Camping near San Luis Obispo

Hit this sunny city for beach camping, mountain trails, monarch butterflies, and wine tasting.

96% (4659 reviews)
96% (4659 reviews)

Popular camping styles for San Luis Obispo

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds near San Luis Obispo

99%
(1117)

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
96%
(816)

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
86%
(567)

Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

10 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.
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$40
 / night
100%
(9)

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. :)
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$60
 / night
96%
(26)

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!
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$70
 / night
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."
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$99
 / night
100%
(122)

Kindred Acre Wood

1 site · Lodging10 acres · San Luis Obispo, CA
We are living our dream after recently finding and purchasing this beautiful 10 acre parcel, one of the sunniest in the canyon with a bucolic creek that flows all year. See Canyon itself is a special place. Home to a multitude of birds and wildlife, a beautiful scenic winding road, lush landscaping and a host of apple orchards. Thanks to the micro climate we have here, we grow some of the best fruit in the country. The coastal canyon is just a short distance to the beach and 15 minutes into town but feels like a world away when you are here. The star gazing is incredible as the canyon walls block the light pollution and the milky way shines! Welcome to our little slice of 10 acre heaven in the Canyon! Just bring yourself and we have everything else!! Nestle up in the Cozy Gnome Home, a 1967 vintage trailer and listen to the symphony of frogs in the creek just outside your window. With love and labor... we gutted, redesigned and restored this little trailer for the ultimate functioning space for two. Nice little kitchen with copper counters and everything you need for cooking and dining. A Berkey filter for clean water, hardwood floors and a comfy bed complete with organic mattress, down comforter and cotton sheets. Fold out dining table if you care to (or need to) eat indoors. There is also an outdoor kitchen space with a sink (no hot water), gas grill, propane burner (bring your own small canister) and a patio table and chairs. We have a charcoal grill available too. The creek runs mostly year round so feel free to get your feet wet on a hot sunny day. We also have an outdoor warm shower and sink as well as a hot water kitchen sink that you can share with other campers. You are welcome to cruise the property and check out the chickens, ducks and horses. We have three dogs on the ranch, a deaf and incredibly sweet pitbull ( he is a food thief so store food and garbage as though raccoons were a problem), a curious and playful ranch dog Pluto (who will be your tour guide) and a Boston Bulldogge, Astrid. We are surrounded by orchards which have some of the best apples and pears in the country. Seasonally you can stop by many apple markets and do a tasting. We also have a lively wine tasting venue less than a mile away. Avila Beach is a short 4 miles away and we are happy to share bikes if we have them available but can't guarantee any. Our location is a bikers' dream as the 13 mile scenic road takes you all the way into SLO. NOTE: If you want to bring others to camp, please note that they need to bring their own tents and supplies, we only have room for two but welcome self sufficient campers to join you :) also, we have a camp stove you can use to cook on but bring your own little green propane canister.
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$145
 / night
100%
(2)

Summit ranch

1 site · RV, Tent88 acres · Santa Margarita, CA
Located in the heart of Los padres national forest surrounded by big valley oaks we have 88 acres of amazing views and serene mountains. A nature lovers dream! Secluded in the canyon there is plenty of hiking and family fun. If you want to ride your bicycles to the forest or just enjoy the quiet evening this is the perfect spot.
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$85
 / night
91%
(49)

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%
(4)

Eagles Landing Ranch

3 sites · Lodging13 acres · San Luis Obispo, CA
Nestled on top of beautiful Irish Hills our 13 acre ranch has spectacular views of Morro bay and Pismo dunes only 13 minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo 20 minutes to Avila beach and Morro bay. Our property has many paths to stroll and enjoy nature. Perfect for bird and tree lovers.
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$200
 / night
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(74)

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.
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$70
 / night
96%
(370)

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

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Camping near San Luis Obispo guide

Overview

Set between the ocean and Santa Lucia Mountains, San Luis Obispo is a fantastic base for exploring the beaches and natural attractions of California's Central Coast. This inland town is known for its abundance of wine tasting rooms and its Spanish-style architecture downtown, including the 1772 Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. From the rugged mountains to whales breaching in the bay, SLO also within 15 miles of three public beaches (Pismo State Beach, Morro Strand State Beach, and Avila Beach) and just a short drive from some of the region's other most popular parks, including Santa Margarita Lake Recreation Area and Montaña de Oro State Park, both of which offer camping.

Where to go

San Luis Obispo County

San Luis Obispo County is full of spots to visit, from the hot springs and wineries of Paso Robles to the ornate Hearst Castle near Cambria. The closest beach to SLO, Avila Beach, is small and secluded, making it popular among families and sunbathers. A short drive further up Highway 1 is Morro Bay State Park, which offers not only tent and trailer camping sites with showers, but also an 18-hole golf course, its own Museum of Natural History, and wildlife like sea otters, birds, and whales. Nearby Morro Strand State Beach is another sandy, 3-mile stretch popular for surfing and long walks. Its campground is right on the beach—a rarity in California. Lastly, Pismo Beach is a classic California beach town with a historic pier and a protected monarch butterfly habitat.

Santa Barbara County

While the city of Santa Barbara, celebrated for its historic mission, is the best-known destination in Santa Barbara County, there are plenty of other spots worth visiting. Head to the Santa Ynez Valley to taste award-winning wines, or check out the historic homes in the beach community of Goleta.

Ventura County

On the opposite side of Santa Barbara County, Ventura County is great for camping and exploring, with a mix of forest areas and more arid expanses—not to mention tons of beaches with county-run campgrounds. Head to the Ojai Valley to soak in hot springs or venture into the Simi Hills for a bit of canyon hiking.

When to go

San Luis Obispo is a year-round destination, and while winters get some rain, temperatures generally hover between the mid-40s and mid-60s. If you like warm weather but want to avoid the summer vacation crowds, it's wise to camp in SLO during in late spring or early fall. To see wildlife, winter is the best time, as monarch butterflies overwinter at Pismo Beach from November through February, which is also high season for whale-watching along the coast.

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