Best Glamping near San Simeon, CA

Escape into nature and disconnect from daily life with glamping near San Simeon. Glamping near San Simeon is especially popular among campers who enjoy beds and electricity. Search nearby glamping or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Glamping Sites Near San Simeon, California (16)

    keith B.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Limekiln State Park Campground — TEMPORARILY CLOSED near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Limekiln State Park Campground — TEMPORARILY CLOSED near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Limekiln State Park Campground — TEMPORARILY CLOSED near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Limekiln State Park Campground — TEMPORARILY CLOSED near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Limekiln State Park Campground — TEMPORARILY CLOSED near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Limekiln State Park Campground — TEMPORARILY CLOSED near Lucia, CA

    1. Limekiln State Park Campground — TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    40 Reviews
    152 Photos
    1151 Saves
    Lucia, California

    UPDATE ( February 7, 2024 ) - Limekiln State Park is CLOSED until further notice due to storm damages and Highway 1 road conditions. Highway 1 remains a hard closure at Paul's Slide (Hwy. 1 PM 21.7) - meaning the highway is CLOSED to all public and emergency vehicles at that location with NO DETOUR. Crews continue to work 12-hour shifts and seven days a week to repair damages from the landslide. The current estimate from Caltrans for reopening Hwy. 1 at Paul's Slide is late Spring 2024.

    The southern closure is located one half mile south of Paul's Slide. There is no parking in the turnaround area. Limekiln State Park remains CLOSED with entry into the park strictly prohibited. It is also illegal to camp in turnouts or anywhere on Highway 1 along the Big Sur coast unless in a designated campsite in a campground open to the public (Monterey County Code 14.18.020(a)). Travelers on Hwy. 1 north of Ragged Point will encounter multiple areas of intermittent traffic control as repairs to damage from winter storms continues at various locations.

    Situated on California’s scenic Big Sur Coast, about 55 miles south of Monterey, Limekiln State Park has weathered its fair share of hardships. It began in the late 1800s, when the Rockland Lime and Lumber Co. began stripping the limestone out of the canyon for use as building materials for the burgeoning San Francisco area. At the time, the redwood forest covering these coastal slopes was almost entirely clearcut. Nearly a century later, after recovering, the area was almost clearcut again, but conservation groups intervened. It finally became a state park in 1995. Since then, a portion of the park burned in 2008, then it was threatened with closure in 2012, due to state budget shortfalls. The park was saved once again when the Save the Redwoods League stepped in to assist with funding and maintenance needs.

    The small campground in Limekiln State Park offers 29 campsites in two areas along Limekiln Creek. About half are in an open area near the highway, with beach access; the other half are located upslope, under a canopy of shady redwoods. Sites are small and can only accommodate trailers up to 15 feet, and RVs up to 24 feet; each site is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Both upper and lower camp areas have drinking water, restrooms, showers and picnic areas. Firewood gathering is not permitted in the park, and dogs must remain leashed at all times. Visitors should keep in mind that this is a rugged coastal environment, and exercise caution around cliffs and near the ocean; climbing on the cliffs is not permitted. Campsite rates are $35/night.

    The main attraction at Limekiln State Park is the old lime kilns that still sit at the base of the hillside, more than a century since their last use. These giant furnaces were used to purify the limestone being mined out of the canyon, before it was shipped north for construction uses. The kilns can be seen via a 0.5-mile trail from the upper camp area. A short side trail on the way to the kilns leads to 100-foot Limekiln Falls. Watch out for poison oak while hiking. The park is also a great place for wildlife watching. Keep your eyes peeled for bobcats, foxes and ringtails on shore, and otters and gray whales in the ocean. More than 200 species of birds are known to inhabit the area, including pelicans, peregrine falcons and California condors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach near Grover Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach near Grover Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach near Grover Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach near Grover Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach near Grover Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach near Grover Beach, CA

    2. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    61 Reviews
    257 Photos
    72 Saves
    Grover Beach, California

    Oceano Camp (sites 1-42)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $40 / night

