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.
What to do
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."
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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."
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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."
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