Best Campgrounds near San Miguel, CA

The San Miguel area of California's Central Coast provides a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping options. Campgrounds like Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort and Sun Outdoors Central Coast Wine Country offer cabin accommodations alongside traditional RV sites, while Williams Hill Recreation Area provides more primitive dispersed camping experiences. The region includes several developed facilities within a 30-mile radius, with most concentrated around Paso Robles and extending toward the coast near Morro Bay and San Simeon, where both tent and RV camping are widely available.

Road conditions vary significantly between developed and dispersed camping areas, with some BLM roads requiring high-clearance vehicles. Most established campgrounds remain open year-round, though summer temperatures can reach uncomfortable highs, particularly at inland locations. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, with better coverage at developed RV parks near highways and limited to no service in more remote areas. Reservations are strongly recommended for developed campgrounds, especially during peak summer and fall wine country seasons. A visitor to Williams Hill Recreation Area noted, "This place is so great! It is difficult to find BLM camping in California and this is a gem!"

Campers consistently rate waterfront locations like Lake Nacimiento Resort and coastal state parks among their favorites, with many highlighting the proximity to beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Several developed campgrounds in the area feature full hookups, swimming pools, and other amenities that appeal to RV travelers, while more primitive sites attract those seeking quiet and natural surroundings. The region's campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring attractions like Hearst Castle, coastal towns, and wine country. Visitors frequently mention the contrast between crowded but amenity-rich RV parks and more spacious but basic public land camping options. A camper at Morro Bay State Park observed, "Unlike many state campgrounds you find near the highway or railroad tracks, this one is located a nice distance from the road."

Best Camping Sites Near San Miguel, California (95)

    1. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort

    18 Reviews
    Paso Robles, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 242-4700

    $119 - $219 / night

    "There is also a little hiking/walking trail around the campground."

    "The area is surrounded by natural grassy areas with some trails. The park was busy and a bit loud over the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend, but otherwise not busy and very quiet."

    2. Franklin Hot Springs

    15 Reviews
    Paso Robles, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 712-5372

    $28 / night

    "The area around the pool is covered. The lake next to the pool is used for fishing.
    The camp fee includes a fee per person to access the spa."

    "We also enjoy the surrounding wildlife and lack of noise.

    Friendly owners."

    3. Sun Outdoors Central Coast Wine Country

    8 Reviews
    Paso Robles, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 238-4560

    $73 - $234 / night

    "The sites are very close to each other unless you upgrade but still will get to know your neighbors."

    "The surrounding streets are either small two-lane roads with no shoulder or a 65 MPH highway. There's no place to walk, hike, or safely bike."

    4. San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    60 Reviews
    San Simeon, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-6101

    $35 / night

    "General: Two campgrounds: San Simeon Creek, close to Highway One and the beach and Washburn Primitive, located about a mile inland."

    "This is a quaint campsite along California’s Central Coast. Not a lot at the site but in great proximity to Hearst Castle, elephant seals, zebras (no joke) and cute towns."

    5. Vines RV Resort, A Sun RV Resort

    6 Reviews
    San Miguel, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 467-2100

    "I came to the Vines in an old vintage beat up RV with quite the traumatic story trailing and I have been blessed beyond what I could imagine would be possible."

    "The dog area isn't much, but the bathrooms near the office are nice. The bathrooms in the back weren't quite as nice. Spots are close together like any RV park, but you can tap into full hookups."

    6. Paso Robles RV Ranch

    5 Reviews
    Paso Robles, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 237-8685

    "There is easy access to highway 101. The park has about 70 slots big enough to fit any size rig. There is a nice pool and a very helpful staff."

    7. Williams Hill Recreation Area

    32 Reviews
    Jolon, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 582-2200

    "Lots of area to explore, but this is mainly an off road vehicle area."

    "covered structure, picnic table and fire pit •A few additional overflow areas to park and camp •Pit toilet - BYO toilet paper •No trash receptacles •Great Verizon reception / Decent Sprint reception •Drive"

    8. Morro Bay State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    29 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."

    9. Lake Nacimiento Resort

    7 Reviews
    Bradley, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 237-4924

    $45 - $55 / night

    "Overall, the privately-owned sites at Lake Nacemiento resort are good - but you'll probably want to get one of the reserved spots!"

    "We camped right on the lake and were able to pay to have our boat docked overnight. Huge lake awesome experience, we were able to do some night wake boarding which I had never done ."