    Chanel C.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Cerro Alto Campground near Atascadero, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cerro Alto Campground near Atascadero, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cerro Alto Campground near Atascadero, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cerro Alto Campground near Atascadero, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cerro Alto Campground near Atascadero, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Cerro Alto Campground near Atascadero, CA

    3. Cerro Alto Campground

    15 Reviews
    83 Photos
    197 Saves
    Atascadero, California

    Overview

    Cerro Alto Campground is a well-known hiking and mountain biking paradise. It is located a short distance from the sandy beaches of Morro Bay, where visitors enjoy surfing, fishing, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving and more. While the campground offers a serene, relaxed environment, both Morro Bay and the nearby town of Atascadero offer numerous dining opportunities, shopping, museums and other activities. Wine Tasting in the Tempelton, Paso Robles Area is also a very popular experience.

    Recreation

    Visitors enjoy ample hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding opportunities, along with a 360-degree view of the Central California coast and inland valleys. The 4-mile Cerro Alto Trail, which leads to the peak, begins within the campground. Morro Bay beaches are less than 10 miles from the campground, offering wide sandy stretches and swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving and more. An 18-hole championship golf course is located in the oceanside town.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated in a mixed oak, pine and sycamore forest at an elevation of about 1,000 feet. It lies in a verdant canyon pass along a semiannual mountain creek. The roads are paved, but narrow, winding and single lane with turnouts to each site.

    Nearby Attractions

    Paso Robles, which is quickly becoming known as a premier spot for Central Coast wines, is located 20 miles from the campground. Wine tasting tours are offered daily, or visitors can select individualized tours of numerous wineries located in the area. The campground makes a great base camp for motorcyclists or day-trippers to visit the quaint, neighboring towns of San Luis Obispo, Cayucos, Harmony and Cambria, all of which are within 35 miles of the campground. Tours of historic Hearst Castle are also available. Visitors can spend time relaxing at the many available day spas located at nearby Avila or Grover beaches. Off-road vehicle trails are available on famous Pismo Beach.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $35 - $39 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Nacimiento Resort near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Nacimiento Resort near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Nacimiento Resort near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Nacimiento Resort near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Nacimiento Resort near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Nacimiento Resort near Bradley, CA

