Oceano Campground offers primitive sites at Pismo State Beach with both woodland and beach dune camping experiences. Located on California's central coast at an elevation near sea level, the campground sits within 25 miles of seven additional camping options ranging from basic tent sites to deluxe glamping accommodations. The area's Mediterranean climate features morning fog that often burns off by midday, with summer temperatures averaging 70°F.
What to do
Beach hiking trails: At Lopez Lake Recreation Area, campers can explore multiple hiking trails around the lake and surrounding hills. "There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears," notes a visitor at Lopez Lake Recreation Area.
Horseback riding: Pacific Dunes Ranch offers guided rides through coastal terrain. "They had horseback riding and a small playground. Our site was night to the dunes so easy walk to the sand, but about 30 minute hard walk to the ocean," explains a camper.
Wildlife viewing: Monarch butterfly groves provide seasonal viewing opportunities near Oceano. "Awesome campsite. 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," reports a camper.
Dune exploration: Walk through sand dunes that define the coastal landscape. "You can walk off the property and directly into the sand dunes," shares a visitor at Pacific Dunes Ranch.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer lake or ocean fishing access. "There is a launch ramp and marina store in the campground," notes a camper about Lopez Lake Recreation Area.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain restrooms and shower areas regularly. "Bathrooms were fine. There was running water," states a camper at Oceano Campground. Another notes that Santa Margarita KOA has "Super clean bathrooms/showers."
Family activities: Recreation areas offer amenities beyond camping. "A bit pricey but we just wanted to get out of the house. They have frisbee golf and horse shoes. They even have an Emu that is friendly and your kids can pet," says a visitor at Santa Margarita KOA.
Convenience to attractions: Most campgrounds provide proximity to multiple destinations. "This is a great location if you want access to the beach and nearby towns with nice basic amenities," shares a camper at Avila-Pismo Beach KOA.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Pismo Beach, California, several KOA campgrounds offer these accommodations. "The cabin was exactly what we needed for a low impact weekend of camping," explains a Santa Margarita KOA visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially in summer. "You can make reservations online and you can reserve a specific site. They have sites ranging from primitive to full hookups," explains a camper at Lopez Lake Recreation Area.
Weather considerations: Coastal winds can be intense at certain campgrounds. "It can get very windy and the first day was," notes a camper at Jalama Beach County Park.
Wildlife precautions: Several campgrounds have wildlife that requires attention. "While the possibility of a black bear sighting is fairly uncommon, black bears are seen every year at Lopez Lake. You are in black bear county, and there are no bear boxes/food lockers at Lopez Lake," warns a visitor.
Cell service limitations: Remote locations may have limited connectivity. "No reception at campgrounds (0 bars with AT&T)," reports a camper at Cerro Alto Campground.
Site conditions: Many coastal campgrounds feature sandy sites. "All on sand/hard pack. Lots of permanent campers or long term folks," explains a Pacific Dunes Ranch visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection: Choose campgrounds with designated play areas. "The campground is well maintained and patrolled by rangers often," notes a Lopez Lake Recreation Area visitor.
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate repellents for specific areas. "Mosquitoes! How could I forget. Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacells. They're out and about and it's not fun if you're not prepared," advises a camper at Oceano Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Yurt camping near Pismo Beach provides structured accommodation options for families. "They have a pool, jumping pillow, playground, etc. RV spots are on flat, dusty parking areas and are easy to navigate," describes a visitor at KOA Campground Santa Margarita.
Safety considerations: Be aware of natural hazards in each area. "Keep an eye out for salamanders when crossing the creek beds! While it is unlikely, black bears and mountain lions have been spotted on the Big Falls trail, so be aware of your surroundings," cautions a Lopez Lake Recreation Area camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose level sites with adequate amenities. "Our site #171 was a pull-through and was completely level, a definite plus," notes a Pacific Dunes Ranch visitor.
Hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full connections. "Each site had a picnic table and a fire ring. There are clean plumbed bathrooms, and coin-operated showers," explains a visitor at Cerro Alto Campground.
Maneuverability: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. "When they designed it, they didn't really make enough room to maneuver. I watched a Class A next to plow up a bank with his front end. Some scratches resulted and some plowed earth," warns a Flying Flags Avila Beach camper.
Utilities planning: Water and electrical connections vary by campground. "Oceano CA. Wooded nice spaces with 20 amp electric and water," reports a visitor at Oceano Campground.