    10. Morro Strand State Beach Campground

    37 Reviews
    Morro Bay, CA
    26 miles
    Website

    $35 - $50 / night

    "Located just off Highway One between Morro Bay and Cayucos, the grounds look somewhat like a parking lot with trees and shrubs separating it from the sand dunes and the ocean."

    "Beach walks can be nice... with scenic views up and down coast. Also neighborhood walks along bluff above campground are relaxing. Restrooms clean but basic."

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Recent Reviews near San Miguel, CA

869 Reviews of 95 San Miguel Campgrounds


  • Sophia L.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    Raccoon Attack

    the overall site was nice and everything went smoothly during the day. There are no bear boxes (big metal boxes at most campsites to store food so animals can’t get to it) so we put all our food in a big cooler that we thought nothing could get into. Wake up after 30 mins of sleeping to noises outside, a whole family of raccoons are eating our food. they destroyed a good amount of our food and our camping materials and the problem was they wouldn’t leave us alone. they were aggressive and would not leave, climbing the trees above us and popping left and right out of the bushes. we have no where to put our food (since raccoons can get into your car through the engine and cause major damage). They were surrounding us, we were yelling and jumping to try and scare them away but they were persistent. We thought they might even attack us as they did not seem very scared and were very aggressive. We had no choice but to quickly pack up all our stuff while someone was on raccoon guard and leave in the middle of the night. I was very disappointed.

  • K
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Camping spot

    Great spot with fire pits & gazebos it’s first come first serve also has a bathroom, no water or electricity, park ranger comes up nd does routine check but it’s great camping spot over all very quiet came up here an their was others but everyone minds their own really great place to camp, I’ll definitely becoming back again

  • Bobbii J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Vinyl Vineyards

    GORGEOUS !

    I had such an unforgettable stay at Vinyl Vineyards! I stayed at the David Bowie trailer, and it was pure nostalgia full of vintage charm, character, and cozy vibes. Everywhere I looked felt like stepping into a different era in the best way possible. The property itself is expansive and breathtaking. I got a private UTV tour across their 120 acres of vineyards, and it was absolutely unbeatable, wide open views, rolling vines, and that peaceful Paso Robles magic. The vibe on the property was incredible, and the outdoor shower was such a unique, refreshing touch that made the stay even more memorable. And the wine? Unforgettable. Their rosé is absolutely on point, hands down my favorite. Do the tasting, you won’t be disappointed! I felt completely at home here, and I can’t wait to come back, next time with my pets and my daughter in tow. Vinyl Vineyards is such a gem, and I’m already counting the days until I return.

  • Michael S.
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground

    Use your 4x4 for what it was intended for, but use caution

    Just spent the weekend in the Oceano SVRA, and some things I noticed:

    1. Even with the reduced number of campers, the camping area still seemed really full.

    2. The sand was very soft and deep in the camping area, and I saw multiple 4x4 trucks getting stuck, including a Lexus GX460, 2 Toyota Tacomas and 1 4Runner, and a stock Jeep Wrangler. 

    3. The dunes are ridiculously fun to drive on, but they are also dangerous. They are also very devoid of other vehicles due to the limited number of entries, so DO NOT go out alone. There are plenty of places to get lost in, and if you're at the bottom of a dune, you cannot see where you are and will be lost. 

    So much fun, even the mariachi bands blasting music until 3 in the morning was fun.

  • 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.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    The Beachhouse RV Park

    Ok if you just need a basic place and is near Beach

    Misremembered names, ended up at Morro strand RV park when meant to be at Morro dunes RV park. This one, Morro strand is in a depressing area and park itself is gravel everywhere not grass or plants. At least it's only a 10 min walk to the Morro beach, with great view of Morro Rock. It does have ok facilities including coin laundry on site

  • Michael R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    San Simeon Camping

    Great campground with plenty of space between sites! Sites have plenty of shade and facilities are clean and well kept! No more than two vehicles are allowed in a site, but there’s free parking on the road that runs next to the campground and it’s easy to walk up the embankment and get to your site from the road.


Guide to San Miguel

The San Miguel area sits in the inland region of California's Central Coast at approximately 600 feet elevation, characterized by oak woodlands and rolling hills transitioning to more mountainous terrain to the west. Summer camping conditions often feature daytime temperatures reaching 90-100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing with occasional rain. Unlike coastal campgrounds, inland sites near San Miguel generally remain accessible year-round without the heavy fog common closer to the ocean.

