Camping near Lake Nacimiento

·

A short drive outside of Paso Robles, Lake Nacimiento is a popular summer destination, particularly among campers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts. Seven campgrounds house about 350 campsites, roughly half of which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Other lake facilities include a marina with 120 slips, plus rental outfitters offering everything from boats to fishing poles. While water-based activities are the primary draw, Lake Nacimiento also offers plenty to do on land, including a three-mile-long, dog-friendly hiking trail that affords hikers great views out over the lake.

93% (6.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Nacimiento

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(725)
39mi from Lake Nacimiento · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night

4. Hearst San Simeon State Park

100%
(4)
4 sites · California
Hearst San Simeon State Park is one of the oldest units of the California State Park System. The coastal bluffs and promontories of the scenic park offer unobstructed views of the ocean and rocky shore. The park includes the Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve, the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Pa-nu Cultural Preserve which were established in 1990. A 3.3 mile trail runs through parts of the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Washburn Campground. The trail includes scenic overlooks, rest-stop benches and interpretive panels with information on wildlife and habitat. A portion of the trail along the seasonal wetland is wheelchair accessible. Santa Rosa Creek Preserve is an area which includes valuable riparian forests and coastal wetlands, that provide habitat for endangered Tidewater Goby. San Simeon Natural Preserve consists of vast wetlands, riparian areas, and several undisturbed native plant communities including unique mima mound topography. The Preserve is also the wintering site for monarch butterfly populations. The 13.7 acre Pa-nu Cultural Preserve contains the most significant archeological site within San Simeon State Park. The site has been dated to 5850 years before the present, and it contains significant evidence documenting prehistoric technology, subsistence practices and social organization over the course of several centuries.A unique opportunity to view northern elephant seals is available at the Elephant Seal Boardwalk in Hearst San Simeon State Park. This vantage point provides an ideal location to view these marine mammals from a safe distance.  Located around Point Piedras Blancas, the elephant seal rookery extends along 6 miles of the shoreline.  Elephant seals may be seen throughout the year. The largest populations and the most activity are during the months of late January, April and October.  Although elephant seals spend most of their lives in the open ocean, they arrive at the rookery to give birth, breed, molt and rest from long migrations in the ocean in search of food. The viewing areas are open to the public year round and are wheelchair accessible.  Docents are on site to answer questions. No reservations are required and there is no fee.  Restroom facilities are not available at this location.  The nearest restrooms are 4 miles south of the viewing areas at William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach.

6. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles

100%
(3)
13mi from Lake Nacimiento · 332 sites · RVs, Lodging
Elevate your RV experience to new heights by indulging in the luxurious amenities of Sun Outdoors Paso Robles. Formerly known as Cava Robles RV Resort, our resort is nestled in the breathtaking wine country of Paso Robles, offering awe-inspiring vistas and a serene natural environment. Whether you prefer to park your RV or stay in one of our lavishly furnished villas or cottages, you can immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of our surroundings. Designed to provide the ultimate relaxation, our resort is the perfect destination for those seeking a lavish vacation or RV camping experience on the stunning Central California coast. Situated in the heart of Paso Robles wine region, and just 30 minutes away from the Pacific Coast, our resort offers an array of exceptional amenities such as two pools, a spa, fire pits, a wellness center, nature trails, and dog parks. At Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$59
 / night

8. Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

87%
(742)
12mi from Lake Nacimiento · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

18. Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

99%
(319)
14mi from Lake Nacimiento · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$39
 / night

