Camping near Avila Beach

Overlooking San Luis Obispo Bay on California's Central Coast, Avila Beach is a pretty coastal town offering three scenic piers (one of which is used for commercial fishing), plus a sandy beach. There's a smattering of local attractions, including the Point San Luis Lighthouse and the Central Coast Aquarium. While quite a few camping spots dot the Central Coast region, both inland and right on the beach, many campers simply use this area as a jumping-off point to explore other spots nearby, such as Los Padres National Forest and the Big Sur Coast.

94% (6.4K) • 2,132 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Avila Beach

Creekside Glamping in the Canyon

1. Creekside Glamping in the Canyon

99%

(168)

1.3mi from Avila Beach · 1 site

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 apples and stone 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. Detailed with a 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 latex 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 (upon request), 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. You are welcome to cruise the property and check out the chickens, ducks, goats and horses. We have three dogs on the ranch, a curious and playful ranch dog Pluto (who will be your tour guide), a Boston Bulldogge, Astrid and our newest pup, an American Hairless Terrier, Cozmo, silly little guy :) 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 bik

Toilets

Showers

Potable water

SLO Country Camp

2. SLO Country Camp

99%

(966)

4.8mi from Avila Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Holiday RV Park

3. Holiday RV Park

91%

(11)

6.5mi from Avila Beach · 161 sites

HOLIDAY RV PARK IS LOCATED ONLY TWO BLOCKS FROM THE BEAUTIFUL BEACHES OF THE PACIFIC OCEAN ON THE CENTRAL COAST OF CALIFORNIA. Enjoy our heated swimming pool, spa, clubhouse, sparkling restrooms, complimentary cable TV and Wi-Fi. Nearby activities include fishing off the 1200 foot long pier, golf, kayaking, surfing, horseback riding and four-wheeling in the Oceano Dunes. Watch playful dolphins surf the waves, take a relaxing walk on the beach and view the spectacular colors of Pacific sunsets. Treat yourself to fine dining, enjoy the many restaurants and cafes in town, pick up fresh produce and delicious bakery items in local farmers markets. Shopping, arcades, bowling and specialty shops are just a few blocks away!

Pets

Full hookups

Pismo Beach State Beach

4. Pismo Beach State Beach

93%

(97)

State park 8.3mi from Avila Beach · 248 sites

Pismo Beach camping includes OHV dunes, clamming, and caving. What's not to love?

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Montaña de Oro State Park

5. Montaña de Oro State Park

92%

(76)

State park 11mi from Avila Beach · 57 sites

Discover seven miles of sandy shores and sea views.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Camp Arroyo Grande

6. Camp Arroyo Grande

96%

(998)

9.3mi from Avila Beach · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Diamond E Ranch

7. Diamond E Ranch

100%

(12)

17mi from Avila Beach · 1 site

We have lived in quiet Nipomo since October 2014. Our Nipomo neighborhood is known for not having street lights giving you beautiful night skies! We have a 1 Acre lot with an RV Pad out front and a hobby farm in the back. We raise Nigerian Dwarf Goats and Kune Kune pigs. My wife teaches soap milking classes. We are centrally located between Pismo Beach and the Santa Maria Valley (for its wineries) During the week I run a Digital Marketing Agency and my wife is a retired teacher.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Camp Seclusion

8. Camp Seclusion

90%

(90)

18mi from Avila Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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. NOTE: Apple maps tends to lead people to the dirt road below our property. If you end up crossing the railroad tracks then you need to turn around and take a right on los palos.

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

Highlands Ranch

9. Highlands Ranch

100%

(44)

18mi from Avila Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Highlands Ranch Hip Camp sites are located half way between Atascadero and Morro Bay. The weather at Highlands Ranch is more like the inland Atascadero side hot in the summer months and cold in the winter months. We have 4 terraced, no hook up, spots available all of which can accommodate 2 or 4 wheel drive camper vans, trucks or cars. One of the sites can be used for fifth wheel, small motorhome or multiple camper type vehicles and of course tents can be set up on all sites. Sites range from small to extra large, that are quaintly studded with oak trees and native greenery for a peaceful camp off the road. Also, from our sites available, there is only a 5 minute walk to the local, off the beaten path, restaurant called the Half Way Station (great food, beer/ wine, sweets and live music) open Thursday through Sunday, which you can find on Facebook or Instagram. You may also like, a drive, further west is the Morro Creek Ranch Country Store (Snacks, Oils, Avocados, and more), which you can find on Facebook as well and of course further west with tons of ocean fun is Morro Bay. Thank you, we look forward to meeting every Hip Camp adventurer .