    4. Lake Nacimiento Resort

    7 Reviews
    10 Photos
    114 Saves
    Bradley, California

    At Lake Nacimiento, there are seven unique campgrounds to choose from. Whether you plan on truly “roughing it” or want to bring along your fully outfitted RV, you will find a campground that pleasantly accommodates your vacation. EAGLES RIDGE This is the fifth campground from the entry gate, turn right off the main road and continue to the campground. Many people consider this the very best overflow campground you could ask for. Others make it their first choice. Many of the spaces are walk in and have fantastic views of the lake and resort. There are chemical toilets, trash service and fresh water provided. All the spaces are first come first serve and many require a significant change of elevation to access. If you are looking to get away from it all and don’t mind a drive or hike to the nearest showers, Eagles Ridge might just be the place for you. OAK KNOLL *Reservations Only This very peaceful campground is the first campground after Entry Gate on the right with 40 Full Hook-up single sites. Most sites have picnic tables, barbecues, and fire rings. The campground has flush toilets and free showers conveniently located a short walk from all the sites. Boat trailer spaces are provided on a first come first served basis. Overflow parking is provided in the Day Use lot located near the General Store.If you are looking for peace and quiet it can usually be found at Oak Knoll. Reservations for Oak Knoll campgrounds can be made by calling: (805) 237-4924 opt. 1 PINE KNOLL *Reservations Only If you are seeking water access and close proximity to the store, marina and restaurant Pine Knoll is probably where you want to be. Many campers choose this over any other location and tell us it is their favorite getaway in California. With over 90 campsites, two flush restrooms and free showers this is where it is at. When camping in Pine Knoll you can leave your car at your camp and walk to the pool, shoreline and seasonal movie theatre. Water is provided close to most spaces. The flat areas have lots of shade and are the closest to the lake. The upper campsites have sweeping views and can take advantage of the cool evening breezes. Pine Knoll is by reservation only and fills quickly on the busy weekends. QUAILS ROOST *Reservations Only First campground through Entry Gate on your left as you enter. This campground provides campers with a choice of 60 single regular sites. Most sites have some shade and back up on open space. There are convenient flush restrooms and free showers located in the center of the campground, an easy walk to all the sites. Water is located throughout the campground and most sites have fire rings and barbeques. Picnic tables are provided on most spaces. This campground is not recommended for large RVs and vehicles with trailers due to the narrow roads. Quails Roost is a reservation campground. If you are looking for a place to take the family and friends, try out Quails Roost for an experience you wont forget. ROCKY CANYON This canyon based campground is the second campground on the right after Entry Gate. No Large RVs or large vehicles towing boats allowed to enter this campground due to the narrow roads and parking areas. For use by tent camping groups only. This is a first come, first serve campground with 14 sites ranging from single vehicles up to seven vehicle group sites. Sites have picnic tables and barbeques, some have fire rings. The campground has flush toilets and free showers conveniently located in the campground. Built on the ridge above the lake, Rocky Canyon affords many of the sites magnificent views and access to the evening breezes. Shade is provided in many of these campsites by a mix of pine and oak trees. Bring your friends and family and enjoy one of these mini group sites. First come, first serve. SANDY POINT *Reservations Only Fourth campground after Entry Gate, turn right twice. Sandy Point has 12 single and group sites. Reservation and site assignment by Office prior to use required in this very popular campground. Advance reservations are highly recommended but limited space may be available on a first serve basis, check at the entry gate before going to Sandy Point. No hook-ups, water is available close to many of the spaces. Flush toilets and free showers are located centrally in the campground. Narrow roads, use caution, not suggested for vehicles towing boats and trailers. Sandy Point boasts a large day use area available for registered Sandy Point campers and that famous sandy beach at the campground is named for. If you want the very best camping experience that Nacimiento has to offer, most people agree that is found at Sandy Point. For Reservations please call 805-237-4924 opt 1

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $45 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Lake San Antonio - North Shore near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake San Antonio - North Shore near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake San Antonio - North Shore near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake San Antonio - North Shore near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake San Antonio - North Shore near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake San Antonio - North Shore near Bradley, CA

    5. Lake San Antonio - North Shore

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    49 Saves
    Bradley, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo at Lopez Lake Recreation Area near Arroyo Grande, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lopez Lake Recreation Area near Arroyo Grande, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lopez Lake Recreation Area near Arroyo Grande, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lopez Lake Recreation Area near Arroyo Grande, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lopez Lake Recreation Area near Arroyo Grande, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lopez Lake Recreation Area near Arroyo Grande, CA

    6. Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    34 Reviews
    87 Photos
    385 Saves
    Arroyo Grande, California

    Located just ten miles east of Arroyo Grande, California, Lopez Lake Recreation Area is one of the top choices for camping and leisure trips. With 22 miles of shoreline and summer lake temperatures around 70°F, there is something for everyone; camping, fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking and equestrian trails, mountain biking, zip-lining, birdwatching and so much more. The warm climate of the Central Coast makes Lopez Lake the ideal, year-round recreational destination. Once covered by the sea, the surrounding hills of Lopez Lake are rich with relics of ancient days and studded with oak trees. Over 175 species of flowering plants, and more than 150 species of birds have been identified within the park. The naturally beautiful canyons were once hunting and fishing grounds for the Chumash Indians. Later, homesteaders and ranchers inhabited the area and harvested grain crops for Mission San Luis Obispo. Lopez Lake was then created in 1969 to provide domestic water for the Five Cities area of the Central Coast.

