San Simeon State Park offers multiple camping options along California's central coast, with both developed campgrounds and primitive sites. The park includes San Simeon Creek Campground with flush toilets and showers, and the more rustic Washburn Primitive Campground with pit toilets. Both accommodate tents and RVs without hookups. Several miles south, Morro Bay State Park and Morro Strand State Beach provide additional camping with varying amenities. For those seeking dispersed camping, Williams Hill Recreation Area offers primitive sites approximately 30 miles inland from San Simeon.
Campgrounds in the region typically remain open year-round, though advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer months. Most developed sites range from $20-35 per night depending on amenities and location. "The Washburn Campground at San Simeon State Park is our go-to campground for quick and easy camping in Central California," noted one camper, highlighting its affordability at $18 per night compared to $35 for full campsites. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area—Verizon coverage is often weak or nonexistent at San Simeon Creek, while T-Mobile generally provides better connectivity. Water availability can be limited at primitive sites, particularly during drought conditions.
Proximity to coastal attractions represents a major draw for campers visiting the San Simeon area. Several reviewers mentioned the convenient access to Hearst Castle, elephant seal viewing areas, and the beach via trails from the campgrounds. Sites at San Simeon Creek Campground along the creek offer more privacy and shade, with opportunities for hammock camping. The primitive Washburn Campground, while lacking showers, provides superior views of the ocean and surrounding hillsides. Campers frequently note the well-maintained facilities despite high usage. Wildlife sightings are common, with ground squirrels described as particularly bold at some campgrounds. For those willing to venture farther from the coast, inland dispersed camping areas offer greater solitude but fewer amenities.
$35 / night
"General: Two campgrounds: San Simeon Creek, close to Highway One and the beach and Washburn Primitive, located about a mile inland."
"Its also close to the Elephant Seal beaches (the young adults were moltIng when I visIted)."
$20 / night
"Washburn Campground is one of two campgrounds in Hearst San Simeon State Park, the other being San Simeon Creek Campground. We stayed in both campgrounds."
"A few sites with shade next to trees. Only 20% occupied late October. Close to Hearst Castle, elephant seals, State Beach w/ pier, nice coastal overlooks. $20 without typical discounts."
$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."
"This is a busy campground and your neighbors' sites are fairly close by, limiting privacy."
$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."
$35 / night
"San Simeon Creek Campground is one of two campgrounds at Hearst San Simeon State Park, the other being the primitive Washburn Campground."
"No hookups, but there’s water at each site and conveniently located flush toilets, sinks and showers. Right off Highway 1 for a bike ride and walking distance to a beautiful rugged beach."
$35 - $74 / night
"The location makes it worth it. Steps away from the sandy beach, a view of morro rock, less than a mile walk to all the downtown shops."
"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."
"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"
$25 - $150 / night
"Quiet, peaceful and surrounded by skies perched out atop a hill."
"It was peaceful, beautiful surroundings, and a decent amount of space between campsites. The coastal air, hills, and nearby ocean views made it a great escape."
$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 ."
$45 - $204 / night
"Walking distance to beach and hiking. Off road 4WD trails next to camp sight. Beautiful trees there too."
"Very nice campground with good privacy and shade for sites on the loop that surrounds the facility."
GuideSo quiet and peaceful yet close to the colleges, town, Northern beaches. Bring quarters for the showers, clean bathrooms, hook ups for those who want them, great for RVs or tent camping.
ScoutBeautiful hilltop campground with stunning sunrise, sunset, and 'sea of clouds' views over the eastern and western valleys. The only major drawback is that daytime quiet is often shattered by nearby gunshots.
ScoutI wanted a nice stopping point on my drive from Big Sur back to LA, and thought this would be a sweet spot. Wrong. I pulled up to my site on the Upper Section Campground, and frankly was appalled they charge for this. It felt like a big parking lot. No separation between campgrounds, no privacy, super windy. mostly asphalt. Really just awful. I didn't even stay. I chose to drive back to LA instead. I can't believe they charge $43 with fees for that. Really embarrassing for the CA State Parks!
TravelerThe far end, higher number camp spots, are water only. There is also a train close by every couple hours. It is a state park so there will be an inconsiderate ass.
