The best camping near Morro Strand State Beach

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Morro Strand adventure.

88% (32 reviews)

Take advantage of year-round camping at this tidepool-rich state park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Morro Strand State Beach

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Morro Strand State Beach

After miles and miles of asphalt, we cracked a beer and watched the sun set behind Morro Rock. Moments like this make the ride what it is.

88%

(32)

Morro Strand State Beach Campground

75 sites · RVs, Tents In Morro Strand State Beach

Top-rated campgrounds near Morro Strand State Beach

86%

(566)

Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

11 sites · Tents124 acres · Cambria, CA

We can accommodate tent campers or car campers. Each campsite fits 4-6 people. The price is $40/per person. Kids under 12 are free. Most campsites are accessible by car and all campsites are accessible by foot. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a traditional check in procedure. Campsites are first come first serve. Expect a "self-check in process" most of the time. However, there are sometimes people working onsite that you may run into, that are happy to help and lead you in the right direction. You choose your own campsite so plan to arrive early. You can park and walk around. There is signage that says "CAMP" with Arrows. BYO water. We have sulfur spring water. Great for your skin, not good to drink! There's a couple outhouses on the property. One in the main camp zone, one at the far north end of the lower Redwood campsite. You can also bring a shovel and take a walk if you're in the more remote campsites. We have a dumpster outside the gate for your garbage. IMPORTANT INFO Please don't mind our farm junk/tools as you enter Gate 1! We are slowly working on clean up and relocation of materials from the entry road and away from view. Before you arrive, have knowledge of poison oak because it is a native plant. The main photos in the listing are taken from Hipcamp Scouts back in 2018 and they are featuring our Original campsite. This is located past the mineral baths. It's the furthest one to reach, and accessible by foot. I will update photos to depict all the campsites, but please share your photos with us on Instagram and tag @charanspringsfarm to help future campers get a view of what the sites look like with a tent set up! SULFUR MINERAL BATHS Include in your experience the use of our sulfur mineral baths. It's $10 per person. PLEASE BOOK THIS AS AN EXTRA AT CHECKOUT. The mineral baths are 2 funky vintage clawfoot tubs that are pictured in the actual listing.The photos show an accurate description of the Mineral Baths. They are not located in the main camp zone. Please call ahead to book your time slot and get directions to the mineral baths. PLEASE DO NOT BOOK IF: You are looking for "Glamping," (Glamour Camping). It's primitive camping on a private property with bonuses like the garden, rustic baths, and beautiful nature. This property has been a working farm for decades, which has struggled with hard times. If farm yards/junk piles make you uncomfortable or give you a creepy feeling, don't book because our boneyard is adjacent to the entry road and it can't be ignored. Thank you for reading this whole description and we hope you have a good experience.

99%

(1113)

SLO Country Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · San Luis Obispo, CA

SLO Country Camp was once a part of the Serpa Ranch, one of the early ranches of the Central Coast. It’s remained a beautiful rural pocket in the Edna Valley area of San Luis Obispo. It’s quiet and peaceful, enjoy your morning coffee listening to all the birds waking up. There’s a private creek not far away that draws deer and wildlife. Just saw 3 deer run through out property 2 days ago. Owls, red tail hawks, eagles, squirrels and jack rabbits we see frequently. And you can listen to the coyotes howling at night. We’re surrounded by rolling coastal hills, vineyards, horses, cattle and also land apportioned to the Land Conservancy. Walk down our road and then left up to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the entire area with the city San Luis Obispo at a distance. Our two sites are flat on decomposed granite pads. Both have excellent views and easy access to our common areas: wash/kitchen prep, and cold-water outdoor shower. Site 1 is best for trailers but Site 2 is adequate. Firewood is available for purchase at camp for those wanting to use the fire pit, or you can bring your own. The San Luis Obispo, Central Coast has so much to see and do! Hiking trails abound, my favorites are Bob Jones trail to walk or bike to Avila Beach, Johnson Ranch and Irish Hills for hiking hills, the Ridge trail for a view over Shell and Avila beaches, and the Harmony Trail to walk grassy cliffs by the ocean. Montano de Oro is only 15 minutes away with rocky ocean cliff trails that lead down to the coastline. We are 5 minutes from the beginning of the Edna Valley winery trail with 30 wineries or more I’ve lost count. Tasting and relaxing in great atmospheres. My favorites are Biddle Ranch, Talley, Mailene, Chamisal, Bailyanna... but there are so many more. We’re 10 minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo, 10–12 minutes to Avila or Pismo beaches. Morro Bay is 25 minutes. And we’re just 5 minutes off the 101 for easy access to traveling. The Central Coast has almost everything for fun, adventure and food. Surfing, biking, hiking, ocean kayaking, paddle boarding, golf, wine and beer culture, ranch lands, shopping and restaurants and we’re close to it all.