    Lopez Lake with its 22 miles of shoreline is the ideal year-round recreational destination for everyone. There are 377 campsites to choose from. Many overlook the lake, and others are nestled among picturesque oaks. There are primitive, electrical, full hook-up, and group campsites available. Hot shower facilities are at several campgrounds. Camping reservations can be made up to one year in advance.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $60 - $70 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Avila-Pismo Beach KOA near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Avila-Pismo Beach KOA near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Avila-Pismo Beach KOA near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Avila-Pismo Beach KOA near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Avila-Pismo Beach KOA near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Avila-Pismo Beach KOA near Avilla Beach, CA

    7. Avila-Pismo Beach KOA

    14 Reviews
    8 Photos
    153 Saves
    Avilla Beach, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $225 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore near Bradley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore near Bradley, CA

    8. Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    7 Saves
    Bradley, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Nacimiento Campground near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Nacimiento Campground near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Nacimiento Campground near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Nacimiento Campground near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Nacimiento Campground near Lucia, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Nacimiento Campground near Lucia, CA

    9. Nacimiento Campground

    4 Reviews
    16 Photos
    316 Saves
    Lucia, California

    Temporarily closed. Small campground with 9 campsites located among oak trees. Located near a running creek. Recreational Vehicles no longer than 25 feet.

    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo at Flying Flags Avila Beach near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Flying Flags Avila Beach near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Flying Flags Avila Beach near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Flying Flags Avila Beach near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Flying Flags Avila Beach near Avilla Beach, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Flying Flags Avila Beach near Avilla Beach, CA

    10. Flying Flags Avila Beach

    7 Reviews
    33 Photos
    135 Saves
    Avilla Beach, California

    Whether you’re the kind of person who enjoys taking photos or just taking a little extra time for yourself, you’ll love staying at Flying Flags at Avila Beach. Wake up to postcard-perfect ocean views and leisurely walks on the beach. Evenings in Avila Beach are perfect for cozying up around your fire pit. Picnic tables make al fresco dining easy for the whole family. Find dog relief stations around the property to make it easy to keep your best four-legged friends comfortable too. You will find unbeatable access to some of the Central Coast’s best hiking, biking, and paddleboarding with unending sights and sounds of the Pacific. Both recreation and relaxation come naturally here.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $35 - $395 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews near San Simeon, California

224 Reviews of 16 San Simeon Campgrounds


  • Crystal
    Camper-submitted photo from Avila-Pismo Beach KOA
    Sep. 11, 2020

    Avila-Pismo Beach KOA

    Great location but loud

    This was our first trip in our RV and I think it worked out well. The location of this place is perfect with lots to do in the area. 1 hour south of here was Solvang and Ostrich farm, 1 hourish north is Cambria and San Simeon. There is also Avila beach about 5 minutes away and pismo about 10 min. If you need anything, San Luis Obispo is 5 minutes away.. the facility was very nice, with lots of trees that give the "escape" feeling and the people that work here are FABULOUS!! The only downside was the noise. You are really close to the highway so you hear cars zoom past all night, not great for a light sleeper like me.

  • Erin M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Nacimiento Resort
    Jul. 25, 2016

    Lake Nacimiento Resort

    Huge lake great camping

    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 . Tons of grass when we were there, California has since had a gnarly drought so you might wanna call ahead. Really Great Lake to camp and take the family to!

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Avila-Pismo Beach KOA
    Oct. 18, 2020

    Avila-Pismo Beach KOA

    Nothing speical

    Dusty little place. It was the only one available since all of the surrounding spots were booked up.

    Restrooms and showers close at 6p, so only potter potties are available after that.

    Also the tenting spots are really close together.

    $45 is way to expensive for what it is. Even for California.

  • Frank P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Apr. 14, 2022

    Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    Great spot for kids!!

    We recently stayed at Lopez Lake with our three children (all under age 9). The sites are easy to navigate, the wildlife flourishes throughout the area for some fun viewings, the rangers and staff were super helpful and there was plenty of room for the kids to run around. The Lake was low, but this is California so, ya know. Water was chilly but the kids were soldiers and it was a good time and extra relaxing for us parents. For $30 a night, it’s worth every penny!