20. Rancho Rio Del Sol: Paso Robles, CA

100%
(22)
9.5mi from Lake Nacimiento · 3 sites · Lodging
With over 1500 Four star + reviews, our property has hosted thousands of happy guests. Situated on 10 acres overlooking the Salinas River and beautiful Paso Robles estate vineyards, the epic views are spectacular. Comprised of three separate and all private sites, we host guests in our micro trailer, affectionately called The Dream Catcher, our Tiny House, which is a cottage style wooden fairy tale cottage, and our main Bungalow that sits atop one of the best look out points in SLO county. The Places: The Dream Catcher is two micro trailers with a large outdoor deck space and cast iron tub in between them. One trailer is sleeping quarters with a mini kitchenette and the other trailer is a full bathroom with shower. The spaces are small and cozy. The views are epic. Overlooking the majestic Paso Robles valley with vineyards with world class views, the spacious deck is the place to be for sunset. The Tiny House: A Fairy tale cottage style wooden tiny home built in the 1980's with a bottle wall, full bath, and reading nook. This three story wonder will leave you inspired to step into your own story. Fully equipped with a small kitchen, queen bed, reading nook and two beautiful outdoor decks, you'll feel like you stepped into another world. The Main Bungalow is a 1970's GEM, built by a movie industry icon with views of the valley through the stunning and huge five windows overlooking the Salinas River. Two bedrooms downstairs and two full baths, accompany a well appointed kitchen. The upstairs loft accommodates two additional semi private queen beds, and additional seating area. Sunrises from the bedrooms are rivaled by few. Guest access Most all of the property except the barn. Access to the riverbed. Other things to note We have a cell tower on our property. Horseshoes are available by the tiny house.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$125
 / night

A short drive outside of Paso Robles, Lake Nacimiento is a popular summer destination, particularly among campers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts. Seven campgrounds house about 350 campsites, roughly half of which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Other lake facilities include a marina with 120 slips, plus rental outfitters offering everything from boats to fishing poles. While water-based activities are the primary draw, Lake Nacimiento also offers plenty to do on land, including a three-mile-long, dog-friendly hiking trail that affords hikers great views out over the lake.

93% (6.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Nacimiento

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(725)
39mi from Lake Nacimiento · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night

4. Hearst San Simeon State Park

100%
(4)
4 sites · California
Hearst San Simeon State Park is one of the oldest units of the California State Park System. The coastal bluffs and promontories of the scenic park offer unobstructed views of the ocean and rocky shore. The park includes the Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve, the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Pa-nu Cultural Preserve which were established in 1990. A 3.3 mile trail runs through parts of the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Washburn Campground. The trail includes scenic overlooks, rest-stop benches and interpretive panels with information on wildlife and habitat. A portion of the trail along the seasonal wetland is wheelchair accessible. Santa Rosa Creek Preserve is an area which includes valuable riparian forests and coastal wetlands, that provide habitat for endangered Tidewater Goby. San Simeon Natural Preserve consists of vast wetlands, riparian areas, and several undisturbed native plant communities including unique mima mound topography. The Preserve is also the wintering site for monarch butterfly populations. The 13.7 acre Pa-nu Cultural Preserve contains the most significant archeological site within San Simeon State Park. The site has been dated to 5850 years before the present, and it contains significant evidence documenting prehistoric technology, subsistence practices and social organization over the course of several centuries.A unique opportunity to view northern elephant seals is available at the Elephant Seal Boardwalk in Hearst San Simeon State Park. This vantage point provides an ideal location to view these marine mammals from a safe distance.  Located around Point Piedras Blancas, the elephant seal rookery extends along 6 miles of the shoreline.  Elephant seals may be seen throughout the year. The largest populations and the most activity are during the months of late January, April and October.  Although elephant seals spend most of their lives in the open ocean, they arrive at the rookery to give birth, breed, molt and rest from long migrations in the ocean in search of food. The viewing areas are open to the public year round and are wheelchair accessible.  Docents are on site to answer questions. No reservations are required and there is no fee.  Restroom facilities are not available at this location.  The nearest restrooms are 4 miles south of the viewing areas at William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach.

6. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles

100%
(3)
13mi from Lake Nacimiento · 332 sites · RVs, Lodging
Elevate your RV experience to new heights by indulging in the luxurious amenities of Sun Outdoors Paso Robles. Formerly known as Cava Robles RV Resort, our resort is nestled in the breathtaking wine country of Paso Robles, offering awe-inspiring vistas and a serene natural environment. Whether you prefer to park your RV or stay in one of our lavishly furnished villas or cottages, you can immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of our surroundings. Designed to provide the ultimate relaxation, our resort is the perfect destination for those seeking a lavish vacation or RV camping experience on the stunning Central California coast. Situated in the heart of Paso Robles wine region, and just 30 minutes away from the Pacific Coast, our resort offers an array of exceptional amenities such as two pools, a spa, fire pits, a wellness center, nature trails, and dog parks. At Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$59
 / night

8. Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

87%
(742)
12mi from Lake Nacimiento · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

18. Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

99%
(319)
14mi from Lake Nacimiento · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$39
 / night

20. Rancho Rio Del Sol: Paso Robles, CA

100%
(22)
9.5mi from Lake Nacimiento · 3 sites · Lodging
With over 1500 Four star + reviews, our property has hosted thousands of happy guests. Situated on 10 acres overlooking the Salinas River and beautiful Paso Robles estate vineyards, the epic views are spectacular. Comprised of three separate and all private sites, we host guests in our micro trailer, affectionately called The Dream Catcher, our Tiny House, which is a cottage style wooden fairy tale cottage, and our main Bungalow that sits atop one of the best look out points in SLO county. The Places: The Dream Catcher is two micro trailers with a large outdoor deck space and cast iron tub in between them. One trailer is sleeping quarters with a mini kitchenette and the other trailer is a full bathroom with shower. The spaces are small and cozy. The views are epic. Overlooking the majestic Paso Robles valley with vineyards with world class views, the spacious deck is the place to be for sunset. The Tiny House: A Fairy tale cottage style wooden tiny home built in the 1980's with a bottle wall, full bath, and reading nook. This three story wonder will leave you inspired to step into your own story. Fully equipped with a small kitchen, queen bed, reading nook and two beautiful outdoor decks, you'll feel like you stepped into another world. The Main Bungalow is a 1970's GEM, built by a movie industry icon with views of the valley through the stunning and huge five windows overlooking the Salinas River. Two bedrooms downstairs and two full baths, accompany a well appointed kitchen. The upstairs loft accommodates two additional semi private queen beds, and additional seating area. Sunrises from the bedrooms are rivaled by few. Guest access Most all of the property except the barn. Access to the riverbed. Other things to note We have a cell tower on our property. Horseshoes are available by the tiny house.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$125
 / night

Camper favorites near Lake Nacimiento

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Lake Nacimiento guide

Where to go

The Big Sur Coast

Arguably the prettiest stretch of coastline in California—if not in the country—Big Sur is characterized by postcard-worthy views of the Pacific Ocean and a mix of upscale eco-lodges and backwoods coastal camping. Made popular by authors such as Henry Miller and those that came after him, this area has had a reputation as a counterculture haunt for decades, a torch that's carried to this day by the Esalen Institute hot springs and retreat center.

Santa Barbara County

South of the lake, where the Southern and Central California Coasts meet, Santa Barbara County features pretty beaches, charming towns, lots of wineries, and plenty of historic sites. The Santa Ynez Mountains offer miles of hiking, while the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes near Santa Maria are great for exploring by ATV.

Sequoia Country

East of Lake Nacimiento, the Sequoia National Forest and Sequoia National Park are best known for their groves of ancient sequoias, some of the world's tallest trees. This region is also fantastic for camping, with hundreds of backcountry and developed camping areas, plus thousands of miles of trails.

When to go

Lake Nacimiento is definitely a summer destination, and the hot period between July and September is perfect for swimming, boating, and standup paddleboarding. This is, naturally, the most popular time to visit the lake, when area campground reservations are likely to fill up quickly. To camp without the crowds, consider coming in October, when the weather is generally still warm enough for camping (if a tad cold for swimming).