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Best Dog-Friendly Camping near San Luis Obispo, CA

673 Reviews

TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping allows pets throughout its rugged mountain site near Santa Margarita. This free camping area offers primitive sites with no amenities but delivers spectacular panoramic views of Morro Bay, Los Osos, and San Luis Obispo. Campers can bring dogs to any of the three pull-off areas at the mountain summit, where 2-3 vehicles typically park at each location. Pets must be kept under control as there are no designated pet areas or waste stations. Other pet-friendly options include Lopez Lake Recreation Area with cabins that welcome pets, and Pismo Coast Village RV Resort where dogs are permitted at both tent and RV sites. The narrow, winding access road to TV Tower Road requires confident drivers and vehicles with adequate clearance, especially challenging after dark or in poor weather conditions.

Morning views from TV Tower Road reveal a dramatic sea of clouds and distant mountain peaks stretching to the coast. Dogs should be leashed due to steep drop-offs along the narrow ridge trail and potential wildlife encounters. Oceano Campground at Pismo State Beach provides another pet-friendly option with drinking water and picnic tables, though some campers report persistent flies at TV Tower Road during summer months. El Chorro Regional Park offers more developed camping with pet access to trails, flush toilets and showers. For RV campers, Morro Dunes RV Park accepts pets and provides full hookups. Weather conditions significantly impact pet comfort, with TV Tower Road experiencing extremely strong winds that can rock vehicles throughout the night and limited shade during summer heat.

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Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near San Luis Obispo, California (73)

    1. Morro Bay State Park Campground

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

    $35 - $165 / night

    "We met a group here and camped at a couple of adjacent sites. It is a premium location very close to the Pacific Ocean, and you can walk to a little store and very casual restaurant on the water."

    "There is plenty to see and do in town, and the campground has a kayaking company within walking distance. There's also a natural history museum across the street."

    2. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

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

    $25 - $40 / night

    "It started raining cats and dogs during the night, 7am the rangers advised that evacuations could be in store....3pm we had to leave the campground and we were directed further down the coast to Oceana"

    "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."

    3. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

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

    "We were trying to find a spot to camp near San Luis Obispo and hoped to find a place in Los Padres Natl Forest. We saw the road in our map book and aimed to follow it."

    "I went all the way to the end as it allows some walking around room. If you’re tent camping beware the wind, gets pretty crazy. Had one wind free day out of three."

    4. Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    35 Reviews
    Arroyo Grande, CA
    13 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."

    5. Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park

    29 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    12 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)."

    6. Morro Strand State Beach Campground

    37 Reviews
    Morro Bay, CA
    14 miles
    Website

    $35 - $50 / night

    "Dogs are not allowed on beach to protect endangered species but walking the camp road up to the main road gives enough elevation you can see the ocean and Morro rock in the distance, and the houses have"

    "The site next to ours was occupied which made parking the trailer a little tricky- almost like parallel parking and the sites are close together like a parking lot."

    7. North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

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

    $25 / night

    "The beach is steps away. And the community has a good walking path and restaurants within walking distance."

    "Staying here gives free access to driving onto the beach. Lots of families and dogs. Noise wasn't a problem other than generators constantly running."

    8. El Chorro Regional Park

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

    $25 - $50 / night

    "This is a great campground close to San Luis Obispo. It is great for tent or RV camping and is located near a park, garden, and golf course."

    "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."

    9. Morro Dunes RV Park

    23 Reviews
    Morro Bay, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-2722

    $35 - $74 / night

    "It was a very nice place got a great spot next to bathrooms and dog park."

    "California, Morro Dunes RV Park Located right on the beach and ocean near Morro Rock. Within walking distance from Downtown Morro Bay.

    Directions: From highway 1 exit at E. G."

    10. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort

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

    "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."

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

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Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near San Luis Obispo, CA

68 Photos of 73 San Luis Obispo Campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near San Luis Obispo, CA

673 Reviews of 73 San Luis Obispo 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.

  • Beth R.
    Jul. 30, 2020

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    100% worth it...but get there before sunset!

    Ok so my first encounter with this road (TV Tower Road) was after 10 p.m. in mid-July. We were trying to find a spot to camp near San Luis Obispo and hoped to find a place in Los Padres Natl Forest. We saw the road in our map book and aimed to follow it.

    It was dark, and we had to anticipate the road off 101 S, because it comes quickly and the signs are easy to miss. We were able to exit and follow the one-lane road (it’s narrow) as it began to wind up the hillside. We weren’t counting on gaining so much elevation, but we were pretty stoked because after two switchbacks we had an amazing view of the sky. The pavement ended and we continued on a packed dirt road.

    It is quite narrow at parts, but there are spots along it where 2 cars can pass each other. There are bumps and rough patches, but nothing you haven’t encountered if you do much backwoods driving. Anyways.

