Explore
/
United States
/
California
/
Santa Margarita Lake

The best camping in Santa Margarita Lake, CA

100% (9)

Do a bit of hiking, fishing, or boat-in camping at this popular California lake.

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near Santa Margarita Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Carolyn

4 days ago

16 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Beautiful property! Amazing views and super quiet. Felt far away, but there is a lot nearby. Will definitely rebook!

Marco

5 days ago

23 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at SLO Country Camp

Ken and Judi’s campground was epic! Location, environment, and amenities were exactly what we were looking for to spending a family Thanksgiving. 10/10.

Megan

5 days ago

Tent

2 nights at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Amazing hosts! Chris went out of his way to bring me wood and kindling for a fire, gave me a tour of the ranch where I got to meet the animals, and was very responsive via text when I had questions. The site was great and had everything you would need (picnic table, fire pit with poker, good trees to set up a hammock). The view from the top of the property is unbelievable during the day and at sunset!

Nicholas

1 week ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Great Camping Spot! Beautiful drive up the mountain to some amazing views. Hosts were very friendly and the bathrooms were really clean. Highly recommended.

Shannon

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

Ken and Judi’s property was lovely. It was intimate and provided plenty of personal space. I thoroughly enjoyed the attention to detail with the outdoor lighting and ample prep space. They had excellent communication and even offered to let us come a little early.

mike

2 weeks ago

1 night at Dare 2 Dream Farms

Cute little farm. Jeremy was very welcoming and his two boys were adorable as well. I arrived a bit early, but Jeremy was more than accommodating. The location is close enough to town, but far enough away for peace and quiet when the sun sets. The mattress was a little soft for my liking, but it was still comfortable. Their on-site farm stand was awesome. I’ll be back again, next time I’ll probably opt for the airstream on the farm.

Deneen

2 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Feather River Ranch+solar pool+spa

Great spot in a great location. Patrick had us move up closer to the house when it became rainy, which worked out just fine. We'll stay here again if we're in the area!👍

Fulvio

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

1 night at Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

Amazing! Everything perfect really nice and quiet area unfortunately we stopped just for one night.

Site 1 and 2 offer a road base pad, just beyond the tree.

Lisa

3 weeks ago

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Broken Branch Creek

Kevin was so friendly and welcoming; gave me a great overview of the property and even told me of a little hike I could take. One porta potty on the grounds, stocked with tp and is taken care of. Stayed for three nights---I was away during the days, but each night when I came back to camp it was great just to sit with a glass of wine by my tent and watch the stars. Thanks, Cabernet and Kevin, for providing such a great spot to camp!

Stefan

3 weeks ago

12 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Broken Branch Creek

Staying in my little camper Daisy on the ranch felt so wonderfully safe, peaceful and homey! So much room to spread out for every camper - there were three others there - and still felt private. Having a closed gate on the property at night was wonderful. The porta-potty was so clean! The sunrises and sunsets were stunning, as well as the stars at night. I would gladly come back for another stay!

Alice

3 weeks ago

16 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Dark Star Cellars

Camped out in our Tesla here. The host was super friendly and runs a beautiful vineyard.

Kegan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Beautiful location and nice and communicative hosts! Definitely make sure you have a 4x4 as the listing says because the last little climb gets pretty steep. Overall, would stay again.

Abigail

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Enney's Ranch

This glamping experience is amazing! The views were absolutely beautiful, the property was incredible, and Kenny's hospitality was amazing. Kenny provides everything you could need so this experience is completely stress free!

Kevin

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

Ken and Judi's property was beautiful and spacious. We enjoyed meeting our hosts and loved the location as well. The fire pit is awesome and we liked hanging out around the fire. We will definitely return if we get a chance.

Cameron

3 weeks ago

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Oak Heart Estate

Second trip here - won’t be our last. Absolutely perfect location for paso wine tasting and gorgeous sunsets. The hosts are super responsive but never intrusive. Highly recommended!

Jane

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

Beautiful spot with fire pit, electric and water .. very peaceful. Deer wandering around, great sunrise and sunsets… It’s far from anywhere so if you want hiking or amenities it’s 20 miles for that but for relaxation and peace amazing!!!

beautiful picnic table, star-gazing chairs, and some misc. supplies

Christine

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Twisted Branch

Great views and very level for tent sleeping! Jac is a fabulous host with clear directions and very welcoming check-in. We had a lovely stay at twisted ranch, wish we could have stayed longer - will have to come back!