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

10. Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

100%

(2)

State park 11mi from Avila Beach · 1 site

A 5.5-mile-long slice of heaven for off-road adventures and all things ATV.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Morro Bay State Park

11. Morro Bay State Park

89%

(90)

State park 12mi from Avila Beach · 247 sites

Kayak, tee off, camp under the stars, or just enjoy the views of Morro Rock in this Central Coast city and park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Los Padres National Forest

12. Los Padres National Forest

95%

(466)

National forest 66mi from Avila Beach · 762 sites

From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Morro Strand State Beach

13. Morro Strand State Beach

88%

(33)

State park 16mi from Avila Beach · 75 sites

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Wendee's Whimsical Campsite

14. Wendee's Whimsical Campsite

99%

(171)

19mi from Avila Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV

Nestled in the oak-studded hills of North West Atascadero a charming site awaits you...an unforgettable destination surprise. A rustic 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 various supplies (hairdryer, first aid kit, walking sticks, etc). The BBQ area has a large community-style table and benches with a propane grill and basic utensils. The propane firepit is perfection for evening gatherings with your companions and marshmallow roasts (ingredients for S'mores on hand). (Sorry...no open wood fires due to potential fire danger) A hand-carved trail surrounds the area: complete with a 50-foot 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. Due to a recent suggestion by campers, we have added an outdoor sink with hot and cold water. Clearly needed for a quick cleanup after lunch. The campsite is large enough for several vehicles to park. A leveled tent area is close by so no need carrying camping gear any distance. For your convenience, reliable cell service is available on the entire property. 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 a convenient basecamp 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. Additionally, there are Farmers Markets every day of the week throughout the county. All of these attractions within a 30-minute drive. Look forward to meeting you...William and Wendee

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Wolf Six Ranch • Wine Country Stay

15. Wolf Six Ranch • Wine Country Stay

100%

(19)

21mi from Avila Beach · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging

Wolf Six Ranch @ Indian Oaks Wolf Six Ranch @ Indian Oaks sits in the heart of Central Coast wine country—oak-dotted hills, a stone’s throw from downtown Creston and just five minutes from the nearest winery. We traveled full-time around the U.S. for over a year in our RV, and our favorite stays were always on someone’s property—ranches, farms, and wineries. That’s part of why we fell for this place: along with a cozy tiny house, we have two RV sites with full hookups, making it a natural fit for fellow travelers. We purchased the ranch this year for our kids, family, and friends—and while we’re making improvements, we’d love to share the serenity and small-town feel of Creston with you. We’re tucked away, not isolated—20–25 minutes to Paso Robles, Templeton, or Atascadero, and about 35 to San Luis Obispo. Spend the day wine tasting, visiting farm stands, or hiking nearby trails, then come “home” to quiet, big skies, and knockout sunsets. Wildlife is part of the rhythm here—deer in the pastures, cows wandering through like they own the place, and great bird-watching (quail in the grass, hawks cruising above, owls after sunset, hummingbirds and blue jays in the oaks). Straightforward, from-scratch breakfast items by Christy (trained chef, long-time culinary instructor): baked goods, fresh fruit, and ranch eggs when the gals are laying. Work-in-progress charm (honesty corner): • Rustic ranch setting—unpaved roads, occasional mooing, and frequent jaw-dropping sunsets. • Cattle and wildlife roam—please admire respectfully and leave gates as you found them. • Great hiking on the property, plus easy access to dozens of wineries. • Our gate says “Indian Oaks” (you’re in the right place!). • We’re actively upgrading as we go—comfortable, thoughtful spaces made for unwinding, not perfection. If you’re craving nature, stillness, and the friendliest small-town energy—without giving up world-class wine—Wolf Six Ranch is your spot. Come exhale, explore Creston, and let me handle breakfast.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Atascadero’s hidden gem

16. Atascadero’s hidden gem

98%

(88)

