Cabin camping near Santa Margarita, California offers access to the Central Coast wine region, with elevations ranging between 900-1200 feet and temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees warmer than coastal areas during summer months. The area features oak woodland ecosystems with several creek systems that flow toward the Salinas River watershed. Most cabin facilities require advance booking during weekends from April through October when temperatures consistently reach 85-95°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: Accessible from Lopez Lake Recreation Area, with paths through oak woodlands and canyon areas. "We've camped here many times over the last 15 years. We've tent camped on primitive sites and camped with a pop-up with electricity & water. None of the full hookup sites have a view but some of the tent sites do. There aren't much fishing now, because the water is so low, but there are still pretty hikes to be had," noted one visitor to Lopez Lake Recreation Area.
Horseback riding: Available at Pacific Dunes Ranch with guided tours through dune ecosystems. "The staff is friendly and horse rides in the beach are available! The dunes are a great backdrop to this place and it's a little further from the railroad tracks than most other places to stay in the pismo area," reports a camper at Pacific Dunes Ranch.
Wine tasting: Many visitors use cabin accommodations as base for exploring Paso Robles wineries. "With our Passport America discount, we paid $40 (this included tax) for a standard site. There are also some cottages/small houses available for rent. Sites have a grill and picnic table and 30 and 50 amp power," mentions a reviewer about Sun Outdoors Central Coast Wine Country.
What campers like
Lake access: Santa Margarita Lake provides fishing and kayaking opportunities within walking distance of campgrounds. "It is a short walk down to Lake Santa Margarita. We stayed in site 28. AT&T cell service was zero to very poor at our site. WiFi was poor and slow," explains a visitor at Santa Margarita KOA.
Hot spring amenities: Mineral pools offer relaxation opportunities after hiking or outdoor activities. "In addition to natural mineral springs and heated pool, facilities have water, toilets, showers, electricity for stealth travelers. Picnic tables outside," notes a visitor about the facilities at Avila Hot Springs.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding cabins feature diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "This is one of our favorite campgrounds. There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears. The lake is wonderful and usually very mellow. Kayaking and fishing are both nice at Lopez as well," shares a camper about Lopez Lake Recreation Area.
What you should know
Cabin furnishing levels: Comfort varies significantly between properties, from rustic to deluxe. "This small hot springs resort has a unique charm about it. The RV lot is a large parking lot with spaces allocated on the outside of the gravel road. There's a picnic table and fire ring at each site, but the sites are so small, you are practically on top of your neighbors with zero privacy. They also offer cabins for rent," explains a visitor at Avila Hot Springs.
Beach proximity: Some locations require considerable walking to reach shorelines. "We wake up to the beautiful dunes of the central coast. The dunes were beautiful, but walking to the beach would be quite an effort. Without the OHV activity, it was safe to hike or dune surf," notes a Pacific Dunes Ranch reviewer.
Seasonal pricing: Rates increase significantly during summer months and holidays, often by 30-40%. "This is one of the most excellent coastal locations with full hook-ups. Our family loves heading to Old West Cinnamon Rolls, biking around the town, and visiting the beach. The sites are tight, but clean and mostly level. We come here as often as we can," mentions a visitor at Pismo Coast Village RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation amenities: Children-focused facilities vary significantly between properties. "My wife, son and I stayed here May 11-13 in our class C. We even brought our two dogs. A quick get away during the lock down. There is frisbee golf and horse shoes. They even have an Emu that is friendly and your kids can pet. The place is very clean and the staff is friendly," shares a Santa Margarita KOA camper.
Pool facilities: Swimming options range from heated lap pools to waterparks. "A lot of shade, very green during the spring. Plenty of bathroom everywhere. Very big camp ground," explains a Lopez Lake Recreation Area visitor about the facilities available for families.
Cabin sizing: Most basic cabins accommodate 4-5 people, while deluxe options may sleep 6-8. "My Fiancé, two sons and I stopped here as a halfway point on our way to Huntington Beach. We're definitely going to be going back for a minimum of two nights! The resort is clean, super friendly and has so much more to do than one quick night would fit. Dog parks, kid parks, a pool etc!" explains a visitor at Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many cabin camping areas feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. "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."
Cooking facilities: On-site amenities for food preparation vary significantly. "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. There are areas with community fires for gathering, small store. Bocce ball and other games," mentions a visitor at Flying Flags Avila Beach.
Parking limitations: Most facilities restrict vehicles to designated areas only. "This KOA has had some upgrades. It's great for trailers. They also have tent camping and some cabins. It's not a flat cement camping experience. Lots of trees and hills. Mostly dirt roads so it is a little dusty. We have a 45' 5th wheel and had no problem getting in," notes a Santa Margarita KOA visitor.
