Camping in Santa Maria, California

Looking for the best campgrounds near Santa Maria, CA? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Santa Maria is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Santa Maria, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Santa Maria, CA (96)

    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    1. Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    61 Reviews
    257 Photos
    65 Saves
    Grover Beach, California

    Oceano Camp (sites 1-42)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    2. Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    34 Reviews
    87 Photos
    381 Saves
    Arroyo Grande, California

    Located just ten miles east of Arroyo Grande, California, Lopez Lake Recreation Area is one of the top choices for camping and leisure trips. With 22 miles of shoreline and summer lake temperatures around 70°F, there is something for everyone; camping, fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking and equestrian trails, mountain biking, zip-lining, birdwatching and so much more. The warm climate of the Central Coast makes Lopez Lake the ideal, year-round recreational destination. Once covered by the sea, the surrounding hills of Lopez Lake are rich with relics of ancient days and studded with oak trees. Over 175 species of flowering plants, and more than 150 species of birds have been identified within the park. The naturally beautiful canyons were once hunting and fishing grounds for the Chumash Indians. Later, homesteaders and ranchers inhabited the area and harvested grain crops for Mission San Luis Obispo. Lopez Lake was then created in 1969 to provide domestic water for the Five Cities area of the Central Coast.

    Lopez Lake with its 22 miles of shoreline is the ideal year-round recreational destination for everyone. There are 377 campsites to choose from. Many overlook the lake, and others are nestled among picturesque oaks. There are primitive, electrical, full hook-up, and group campsites available. Hot shower facilities are at several campgrounds. Camping reservations can be made up to one year in advance.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $60 - $70 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground

    3. Morro Bay State Park Campground

    57 Reviews
    217 Photos
    889 Saves
    Los Osos, California

    Morro Bay State Park campground features lagoon and natural bay habitat. The bay's most prominent landmark is Morro Rock. The park has opportunities for sailing, fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The park museum has exhibits that cover natural features and cultural history, Native American life, geology, and oceanography. The park also has a colorful marina and an 18-hole public golf course. On the bay's northeast edge is a pristine saltwater marsh that supports a thriving bird population.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $35 - $165 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park

    4. Jalama Beach County Park

    37 Reviews
    187 Photos
    1119 Saves
    Santa Ynez, California

    Land near Jalama Creek was once a Chumash Indian settlement named "Halama". In 1943, 23.5 acres of privately owned land was donated to the County of Santa Barbara from the Atlantic Richfield Oil Company, and thus, our park was formed. Jalama Beach is a respite from typically bustling seaside parks, yet offers many conveniences. Groceries, personal care sundries, firewood, fishing bait and tackle, ice, beer, and wine may be purchased at the Jalama Store. Other services include mailing, facsimile, and video rentals. The store and its popular Grill are open daily from 10 am.

    Jalama Beach is approximately an hour drive from Santa Barbara and a 45-minute drive from Lompoc. A sign 4.5 miles south of Lompoc off Highway 1 will direct you onto Jalama Road. Follow this scenic 14.5-mile road to the coast. The park entrance will be at the end of the road. Jalama is subject to high winds and rough surf. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, however, visitors swim at their own risk.

    Day-use picnic areas provide tables and raised fireboxes. Additional activities include surfing, whale-watching, birdwatching, nature photography, and fishing the surf or rock outcroppings for perch, cabezon, kelp, bass, or halibut. Many protected California native plants like sand verbena, saltbush, and sea rocket, grow within park boundaries.

    While you're here, visit the Jalama Beach Store and Grill and have a "World Famous Jalama Burger." They also have an extended menu that includes homemade clam chowder, chile verde, and "Aunt Ruth's Raw Apple Cake."