96%

(23)

Oak Heart Estate

8 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Paso Robles, CA

Does a night under the stars on a mountain top in the middle of Paso Robles Wine Country sound appealing? Incredible sunsets, picturesque views, peace and quiet abound at Oak Heart Estate! We'd love to share our piece of heaven with you! Escape the bustle of the city find your way to a little spot out of town. You'll find plenty of wineries in every direction you turn!

100%

(5)

La Montaña Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents142 acres · Santa Margarita, CA

Our property is 142 acres located on the top of east Cuesta grade, elevation approximately 2100. We are secluded enough to feel like you're far away from city life but in reality only 20 minute drive to downtown San Luis Obispo. The main road up continues past our property and turns into the Los Padres National Forest and is very popular for hiking and biking with locals. We also have private trails within our property. We have a farm consisting of 10 sheep, 10 goats, 22 chickens, 3 pigs, 4 dogs, a cat. Interaction with farm animals may be possible upon request. Bee hives are located on the property as well and honey, eggs and firewood are available for purchase. :)

98%

(518)

Enney's Ranch

4 sites · Lodging850 acres · San Miguel, CA

Enney's Ranch is one of the few remaining grain and cattle operations on the Central Coast. We dry farm and malt barley, wheat and rye for local breweries and distilleries. We have a small herd of cattle and rotate them between the fallow fields. Our goal is to maintain the natural beauty of the ranch and share it with you.

96%

(815)

Camp Arroyo Grande

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents29 acres · Arroyo Grande, CA

Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy our 29-acres that feature beautiful ocean views, oak woodlands, and plenty of rustic charm. All this is conveniently tucked into the hillside just steps away from the Village of Arroyo Grande where you will find restaurants, coffee, shopping, parks and roosters. The property is home to many youth groups and local non-profits, continuing a 135-year legacy as a Community Center and Retreat Space. The historic Tabernacle building has been hosting church and schools gatherings, dinners, fundraisers, weddings, family reunions, festivals and more since 1897. Community Events are likely to be taking place but follow quiet time guidelines. *pool is seasonal and subject to availability

71%

(19)

Organic farm and horse camp

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Los Osos, CA

We have a busy property. Organic farm, polo club, and lots of horses are boarded here. Camp somewhere on the property with your RV or tent. We have easy access to Morro Bay, Montana De Oro and wineries galore. Bring your horses, dogs, etc!! We have tent spots and a fully furnished toy hauler available. We have gates, and we have a general equine liability form for you to complete, and then we can give you the gate code. I have been here for 14 years. I have an organic farm, polo club, boarding stables, a few gypsy friends and 2 kids. If you are looking for a place to crash while enjoying San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay and Los Osos this is it!! If you want to learn to ride or play polo... that is my real job. Guests love it here: "My husband, friends, and our dogs spent Thanksgiving at Megan’s farm. Megan was welcoming, patient (I asked her a number of questions) and responsive - even on Thanksgiving evening. The property is in a GREAT location so close to SLO, Montaña de Oro, Morro Bay, wineries and so much more. (The weather prevented us from experiencing that and so much more but it’s easy to build a great trip when staying at Megan’s place.) It was a unique experience and if you enjoy or interested in horses - this is a great spot to stay."

100%

(2)

Hunter Moon Ranch

1 site · Lodging18 acres · Morro Bay, CA

Hunter Moon Ranch is a beautiful active farm/ranch, located on the central coast. Five minutes from the beach and town of Morro Bay. 18 acres of land, situated on a little creek, that’s abundant with wildlife. We’re just outside the fog line, with an awesome view of the rock. This ranch is like an animal sanctuary. Along with the farm animals and dogs that call this place home. Many different species of birds, deer, hawks, raccoons and other friendly critters, can be spotted here daily. Ideally close to the beach and town, but tucked away up against a hill side, out in the country. Come enjoy our slice of heaven, where every living being calls home.

98%

(92)

Broken Branch Creek

9 sites · RVs80 acres · Paso Robles, CA

Broken Branch Creek is a new family farm in Paso Robles, CA. Our land is abundant with with blue oaks, local wildlife, and plenty of walking trails running through it. There is a creek bed, usually dry most of the year, that provides excellent rock hunting and a shady hike with overhanging oaks. The entrance to the camping area is a very wide oil pipe fenced driveway off Branch Road, designed to accommodate farm equipment and cattle trailers. Sometimes map apps say you've arrived at one of the separate residential driveways on the property. Please keep looking for the commercial sized entrance. We are a 15 minute drive to the restaurants and shopping in downtown Paso Robles, 8 minutes to the Vina Robles Amphitheater, 6 minutes to the Hunter Ranch Golf Course, and 5 min to the Sensorio Art Exhibit. We're just off the Union Road Wine Trail among the Back Roads Wineries of Paso Robles.

