Camping in Lake San Antonio Recreation Area, CA

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake San Antonio Recreation Area adventure.

Discover Lake San Antonio: A Haven for Water Sports and Wildlife Spotting.

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Stories from the community

Yissette

6 days ago

16 ft Class B

1 night at SLO Country Camp

Where do we begin? The amenities were amazing! Between the fire pit, lighting, outdoor shower and crazy enough.. porta potty experience, lol everything was just wonderful! We’ll definitely be staying here again when passing through SLO. Very close to a beautiful ‘Main Street’ with shops, and dining.

Brian

1 week ago

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to SLO Country Camp

2nd visit. Great spot. Quiet, clean and close enough to town, beaches.

Dalton

1 week ago

Tent

2 nights at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Karina and Chris are great hosts that have created a seamless stay. The Ranch was very quiet and secluded, and we were greeted by their pigs, sheep, goats, and their dogs, all of who were very friendly and patient with our small dogs. We spent evenings walking the forest roads around the mountain ridge and taking in the orange sunsets! The wind snuck up on us in the middle of the night, which was to be expected high up and close to the ocean. It was by no means unpleasant, but something to think about when you're picking a spot of your tent - there's plenty of cover. We had cell service, which was a nice convenience. All that to say, La Montaña Ranch is magical and we'll definitely be back!

shelby

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

My boyfriend, small dog and I stayed for a night. We wanted something inexpensive where we could drive right up to the site, had someone on site because we had never been to the area and were getting in after sunset, and was in a wooded rural surrounding. The hosts were extremely friendly and hospitable. One of them met us at the entrance & took us around the property to explain the different site options (we were the only ones there! There were 8 different sites - all fairly close to each other, but I could tell that if multiple were full - you’d still have your own private space.) They brought us firewood and helped us set up our fire! I saw some negative reviews about the junk yard … which I’m confused about?! I thought it was super cool. It’s not anywhere near where you actually camp… it’s right when you pull onto the land and then you drive probably half a mile into the woods. It was cool to see all the stuff they have collected. From airstreams, to big CATS, cars, etc. Yea, can look a little eerie at first, but it’s apart of the experience. good place to stop and camp for a night when you are in between your trip. It’s super close to the town of Cambria - which has a ton of little restaurants, bars, etc. tons of farm animals surrounding. One of the guys who lives on site there, Rob, has starlink at his house and allows you to connect to it! Thanks Guys, you made us feel very safe. 👍

Linda

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Campground in Wine Country

Barbara was responsive to inquiries before booking. The tent space was nicely laid out and would make a perfect group outing if reserving all the spaces as well as having a cottage and a small cabin for those who prefer glamping. I did have the place to myself. Walking the grounds was also lovely. One thing to note is the dogs may run up to you though they are well behaved. Also heard barking periodically through the night. It was a quick one night stay. The jam tasting would have been nice add on.

Late afternoon light on one of the camping areas

TOBY

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Oak Heart Estate

Lovely area with lots of space and great views. We will be back.

Trey

2 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

With pets

3 nights at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

We stayed 4 nights. Karina was responsive. The Range was a wonderful view with the neighborly pigs, goats and sheep visiting, along with their friendly dogs. We worked on training our ‘city’ dogs with new friends. The 25’ RV we travelled in slowly made the exciting hillside drive up and down. Karina and Chris have dedicated themselves to off the grid living, a constant work. We had a lovely visit of their home with a million $$ view.

We were the only ones here! Very peaceful

Lizbeth

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Vinyl Vineyards Glampground

Awesome spot. Felt very private. Close to vineyards! Dog friendly!

Amanda

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Enney's Ranch

What an excellent, relaxing way to get away! Everything we needed was pretty much provided and the bedding was substantial and comfy. We had a thunderstorm hit and even that was a nice experience. A great way to experience mother nature firsthand! We never got wet or were uncomfortable in any way. A hot soak in the tub with my sweetie while stargazing was the trips fav! If you are particular about your cookware, I would bring a good pan and maybe a knife but other than that everything was peaceful. All the wineries around was a plus also!

Donald

2 weeks ago

34 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at MooBahNeigh Gardens

If you have kids this place is amazing. Olwyn and Doug were so lovely and charming....Olwyn gave out 3yr olds a long tour with the animals which they adored. Worth the visit.

Sheri

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

I've been to this Hip camp several times now. It provides plenty of space with beautiful views, and for better or worse has perfect cell coverage (Verizon). Jeffrey and Susan are always available via the app though they to not come to meet you, which is nice for getting away. Camp sites have water and electric hookups, shady areas for seating, fire rings and, did I mention, both have beautiful views? Can't recommend enough

Kaycie

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Twisted Branch

Jac was an awesome and friendly host. We gathered here for a family weekend camping trip and had an incredible time (8 people total of all ages). The sunrises, sunsets, and starry nights were so beautiful at this site and we also loved seeing all the animals around the property. Would definitely come here again or recommend to others!