    Jalama Beach offers twelve walk-in sites (seven basic and five partial hook-up) that are first-come, first-served. These sites may not be reserved online, through the Call Center, or through the Jalama Gate.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    5. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    56 Reviews
    239 Photos
    852 Saves
    Santa Ynez, California

    Set amidst acres of wilderness flanked by the picturesque Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains, lies glimmering Cachuma Lake. Here you will find practically everything you need for a relaxing getaway in the great outdoors. Mild temperatures, typically sunny skies, and celebrated fishing conditions make camping here during winter months exceptionally rewarding. The County entered into a long-term lease with the Federal Bureau of Reclamation in 1953 to manage the 9,000 acre Cachuma Lake Recreation Area. Cachuma Lake was formed by the construction of Bradbury Dam in that same year. Located off scenic Highway 154 in the Santa Ynez Valley, Cachuma Lake is midway between the beaches and bustle of Santa Barbara and the Danish Community of Solvang. At any age... in any season... you'll find that the Cachuma Lake Recreation Area offers a fun and relaxing getaway.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

    6. North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

    18 Reviews
    44 Photos
    469 Saves
    Grover Beach, California

    North Beach Campground features tent camping facilities and a campfire center. There are no hook-up sites available in this campground. Visitors can access the beach from the campground and enjoy the the views along Carpenter Creek. The Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove is accessible from the campground. In the summer months, Jr. Ranger Programs and Campfire Programs are held at the campfire center. Click here to view a map of the North Beach Campground: North Beach Campground Map

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort

    7. Flying Flags RV Resort

    20 Reviews
    89 Photos
    185 Saves
    Buellton, California

    With a s’more in your hand and a brand new friend at your side, you might not remember all the things that inspired you to visit Flying Flags in the first place. Like the fact that it’s surrounded by miles and miles of lush, Central Coast vineyards. Or the fact that it’s just down the road from an outrageously charming ostrich refuge. Or the fact that it’s on the edge of the village of Buellton—the home of split pea soup. Because when you’re at Flying Flags, you’ll see that these grounds create a village in themselves.

    Here, poolside cabanas keep families cool late into the afternoon. And expertly groomed bocce courts host brackets late into the evening. Front porches foster interactions between neighbors. And fire pits tend to spark a few stories among them too. Sure, the beauty of this place is more than enough to inspire you to come for a vacation. But the beauty of our community is what just might inspire you to come back.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    8. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    27 Reviews
    107 Photos
    704 Saves
    Santa Margarita, California

    Contact the Santa Lucia Ranger District for information about dispersed camping.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from El Capitán State Beach Campground

    9. El Capitán State Beach Campground

    45 Reviews
    107 Photos
    1001 Saves
    Goleta, California

    El Capitán State Beach offers visitors a sandy beach, rocky tidepools, and stands of sycamore and oaks along El Capitán Creek. It’s a perfect setting for swimming, fishing, surfing, picnicking and camping. A stairway provides access from the bluffs to the beach area.

    Activities and Facilities Include:

    -Picnic Areas

    -Exhibits and Programs

    -Fishing

    -Guided Tours

    -Scuba Diving/Snorkeling

    -Beach Area

    -Swimming

    -Windsurfing/Surfing

    -Family Programs

    -Geocaching

    Beach wheelchairs are available for use by the public with no cost. With this specially designed chair, wheelchair users may access the beach at several locations. Contact a ranger or lifeguard for additional information.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $45 - $320 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pacific Dunes Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Pacific Dunes Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Pacific Dunes Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Pacific Dunes Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Pacific Dunes Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Pacific Dunes Ranch

    10. Pacific Dunes Ranch

    11 Reviews
    26 Photos
    224 Saves
    Oceano, California

    Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort is the most unique RV resort in California's Pismo Beach region, with rolling sand dunes and rollicking waves in the beautiful Oceano Preserve. At Pacific Dunes Ranch, you'll enjoy an RV resort that highlights breathtaking vistas and trails to the beach. In California, we call this a winning combination - secluded and quiet but not remote. With its coastal location, Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort lends itself to numerous water sports and activities. Swimming, boating, fishing and surfing are popular forms of recreation at our RV resort in California , and biking and hiking are at the top of list for those without their sea legs. Secluded RV Resort in California Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
Showing results 1-10 of 96 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Santa Maria