21mi from Avila Beach · 1 site

We have a horse, chickens, goats and pet sheep. There are lots of fruit trees, over 100 oak trees, a secret cave, and an old barn. At night you’ll hear crickets while you enjoy the fresh air. There is a large camping area for you and you’re welcome to visit the farm animals. There is also a kennel available if you bring your dog. The camping spot is flat. You’ll drive up a small hill and then arrive Learn more about this land: Shaded private getaway, close to the highway but quiet. Area is on a small hill with a nice view. We are 20 minutes from San Luis Obispo, 8 minutes from Paso Robles, and 25 minutes from Morro Bay. Lots of hiking with wine and beer tasting nearby. We are close to the Midstate Fair, and about 15 minutes from Vina Robles.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Temple-tin, RV Corral

17. Temple-tin, RV Corral

91%

(11)

25mi from Avila Beach · 1 site

Love living where people vacation. We want to share this private spot away from crowded RV parks. Safe quiet Family neighborhood. This spot will just get better and better. Wake up early and you might find a fresh egg in the coop. We have 30 amp hookup and water. Cassette outdoor facilities. Self contained units highly recommended. Fire pit supplied with wood.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Wine Country Glamping

18. Wine Country Glamping

100%

(80)

25mi from Avila Beach · 2 sites

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 animal's and livestock. Welcome!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Dark Star Cellars

19. Dark Star Cellars

96%

(46)

26mi from Avila Beach · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

This is a small winery, with daily wine tasting, occasional live music, vineyard and panoramic views, with RV and tent sites. Glamping tipi to be added when we see how this works. We have a country vibe while being only ten minutes from town.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Paso Robles Camping

20. Paso Robles Camping

94%

(271)

27mi from Avila Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV

A small family owned vineyard in the heart of Paso Robles wine country. Bring your trailer, RV or tent to our 7.5 acre Vineyard. You will be able to camp right in the center of our vineyard next to our 1/2 acre foot ornamental pond. Our site is located just 12 miles from downtown Paso Robles and offers you a unique and private camping experience that we know you'll enjoy. We offer only 1 campsite, so you will have privacy. Amenities include: toilet, water hookup, trash disposal, picnic table. We are also pet friendly!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

The best family-friendly campsites near Avila Beach

SLO Country Camp

99%

(966)

4.8mi from Avila Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Camp Arroyo Grande

96%

(998)

9.3mi from Avila Beach · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

MooBahNeigh Gardens

100%

(40)

27mi from Avila Beach · 1 site

The ranch has enormous views, peaceful quiet grounds, therapy assiting animals to snuggle with and of course close proximity to the local vineyard faire. We provide a nice level parking pad with firepit ring, big views of the rolling hills and a short walk to the barnyard. Nights are full of sparkling stars and the big milky way and be seen on clear moonless nights. Bird watching is amazing here too. Our animals include; micro mini cows, minature silky fainting goats, mini horses, mini donkey, mini Kunekune pigs, mini roosters, horses and a pack of the friendliest dogs you'll ever meet. We have partnered with Forever Protected Equine, a non- profit to support the retired working horses on to our pastures wear they can live a natural equine life with friends. This is a critical time for horses well being and safety. Instead of an uncertain future or slaughter they come here to be gently cared for until their sunset day.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Twisted Branch

100%

(206)

29mi from Avila Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV

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.

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

Camp Tule Elk

99%

(112)

38mi from Avila Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The property is located in the historic area of Carrizo Plains National Monument. We are in between Los Angeles and San Francisco 60 miles from the coast. You can fish in the small bass pond located on the property or drink your morning coffee while floating on the Kayak. There is also a resident herd of Tule elk nearby. *PLEASE NOTE PROPERTY IS ABOUT ONE HOUR FROM THE NEARST TOWN.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Enney's Ranch

98%

(800)

40mi from Avila Beach · 4 sites

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.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

The best dog-friendly campsites near Avila Beach

SLO Country Camp

99%

(966)

4.8mi from Avila Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Holiday RV Park

91%

(11)

6.5mi from Avila Beach · 161 sites

Pets

Full hookups

Camp Arroyo Grande

96%

(998)

9.3mi from Avila Beach · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Camp Seclusion

90%

(90)

18mi from Avila Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

Highlands Ranch

100%

(44)

18mi from Avila Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Wendee's Whimsical Campsite

99%

(171)

19mi from Avila Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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

Ema

6 days ago

19 ft Class C

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Twisted Branch

We had the most wonderful stay at Jac’s Hipcamp site!! It was so so beautiful and Jac is a wonderful host! We were greeted upon arrival with so much friendliness, and the camp had so many amenities - clean water, clean porta potty, picnic table, etc. I would absolutely stay here again!

