Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Pismo Beach, CA

We stopped here for a few nights so we could hook up to shore power for a bit, do laundry, dump etc. The campground itself is small and old so the sites can be a little small for the larger rigs. Bathrooms and showers were clean. People who run it were extremely accommodating - it was difficult for us to access the dump hookup in our first assigned site (we have a macerater with a very short hose) so they moved us to a better site. Easy walking/biking access to Avila beach (4.8miles round trip), and quick drive from Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo. They allow leashes pets and have a small dog park and pet “walk,” and while these are great, I also like to walk my dog around the whole campground when we can’t take her walks elsewhere, and this campground is very limiting. They have several signs up where dogs aren’t allowed.

Overall, this is a great location if you want access to the beach and nearby towns with nice basic amenities.

Pismo Beach is known for its white sand dunes that go on for miles. Located right on the Pacific Ocean, this campground is a perfect spot if you plan on riding the nearby dunes but not if you plan for a quiet weekend getaway. During the summer, lots of people (young, old, families) seem to stay at this campground which cause a lot of noise. Sites are close together which doesn't offer much privacy. Dust is everywhere! The campground has showers which are necessary but just when you think you are clean, you aren't. Very close to stores for ice, food, etc. If you want to experience Pismo Beach for the dunes, this is the place to stay. If you are there jus to camp, I'd recommend finding something elsewhere.

We stayed here in March 2020 when COVID-19 blew up so it may not be reflective of more typical times.

Park is centrally located, close to stores etc and 5-10 min drive to Pismo Beach.

There are both tent and RV sites of all sizes, 30/50A hookups, water & sewer, plus concrete fire rings and picnic tables at each site. Lots of green, trees, and a small duck pond.

Some permanent residents but mostly travelers.

Park was clean, staff friendly and efficient. Bathrooms, showers, laundry were all clean and operational but were shut down while we were there due to COVID.

Per friendly with a dog run. Good for a night or two for us.

If beach access while camping is your thing, this campground may be the ticket. Tucked behind the dunes (and you definitely want a site next to the dunes!), sites are not entirely on top of each other (but avoid the two middle rows if you want a little breathing room), and all have decent access to the clean bathhouses. There is a nice trail that goes around the outer edge of the campground through the dunes out to Hwy 1 and on to Pismo Beach. It also connects to the Monarch Butterfly Grove on the other side of the creek. Each campsite has the usual picnic table and fire ring. Go buy your firewood from the camp hosts, it’s a big no-no yo gather firewood in the park. I was also warned about locking up my car with valuables hidden; apparently there have been some thefts from cars in the campground in past years (the hosts said it hadn’t happened in a while, but rangers are of the belief of using an ounce of prevention). The best sites are 20,22, 24, 25, 27, 29, and 31 if you want to be next to the dunes and have good beach access.

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!