Recent Reviews in Santa Maria

800 Reviews of 96 Santa Maria Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Oct. 27, 2024

    North Beach Campground — Pismo State Beach

    A winner

    I skipped out on Oceano and came here hoping they might have something open. Turns out they had 8 and the park ranger let me drive in to scope it out. I picked a site close to the beach and even better my Oceano reservation could be transferred. Yay. Loved this campground so much. It’s well laid out and all the sites are well spaced and clean. The evening was much quieter, with a sunset and sounds of waves. A ten minute walk to the beach and right next to the butterfly grove. I have already made another reservation to see about the butterflies when they are in season. Pismo Beach is fantastic!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    You can do better

    Probably just due to the time of year but this campground was way too rowdy for my taste, all the sites are close together and it seemed almost every site was a very large group, generators running after 10pm, amplified music and tv! If that’s your jam you’ll love it. I took off after 1 night.

  • Connor B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Good spot for a quick night

    pretty easy to find, road is also easy to drive. found a pretty good level spot, definitely camping right off the side of the road. pretty nice and low key tho

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Lovely hillside spots

    Picked the first nook from the GPS pin but hiked up road and there are quite a few others, some shaded, some exposed. Bit of highway noise.

  • makenna W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags Avila Beach
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Flying Flags Avila Beach

    Second Time Staying. Disappointed

    This is our second time at this location, first in dry camping, second time in the Jupe tents. As much as I was begging for this stay to be worth the $470 for two nights, it definitely wasn’t. The concept is great but really faulty when executed. 1) they disclose when booking that power to the tents may or may not work. The truth? The solar panels don’t charge whatsoever if there is fog/cloud cover in the mornings. Was told this directly by management. Soooo…. Considering this is a bay site, right on the ocean…. We didn’t have power once. Morning fog happens every single day. (Even though it was completely sunny from 12pm-5pm) this was frustrating, and we would’ve packed accordingly given knowledge that we would’ve been powerless all weekend. The blankets they provide don’t keep you warm either, so if you stay on a night below 50 without an electrical blanket or backups, prepare to freeze. During our stay we were also told that there was only one overnight maintenance man, on a Friday, during Labor Day weekend. That poor man didn’t get a break once all evening and definitely deserves a raise and to be treated better by his employers. He’s the only reason this review deserves a star. For such a beautiful location, this company is really fumbling. Disappointing.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 20, 2024

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Spots along road when pavement ends

    Didn't have to go as far as GPS pin led me to believe, spot on right shortly after pavement ends. A bit trashed, wish I had a bag to clean up, some bigger stuff like a kids bike, to etc

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Vandenberg AFB Pine Canyon Campground
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Military Park Vandenberg AFB Pine Canyon Campground

    Nice and quiet

    Located on Vandenberg base which requires a membership card (military I.D.) This helps keep the camp site more private. No one goes here. It is tranquil and has trails to hike and lakes to fish in. Hunting is also allowed during select seasons. If you like quiet and keep to yourself, this is the place. There are no trash cans and a permit is required for campfire. There are a couple of port-a-pots and they are very clean. Go SpaceForce! Lastly, watch out for poison oak. Stay on the trails and all is well. Semper Fi.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    Please Don’t Tell Anyone About This — OOPS

    This is tragi-comedy: I was invited to a wedding in Santa Barbara. It was summer and the most fleabitten motel prices were astronomical. I began to look at campsites within driving distance, I was desperate. Booked Catchuma and thought, hoorah, I’ve defeated the tourism trap. 

    Well… from the moment I arrived . . . I really could not care less about the wedding. My god. I think I’ll leave it at that. 