TravelerThe location makes it worth it. Steps away from the sandy beach, a view of morro rock, less than a mile walk to all the downtown shops. The area is great to branch out and visit other towns too, Los osos for montano de oro, San Simeon for Hearst castle and elephant seal, Atascadero for the zoo, etc. the campsites are nothing special, but they are a decent enough size and well maintained. Good enough to still want to eat dinner and play games by the fire. Another perk was that the campground was very quiet, even on a busy weekend. Not sure if it is because rules are enforced, or maybe that’s just the crowd it attracts.
ScoutNeeded a last minute place to stay the night. Decently clean pit toilet, good area, and nice people. Only $20 so not bad, but didn’t get service on the drive in and spotty service once at the spot.
TravelerI stayed here on a Monday. The campground is quiet, although most spots were filled. The restroom and shower amenities were fine, although hand soap is not available. Camp staff were very friendly and the squirrels loved greeting me while I cooked dinner!
GuideWe had the best experience here. It was warm, peaceful, and truly the best reset for our family. We took our tent trailer, teenager and 3 dogs. We stayed Thursday through Sunday. The perfect days in my opinion. Water was great for floating and fishing, as well as swimming and watching the boats on the water. We stayed in a campsite, not down by the water. Which was perfect for us. Our dogs loved playing in the water as much as we did. This is truly a great place.
TravelerThis is a busy campground and your neighbors' sites are fairly close by, limiting privacy. The restroom/shower facilities are old-- peeling paint and what appears to be mold. $1 gets you a 6 min shower. Hand soap is not provided in the restrooms. Now for the pros: camp staff are super friendly and you're near some fantastic views in central California!
San Simeon sits on California's Central Coast at elevations ranging from sea level to 230 feet, characterized by a marine Mediterranean climate with mild, foggy summers averaging 75°F and cool winters rarely dropping below 45°F. The area features diverse camping options across coastal bluffs and inland hills, with the most primitive sites experiencing coastal fog that often burns off by midday during summer months.
Beach exploration at Morro Strand: Walk directly from your campsite to the shoreline. "Great beach walks can be nice... with scenic views up and down coast. Also neighborhood walks along bluff above campground are relaxing," notes one Morro Strand State Beach visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for marine mammals from coastal camping sites. "The beach is another story... Morro Rock was there but the fog covered it up most of the time," reports a camper at Morro Strand. At San Simeon Creek Campground, one reviewer mentions that there are "camp kitties that will visit you if you are lucky enough."
Hiking the Bluff Trail: Access scenic coastal paths within walking distance of campsites. At Montaña de Oro State Park, a camper recommends: "Spooner Ranch House open daily 10am-4pm provides good historical background before taking scenic coastal walk along the Bluff Trail. Other more adventurous inland hike/bike trails also available."
Water recreation: Kayak in protected coves and inlets near camping areas. "In the Washburn Primitive Campground, there are only vault toilets but the one I looked at appeared clean," mentions a San Simeon Creek Campground reviewer who adds that "there are two trails that lead to the beach: one from the campsites and the other via a wooden boardwalk, a short walk from the campground."
Ocean views from elevated sites: Many campsites offer direct views of the Pacific. At Washburn Primitive Campground, a reviewer describes the setting as "Primitive campground ocean beach 1/2 mile walk, wave sounds all day, scenic view, sites spaced out OK, some trees but bright and airy."
Quiet, less developed campgrounds: Several primitive sites offer more peaceful experiences. "We love this campground and stay here whenever we're going through the area. It's got a mellow, chill vibe, and other campers we meet here have all been nice and friendly," says a Washburn Primitive Campground visitor.
Natural surroundings: Campers appreciate the native habitats surrounding sites. A Montaña de Oro visitor notes: "This place is 10/10. Clean bathrooms, quiet and quaint. Close to one of the most beautiful beaches. The campsites in the way back are the best..much quieter."
Affordability of primitive sites: Basic campsites provide economical options. "Still $20/night plus $8 online reservation fee," reports a Washburn Campground reviewer, who also mentions that "ATT and Verizon have weak but usable service, and the WeBoost does help here."
Limited services at primitive sites: Many campgrounds lack full amenities. At Kirk Creek Campground, a visitor cautions: "No running water; bring plenty for washing, drinking, etc."
Cell service varies significantly: Coverage is unreliable throughout the region. One Kirk Creek camper advises: "You will be quite literally cut off from the world here. You won't have any cell service so turn that phone off when u hit the main road in & enjoy the feeling that comes with uninterrupted connection with nature."
Reservation challenges: Popular sites book quickly during peak seasons. "The great sites book out VERY quickly. If you want to score you'll need to plan... Booking windows open 6 months in advance," explains a Kirk Creek camper.
