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Jul. 11, 2024

    Lake San Antonio - North Shore

    Weekend Trip

    Great camp ground. Launched the boat and anchored it to shore. Literally had the place to ourselves. Fishing was great from shore in morning and dusk. They had clean bathrooms and showers.


Drive Time


Guide to Paso Robles

Camping near Paso Robles offers a fantastic mix of beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you’re looking for a beachside retreat or a serene forest escape, there’s something for everyone in this area.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at Morro Strand State Beach Campground. Campers love the close proximity to the beach, with one reviewer saying, “We could see the ocean from our bed, very nice.”
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Morro Bay State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “There are paths around the camp that go around the estuary type lagoon,” making it a great spot for nature walks.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach, you can spot various birds and even some cute critters. A camper shared, “We also saw and heard hawks, turkey vultures, owls, and many other birds.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers at Morro Bay State Park Campground. One review noted, “The bathrooms have hot water and flush toilets. Showers are huge and are self-contained.”
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many enjoy the welcoming vibe at Morro Dunes RV Park. A local camper said, “The staff are friendly and helpful,” which adds to the overall experience.
  • Great Views: The stunning scenery at Kirk Creek Campground is a big hit. One camper exclaimed, “Absolutely heavenly views, staff was great, A+ experience.”

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campsites: Some campgrounds can get packed, especially during peak season. A visitor at Lopez Lake Recreation Area mentioned, “Check-in involved parking our van and standing in line like Disneyland.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Kirk Creek Campground has no showers or drinking water, so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be cautious of wildlife, especially at San Simeon Creek Campground. One camper warned, “There are black bears that roam the area so be sure to prepare for that.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with fun activities for kids. At Oceano County Campground, there’s a scavenger hunt app that kids can enjoy.
  • Private Spaces: Choose sites that offer some privacy. A family at Plaskett Creek Campground appreciated the “big trees, grass, good sized sites” for a more comfortable stay.
  • Plan for Bugs: Be ready for mosquitoes, especially in warmer months. One camper at Morro Bay State Park Campground advised, “Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacells.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Morro Dunes RV Park noted, “Sites are tight but not overly cramped FHU with cable.”
  • Bring Cash for Showers: Some campgrounds, like Morro Bay State Park Campground, require tokens for showers, so bring cash.
  • Dump Station Availability: Check for dump stations nearby. A camper mentioned, “There’s a dump station here but it’s not free even for campers,” at Morro Bay State Park Campground.

Camping around Paso Robles is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you’re in a tent, RV, or cabin. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Paso Robles, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Paso Robles, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 89 campgrounds and RV parks near Paso Robles, CA and 9 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Paso Robles, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paso Robles, CA is Morro Bay State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 58 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paso Robles, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Paso Robles, CA.

  • What parks are near Paso Robles, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Paso Robles, CA that allow camping, notably Carrizo Plain National Monument and Pinnacles National Park.