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Great Campground

    We stayed here a few years ago, but on the primitive / non-hookup side. We stayed on the E/W hookup side this time and liked it as well, though it does have the more typical RV/parking lot feel as compared to the other side.  There's a nice walking trail that connects the two sides. It's $50 for an E/W site, plus an $8.25 reservation fee.

    There's a cool lagoon that you can walk all the way around on, with lots of birds, and much of it accessible as well which is nice. There's a cool visitor center, open 12-4. The beach is a short walk away. There's a great Mexican restaurant down the road also, Old Juan's, it's so good and has great vegan options.

    The showers here are nice and clean, and $1 gets you 4 minutes.  The showers are individual, private, and non-gendered. There was no host on site when we were there, but the rangers were very present.  This campground, like all California State campgrounds we've been to recently, has trash, recycling, and a food compost bin which I love.

    There's a fun game for kids where you download an app and go on a scavenger hunt and complete other challenges.

    No dump station here, but there's one just 2 miles north at North Beach Campground, and it's $10 for dump and water fill there.

  • Nathaniel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Jul. 13, 2021

    Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    A Gem of a County Park

    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 trip itself. This is true not just for the most famous parks, like Yosemite, but for many others as well. Wanna camp between late May and early October in a well known state park? Better book that reservation months in advance. This is especially true for RV sites, as there are even fewer of those.

    But sometimes you want to just get away on shorter notice. This is where the CA county park system comes to the rescue. County parks are numerous and much easier to get reservations at. And Lopez Lake, part of San Luis Obispo county doesn’t disappoint. The lake itself is a man made reservoir, and the campground sits right behind it. It’s got a mixture of tent sites and RV sites, some will full hookup - although some may only have 15/20A power. There’s lots to do on the lake, and Pismo Beach is a short drive away. Is a weekend at Lopez going to be like that epic 4 day trip you took to King’s Canyon or Zion or Yellowstone that you planned years in advance? No. But if you decide to take a long weekend in the late summer, there’s a good chance Lopez Lake will have spots available, especially during the week. Highly recommended.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    May. 9, 2023

    Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Affordable on the beach!

    We rolled through on a Friday night in May with no reservations and got absolutely lucky to snag the very last site.  Would not recommend chancing it on weekends in the high season.  We only were able to get a site because the ADA sites are released at 5pm and we happened to be there right at the right time to get one.

    Very nice campground - one side is hookups at $40 (electric and water only), and this side is kind of boring with RVs all lined up in a row. FYI there are no sewer hookups here and no dump station. You can drive two miles up the road to North Beach and use their dump station and water fill for $10.  We stayed on the tent side for $25, no hookups and much more pleasant and green and beautiful.

    There's a lagoon and a boardwalk to walk around it, but the boardwalk ends and the trail turns to mud and it was pretty much impassible when we were there - thick black muck that will suck your shoes off and get your dog's belly all dirty. Watch for mosquitoes, especially the sites along the lagoon.

    Beautiful walking trails to the beach - we saw a coyote here!  We heard them yipping all night as well.  Interesting experience for us to see and hear them right on the beach. 

    As with all state parks now, there are recycling and food waste bins available, thank you California!

    The visitor center is right at the entrance of the campground and there's a good Mexican restaurant within easy walking distance as well.

    Overall a great place, amazingly cheap, and we're happy we got lucky and snagged a spot!

  • Chanel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Oct. 18, 2019

    Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Ranger Review: Morsel Sporks XL at Pismo State Beach Oceano Campground

    [ PROS]

    • Super close to the beach! There are a couple beach trails that lead you right to the ocean.

    • Love that you can walk to the dunes and spend the entire day there.People bring the craziest beach set ups and have bonfires and cookouts here. Souped up trucks with ATVs roll through and drive right along the beach. It’s quite the sight to see.

    • Very convenient location to ATV rentals, beach/convenient stores, and a few eateries.

    • Fantastic park rangers serveiling the campgrounds every hour. The ranger presence definitely keeps the rowdy crowd here in check.

    • There looked to be a very nice Visitor Center. For some unknown reason, they were closed both days that we were there.