Wildlife encounters: Expect interactions with local fauna. A San Simeon Creek Campground visitor warns: "The sites are pretty close together. Finding a shower in the morning is nearly impossible. The bathrooms are not clean and there is no light. It does have beach access and lots of trees. There are also ground squirrels that will be up rustling around all night."
Weather variability: Coastal conditions can change rapidly. A Morro Strand visitor notes: "Weather can be fickle with cold, wind and fog even in summer."
Choose sites with natural play areas: Look for campsites with open spaces for children. At Morro Bay State Park, a visitor recommends: "Super clean and great location, but docked a star because of the price. After fees when booking, it comes out to about $42.00 a night."
Select campgrounds with short walking trails: Easier hikes work better for younger children. "We tent camped and the noise wasnt bad at all. Though there was some mystery animal howling/screeching through out the night haha. Super close to the water. Kayak rentals an restaurant down by the dock and a great place to load kayaks into the water!" shares a Morro Bay State Park camper.
Look for educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs. "There is also a great little museum in the same place. You can also walk to rent a canoe to paddle around the bay," notes another Morro Bay visitor.
Consider noise levels between campgrounds: Some sites are quieter than others. "Great camping ground for families especially with small children," recommends a San Simeon Creek Campground visitor.
Level sites are limited: Many coastal campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Williams Hill Recreation Area, a camper reports: "7 mile dirt road at times a bit steep and rough. But we made it up here slowly and safely. A few other campers here. Some flies but a slight breeze that will hopefully keep them at bay. Nice spot just not a fan of taking a 27 foot 1996 RV up that road."
Water supply planning: No hookups at most sites requires careful planning. "We stayed in the upper San Simeon creek campground area - site C25. It had the best view of the ocean but was surrounded by power lines and looked down on camp hosts site/buildings," reports a visitor who adds that "RV/trailer sites are mostly parallel parking."
Reserve early for larger rigs: Limited big-rig friendly sites fill quickly. Another Williams Hill visitor mentions: "Most spots are on the perimeter of the Washburn are more barren, but most sites have trees for some shade."
Dump station availability: Plan for waste disposal needs. A Washburn Primitive Campground visitor notes: "Dump station is no longer free for campers, it's now $10, which is the case for all California State Parks now."
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in San Simeon?
San Simeon offers several camping options, with Hearst San Simeon State Park being the main destination. The park features two distinct campgrounds: San Simeon Creek Campground and Washburn Primitive Campground. San Simeon Creek Campground is closer to Highway One and the beach, offering flush toilets and showers. Washburn is located about a mile inland and is more primitive with pit toilets. Both campgrounds provide access to beautiful coastal areas and are close to attractions like Hearst Castle and elephant seal viewing areas. Neither campground offers hookups, but they provide a convenient base for exploring the Central California coast.
Are there RV camping facilities in San Simeon?
While San Simeon has limited RV-specific facilities, there are options for RV campers. Creek Tent Campground at Hearst San Simeon State Park accommodates RVs without hookups but offers water at each site plus flush toilets and showers. For full hookups, consider Morro Dunes RV Park located a short drive south. RV campers should note that San Simeon's campgrounds have no electrical, water, or sewer connections, but do offer relatively level sites with sufficient space. Water is available in the campground, and there's a dump station on-site. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months, as spaces can fill quickly.
Are there private campgrounds with amenities like pools in San Simeon?
San Simeon itself has limited private campgrounds with luxury amenities like pools. For these features, consider Avila-Pismo Beach KOA located about 40 minutes south, which offers a pool, hot tub, and various recreational facilities. Another option is Le Sage Riviera RV Park in the Pismo Beach area, featuring more upscale amenities. Within San Simeon proper, the camping options are primarily state park facilities without luxury amenities. Most campers visit San Simeon for its natural beauty, proximity to Hearst Castle, and coastal scenery rather than resort-style camping experiences.
Can you camp on the beach in San Simeon?
Direct beach camping is not permitted in San Simeon. However, Morro Strand State Beach Campground located about 30 minutes south offers the closest beach camping experience in the area. At Hearst San Simeon State Park, the campsites are set back from the shore with beach access via short trails. The San Simeon Creek Campground is approximately a quarter-mile from the beach, allowing campers to easily walk to the shore for daytime activities but return to established camping areas for overnight stays. The beach areas are protected, and overnight camping directly on the sand is prohibited to preserve the natural coastal environment.
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