Sarah

1 week ago

24 ft truck camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

Magical spot near downtown SLO! We loved sitting around the campfire at night and the lovely visual touches of the fairylights and public spaces.

Ashley

1 week ago

16 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

A couple nights on the central coast!

Tesla Camping, but room for a couple cars and tents

Darren

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Wendee's Whimsical Campsite

Great spot with convenience of a clean bathroom with shower! Also, gas BBQ, gas fire pit for roasting marshmallows and picnic table with umbrella. Felt private but with some road noise (not bothersome but if looking for a remote spot then keep it in mind). Great place for beginner campers or for passing through. The town of Atascadero is about a ten minute drive and is very cute. I had cell service (Verizon) and my dog loved chasing the squirrels. Very kind and accommodating owners! Overall, a very good experience!

Steve

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at SLO Country Camp

The host Ken was great. The surroundings and layout were also very tastefully done. Great sink area, several fine shade and kind sitting areas as well as some nice views around off into the distance.

JULI

2 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at SLO Country Camp

I would definitely stay here again. It was a unique private camping experience. Both sites are spacious and clean. We loved it and so did our dogs! Thank you for allowing us to stay on your property.

Erin

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Paso Robles Camping

It was soooooo wonderful!!!! My partner and I had the most relaxing time enjoying the beautiful scenery around and having some time away from home. I would recommend staying for a quick get away from home! The pond was the best!!!

Tisha

2 weeks ago

18 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Twisted Branch

Beautiful panoramic view of the Paso Robles area, and close to event venues - we visited Sensorio, (which is magical too) - and were able to return to our private campsite (includes the basics - chairs, picnic table, well water & a very clean port-a-potty) with a beautiful Harvest Moon! Jac is a wonderful host and was helpful from the start - he sincerely loves the land and is an authentic local of the area. If the stars align, we would love to return to Twisted Branch, perhaps for an upcoming concert at Vino Robles.

Travis

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

Everything about our experience with this Hipcamp booking was fantastic. The communication from the host was top notch, giving awesome instructions on arrival directions and details for the site. Ken met us shortly after we arrived and was friendly and informative. He walked us through everything and even offered us the option of picking apples from their small orchard(the apples were delicious). The site also had a tree swing available to play on which my kids loved! Site was cute and had awesome shade, a nice table to cook on. Sink and porta potty were clean and in good condition. We really enjoyed our stay and would recommend this camp to anyone in the area. Thank you Ken!

Seven’s Barn Site — named for our self-appointed ranch queen and professional watchdog (of squirrels, mostly).

Christian

2 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Wolf Six Ranch • Wine Country Stay

The sites on the ranch are flat and easy to drive to. Some friendly cats, dogs, horsed or cows may be wandering about. There site have easy access to real toilets, sink and shower which is a great feature. Christie is a wonderful, responsive host who came by both mornings providing some breakfast items like scones and eggs. We will be baci.

Juno’s Creek Site offers 20- and 30-amp hookups, water, and sewer — everything you need for an easy RV stay.

Mia

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wolf Six Ranch • Wine Country Stay

This was hands down the best campsite and experience we have ever had on Hip Camp! What a hidden gem. Christy was an incredibly attentive and welcoming host. She surprised us each morning with a special delivery of freshly baked goods and eggs from her farm. What a treat! We unexpectedly arrived to 3 beautiful horses marking our camp spot and they were very friendly and curious. We were visited by deer as well as her beautiful cows grazing throughout and her lively ranch pups and cats. Lots of wildlife out here but you still feel safe and nestled in. The property is very well taken care of and loved. And our space was private enough as we angled our van towards the view. Lovely shade by the oak trees throughout the day and great onsite trails to enjoy. Christy even recommended some stops for wine tasting and dinner and we couldn't have been more happy with our experience. Fell in love a bit with Creston! Definitely will be returning. What a pleasure to stay at this property and for such a great price point. Thanks Christy & Wolf 6 Ranch!

