Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Pismo Beach, CA

Oceano Campground at Pismo State Beach accommodates dogs on-leash in all designated pet areas, offering pet-friendly sites for both tent and RV camping. Morro Bay State Park Campground, Lopez Lake Recreation Area, and North Beach Campground maintain similar pet policies, requiring leashes no longer than 6 feet. Sites at Pismo Coast Village RV Resort remain consistently tight, but the campground's location provides excellent beach access for dog owners. Local campgrounds are searchable through The Dyrt's listings. Each pet-friendly campground provides water stations and waste disposal areas, though pet owners should bring their own waste bags. Most campgrounds charge a pet fee ranging from $2-5 per night per animal with a maximum of two pets per site.

The beach access trails connecting most Pismo area campgrounds accommodate leashed pets, creating easy walking routes for morning and evening dog exercise. Nearby Oceano Dunes SVRA allows leashed dogs on designated beach areas, but not in vehicle recreation zones for safety reasons. TV Tower Road dispersed camping area permits pets without additional fees, though the primitive setting requires bringing all pet supplies. Weather considerations include fog and wind exposure at coastal campgrounds versus warmer inland temperatures at Lopez Lake. Several campgrounds experience frequent full bookings, particularly during summer months when temperatures remain mild enough for comfortable dog camping. Visitors note the resort's direct beach access makes for convenient dog walks despite the crowded campsites. Nearby veterinary services include emergency clinics in San Luis Obispo, approximately 15 minutes from most Pismo area campgrounds.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Pismo Beach, California (77)

    1. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    64 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 473-7220

    $25 - $40 / night

    "Popular with families and groups Grass around tent sites still green. Most parking spots close to level but bring some blocks. Individual large restrooms with flush toilets and sinks."

    "This campground is in a very cool location. You can walk straight out to the beach. There’s a monarch Grove right next to you."

    2. Morro Bay State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-2560

    $35 - $165 / night

    "Unlike many state campgrounds you find near the highway or railroad tracks, this one is located a nice distance from the road.  Still, it is within walking distance to a small marina and restaurant."

    "It is only 2 miles away from Morro Rock and the adorable tourist town full of shops and eateries."

    3. Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    35 Reviews
    Arroyo Grande, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 788-2381

    $60 - $70 / night

    "Long time campers in California are probably familiar with the feeling that the prep work required simply to get a reservation at the most popular national and state parks is more than prepping for the"

    "It was located right next to the water park but they had already closed for the season."

    4. North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

    22 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 473-7220

    $25 / night

    "I love Pismo Beach! The sites are large and perfect for a group of friends. They have incredible amenities. The beach is steps away."

    "I love pismo beach, dune and the town, very convenient!"

    5. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Santa Margarita, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 865-0416

    "You can find the entrance to TV Tower Road at the West Cuesta RIdge Trailhead."

    "The drive up is a bit treacherous but nothing unbearable. Our car can off road quite well, but our friend had a Volkswagen Golf and it also did perfectly fine and never bottomed out."

    6. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort

    18 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 773-1811

    "Very dog friendly. Closed to downtown Pismo. Easy access to the beach. Will go again."

    "This is a pricey rv park, but great location and very busy. It is competitive with the others around and think it was the best one in the area."

    7. Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park

    29 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-6101

    $25 - $150 / night

    "You can camp just steps from Spooners Cove (great place for swimming!) in Islay Creek Campground. It’s in the Montana De Oro State Park."

    "Sorry for the alliteration...we really enjoyed this CA State Park campground that is so close to the Pacific you can walk from your site to Spooner’s Cove Beach (dog-friendly)."

    8. Avila-Pismo Beach KOA

    14 Reviews
    Avilla Beach, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 595-7111

    $225 / night

    "Located just north of Pismo Beach, Avila is tucked away down a hill that is totally worth venturing off to."

    "The amenities are great & the location is very conducive beach lovers, hikers & cyclists. There’s even a farm across the road with the best pies! Big plus is the camp is very dog friendly."

    9. El Chorro Regional Park

    17 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 781-5930

    $25 - $50 / night

    "Near San Luis Obispo & Pismo Beach. When we stayed here it was for the Renaissance Faire (which has moved to San Luis Obispo proper). There were tons of loud people."

    "They do charge extra for dogs, $3.50/day/dog, but was well worth it as they have beautiful large dog parks a mile behind the campsite."

    10. Flying Flags Avila Beach

    8 Reviews
    Avilla Beach, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 888-0158

    $35 - $395 / night

    "Beach is 10 minute walk and allows dogs. Near to San Luis Obispo and so much more that the lovely Central Coast has to offer. Staff were very attentive and helpful."

    "If you’re okay with being about 5 feet away from neighboring campsites, this is a beautiful stay. Clean Bathrooms/Showers, beautiful views, and a short walk away from the beach."

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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Pismo Beach, CA

744 Reviews of 77 Pismo Beach Campgrounds


  • S
    Apr. 1, 2019

    Avila-Pismo Beach KOA

    Good base camp

    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.

  • Missy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Perfect spot for the beach and gatherings with friends

    I love Pismo Beach! The sites are large and perfect for a group of friends. They have incredible amenities. The beach is steps away. And the community has a good walking path and restaurants within walking distance.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Good Location Close to Beach & Lagoon

    Prior reviews accurate. Hook-up sites close together... non-hookup have more separation. Popular with families and groups Grass around tent sites still green. Most parking spots close to level but bring some blocks. Individual large restrooms with flush toilets and sinks. Nice large showers take state park tokens. 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. Close to Pismo Beach for many restaurants and pier. Classic California...

