Dispersed camping near Templeton offers accessible options for outdoor enthusiasts with pets. The region sits in San Luis Obispo County at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,100 feet, with Mediterranean climate patterns creating mild winters and warm, dry summers. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during daytime hours, while winter nights can drop to 35-40°F, requiring appropriate camping gear for seasonal temperature variations.
What to do
Beach exploration: 20 minutes west at Morro Bay State Park Campground, where campers can enjoy coastal activities. According to Jessica P., "This campground is clean, and quiet with showers and flushable toilets. It's accessible with car, bike, or rv spots... This campground is a great base camp for coastal exploring; either north to Cayucos, or south to San Luis Obispo and Pismo."
Hiking local trails: TV Tower Road offers challenging terrain with rewarding views. Sebastian D. reports, "Taking the road up to TV tower are some of the best views you can get from the surrounding area... Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites." The trail includes steep sections with uneven terrain, so proper hiking footwear is recommended.
Wine tasting tours: Many campgrounds serve as ideal bases for exploring Paso Robles wine country. At Sun Outdoors Central Coast Wine Country, Tonya C. notes, "We did the wine line and they pick up and drop off at the campground. They also have cabins you can rent if friends want to go but they don't have a trailer."
What campers like
Hot springs relaxation: After a day of exploring, Franklin Hot Springs offers mineral-rich soaking options. Ryan C. shares, "I ended up stopping here to camp in between a trip from Joshua Tree to Big Sur and I couldn't be happier that I did... having the opportunity to relax in the hot springs in between stretches of driving was really pleasant."
Ocean proximity: Sites near the coast provide easy beach access. Helen F. commented about Morro Bay State Park Campground, "Nice park. Quite busy mid Aug but not rowdy. Pretty views and close to town centre. Showers (need to pay) and firewood available." The park maintains coastal access points with parking areas for day visitors.
Night sky viewing: Campsites at higher elevations offer excellent stargazing opportunities. Caitlyn R. says about TV Tower Road, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal weather patterns: Summer brings warmer temperatures while coastal areas remain cooler with morning fog. At Morro Strand State Beach Campground, Leonard H. notes, "Weather can be fickle with cold, wind and fog even in summer. Quiet at night. A few sites have beach views. Most views are hidden by scrubs between parking area and beach."
Road conditions: Some dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. Silas M. warns about TV Tower Road: "Like I've been on some bumpy roads and it started out fine so I wasn't worried about it but the farther we went, the worse the roads got... My headlight actually popped out... Even if you have 4 wheel drive this is just god awful."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. One camper at El Chorro Regional Park mentions, "The sites are often booked during the summer, but the weather and many things to do in the area make it worth the stay."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature designated play areas. At El Chorro Regional Park, one visitor mentions it's "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, and eat great food."
Educational opportunities: Some locations offer nature programs and museums. Carrie A. points out that Morro Bay State Park has "a great little museum in the same place. You can also walk to rent a canoe to paddle around the bay."
Kid-friendly beach activities: Coastal campgrounds provide safe water exploration options. One camper at San Simeon Creek Campground notes, "This was a beautiful campground with level, paved sites, lots of trees, great showers, and access to the beach within walking distance."
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Look for level sites with adequate space. At Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort, Michael D. shares, "Sites are gravel with concrete pads. All have fireplaces and seemed appropriately level. We stayed for 14 days, but would have saved a BUNCH if we could have stayed for longer and gotten the monthly rate (they call it 'Park and play')."
Dog exercise areas: Many campgrounds offer designated pet areas. Devon H. notes that Sun Outdoors Paso Robles "have at least two dog parks and took our high energy dog there to run. They also have a great playground for the kids."
Hookup availability: Research utilities before arrival. At Morro Dunes RV Park, Craig F. comments, "Great location, easy access. 100+ sites for all different size trailers. Across from the beach. Bike path access as well. Walking distance to harbor restaurants."
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