San Simeon camping options extend beyond the coastal area into nearby towns including Paso Robles, Morro Bay, and Pismo Beach. The region experiences mild temperatures year-round, with summer highs averaging 75°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 45°F. Most campgrounds in this Central California coast area remain open throughout all seasons, though winter brings occasional rain that can affect unpaved sites.
What to do
Horseback riding on beaches: Pacific Dunes Ranch in Oceano offers on-site horseback riding along the dunes and beach. "They had horseback riding and a small playground. We came in late and it was hard to find our map and site reservations," notes Ryan S. The trails lead directly to the sand dunes with about a 30-minute walk to reach the ocean.
Wine tasting tours: Near Sun Outdoors Central Coast Wine Country in Paso Robles, campers can explore local vineyards. "We did the wine line and they pick up and drop off at the campground," explains Tonya C. The surrounding area features dozens of wineries within a 15-minute drive.
Beach hiking: From Morro Dunes RV Park, walk directly across to the dunes for beach access. "Very clean, friendly staff, and the best thing of all is the access to the beach is across the street," shares Robbie G. The park provides convenient access to Morro Rock and harbor area, both within a 10-minute walk.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort maintains high standards for bathrooms and common areas. "This is a resort style park with all the amenities. We used both pools and spas daily even in December. Sites are gravel with concrete pads," reports Michael D. The resort features two separate pool areas and maintained restrooms throughout the property.
Proximity to attractions: Pismo Coast Village RV Resort provides easy access to local points of interest. "We have spent many weekends at this resort, they have great amenities. Walking distance to downtown Pismo," writes Teresa S. Most sites include full hookups within a quarter mile of the beach and town center.
Pet-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome dogs with dedicated pet areas. "We took our high energy dog there to run. They also have a great playground for the kids," mentions Devon H. about Sun Outdoors Paso Robles. The park includes at least two separate dog park areas along with recreation facilities for children.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer and holidays. "If you're planning to visit during summer or on holidays, you'll want to book months ahead since the spots fill up fast," advises a regular camper. Most parks accept reservations 6-12 months in advance.
Site surfaces vary: Vines RV Resort offers different site options. "They do have an awesome building by the pool that offers use of a play/game room, kitchen, grills, and dining room," notes one visitor, though they also mention "It's just cement pads on top of each other so no one has any privacy from their neighbors." Some parks offer upgraded concrete pads while others have decomposed granite or gravel surfaces.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds sit near major roads. "It is a very clean, beautiful RV park. It's easy to get into with big trailers," says a camper, but others note certain parks are "located right along the freeway so you're constantly hearing the roaring vehicle and truck sounds."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming options for children. "We used both pools and spas daily even in December," shares Michael D. about Sun Outdoors Paso Robles. Their facility includes a larger main pool plus a smaller lap pool, both maintained year-round.
Playground facilities: Camp San Luis Obispo RV offers a secure environment for families. "We go here with our kids and love it as it's clean secure and close to (15min) to the beach," says Bjorn. The military base campground maintains strict quiet hours after 10 PM for families needing consistent sleep schedules.
Beach proximity: Several parks offer short walks to shorelines. "Something for any age. We enjoyed the lower tier area," comments Keith about Pacific Dunes Ranch. The walking distance to beaches varies, with some requiring a 30-minute walk across dunes while others like Morro Strand RV Park are just a "short safe walk to the beach" according to Alexandria L.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Most RV parks in the San Simeon area provide leveled pads. "Sites are gravel with concrete pads. All have fireplaces and seemed appropriately level," notes Michael D. Many parks accommodate rigs up to 45 feet with appropriate hookups.
Laundry facilities: Cypress Morro Bay RV Park offers convenient in-town amenities. "Small quiet park in town, but just 3 blocks from the bay. Full services available," shares David R. The location provides walking access to restaurants and services while maintaining full hookup capabilities.
Dump station locations: While most sites offer sewer connections, dump stations vary between properties. "We stayed for 14 days, but would have saved a BUNCH if we could have stayed for longer and gotten the monthly rate," mentions Michael D., highlighting the value of longer stays with full hookups versus relying on dump stations.