  • T
    Sep. 17, 2020

    Holiday RV Park

    Best location but very tight spots

    Want to be close to Pismo Beach downtown, the pier and the beach? This is the place for you! The spots however are very tight and short, although there are some that are somewhat wider so you can pull in next to your travel trailer.

  • S
    Sep. 1, 2016

    Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    A very sandy campground

    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.

  • Ariel & John  W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 12, 2020

    Pismo Sands RV Park

    Good location, clean & well-run

    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.

  • G
    Aug. 30, 2018

    Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground

    Popular Spot but Great Location

    This campsite is just south of the City of Pismo Beach along Highway 1 (albeit its called something different along this stretch). It’s a mixture of tent and trailer camping. Plenty of amenities on site but also very much a communal experience. Don’t expect to have a lot of space between you and your neighbor or much privacy. But heck there are stones throw from the beach and there is a trail on the south end to access. Also adjacent to the monarch butterfly sanctuary

  • Corey O.
    May. 23, 2021

    Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Great Location, lots of space

    This campground is in a very cool location. You can walk straight out to the beach. There’s a monarch Grove right next to you. And it’s about a 15-20 minute walk to Pismo beach Downtown and the Pier where you’ll find all of the main attractions in the area.

    Most of the campsites have little to no shade unfortunately. Each campsite has a fire ring though and each campsite has plenty of space between each site. While it’s not private, it’s spacious!

    Good cell phone service too.


Guide to Pismo Beach

Camping near Pismo Beach offers more than just coastal views. Set along the Oceano Dunes with elevations ranging from sea level to 500 feet, this area creates unique microclimates where summer fog typically burns off by mid-morning. Many campgrounds feature eucalyptus groves that provide natural windbreaks against the prevalent afternoon ocean breezes.

What to do

Hiking local trails: El Chorro Regional Park offers accessible hiking paths with views of Bishop Peak. "There are clean flush toilets and coin operated showers... There are trash dumpsters and segregated recycling bins," notes Laura M. at El Chorro Regional Park.

Wildlife viewing: Montana de Oro State Park provides excellent wildlife observation opportunities. "We also saw and heard hawks, turkey vultures, owls, and many other birds. We also saw a cute little weasel," mentions Barbara M. when staying at Oceano Campground.

Beach exploration: The area features multiple beach access points with varying terrain. "You can walk to the beach or drive on the beach. Driving in the beach was fun, but it was so windy and so cold! This was the end of May," shares Barbara M. about her experience at Oceano Campground.

What campers like

Proximity to amenities: Many campers appreciate the central location. "Super friendly staff. We only stayed one night and the lady at the reception put us in her favorite spot (nr 4) overlooking the lagoon. Beautiful sunset!" reports Manon S. about Pismo Coast Village RV Resort.

Natural surroundings: The native landscape creates sheltered camping environments. "Lots of space for campers and tents. Nice, CLEAN, showers and restrooms. Staying here gives free access to driving onto the beach," writes Vincent B. about North Beach Campground.

Seasonal wildflowers: Spring brings colorful blooms to many camping areas. "This campground is awesome. It's very beautiful, with lots of wildflowers, trees, trails, beach dunes…and squirrels," mentions Barbara M. about her stay at Oceano Campground.

What you should know

Weather variations: Coastal fog affects camping conditions differently than inland sites. "We have tent camped and the noise wasnt bad at all. Though there was some mystery animal howling/screeching through out the night," notes Morgan D. from Morro Bay State Park.

Insect preparation: Bug spray is essential, particularly in warmer months. "Also, 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," warns Barbara M. from Oceano Campground.

Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping requires appropriate vehicles. "The road was a bit sketchy, any 4WD would be fine I think. I took my mini van and camped at a turn out along the road because I was a bit hesitant," reports Caitlyn R. about TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping.

Tips for camping with families

Wildlife education opportunities: Family-friendly wildlife viewing is available at multiple locations. "Lopez is a wonderful and usually very mellow. Kayaking and fishing are both nice at Lopez as well. No cell reception, not for us on Verizon anyways, but you can drive about 1/2 mile down the road for it," explains Crystal J. from Lopez Lake Recreation Area.

Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "This is one of the most excellent coastal locations with full hook-ups. Our family loves heading to Old West Cinnamon Rolls, biking around the town, and visiting the beach. The park has excellent activities, and an on-site restaurant delivers to your site. Play structures are throughout," shares Jason M. about Pismo Coast Village RV Resort.

Educational facilities: Nature centers provide rainy-day alternatives. "Just a couple blocks from the beach make this conveniently located. A couple liquor stores and restaurants down the street as well," notes Codee C. about Oceano Campground.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: Choose carefully based on RV size and required hookups. "Well-placed sites, with easy access to the beach. The lack of electricity, water, etc at each site keeps the tenor of the place pleasantly low-key (tents and small trailers primarily when we were there)," recommends Patrick M. from North Beach Campground.

Dump station logistics: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "Good dry camping with water and dump station at the exit. Cheap and safe," advises Andre P. about North Beach Campground.

Power management: Generator restrictions vary by campground. "Large spots and amazing facilities but smell come from the sewing is really bad maybe because they put the picnic table near by the poo hole. I think have to watch about the dump stations. The rest is good," warns Andre P. about Pismo Coast Village RV Resort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Pismo Beach, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Pismo Beach, CA is Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach with a 4.1-star rating from 64 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Pismo Beach, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 77 dog-friendly camping locations near Pismo Beach, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.