Kathy

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

1 night at Oak Heart Estate

Quiet💜I was at the top of the property with no other guests. It was magical. I’ll definitely be back

Diana

November 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Twisted Branch

Absolute heaven! Must love cows which we do! And beauty and privacy and serenity! :). Jac was a sweet and knowledgeable host! Will be back!

Steph

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Enney's Ranch

Kenneth's property was absolutely gorgeous! It is so quiet, so peaceful and relaxing. We stayed at the beginning of November and the weather was perfect. A little chilly at night but not too bad. You can see all the stars in the sky. It was so nice to be away from all the noise of the city. We definitely will be going back!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Santa Margarita Lake

100%

(9)

Santa Margarita Lake Recreation Area

57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Santa Margarita Lake

Top-rated campgrounds

Camp Arroyo Grande

96%

(942)

15mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Arroyo Grande, CA

Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy 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 an Event 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

Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

98%

(305)

9.5mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Santa Margarita, CA

Our ranch consists of 142 acres located at the top of East Cuesta Grade, elevation approximately 2100 ft. We are secluded and it feels like you're far away from city life yet San Luis Obispo is only a twenty minute drive away. We neighbor Los Padres National Forest which has several miles of hiking and biking trails. On our farm we have 10 sheep, 10 goats, 32 chickens, 3 pigs, 4 dogs and a cat. Interaction with farm animals is common place as most campsites are close to our animal pastures. Bee hives are located on the property as well. Honey, eggs and firewood are available for purchase. :)

SLO Country Camp

99%

(1360)

12mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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: big sink and counter, and a cold-water outdoor "beach-type" shower. 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, our 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. Our 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.

The Templeton Silver Bell

100%

(6)

20mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Templeton, CA

The Silver Bell Ranch is 44 acres in the center of Templeton Gap wine region and within a few miles of Paso Roble wine country. Two sites: one full hookup and one self-contained (under a magnificient blue oak). The ranch is pasture and rolling hills with a two-acre vineyard and beaiutiful views of surrounding hills and ranches. The sites are private, quiet and peaceful. The Silver Bell is minutes from Templeton and Paso Robles AVA wineries and a half hour from the ocean, the hotsprings of Paso and drivable to all of the amenities of the region: Paso Robles and the cities of Atascadero and San Luis Obispo, and San Miguel. Atascadero is a fifteen minutes drive away; San Luis Obispo is a half hour drive. The ranch is gates for privacy; guests are restricted to the RV sites.

Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

87%

(739)

35mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 enterGate 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.

Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

99%

(313)

50mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Enney's Ranch

98%

(709)

30mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 4 sites · Lodging · 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.

Twisted Branch

99%

(167)

21mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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.

Oak Heart Estate

97%

(110)

27mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!

Cuyama Oaks Ranch

99%

(769)

45mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · CA

Hello! Our names are Ricky and Nathan. We own and operate an 80 acre ranch that is great for family's, kids, romantic getaways, and LGBTQIA+ safe. We cannot wait to host you and your group! We're excited to share our property with those who appreciate nature and what seclusion in the mountains has to offer. Located deep in the Cuyama Valley, close to wine country, and booming local vineyards (1.25 hrs past Ojai and 45 minutes past Santa Maria) our ranch promises the getaway experience you've been looking for. The Ranch is 80 acres with majestic mountain views and vast canyons for hiking and trail access. During the spring and summer months imagine sitting in your own personal cowboy pooltub looking up at the stars. Smell the sage and wildflowers in the air while you sip wine. Surrounded by the Los Padres Mountains and located deep within the hidden valley of enchantment, this ranch gives the visitor the high-desert glamping/camping experience of their dreams. For the hikers and explorers out there, the ranch offers trails and within 30 min in every direction there are local trails. . There is a designated area for tent camping and for RV's, Trailers, Vans, and tiny homes (no electric yet for RVs). We also offer glamping sites and all inclusive yurts. The ranch is completely private and secluded, off HWY 166. We welcome all animals, big and small. We are farm! We have pigs, goats, ducks, chickens, turkeys and more!