    Bring binos. Boat, bring your canoe/kayak.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    Not our scene: hot, crowded, buggy

    We had reservations for 2 nights on an Augugst Friday / Saturday at Lopez Lake in a full-hook-up site in Bandtail (Site 38). The reviews of this place were great, and the photos were beautiful. We arrived to find a HUGE park (yes, I should have noted how many campsites there are). Check-in involved parking our van and standing in line like Disneyland. The park employees were nice though. There were big signs all around "NO FIRES" (more on this later) and I was also told at check in that there were no fires. We found our site easily enough, only to realize how closely packed the sites were in Bandtail. Some nice folks to our right had three sites - 11 kids and 21 people between them. The kids rode their bikes all over, and even onto our site (while also running around our van chasing a chipmunk). We had our daughter's dog, so tried sitting outside in the shade, only to find that in addition to the heat (it was mid 80s), there were biting flies. :( Poor puppy got bit or stung more than once. So we went in our van and turned on the AC (it could run on low with the 20A service there). Then, after dark, a dad and his young son arrive on our other side and had to back in their boat in the dark. We got out of our rig and helped them (twice) with our portable lights and guidance. In the morning, they spoke in very loud voices and we were right next door. We did take one of the trails in the heat, but they are not at all well maintained - basically trampled grass that could easily hold a snake. While the area is pretty, it is just way too crowded for our taste. Oh, and the bathrooms were dimily lit, had a couple of non-functioning toilets, and were dirty. We were ready to get out of there and will not be back. Lastly, though the fire danger was marked as extremely high and "NO FIRES" signs at check-in, along with verbal warnings of no fires, I saw two campsites had open fires in the fire pits. This blatant lack of regard for rules and safety didn't sit well with me. And no one was enforcing the fire ban. Sad.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Great Campground

    We stayed here a few years ago, but on the primitive / non-hookup side. We stayed on the E/W hookup side this time and liked it as well, though it does have the more typical RV/parking lot feel as compared to the other side.  There's a nice walking trail that connects the two sides. It's $50 for an E/W site, plus an $8.25 reservation fee.

    There's a cool lagoon that you can walk all the way around on, with lots of birds, and much of it accessible as well which is nice. There's a cool visitor center, open 12-4. The beach is a short walk away. There's a great Mexican restaurant down the road also, Old Juan's, it's so good and has great vegan options.

    The showers here are nice and clean, and $1 gets you 4 minutes.  The showers are individual, private, and non-gendered. There was no host on site when we were there, but the rangers were very present.  This campground, like all California State campgrounds we've been to recently, has trash, recycling, and a food compost bin which I love.

    There's a fun game for kids where you download an app and go on a scavenger hunt and complete other challenges.

    No dump station here, but there's one just 2 miles north at North Beach Campground, and it's $10 for dump and water fill there.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground

    4 x 4 recommended

    We love being able to camp directly on the beach, and have done so many times in Texas and in Louisiana, but wouldn't recommend it here unless you are in a 4wd. We did see 2 skoolies on the beach, but then we also saw a pickup truck stuck in the sand in the parking lot outside of the beach, so there's that.

    Camping overnight is only $10, and the beach is wide open for camping. It was very busy during the day on a weekday in August, so I can imagine the weekends are packed. 

    This is a fun beach in a fun, low key beach town, and we love coming here.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Nice Car Camping Spot

    Pretty solid! Had great cell service and was a lovely drive to get there. Probably wouldn’t recommend if you have a tent or RV as the spots were a little small and rocky. But I only went a little past where the directions take you, so not sure what else is up there.

    Arrived just at sunset and loved the views! It was very peaceful and far enough from the highway. It seemed like the same truck was driving up and down a couple times which was the only downfall.

    Overall a good experience.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Morro Bay State Park Campground

    Nicer when it's not crowded

    We stayed here last year when the area was getting hit by severe storms and flooding - so the campground was almost empty. We loved the campground then and gave it 5 stars. This year when we stayed it was packed, and definitely not as nice of an experience.

    The previous review mentions the awkward walk to the showers, and I will agree with that. You either have to go through someone's site, or walk all the way to the end of the road. We got lucky and got to cut through some vacant sites to get to the showers.

