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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)
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

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Morro Strand State Beach

86%
(564)

Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

12 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. On holiday weekends and summer weekends we tend to get busy and campsites fill up. This leads to some campsites on the property in view of other campsites. You will likely run into other guests while on property. We do have private campsites available but it's first come first basis and they are tucked away in comparison to the main camp zone. 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.
from 
$40
 / night
99%
(1099)

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.
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$65
 / night
100%
(1)

La MontaĂąa Ranch

3 sites ¡ 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, 33 chickens, 3 pigs, 3 dogs, a cat. Bee hives are located on the property as well. Interaction with farm animals may be possible upon request.
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$60
 / night
98%
(507)

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.
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$85
 / night
100%
(18)

Camp Robinson

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents123 acres ¡ Paso Robles, CA
Camp Robinson is 123 totally secluded acres, set in Paso Robles wine region, with thousands of oak trees, incredible views, abundant wildlife, seasonal creeks, hiking trails, several tent camping sites, spots to park campers, two small cottages and a cozy bunkhouse. There are several sitting/gathering areas scattered around the property and plenty of opportunities to unwind. There are hiking trails on the property, roads (both paved and dirt) to ride bikes, nearby wine tasting, and fresh air to clear your head. Nearby wineries offer wine tasting and restaurants. Instagram: camp__robinson
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$65
 / night
90%
(46)

Camp Seclusion

2 sites ¡ RVs2 acres ¡ Garden Farms, CA
A quiet secluded parcel nestled away on the outskirts of atascadero that backs up to the Salinas River. We get a nice breeze every afternoon and the eucalyptus trees provide ample shade when needed. Town is just a 5 minute drive and we are right in the center of the county making it an ideal place for wine lovers wanting to visit any of our beautiful local vineyards. We have two spots to camp with fire pits and shared running water. Also feel free to enjoy our horseshoe pits or take a walk through the back down to the riverbed.
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$55
 / night
100%
(97)

Wendee's Whimsical Campsite

1 site ¡ Tent6 acres ¡ Atascadero, CA
Nestled in the oak-studded hills of North West Atascadero a charming site awaits you...an unforgettable destination surprise. A charming old country road leads to a sole-campsite exclusively for you and friends/family. The bathroom is straight out of the Hobbit, equipped with hot/cold water, stall shower, fluffy white towels and camping supplies. The propane firepit is perfect for evening gatherings with your companions and marshmallow roasts (read: S'mores). A hand-carved trail surrounds the area: complete with a suspension bridge, chicken coup, rocky bridge and fish pond. Additionally, we provide a sustainable eco-friendly environment for our guests: including trash, recycling and composting receptacles. Also wildlife galore: plenty of turkeys, deer, racoons and quail. The nights are dark but we provide flashlights...then turn the flashlights off for a dazzling evening of stargazing. Atascadero is the perfect base for discovering the Central Coast: wineries/tasting rooms, olive oil tasting, abundant trails for walking/hiking; golfing as well as exploring the beaches: Morro Bay, Avila Beach, Montana de Oro, and northward to Cambria, Cayucos, San Simeon and Big Sur. All of these attractions within a 30-mnute drive. Look forward to seeing you...
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$145
 / night
95%
(32)

Feather River Ranch Eco Retreat

2 sites ¡ RVs6 acres ¡ Paso Robles, CA
Feather River Ranch Eco Homestead is the perfect place to pull up and hook up your RV or camper van and enjoy the property. 110 plug (it’s green) conveniently located for use. Please park along the vines or by corral entrance if your travel trailer/ RV is too large. Enjoy the newly built 16•34 ft pool, private hot tub, and a walk down to the river. There is no bathroom on site so your rv or camper is needed.
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$35
 / night
100%
(61)

Wine Country Glamping

2 sites ¡ Lodging36 acres ¡ Paso Robles, CA
This land has been in our family since the early 70's and is very special to us and we hope you will enjoy what is has to offer. You will be able to escape it all, yet still be close to amenities. Our property is surrounded by winery's and vineyard, so we encourage you to take a drive or a walk and do some tastings and indulge in some of the worlds best wine. There is a lot of wildlife near us. Deer pass through daily, owls howl at night and birds chirp all day long. Cozy, rustic, romantic accommodations that are completely renovated tucked away in the rolling hills of wine country. Peaceful setting, with many views of famous winery's and rolling hay fields. If your looking to be near winery's this is the place to stay. Right off scenic Highway 46 West.Owners live on property, but will give you your privacy. There are also a few ranch dogs (Percy, Brutus and Kimber) they are all labs and are friendly.Welcome!
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$220
 / night
96%
(810)

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
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$35
 / night
96%
(368)

Frog Hollow Homestead

4 sites ¡ Lodging12 acres ¡ Atascadero, CA
Welcome to Frog Hollow. Feel free to hike up to the bench, past the safari tent, on the hill or over to the chairs and table nest to the field where the sheep and donkey areat the other side of the creek. Keep an eye out in the mornings, you may see a family or two of wild turkeys or deercruising the property. Kick back, relax and enjoy the tranquility of the seasonal running stream and property. Situated on 12 acres, our property is a great spot where you can unplug, unwind and simply check out from your daily chaos. Sit back and enjoy the songs of the evening crickets and frogs. We are located on Hwy 41, a 10 minute drive to the coast, the famous Morro Rock, and 20 minutes from both San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles where you will find shopping, fine restaurants and plenty of local wineries in the area. We are lucky to have over 300 award winning wineries in our area so if you like wine, this is a great place to tour and taste! Frog Hollow is perfectly located for the weekend break or a leisurely mid-week holiday. Come visit us and check out our lovely land and quaint comfy living. Sabyl, our Border Collie, is around and may head down to greet you at some point during your stay. Our free standing casita is cozy and nestled in a natural serene creekside setting. The loft has a spacious queen size bed for your sleeping pleasure with adjustable reading lights on either side of the bed. The living area offers a fold down couch for another adult or 2 kids. There is a kitchenette with a toaster oven, electric tea kettle and coffee maker. There is a charcoal Weber bbq grill and a propane gas 2 burner stove. We provided a propane fire pit during the fire ban, bring propane & charcoal etc. The 13’ Stout Bell tent is sitting on a hillside under an oak tree. Our Bell tent has 2 sturdy cots with a wool and cotton bed roll for peaceful sleeping. Please BRING your own bedding, sleeping bag or blankets and a pillow for yourselves. Inside you will find cozy sitting cushions, layers of carpets, a wood burning stove which is perfect for the kettle. The Bell tent has plenty of head room to stand and move around in. There is a 2 burner gas grill along with a charcoal bbq and ice chest. There is a well lit bathroom with hot shower and flushable toilet 100 yards away. We have a moderate climb hiking trail down the road, Cerro Alto, that offers beautiful views of our coastline. Simply sit back and watch the the wild turkeys and deer roaming freely on our land, or head out to taste some of San Luis Obispo County award winning wines.
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$127
 / night
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.
from 
$140
 / night

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

  1. 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.
  2. It’s wise to book well in advance, particularly if visiting in summer or on a weekend.
  3. 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 MontaĂąa 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).

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