What to Do

Thermal soaking at mineral springs: Franklin Hot Springs offers natural thermal pools just south of San Miguel. "The thermal sulphur spring pool is amazing. It's windy so if you're in a tent tie it down! Great hidden gem," notes Monica M., who appreciates the healing properties of the water despite its distinctive smell.

Wine tasting with shuttle service: Several campgrounds partner with local wine tour services that provide transportation. At Sun Outdoors Central Coast Wine Country, "The small vineyard next door is a must stop, especially since it's literally right next to the campground," recommends James B., who appreciated the easy access to Paso Robles wineries.

Kayaking in Morro Bay: About 35 miles west of San Miguel, Morro Bay State Park Campground offers water activities without the crowds of larger coastal destinations. "You can walk to rent a canoe to paddle around the bay," notes Carrie A., highlighting the convenience of water recreation directly from the campground.

What Campers Like

Convenient wildlife viewing: At San Simeon State Park, 40 miles from San Miguel, visitors can easily observe marine mammals. "The elephant seals are always fun to go watch, and individuals can sometimes be seen on San Simeon beach," writes a camper who appreciates that the animals aren't behind barriers.

Uncrowded BLM camping: Williams Hill Recreation Area provides free dispersed camping with unexpected amenities. "Each of the (7) sites had a concrete pad with a covered picnic table and a BBQ pit!" reports Brett L., surprised by the facilities at this no-cost option. The area sits at higher elevation, offering valley views not found at commercial campgrounds.

Access to both coast and wine country: San Simeon Creek Campground serves as a strategic base for regional exploration. "In great proximity to Hearst Castle, elephant seals, zebras (no joke) and cute towns," notes Gamaliel A., highlighting the diverse attractions within a short drive.

What You Should Know

Road conditions vary significantly: The drive to Williams Hill requires preparation. "Our transmission did start heating up as the road was filled with washboard and it was steep and we had to go pretty slow," cautions Brett L., though he notes that "any car will be able to make it up there."

Summer heat inland vs. coastal fog: Temperature differences between inland and coastal sites can exceed 30°F. At Morro Strand State Beach Campground, "Weather can be fickle with cold, wind and fog even in summer," explains Leonard H., contrasting with the consistent heat at inland campgrounds.

Campsite spacing varies dramatically: At private RV parks, proximity to neighbors is common. At Wine Country RV Resort, "The sites are very close to each other unless you upgrade but still will get to know your neighbors," writes James B., while state parks generally offer more separation between sites.

Tips for Camping with Families

Beachfront options for kids: Morro Strand State Beach offers immediate beach access without hiking. "You can't get any closer to the ocean, and if you are lucky enough to camp in one of the sites on the west side, you have an unobstructed view of the waves," shares Angela D., noting it's a "nice for the kids to be able to ride their bikes or scooters."

Amenity-rich alternatives for summer: Lake Nacimiento Resort provides water recreation beyond swimming. "We camped right on the lake and were able to pay to have our boat docked overnight. Huge lake awesome experience, we were able to do some night wake boarding which I had never done," writes Erin M.

Pool access during hot months: At Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort, pools provide relief from summer heat. "We used both pools and spas daily even in December. Sites are gravel with concrete pads. All have fireplaces," shares Michael D., highlighting the year-round swimming option.

Tips from RVers

Consider seasonal site upgrades: During peak summer heat at Wine Country RV Resort, concrete pads stay cooler than gravel. "We were glad we upgraded to a concrete pad, rather than the spaces with DG," notes David W., who found the temperature difference worth the additional cost.

Propane fill availability: Fuel options are limited in the immediate San Miguel area. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles offers "bulk propane fill at $3.50/gal. Filling hours are currently 10am-noon and 2-4pm," according to Laura M., saving RVers a trip into town.

Laundry facilities: For extended stays, access to laundry becomes important. At Paso Robles RV Ranch, "Friendly staff, super clean CC operated Laundry, no more searching for quarters!" highlights Paul M., noting a practical advantage for long-term campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near San Miguel, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, San Miguel, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 95 campgrounds and RV parks near San Miguel, CA and 10 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near San Miguel, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near San Miguel, CA is Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort with a 4.4-star rating from 18 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near San Miguel, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near San Miguel, CA.