A queen sized bed with memory foam mattress makes this glamping at its best.

Vivian

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Enney's Ranch

We loved staying on Enney ranch. Kenney was a wonderful host and even brought us some freshly baked bread. The site was wonderfully out of the way, but close to everything Paso Robles has to offer. Will definitely be back.

Sam

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

We had a great time camping at Puri Camp! The property is beautiful with spectacular views. There are plenty of great hiking trails nearby. The campsite is well maintained with a picnic table, string lights in the tree above, and a fire pit. The compost toilet and water spigot are a short walk away from the site and both nice and clean. The farm animals are a huge bonus, and Karina is helpful, communicative, and friendly! We would definitely stay here again!

Carol

3 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Broken Branch Creek

This camping area was perfect for our needs. Simple sites with picnic tables near beautiful old oak trees. Very friendly, low-key hosts with great communication. Super convenient location, especially for access to Vina Robles. Would definitely stay there again.

Mary

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to OUR HAPPY PLACE

Nice campground for a weekend offline! Hosts are very kind and responsive. We highly recommend the add on bread and eggs! The ground is a little rocky for a tent, but we were fine with an air mattress. The stars are beautiful at night, and you can hear all sorts of wildlife at all times of day. Bring layers—there is almost no shade during the day, and it gets cooler at night.

Kerri

3 weeks ago

18 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Atascadero’s hidden gem

This is my 2nd stay at this hipcamp. i took a friend this time - we both had 18' camper vans and the site was spacious enough for us to manuever and park in flat spots. It was peaceful, clean and felt safe. I would recommend this site and plan to stay here again.

Steve

3 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

This was our second time camping here and it was just as nice as the first. This time we stayed at Salinan and it’s a very private site with great views perfect for star gazing. I’m glad I have 4x4 to get to this site as it’s steep and rocky. The site is mostly level but I used leveling blocks for a perfect night’s sleep in my truck. In the morning we woke up to a beautiful sunrise and panoramic views. Karina and Chris are great hosts, very communicative!

Jim

3 weeks ago

10 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

We love staying at Chris & Karina’s land. It is private and quiet with beautiful views. They are great hosts. This was our 3rd stay and we can’t wait to return!

Julie

3 weeks ago

26 ft fifth wheel

2 nights at SLO Country Camp

This was our second visit and highly recommend staying here. The location is perfect for visiting the SLO downtown and many wine tasting locations are close by. The hosts were very accommodating on our arrival time and Ken was there to greet us and help get us settled in.

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake San Antonio Recreation Area

dabudage Big Sur

95%

(718)

9 sites · Lodging, Tents · CA

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.

Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

97%

(298)

5 sites · RVs, Tents · Santa Margarita, CA

Our ranch consists of 142 acres located at the top of East Cuesta Grade, elevation approximately 2100 ft. We are secluded and it feels like you're far away from city life yet San Luis Obispo is only a twenty minute drive away. We neighbor Los Padres National Forest which has several miles of hiking and biking trails. On our farm we have 10 sheep, 10 goats, 32 chickens, 3 pigs, 4 dogs and a cat. Interaction with farm animals is common place as most campsites are close to our animal pastures. Bee hives are located on the property as well. Honey, eggs and firewood are available for purchase. :)

Enney's Ranch

98%

(702)

4 sites · Lodging · San Miguel, CA

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.

Wolf Six Ranch • Wine Country Stay

3 sites · Lodging, RVs · Creston, CA

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 by Christy (trained chef, long-time culinary instructor, and One Three Ghee co-founder): 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.

Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

87%

(739)

12 sites · RVs, Tents · Cambria, CA

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.

Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

99%

(310)

2 sites · RVs, Tents · Lockwood, CA

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.

Camp near Pinnacles National Park

98%

(470)

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Paicines, CA

Started in 2014 by Tim and Michelle Borland and their three kids, the Bar SZ Ranch is a true family business with a mission to help others “forge their legacy.” Set on 2200-acres in its own valley with iconic California oak trees and golden hills; views of the surrounding mountains and Pinnacles National Park; and painted, sunlit skies guests can't get enough of, this working ranch offers unique, getaway camping and glamping experiences for both new and seasoned campers. The Bar SZ Campground is near Pinnacles National Park but relatively remote from other services, which is part of what makes the area so special. It is a place to unplug, share stories and spend time with your family and friends, and explore the wilderness of California. From the ranch: Pinnacles National Park East entrance 6.6 miles Nearest Groceries and restaurants: Hollister 36 miles north King City 28.5 miles south Tres Pinos 29.2 miles north The nearest amenities (stores, restaurants, gas) are about 30 miles away so please plan ahead and bring the things you will need during your stay. We have great service for AT&T on the ranch. Do you have an even larger group? Message us if you have a larger event or are interested in a whole campsite/ranch rental.