Nadia

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Oak Heart Estate

Even though it is close to town, it is remote enough feel all alone. We were the only people camping there this weekend and it was one of the most magical beautiful experiences. The spots are big and there are several to choose from. We went specifically because it was going to be a harvest full moon and I did not disappoint. Felt like we were so close to the moon you could touch it. The bathrooms were some of the cutest bathrooms I’ve ever seen camping with flushing toilets, and a working sink. There are no showers, however, but we knew this from the listing. The space and the view was absolutely perfect and exactly what we needed. Waking up to fog over the valley and being above it is always an exceptional experience. Lauren was a great host and checked in via Hipcamp to make sure we were having a great time.

Rosie

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Dark Star Cellars

Lovely tent site with great views and trees to give shade. We also enjoyed our wine tasting experience. Michael was a great host.

Maddie

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Twisted Branch

ADORE this spot. The views are incredible. We arrived in time to catch the tail end of sunset and stayed in awe over the views through the starry night and the misty morning. Jac was so incredibly kind. Definitely planning on returning.

Chris

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

Very welcoming, helpful and responsive host - creative, cool and interesting place to stay.

Abhishek

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Vinyl Vineyards Glampground

Great spot and responsive host.

Andrew

September 2026

22 ft Class A

2 nights at Holiday RV Park

Excellent facilities ,super swimming pool ,friendly and helpful staff. Only negative is the site being quite close to a busy road.

Renata

September 2026

15 ft campervan

1 night at Wolf Six Ranch • Wine Country Stay

Quiet campsite with a clean bathroom, plus friendly, chatty cats that I enjoyed interacting with. I also appreciated Christy’s hospitality and the delicious treats she brought me for breakfast.

Mélody

September 2026

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twisted Branch

It was amazing! The view was awesome and the host was really nice. The only thing that was a little annoying was having to take our trash with us, but other than that, it was PERFECT!

Jennifer

September 2026

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Highlands Ranch

The spot was quiet and located in a beautiful area, and Nathan was a wonderfully friendly and accommodating host. I'd 100% book here again if passing through.

Avila Beach camping guide

Where to go

The Big Sur Coast

North of Avila Beach, the Big Sur Coast has long attracted a mix of bohemian artists and outdoorsy types with its larger-than-life coastlines and miles upon miles of virgin forest. Here you'll find campgrounds, hiking trails, hot springs, and spiritual retreat centers galore.

Los Padres National Forest

Encompassing both coastal areas and inland woodlands, Los Padres offers an extensive network of hiking trails and a solid mix of public campgrounds. It also has a variety of wilderness areas, including the Ventana Wilderness, home to the Sisquoc Condor Sanctuary.

The Southern California Coast

Drive far enough and you'll end up in crowded Los Angeles, but there's plenty of SoCal coastline between the Avila Beach area and LA that merits a visit. Popular areas include posh Santa Barbara, Emma Wood State Beach (a favorite among RV campers) and Malibu, at the base of the rugged Santa Monica Mountains.

When to go

Avila Beach has a temperate climate, and as it's hemmed in by coastal headlands, the weather tends to be a little warmer than elsewhere on the Central Coast. Late spring through early autumn is the most pleasant time to visit, with temperatures in the 70s from May through October, though winters—while rainy—rarely see temperatures drop below the mid-40s.

Top camping destinations around Avila Beach

Pfeiffer Beach - 10 mins from the campground

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

148 campgrounds

Los Padres National Forest

110 campgrounds

Los Alamos

56 campgrounds

Pinnacles National Park

Sequoia National Forest

126 campgrounds

Los Berros

89 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular areas near Avila Beach to visit?

Popular areas near Avila Beach to visit include posh Santa Barbara, Emma Wood State Beach (a favorite among RV campers), and Malibu, at the base of the rugged Santa Monica Mountains.

What is the best time to visit Avila Beach?

The most pleasant time to visit Avila Beach is late spring through early autumn, with temperatures in the 70s from May through October.

Where can I find camping options near Avila Beach?

Many camping spots dot the Central Coast region, both inland and right on the beach. You can also explore different options for camping near Avila Beach on Hipcamp.