100%

(171)

Roads End, Bradley Lockwood

2 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Lockwood, CA

Peaceful and private RV camping under the oaks with picnic table, fire pit and Adirondack chairs. We currently have two sites on our property. They are about 300 feet apart and not easily visible from each other. Property is fully fenced; both sites are next to an open field under the oaks with vineyard, olive orchard and mountain views. This property is 30 miles from Paso Robles and almost perfectly centered between Missions San Antonio and San Miguel. Lakes San Antonio and Nacimiento are close by. Coastal towns of Cayucos and Morro Bay are about an hour scenic drive, passing many wineries along the way. There is space for multiple RVs or additional tents sharing your party's RV restroom facilities. Site one will accommodate sixteen people and multiple vehicles. Site two will accommodate ten people and two vehicles. For larger groups we ask that that you book both sites. We have hosted many family reunions and the feedback has been 100% positive. Please feel free to message us with questions.

100%

(72)

Twisted Branch

1 site · RV, Tent30 acres · Paso Robles, CA

We named our property the Twisted Branch after one of the big oak trees that sits on the site where you will camp with us! It's on a hilltop with amazing views in nearly all directions. The campsite faces South/West so sunsets are fantastic. We use no chemicals on the soil or annual grasses. It is very quiet and the night sky is always stunning. Owls hoot at night and Redtail Hawks hunt for ground squirrels during the day. We have alot of Acorn woodpeckers living in the oak trees, the ones with the bright red head feathers. April through June we see bright yellow Orioles. At night you will hear hundreds of little frogs in the nearby ponds, depending on the season. We are located in the heart of Wine Country and there are plenty of activities around us and in town.

100%

(50)

Hazel Homestead -Quiet Coastal Farm

3 sites · Lodging, RVs1 acre · Nipomo, CA

We are a small farm on a 1 acre gated property that has two RV spots and a bar shed. We have full hookups in both sites. Our town is rural but it's still close to HWY 101. We do live on the property, close enough if you need anything but far enough for privacy. We host happy hour for campers who are interested. Although the hours depend on arrival and our availability. We have a common area between the two sites that offered a nice fire pit. Our farm has 3 goats, 2 pot bellied pigs and 20 chickens that lay fresh eggs daily. We LOVE animals but we CANNOT ALLOW PETS. Also, sorry no tent camping. RV's only. We do not provide bathrooms or showers on site. Don’t have an RV? RENT OURS! We have everything you need for your family. Enjoy a weekend on the farm and glamp in our RV. We have all the amenities of home. Coming to enjoy the area? The property is just a few mins off the 101 freeway on the Central Coast. We are only 15 mins South of Pismo Beach, 30 mins south of San Luis Obispo and an hour North of Santa Barbara. The beach, wineries and shopping are all very close. Or if you are looking for a quiet retreat with some super sweet farm animals stay here and enjoy the farm. We do rent both sites out at the same time so if it’s privacy you are looking for please message us. Or If you would like to camp with friends or family we can accommodate two additional trailers. Again please message us to arrange this. Come stay awhile! It doesn't get any better than this!

The best camping near Morro Strand State Beach guide

Overview

About

Just west of San Luis Obispo on California's Central Coast, Morro Strand State Beach offers great opportunities for ocean recreation throughout the year, with three miles of sandy beach and excellent waves for surfing. Other popular activities at the beach include picnicking, bird-watching, and fishing, and an abundance of tide pools during low tide make this beach an excellent choice for those who want to check out marine life up close. While this beach is popular among locals and day-trippers, it’s also an overnight destination, and the Morro Strand State Beach Campground offers 76 year-round sites, some with full hook-ups.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance on the California State Parks website or over the phone. Same-day reservations are also available.
It’s wise to book well in advance, particularly if visiting in summer or on a weekend.
If you can't find a spot at Morro Strand, you may want to look into camping at one of the other nearby state parks, such as Morro Bay State Park or Montaña de Oro State Park, or consider booking a private campground or Hipcamp in the area.

When to go

Morro Strand State Beach has a mild climate, with pleasant, if not exactly warm, weather year round. The area gets its fair share of rain from late autumn well into the spring, while summers are consistently dry. The best time for whale watching is from December through April (for gray whales) or from May through October for humpback whales. The winter and spring months are ideal for otter-spotting.

Know before you go

The closest places to pick up supplies and groceries include Los Osos, a 15-minute drive away, or San Luis Obispo, a 20-minute drive from the beach.
Kite flying is prohibited from March to September in order to protect sensitive bird species.
Dogs are allowed in campsites and on paved roads, provided they are leashed, but are not allowed on the beach (with the exception of service dogs).
The maximum length for RVs and trailers is 24 feet at non-hookup sites and 40 feet at hookup sites.
Accessible features at the park include ADA parking, wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, and accessible campsites (both with and without hookups).