    We do still love this campground though, because of the boardwalk in the estuary and all the bird sightings there. We got to visit the museum this time as well, small and cute and well worth the $3 entry fee. The restaurant is still there but we didn't go this time. Next time we go we will rent kayaks and explore the water some more. There's a golf course here adjacent to the campground as well.  The town of Morro Bay is cute and relaxed and fun to visit.

    There's a dump station here but it's not free even for campers - it's a $10 fee you pay with your credit card right at the dump.  Showers were ok, no complaints.

    This is a good, low key and decently priced campground that we'll definitely stop at the next time we're going through the area.

  • Jack W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Aug. 2, 2024

    Morro Bay State Park Campground

    "Last resort" campground, 3 stars at best

    - PROS -

    Beautiful location <5 minute drive away from the beach and Morro rock. SLO is close, and the coast is always nice. There's a pretty boardwalk trail next to the site as well (see photos).

    - CONS -

    These aren't camp sites, they're parking spots with a fire pit on dead grass and weeds. You're packed like sardines next to adjacent campers. It's unclear where the boundary of each others' site is. For facilities, they do have big bathrooms, showers, and dumpsters… but they're all filthy and unkempt. And even though the bathrooms may be right next to your site, there's no way to get to them without walking through another person's camp site or going all the way around– down the road or around many camps. We had a crotchety old man get mad at us for walking somewhat through his site. I enjoyed my stay, but only because I wasn't the one paying for the site.

    TLDR: This site functions moreso as an overnight parking spot than it does a campsite.

  • Andrew S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 31, 2024

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Lots of options

    Along the road, there are lots of exposed options and a few camping options in the trees. I drove the entire road and would not recommend doing that without four wheel drive. Was pleased with all the options though. Stay in the trees to avoid the wind.

  • Monica E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jalama Beach County Park
    Jul. 3, 2024

    Jalama Beach County Park

    Never disappoints

    Jalama Beach offers great walks along a long beach that is nestled in a cozy bay. Surfers, couples & families can enjoy this beautiful place. Watch for tar on the sand & pack some petroleum jelly to help remove it in case you step on it barefoot. There’s a small freshwater stream that flows right into the shore where your pets & kids like to splash around & play. Lots of driftwood & rocks pepper the shore so bring water shoes.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Morro Bay State Park Campground
    Jun. 29, 2024

    Morro Bay State Park Campground

    Great location, dirty facilities

    You can’t beat the location- across from Marina , trails and walking distance to Morro bay town. , the restrooms and shower facilities were always filthy and running out of toilet paper. Bring your own soap and TP 

  • Jeremy F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lopez Lake Recreation Area
    Jun. 27, 2024

    Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    Great time with the whole family

    Large sites with plenty of room for tents and all the other camping necessities. This site backs up into the hills and there are black bears that roam the area so be sure to prepare for that. The lake is full and lots of areas to fish.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 17, 2024

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Windy with Expansive Views of SLO

    When I saw the TV tower road sign, that marked the last paved road until the actual TV tower hill.  I rode all the way to the end with some medium difficulty off roading there are some steep bits with uneven terrain.  Taking the road up to TV tower are some of the best views you can get from the surrounding area.  John R.'s review accurately sums up the camping experience.  The wind was shaking my tent all night until the morning.  But thankfully I had bugspray the insect problem was solved.  Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites.  Would for sure camp again if in the San Luis Obispo area.

  • Tammy P.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Flying Flags RV Resort
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Flying Flags RV Resort

    A lot of amenities and great for family with kids

    Very tight space, lots of amenities like pools, playgrounds for kids, restaurants, activities, performances on weekends but can get quite busy and crowded. Close by solvang town and many pretty hiking trails

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 9, 2024

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful View!

    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, but again, others would probably be fine. There were lots of people going up the road until very late at night, then turning around and coming back down (I assume because there were no spots?) The stars are beautiful and it's very quiet and cool. Got cold at night but nothing unbearable, lovely sunrise too! I'd recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag and any essentials for dispersed camping. Honestly such a beautiful place, next time I'd like to find a space to set up my tent. Loved it!