SLO Country Camp

99%

(1357)

2 sites · RVs, Tents · San Luis Obispo, CA

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.

Twisted Branch

99%

(165)

1 site · RV, Tent · Paso Robles, CA

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.

Vinyl Vineyards Glampground

97%

(709)

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Paso Robles, CA

Welcome to Vinyl Vineyards – a 120-acre private ranch, working vineyard, and boutique glampground tucked along the scenic Union Road Wine Trail in Paso Robles, California. Our 10-site glamping retreat blends rustic charm with refined adventure. Unplug, recharge, and reconnect—with nature, with wine, friends and family. Hike private trails through vineyard rows, oak forests, and wildflower fields. Cool off with afternoon breezes and cool Paso nights, greet our alpacas and chickens, or nap in a hammock with the scent of lavender in the air. The property features: 26 acres of producing vineyard Outdoor kitchens, BBQ grills, and communal fire pits Sunset hilltops and dark-sky stargazing Frisbee golf, garden rows, and peaceful picnic spots Alpacas (yes, you can meet them), chickens, and bees Pet-friendly vibes with plenty of space to roam Guests are invited to book a complimentary "Sip & Spin" wine tasting in our private cellar—where the vinyl spins and our award winning wine flows. And we also deliver to your site. We’re just 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles and within walking distance to local wineries. A 5-minute drive puts you at Sensorio Field of Light, Vina Robles Amphitheatre, and Paso’s golf courses. Or stay put—there’s magic in staying still.

Oak Heart Estate

97%

(108)

4 sites · RVs, Tents · Paso Robles, CA

Does a night under the stars on a mountain top in the middle of Paso Robles Wine Country sound appealing? Incredible sunsets, picturesque views, peace and quiet abound at Oak Heart Estate! We'd love to share our piece of heaven with you! Escape the bustle of the city find your way to a little spot out of town. You'll find plenty of wineries in every direction you turn!

Broken Branch Creek

96%

(168)

9 sites · RVs · Paso Robles, CA

Broken Branch Creek is a new family farm in Paso Robles, CA. Our land is abundant with with blue oaks and local wildlife. There is a creek bed, usually dry most of the year, that provides excellent rock hunting and shady areas with overhanging oaks. We have grazing cattle fenced off from the camping areas and farm so you may see or hear them during your stay. The entrance to the camping area is a very wide oil pipe fenced driveway off Branch Road, designed to accommodate farm equipment and cattle trailers. Sometimes map apps say you've arrived at one of the separate residential driveways on the property. Please keep looking for the commercial sized entrance. We are a 15 minute drive to the restaurants and shopping in downtown Paso Robles, 8 minutes to the Vina Robles Amphitheater, 6 minutes to the Hunter Ranch Golf Course, and 5 min to the Sensorio Art Exhibit. We're just off the Union Road Wine Trail among the Back Roads Wineries of Paso Robles. Please be aware we cannot accept longer than 7 day bookings.

Camping in Lake San Antonio Recreation Area, CA guide

Overview

About

With many amazing lakeside options for camping, Lake San Antonio is sure to meet all of your outdoor activity needs. Famous for it's birding, Lake San Antonio is the home to bald and golden eagles. Every winter the bald eagles will return to this scenic lake giving visitors a unique experience in nature. With 26 miles of trails nearby Lake San Antonio is a perfect place to explore the Monterey scenery by foot or on horseback.

Notable campgrounds

Shoreline Campground - Offers lakeside sites where you can wake up to the gentle sound of lapping waves.
Redonda Vista Campground - Nestled amid rolling hills, perfect for families seeking a blend of comfort and wilderness.
Eagle Point Campground - A secluded spot known for its prime eagle spotting opportunities and tranquil atmosphere.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your preferred spot, especially during peak summer months.
Consider visiting during the off-season for greater availability and a quieter experience.
Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up.
Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding a site.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake San Antonio is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm conditions perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters are quieter but can be chilly, making some activities less enjoyable.

Know before you go

Check the park's website for any alerts on closures or safety advisories before your trip.
Accessibility varies across different areas of the park, so plan according to your needs.
Bring all necessary supplies, as the nearest stores are a drive away.
Respect wildlife habitats and maintain a safe distance from animals.
Facilities are available, but it's wise to come prepared with essentials like water and snacks.

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