    • Really big and clean showers and restroom facilities. They were very well maintained considering how packed and heavily used they were. Toilets ran out of toilet paper so make sure you come prepared.

    • We saw tons of cool birds around the campsite. My favorite of the weekend were the swallows that flew around dusk. They fly like bats! We also enjoyed seeing a couple ospreys by the beach. We even saw one catch a fish!

    • Campfire is sold here for$8/bundle at the camp host.

    • Each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and 2 parking spot. Our neighbors had 3 cars so we let them use one of our parking spots since it was a madhouse here.

    **[ CONS]
    **

    • Hard to find availability. This place is usually pretty booked up.

    • Very, very crowded campsite. Sites are extremely close together so there is very little privacy. It feels like a giant parking lot

    • Sites are small so setting up two tents feels very cramped already. Luckily we just stayed in our tent trailer on a parking spot so we felt like we had a little more space.

    • Loud campground! This place attracts a party crowd so be prepared to listen to people roll in with their loud souped up trucks and blast music on speakers throughout the day. Hope you like listening to hip hop from 10am-9pm!

    • It doesn’t seem like the 8 person max/site rule was regulated. People had upwards of 12 people at a single campsite so you can imagine how crowded the place was.

    • There was constantly a long line for the showers throughout the day.

    Overall, this is not my favorite place to camp by far. It feels more like a giant tailgate party than it does camping. We were looking for a nice relaxing weekend by the beach so had an unexpected weekend. This is one of the few places left in California that allow cars, trucks, RVs, and ATVs to drive right on the beach. It’s pretty weird to see. They also allow people to have bonfires right on the sand so be careful where you walk. There’s ash and coal everywhere. And sadly, also lots of trash left behind from people.

  • Amanda M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Oct. 27, 2018

    Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    Lopez Lake

    Lopez Lake Recreation Area is 15 minutes behind the “Village” of Arroyo Grande, CA.

    Lopez is a frequently visited spot for us - We generally camp in a primitive site the back of the Squirrel Loop of the park. The Squirrel Loop is not a lakeside loop (you cannot see the lake at all from here), but we have found it to be one of the quieter, less trafficked campground in the park. The Squirrel Loop is nestled inside a canyon, surrounded by big, beautiful live oak trees.

    Lopez Lake is a very large campground with many different loops, so many of which are nearby the lake. If you haven’t been to the campground before and are not worried about reserving a site ahead of time, take some time to drive around the park when you arrive to see what area you would most like to camp in - there are a lot of great spots here there and everywhere!

    Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring. There are clean plumbed bathrooms, and coin-operated showers. Lopez has full hook-ups for RVs, and a marina to launch boats. There is a small but well-stocked convenience store in the marina with food, ice, firewood, beer, fishing gear, etc. There is also a small cafe located in the marina store, with limited hours.

    Lopez Lake is the home of the Mustang Waterpark, a small, but super fun water park. I believe the park is closed during the fall and winter months, but is open during the spring and summer. Swimming is allowed in the lake, and there are some “beach” areas that have been cleared of lake plants and rocks for safe swimming.

    Hiking to Big Falls is a fun adventure if you want to leave the campground. There are certain times when the falls are not accessible without 4WD, however, we have been in severe drought conditions in Central California for the last few years, so you don’t have to worry about crossing any deep creeks, if any. A super low clearance vehicle may have a challenging time crossing the creek beds, even when dry. The drive to Big Falls trailhead from Lopez is short, but probably takes 15-20 minutes as you are driving through a curvy, narrow canyon road. The hike is through live oak trees most of the way, so most of the hike is nice and shaded. Keep and eye out for salamanders when crossing the creek beds! While it is unlikely, black bears mountain lions have been spotted on the Big Falls trail, so be aware of your surroundings. Here are directions to the Big Falls trailhead: http://www.hikeslo.com/big-falls/

    WARNING : 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. I would suggest locking your food and coolers up in the car at night to avoid attracting wild animals to your campsite.

