Camping spots near Nipomo, California include numerous seasonal and year-round options within a 25-mile radius. Nipomo sits at approximately 290 feet elevation in San Luis Obispo County, where coastal influence keeps average temperatures between 45°F and 75°F throughout the year. Morning fog often persists until midday, especially during summer months, with clearer conditions typically developing in the afternoon.
What to do
Beach access year-round: Oceano Campground serves as an ideal basecamp for shoreline activities. "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," reports barbara M., noting that the campground itself stays protected from winds.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campsites near Nipomo offer exceptional wildlife encounters. "We've camped here many times over the last 15 years... There isn't much fishing now, because the water is so low, but there are still pretty hikes to be had," explains Linda S. about Lopez Lake Recreation Area. Another visitor adds, "There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears."
Unique beach driving: For those seeking distinctive coastal activities, vehicle-accessible beaches stand out. "You are driving onto the beach and camping, what more to ask for!" notes Matt L. about Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. He cautions, "I would recommend AWD unless you are able to plan your trip to stay on the firm sand."
Seasonal butterfly viewing: Monarch butterflies migrate through the region from late October through February. "We went in January and had no idea about the Monarch Butterflies. About 300 feet from the campsite is a grove of trees where thousands of Monarchs fly and mate," shares Garrett M.
What campers like
Site privacy levels: Campground layouts vary dramatically throughout the region. At North Beach Campground, Alexandra T. notes, "The best sites in my opinion were sites 7-25 ish that run along the side of the park closest to the beach path. Those spots had easy beach access, a bit more privacy as you don't have campers along your backside, and afternoon shade from a row of trees."
Dune proximity: Many campers appreciate direct access to the region's distinctive sand dunes. At Pacific Dunes Ranch, Annette A. explains, "No OHV activity nearby, Pacific Dunes Resort is a somewhat secluded RV park... Upper area closer to the dunes is preferred for breezes. Lots of permanent residents, but the park is well kept."
Night skies for stargazing: The region offers excellent night sky viewing when coastal fog clears. Sebastian D. reports from TV Tower Road dispersed camping, "Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites."
Temperature consistency: The coastal climate keeps temperatures moderate. Crystal J. shares, "This is one of our favorite campgrounds. There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife... The lake is wonderful and usually very mellow."
What you should know
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer. At Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, Julia M. warns, "This is a pricey rv park, but great location and very busy. It is competitive with the others around and think it was the best one in the area. There are over 400 sites and so you are very, very close to your neighbor."
Bug preparation: Multiple campgrounds report significant insect presence. Barbara M. cautions about Oceano Campground: "Also, mosquitoes! How could I forget. Bring bug spray and citronella or thermacills. They're not fun if you're not prepared."
Wind conditions: Exposed sites often experience significant wind. Caitlyn R. from TV Tower Road advises, "The road was a bit sketchy, any 4WD would be fine I think... 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."
Noise considerations: Train tracks and highways run near several campgrounds. Regarding Coastal Dunes RV Park, John Y. notes, "The campground is narrow and situated directly between PCH and the railroad tracks on either side. So traffic noise was significant, and as an added bonus, every now and then Amtrack would roll past."
Tips for camping with families
Water-based recreation: Morro Bay State Park Campground provides excellent coastal activities. Carrie A. shares, "Great location for Morro Bay. When there are 4th of July fireworks you can walk across the street and see the fireworks and Morro Rock in the background. There is also a great little museum in the same place. You can also walk to rent a canoe to paddle around the bay."
Space requirements: Many sites have size limitations. Barbara M. warns about Oceano Campground, "Also, about the squirrels. They're not afraid. They ate through my little pantry that's canvas that's connected under my table... campsite 68 does not look like the photo. Tree is gone and the ice plant has invaded the site and made it smaller."
Activity options: Multiple campgrounds offer children's amenities. Deanna P. shares her experience at Avila-Pismo Beach KOA: "Great place, beautiful pool and lawn area and playground for kids. You are also only minutes away from the beach in Avila."
Wildlife awareness: Families should prepare for wildlife encounters. Amanda M. from Lopez Lake Recreation Area advises, "While the possibility of a black bear sighting is fairly uncommon, black bears are seen every year at Lopez Lake. You are in black bear county, and there are no bear boxes/food lockers at Lopez Lake."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV campgrounds vary significantly in space allocation. William S. notes about Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, "Love how close the ocean was, and a short walk downtown. Spaces were a little tight but lots to do."
Generator limitations: Check campground policies before arrival. Leonard H. reports about Morro Bay State Park, "State Park gets a lot of use with some older facilities... but most sites are close to level and asphalt paved. Restrooms and token activated showers are older but mostly clean and acceptable."
Shower facilities: Campground shower quality differs greatly between locations. According to Louis F., "Nice Campground. RV Park Style. We have a fire ring, food locker, table and benches. It's like being in a RV neighborhood. Location, Location, Location."
Sand management: For beach-adjacent camping, prepare for sand-related challenges. Annette A. observes, "No grass, but hard packed sand and gravel. Upper area closer to the dunes is preferred for breezes."
