Cabin camping facilities near San Luis Obispo, California range from rustic units to deluxe accommodations with varying amenities. Located in California's Central Coast region at approximately 230 feet above sea level, the area experiences mild Mediterranean climate with average temperatures between 55-75°F year-round. Rental cabins typically require advanced reservations, with peak season availability often limited from May through September.
What to do
Horseback riding along dunes: Pacific Dunes Ranch offers horseback riding experiences with beach access. "Wonderful resort with great views. Great staff, great long term campers, great amenities! Will definitely go back for another visit!" notes a visitor at Pacific Dunes Ranch.
Hiking nearby trails: Lopez Lake Recreation Area provides access to nature trails like Big Falls. "There are quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears. The lake is wonderful and usually very mellow. Kayaking and fishing are both nice at Lopez as well," reports a Lopez Lake camper.
Coastal biking: From Avila Hot Springs, cabin guests can access a bike path to the beach. "There is a bike path (5 miles round trip) that leads to the beach. The path is along a creek, surrounded by trees, and goes through a golf course. It is relatively flat and our 7yr old had a blast."
Water activities: Multiple cabin rental facilities offer water recreation options. "We've tent camped on primitive sites and camped with a pop-up with electricity & water. None of the full hookup sites have a view but some of the tent sites do. There isn't much fishing now, because the water is so low, but there are still pretty hikes to be had and water slides if it's hot," explains a visitor at Lopez Lake Recreation Area.
What campers like
Resort-style amenities: Many cabin rentals include access to facilities like pools. At Avila-Pismo Beach KOA, "The site was clean, we had full hookups, and the bathrooms were very clean too. Their store had a lot of items that you might need (groceries and alcohol) and little souvenirs."
Proximity to beaches: Cabins at several properties offer convenient beach access. "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!" notes a visitor at Pismo Coast Village RV Resort.
Family-friendly facilities: Many cabin locations include dedicated spaces for children. "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."
Natural surroundings: Several cabin rental properties maintain natural vegetation and wildlife viewing opportunities. "My family used to visit this campground for its easy accessibility for younger children. Deciduous trees and leafy ground cover make for a comfortable experience. Canoeing and kayak rentals available," states a Lopez Lake reviewer.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance bookings, especially during summer. "We surveyed a number of campgrounds in this area before booking for an entire month. We found the vibe to be very relaxed and quiet. Everyone seemed to be happy, respectful and easy going," reports a visitor at Pismo Sands RV Park.
Linen policies: Most cabins provide beds but require guests bring their own linens and bedding. "You are packed in fairly tightly in this campground, and it can get a bit noisy with loud trucks and motorcycles, but it wasn't constant nor overwhelming. The roads inside the park are paved, but the sites are gravel which will invariably end up inside your RV."
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations experience highway or traffic noise. "You are really close to the highway so you hear cars zoom past all night, not great for a light sleeper like me," notes one Avila-Pismo Beach KOA visitor.
Pet policies: Pet rules vary significantly between properties. "Dogs are allowed in the campground, but they must be on a leash at all times. Dogs cost $3.50 a day," explains a Lopez Lake Recreation Area guest.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin sizing options: Several properties offer varied cabin sizes for different family needs. At Santa Margarita KOA, "Easter weekend visit. Staff was awesome. The cabin was exactly what we needed for a low impact weekend of camping. Proximity to the lake was great. We had so much fun out on the water doing some fishing," notes a visitor at Santa Margarita KOA.
Children's activities: Many cabin rental facilities provide dedicated play areas. "They have great amenities. Walking distance to downtown Pismo. You can't beat the price and location. They have full hook-ups," states a Pismo Coast Village RV Resort guest.
Safety considerations: Some locations require additional attention for children's safety. "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."
Recreational options: Cabin rentals provide access to various children's activities. "Camp Arroyo Grande maintains cabin rentals with picnic tables and fire rings. Cool spot to explore, it's an event ground space with cabins, pool, showers, trails, nice views, and a beautiful place to explore."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility information: Cabin rental properties vary in their accessibility for larger vehicles. "This is a very clean, beautiful RV park. It's easy to get into with big trailers. We have a 35foot 5th wheel and no problems getting in. It's a newer park so not a lot of shade trees," notes a visitor at Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort.
Site features: Many cabin rental locations offer additional amenities for RV users. "Views are amazing. You can hear the sea lions at Port San Luis, birds of paradise and other lovely flowers, palm trees and eucalyptus. Very well maintained. Beach is 10 minute walk and allows dogs."
Seasonal considerations: Cabin rental availability and pricing fluctuates by season. "When not in Covid there is wine tasting. No mature trees or water outside of pools. Uber will pick up at campsite," states a Sun Outdoors Paso Robles visitor.