    CAMPSITE SPECS

    Fees: $35/night (primitive site)

    Plumbed Toilets: Yes

    Drinking Water: Yes

    Showers: Yes (coin-operated)

    Picnic Table: Yes

    Firepit: Yes

    Cooking Grate: Yes

    Shade: Yes

    Cell Service: No

    Animal Bins/Food lockers: No

    Trash: Yes

  • Margo A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Nacimiento Resort
    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.)

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Nacimiento Resort
    Sep. 13, 2021

    Lake Nacimiento Resort

    Noisy Neighbors in Pine Knoll

    We went here with another family and were in spots 23 & 36. It was a perfect area for the kids to play. The campsite was very crowded and quite a few of the neighbors were very loud even after the quiet hrs. The park staff never came to ask them to quiet down at all. The bathrooms were not great. I didn’t take a shower but they are free and according to my friend were hot but not clean. We had fun but it definitely has a party vibe at the campsite

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Nacimiento Resort
    Sep. 29, 2021

    Lake Nacimiento Resort

    Disgusting. Only go here if you're desperate and you don't care about clean facilities

    It was late in the day and we were desperate so we came here. Nobody else was here at all. That could be a plus, But they should really keep the bathrooms clean. Attached are pictures of the bathrooms

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Nacimiento Resort
    Jul. 16, 2021

    Lake Nacimiento Resort

    Greatish

    Our campsite was pretty ideal! We were in pine knoll with a great view of the lake! We scored with the size of our site! Our site was shaded all morning and all afternoon...midday unsure cuz well we were on the lake....but a lot of sites near us had direct sun on the site constantly it seemed...also was like next door to restrooms so that was nice...but had a lot of foot traffic because of that.. I am new to Lake life but finding quickly I am more of a mountain camper...this camp ground is definitely a party site and camp sites are on top of each other thankfully we had very nice neighbors that actually gave us tips and tricks to all things lake camping. With being on top of each other my family now knows all the baby momma drama of everyone that stayed there....dont go here to relax and hear nature....again great camping if party is what your looking for!

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Nacimiento Resort
    Apr. 17, 2017

    Lake Nacimiento Resort

    Great scenery! Well-maintained sites

    Overall, the privately-owned sites at Lake Nacemiento resort are good - but you'll probably want to get one of the reserved spots! They are further away from the boat launch, general store, etc, and can be much quieter (depending on who your neighbors are, of course!) If you call for reservations, the staff are quite helpful, and they can even describe some of the attributes of the sites. For example, we stayed at the Sandy Point campground, which was quite close to the water, and they helped me find a site big enough for our group. BUT! be sure to ask about which sites are more secluded - some of the sites are right next to each other, some are a bit more private.

  • Craig M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Nacimiento Resort
    Jan. 5, 2022

    Lake Nacimiento Resort

    Pine Knolls

    We were headed to Kirk creek for New Years and hwy 1 was closed, so we found here as a alternative. Pretty much had the place to ourselves probably because it poured for 3 days prior and was cold. Bathrooms were clean, campsites are really close together, we overland and need a wide campsite for the full set up. Camp sites # 313, 217, 215, 311 were the ones we like for size and view.

  • Margo A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore
    Oct. 23, 2020

    Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore

    A little bit of everything ..

    The first time I went to Lake San Antonio was with a birdwatching group looking for bald eagles. It was another hot summer and the water level of the lake was low. That didn’t deter the eagles as they flew across the lake to try to dive down and catch a fish. San Antonio Lake is 17 miles long and narrow with both north shore and south shore campgrounds. The South Shore Campground has more amenities such as flushing toilets, showers and a marina, launch ramp and boat rentals. There are 4 group sites with hookups and 3 large family campgrounds each with 100 or more sites. Only sites with hookups can be reserved. Fishing can be good with lots of striped bass in the lake. Fees include 15$ per car/boat. Currently the lake is open but the campgrounds have closed at various times due to the fires in Monterey County. Summer droughts can reduce water levels significantly. Check the status prior to visiting at 805-472-4311 or Monterey County Parks website.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore
    Jan. 15, 2024

    Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore

    Pretty lake but no potable water

    There is no potable water available, not even a water fountain. People and animals cannot touch the water. You cannot fish or swim in the lake. There is no reduction in price. This may be temporary, but it has been this way for at least a year.

