The best safari tents near San Simeon
Where else can you go camping near a castle tucked into the hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean?.
The best safari tents near San Simeon guide
When to go
While winter rainstorms occasionally batter the coastline, it can be a quieter time of year to visit the region. Between October and February, monarch butterfly populations overwinter at San Simeon Natural Preserve, as well as groves in Pismo Beach and Morro Bay. Elephant seals may be observed throughout the year, but you’ll see the biggest populations come ashore during late January, April, and October. State parks campgrounds fill up quickly in summer months, especially on weekends and holidays, so reserve early.
Know before you go
- Cambria is your go-to town for gas stations, grocery stores, cafes, and craft beer.
- Dogs must typically be leashed in campgrounds. They are prohibited on most beaches and trails except on W.R. Hearst Beach and some boardwalks.
- A portion of the 3.3-mile trail that runs along the San Simeon Natural Preserve is wheelchair accessible.
- Rookery viewing areas are open to the public year-round and are wheelchair accessible. No reservations or fees are required.
- Harbor seals and other marine life can also be spotted from the Elephant Seal Boardwalk in Hearst San Simeon State Park.