A-frames near Atascadero with a private bathroom

Atascadero is a relaxed town in Central Coast wine country with rolling hills, colossal oak trees, arroyos, horse ranches, and nearby hot springs. It boasts an extensive network of mountain biking and hiking trails via the adjacent Los Padres National Forest, and it’s a quick drive to Morro Bay and other Pacific Coast beaches with epic surf, swimming, and sunsets. Camping near Atascadero means choosing from options such as ranch and vineyard campgrounds, coastal mountain hideouts, and forest glamping getaways. Set inland between Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo, Atascadero also makes for a great layover on road trips between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Atascadero's Mediterranean climate makes it camping-friendly year-round, but campers should consider high temperatures in summer and low temperatures in winter when choosing gear and lodging. Rain and fog are possible on the Central Coast in winter, while spring visitors may see wildflower blooms and running waterfalls.