Dog-Friendly Camping near Santa Margarita, CA

TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping sits on a ridge at approximately 2,300 feet elevation between Santa Margarita and Morro Bay. The dry, chaparral landscape offers unobstructed views in multiple directions with temperature shifts of 10-15 degrees cooler than the valley floor below. Wind conditions intensify at night, particularly during seasonal weather patterns from November through March when gusts can reach 25+ mph.

What to do

Mountain biking trails: 7+ miles of trails accessible from the parking area at the base of TV Tower Road with varying difficulty levels. "There's a mountain bike staging area and the best spots are a little past the TV tower itself," notes one camper about the Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site.

Stargazing: Minimal light pollution at higher elevations provides excellent night sky viewing when clouds aren't present. "Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites," reports Sebastian D. at TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping.

Coastal daytrips: 20-minute drive to Morro Bay with easy beach access for dog walking. "There's a kayaking company within walking distance. There's also a natural history museum across the street," writes Jessica P. about Morro Bay State Park Campground.

What campers like

Sunrise views: Early morning visibility extends to the coastline on clear days. "I woke first thing in the morning and the view to the west is stunning, a sea of clouds and islands of distant mountain peaks all the way to the coast," explains Kyle K. at TV Tower Road.

Wildlife spotting: Dawn and dusk activity includes deer, birds, and smaller mammals. At Cerro Alto Campground, "We fell asleep to the sound of a resident Pygmy Owl hooting and woke up to Acorn Woodpeckers, Toweys, Robins, Steller Jays, and Warblers singing," shares Chanel C.

Weather variations: Cooler temperatures than surrounding areas during summer months. "Nice and green during the spring. Plenty of bathroom everywhere. Very big camp ground," comments Billy W. about Lopez Lake Recreation Area.

What you should know

Road conditions: Last third unpaved with challenging sections that worsen after rain. "The road was a bit sketchy, any 4WD would be fine I think. I took my mini van and camped at a turn out along the road because I was a bit hesitant," reports Caitlyn R. about TV Tower Road.

Cell reception: Variable coverage depending on exact location and carrier. "No cell reception at campgrounds (0 bars with AT&T)," notes a reviewer at Cerro Alto Campground.

Dog-specific hazards: Steep terrain and wildlife require extra vigilance with pets. "Keep dogs under control as there is poison oak EVERYWHERE so do not go wandering off into the brush," warns a Cerro Alto camper.

Insect preparation: Seasonal populations increase during warmer months. "Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills. They're out and about and it's not fun if you're not prepared," advises Barbara M. at Oceano Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Weather preparation: Pack layers for temperature fluctuations throughout the day and night. "It got cold at night but nothing unbearable, lovely sunrise too! I'd recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag," suggests Caitlyn R. about TV Tower Road.

Alternative dog friendly campgrounds near Santa Margarita with more amenities for families. "Oceano CA. Wooded nice spaces with 20 amp electric and water," notes Nancy L. about Oceano Campground, adding it has "hot water and flush toilets. Showers are huge."

Educational opportunities: Junior Ranger programs at several state parks within 30 minutes. At El Chorro Regional Park, "Located near a park, garden, and golf course. It is a short drive to San Luis Obispo or Morro Bay where you can hike, shop, relax on the beach," shares Hannah O.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: Smaller rigs only under 24 feet recommended for TV Tower. "Wasn't sure I was going to make it even with my Subaru Forester. It's absolutely gorgeous up here! Can't set up my bathroom and have a lot of vertigo though," mentions Chastity R.

Power options: Generator restrictions at most area campgrounds. "Great spot, dry camping, high clearance recommended, but the views are worth it," notes a camper at TV Tower Road.

Established RV alternatives: Full hookups available at several dog-friendly campgrounds near Santa Margarita within 30 minutes. "El Chorro Regional Park is clean with good toilets and has incredible views," writes Freya H., noting it's "very clean with good toilets and has incredible views."