  • Armando C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Jul. 27, 2021

    Lake San Antonio - North Shore

    Weekend with Grandpa

    We stayed at a cottage at Lake San Antonio. We were fortunate to have a local show us around. Grandpa is a local to Bradley and this is a favorite spot when we want to get away but still have all the accommodations of home.

  • Emily S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    May. 30, 2018

    Lake San Antonio - North Shore

    Beautiful!!

    I love this place! So many beautiful views and amazing spots to camp. The lake is everything. A few years ago it was dried up. Thank you rain! Now it’s back and better than ever.

  • Jack J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Jul. 11, 2024

    Lake San Antonio - North Shore

    Weekend Trip

    Great camp ground. Launched the boat and anchored it to shore. Literally had the place to ourselves. Fishing was great from shore in morning and dusk. They had clean bathrooms and showers.

  • Chip K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Sep. 7, 2021

    Lake San Antonio - North Shore

    Sunny gem

    It was a warm weekend at San Antonio. The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer. There is ample space for camping . You’ll need reservations if you want a hookup . Boat ramps are available. During the drought the water level has dropped significantly as well as the quality of the water. Some years the lake is almost dry. Camping spaces are spread out finding shade can be a challenge. Bathrooms and shower are available.

  • Anthony O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground
    Aug. 1, 2020

    Cerro Alto Campground

    Morning bliss with birds signing

    We were running late and it was first come first serve so we were nervous getting but when we did they were hardly anyone there so we got a lot of space to ourself, the campground aren’t to smush together. If you can get one where there’s no one it’s amazing. It’s like 45 min away from morrow bay, downtown slo so you can grab some stuff back and downtown slo is just awesome every cool. Bring a lot of Deet spray cause that place was crazy in bugs and day and all night .they had good trails and a lot of nice green forest when we went around June. Would come back again !

  • Lulu A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground
    Aug. 3, 2020

    Cerro Alto Campground

    First come first serve

    Found a location on fcf basis. Campsite #2 was nice but had to walk through campsite no. 1 In order to get to my car, which was kind of a hassle. I’m thankful the people in campsite 1 were friendly and didn’t mind me walking by their site. The site was far away from the host, and the near by neighbors partied til 1am. That sucked, it was a Tuesday and they had no respect for the nearby campers. I wish the host would do their rounds at 10pm, which is their quiet hours, and ask the campers to quiet down.

  • Stacy C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground
    Nov. 15, 2020

    Cerro Alto Campground

    Plans change when Big Sur is on fire

    We got here on a Friday around 11am for a walk in site and the campground was packed. Luckily the campground hosts were very nice and had placed us in the overflow campsites. Which was just a small open area with another group already set up there. The next day they gave us a walk in campsite so we could have a campfire. However it was next to the restroom and the wind brought the smell to our site. The host did keep the toilets clean though. Lots of mosquitos around as well.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Cerro Alto Campground
    Jun. 3, 2021

    Cerro Alto Campground

    Incredible trails, lots of tree cover, all sites are in the shade

    This is not a camp ground for taking your big travel trailer or large RV!!!!  I would say that your max tow trailer would be a 24' and then you will need a place to park your truck.  Some spots are great, some horrible.  Meaning that you are just parking next to the main road.  We got very lucky because the camp host saw us trying to set up and said that someone else was a no-show and we could have their spot.  It turns out it was the only spot that we could fit in!!!  Other spots are just a spur from the main road, but have a nice area a little further from the parking spot.

    If you are tent or van camping, I think that this place would work fine.  Picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets.  We made reservations months in advance so I don't know how busy it can get.  Our 4 day/3 night trip was in November and all of the sites were reserved, but only 30% of the people showed up (at most).

    It rained when we were there and it was beautiful.  We probably won't return due to the size of the camp sites and there are other places near this one that are cheaper.


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