Mountainous camping near Cambria

Situated on California's Central Coast, just south of Big Sur and about a 40-minute drive from Paso Robles, the village of Cambria is a popular tourism destination, offering a mix of sandy beaches and cliff-flanked coast plus easy access to Hearst Castle, one of the best-known attractions in the region. RV and tent camping are available at San Simeon Creek Campground and Washburn Campground, both in Hearst San Simeon State Park on the northern edge of town. Additional camping options are available in Morro Bay State Park, a half-hour drive south of Cambria, as well as at many privately run Hipcamps in the vicinity.

Cambria's location in the northern part of San Luis Obispo County makes it easy to visit other spots in the area, from the city of Paso Robles to Avila and Pismo Beach to the south. If you're looking for a great place to take a summer swim or just want to get out into nature, head inland to Lake Nacimiento, where you'll find seven campgrounds, a marina, a hiking trail, and lots of spots to swim.

Set about four hours south of San Francisco and 4 hours north of Los Angeles, Cambria's position puts it right in the sweet spot of California's climate. It's a year-round destination with mild weather—highs rarely climb past the mid-80s or fall under the mid-60s. Summers are busy with vacationing families, and coastal breezes keep the weather cool even in peak season. While both the spring and fall shoulder seasons are ideal for avoiding crowds, fall temperatures are generally warmer. Come in December to check out holiday lights at nearby Hearst Castle, or in February or March to see newborn pups at the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery.

Immerse yourself in maritime history while camping near Piedras Blancas Light Station. As you explore the light station and witness the elephant seals, the Piedras Blancas camping experience will prove a unique and educational coastal retreat.