    That night was a Friday, and it was also a peak viewing night for the comet, and there were SO many (like 8) cars that we had to pass/maneuver around. In the dark, without knowing the road, it was pretty high pressure, and we chose to turn around about halfway up, without knowing how the road ended.

    So, disappointment. However, after a fun day in Los Osos and Morro Bay, we decided to tackle the road in the daylight. We got there around 6, in full summer light, and only encountered one driver coming down. 

    When you reach the top of the ridge, the road opens up. It’s the bumpiest here, but there’s a lot of space to spread out & set up. We saw probably 12 other cars (vans, SUVs, RVs) there, and some people had set up tents. The views are incredible. It’s a super peaceful place to spend a night or two.

    We had binoculars for stargazing, but with them we could explore the details of the hills and landmarks. If you’re into radio, reception is very clear. The temperature was overall very comfortable, and we had a great night car camping. 

    The biggest caution is driving—expect to have to deal with some cars going the other way. Also, keep an eye out for hikers and mountain bikers who also use the road. If you’re down to try it, this spot is so worth it!!

    Bring food, water, a flashlight...the regular. There are no bathrooms, so be warned.

  • H
    May. 17, 2018

    El Chorro Regional Park

    Great Campground Close to SLO

    This is a great campground close to San Luis Obispo. It is great for tent or RV camping and is located near a park, garden, and golf course. It is a short drive to San Luis Obispo or Morro Bay where you can hike, shop, relax on the beach, and eat great food.

  • J
    May. 17, 2018

    El Chorro Regional Park

    Near San Luis Obispo

    Nice camp site. 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. We definitely need to return to give this an honest review. It can't be as bad as I'm remembering it.

  • Margo A.
    Oct. 9, 2020

    Lake Nacimiento Resort

    Camping by Lake Nacimiento

    This lake and the one up the road, San Antonio Lake , are very popular motor boating locations in north San Luis Obispo County. Camping in the summer months are very hot and crowded and not cheap. On the positive side, the lake is huge with narrow passages where you can get off the main lake and fish or just have fun. Jet skis, kayaks etc are permitted. There is a beach for kids near the marina area campground. The campground is part of the private Lake Nacimiento Resort located near the marina and extends along the shore toward the dam with various types of sites. Some sites have direct access to your temporarily moored boat. It gets a bit noisy in the evening as college students party after a long fun day on the lake. All services are available even a store. Three stars for noise and crowds and prices ( tents 35$ hookups 50$, plus pet fee, vehicle fee,etc.)

  • Rachel A.
    Dec. 26, 2020

    Mathews Trailer Lodge & RV Park

    Convenient location

    Convenient location right off the 101 in a very lovely little central coast city. Nearby markets, swap meet, drive-in and gas stations. Location is really what this grounds has going for it as San Luis Obispo is such a treasure

  • C
    Jan. 21, 2022

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Open! (Jan 2022)

    Super spectacular views! I went all the way to the end as it allows some walking around room. If you’re tent camping beware the wind, gets pretty crazy. Had one wind free day out of three. Looking down on the bay, San Luis Obispo and HW 1. Can’t stress how flippin beautiful it was. Just. Wow.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2024

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Windy with Expansive Views of SLO

    When I saw the TV tower road sign, that marked the last paved road until the actual TV tower hill.  I rode all the way to the end with some medium difficulty off roading there are some steep bits with uneven terrain.  Taking the road up to TV tower are some of the best views you can get from the surrounding area.  John R.'s review accurately sums up the camping experience.  The wind was shaking my tent all night until the morning.  But thankfully I had bugspray the insect problem was solved.  Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites.  Would for sure camp again if in the San Luis Obispo area.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Flying Flags Avila Beach

    Great place

    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. Near to San Luis Obispo and so much more that the lovely Central Coast has to offer. Staff were very attentive and helpful. There are areas with community fires for gathering, small store. Bocce ball and other games. I dry camped which worked out just fine. $10 dump fee when you leave is available for dry campers. Full hookups also available but they fill up so advance reservations needed.

Guide to San Luis Obispo

Discovering pet-friendly camping options near San Luis Obispo, California, allows you to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friends. Here are some excellent campgrounds that welcome pets and offer a variety of amenities and activities.

Dog owners appreciate spacious sites and amenities

Tips for camping with dogs near San Luis Obispo

Pet-friendly campgrounds include great activities

  • At Morro Dunes RV Park, you can enjoy horseback riding in the dunes while your dog explores the nearby beach.
  • Santa Margarita KOA features a playground and plenty of open space for your dog to run and play.
  • Flying Flags Avila Beach offers easy access to the beach, where you can take your dog for a fun day in the sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near San Luis Obispo, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near San Luis Obispo, CA is Morro Bay State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 62 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near San Luis Obispo, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 73 dog-friendly camping locations near San Luis Obispo, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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