  • b
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach
    May. 31, 2024

    Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach

    Beautiful, but a little squirrely

    This campground is awesome. It’s very beautiful, with lots of wildflowers, trees, trails, beach dunes…and squirrels. Lots of them. But we also saw and heard hawks, turkey vultures, owls, and many other birds. We also saw a cute little weasel. There’s also lots of rangers, which makes for very well-mannered campers. Loved it!! You can walk to the beach or drive on the beach. Driving in the beach was fun, but it was so windy and so cold! This was the end of May. Not sure what the weather is over months. The actual campground was not as cold or windy, since it’s behind the dunes. The bathrooms have hot water and Flush toilets. Showers are huge and are self-contained and not in the bathrooms. Tokens needed. Starting in May there’s a market night at the main pier, small but fun to visit. Lots to do, from renting dune buggies to playing at the main pier. Loved it and can’t wait to go back. Oh, and about the squirrels. They’re not afraid. They ate through my little pantry that’s canvas that’s connected under my table. Also, mosquitoes! How could I forget. Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills. They’re out and about and it’s not fun if you’re not prepared. There’s a Walmart not too far away. After the citronella incense weren’t working, we went to Walmart and it was war! Another note, campsite 68 does not look like the photo. Tree is gone and the ice plant has invaded the site and made it smaller. One tent will fit, not another.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Avila Hot Springs
    May. 25, 2024

    Avila Hot Springs

    Small hot spring pool and loud and cramped camping area

    Only one small shallow hot spring pool, usually crowded at peak hours. At the pool there is outdoor showers, lap pool, indoor bathrooms, changing rooms.

    Camping area is small and it’s basically a dirt parking lot. Loud road noise all night and day from the freeway. Lots of pincher bugs infested my gear. Not peaceful. Better to just visit for a soak, they have cheaper rates for a morning or evening visit.



Guide to Santa Maria

Camping near Santa Maria, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for beach access or serene nature trails, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Morro Strand State Beach Campground, have limited amenities. A camper noted, "No showers but your pass gets you into nearby Morro Bay SP where they have nice clean token showers."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife at Lopez Lake Recreation Area. One reviewer warned, "There are black bears that roam the area, so be sure to prepare for that."
  • Noise Levels: Expect some noise from trains near Refugio State Beach Campground. A camper mentioned, "Next to train tracks...could still wake tent campers and sensitive sleepers."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring Water: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, it's wise to bring plenty of water. A reviewer said, "Be sure to fill up tanks at El Capitan before entering."
  • Plan for Activities: Families can enjoy the beach and trails at Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach. One camper noted, "There's a fun game for kids where you download an app and go on a scavenger hunt."
  • Pack Snacks: Campers at Jalama Beach County Park recommend bringing snacks. A visitor mentioned, "There’s a small freshwater stream that flows right into the shore where your pets & kids like to splash around."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to check for electric hookups at Morro Bay State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "The sites with hookups sans sewer will actually be pull-through sites, which was nice."
  • Be Mindful of Space: RVers at Cachuma Lake Recreation Area noted, "The only sites with gravel paved pads were the ones with water/electric hookups."
  • Stay Alert for Wildlife: At Lopez Lake Recreation Area, RVers should be cautious. One camper mentioned, "There are black bears that roam the area so be sure to prepare for that."

Camping in Santa Maria, California, has something for everyone, from beach lovers to nature enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Santa Maria, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Santa Maria, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 96 campgrounds and RV parks near Santa Maria, CA and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Santa Maria, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Santa Maria, CA is Oceano County Campground — Pismo State Beach with a 4.1-star rating from 61 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Santa Maria, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Santa Maria, CA.

  • What parks are near Santa Maria, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Santa Maria, CA that allow camping, notably Carrizo Plain National Monument and Los Padres National Forest.