Vinyl Vineyards Glampground

97%

(710)

23mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Paso Robles, CA

Welcome to Vinyl Vineyards – a 120-acre private ranch, working vineyard, and boutique glampground tucked along the scenic Union Road Wine Trail in Paso Robles, California. Our 10-site glamping retreat blends rustic charm with refined adventure. Unplug, recharge, and reconnect—with nature, with wine, friends and family. Hike private trails through vineyard rows, oak forests, and wildflower fields. Cool off with afternoon breezes and cool Paso nights, greet our alpacas and chickens, or nap in a hammock with the scent of lavender in the air. The property features: 26 acres of producing vineyard Outdoor kitchens, BBQ grills, and communal fire pits Sunset hilltops and dark-sky stargazing Frisbee golf, garden rows, and peaceful picnic spots Alpacas (yes, you can meet them), chickens, and bees Pet-friendly vibes with plenty of space to roam Guests are invited to book a complimentary "Sip & Spin" wine tasting in our private cellar—where the vinyl spins and our award winning wine flows. And we also deliver to your site. We’re just 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles and within walking distance to local wineries. A 5-minute drive puts you at Sensorio Field of Light, Vina Robles Amphitheatre, and Paso’s golf courses. Or stay put—there’s magic in staying still.

Feather River Ranch+solar pool+spa

91%

(70)

27mi from Santa Margarita Lake · 2 sites · RVs · 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 in the RV carport. Please park along the vines or by corral entrance if your travel trailer/ RV is too large. Enjoy the newly built 16•34 ft solar heated pool, private hot tub, and a 3 minute walk down to the river. There is no bathroom on site so your rv or camper is needed. We are hands off and have another home so we may or may not be able to greet you if we are away. Enjoy the peace of this eco homestead.

The best camping in Santa Margarita Lake, CA guide

Overview

About

In the hills outside of the city of San Luis Obispo, Santa Margarita Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, hiking, and horseback riding. Lake swimming is prohibited as it’s used as a source of drinking water, but there's a seasonal pool for those who want to take a dip. For travelers wanting to spend the night, 60 non-hookup campsites are spread across four campgrounds, plus two additional boat-in campgrounds with primitive camping. You can reserve campsites up to a year in advance and it’s wise to do so, particularly if visiting during the busy summer season.

Where to go

Inland San Luis Obispo County

While San Luis Obispo County is known for its beaches, there's also plenty to see and do inland. If you want a lake you can swim in, Lake Nacimiento is the place to go, while the city of Paso Robles is known for its hot springs and wineries.

California's Central Coast

Stretching from just outside of Los Angeles clear up through Monterey, this expanse of coastline is characterized by beautiful beaches—some cliff-lined, some sandy—along with numerous state park campgrounds, especially when you get up into the rugged Big Sur area. This region is also great for wildlife viewing, providing a winter refuge for monarch butterflies and housing all sorts of birds and otters year-round.

Santa Ynez Wine Country

In neighboring Santa Barbara County, the Santa Ynez Valley is known for its wineries and vineyards, many of which produce outstanding syrah. Tasting rooms abound in towns such as Los Olivos and Santa Ynez.

When to go

Santa Margarita Lake draws in visitors throughout the year, but summer is by far the busiest season, when kids are out of school and the weather is at its warmest and driest. Spring is the best time for fishing, though it can be a bit chilly and rainy at night, while September and early October are ideal for people wanting warm weather without the crowds.

100%

9 ratings · 3 reviews

October 2017

Santa Margarita Lake Recreation Area

I spent a weekend at Khus Camp, which is one two boat-in sites. It was peaceful. The environment is unspoiled and there is wildlife. Khus isn’t developed so you have to pack-in/out your gear, water and trash. There is a communal fire-ring and a clean composting toilet. Since I kayaked in, my kit was a cross between backpacking and car-camping gear. If you have a motor boat, you might do it differently. I didn’t love the second boat-in camp, Sapwi. It’s nice but Khus is shadier. The developed, car-camping sites are fine too. There are clean showers and a swimming pool. The only drawback to this lake is that swimming isn’t allowed. That said, I’m already planning another ~300 miles trek back to this sleepy, little spot.

Randall G.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2017

Santa Margarita Lake Recreation Area

Hard to believe but the KOA rustic cabins in this area are surprisingly nice, spread out nicely through the woods.

Glenn R.

8 years on Hipcamp

August 2015

Santa Margarita Lake Recreation Area

The drought really changes this place. The water level is v low so it's not like the lake is the point of camping here. What's great about this place is the hikes around the lake. They take you up classic central coast ecology—beware poison oak and ticks! Camping here was chill. Lot's of stars!