Pismo Beach Camping Guide

Camping is a popular activity for many people, but not all know the best ways to camp or the best places to set up camp. Pismo Beach Camping is very popular in California, and it may be something you’re interested in.

If you’re looking for a great place to camp, look no further than Pismo Beach! With plenty of RV campsites and tent camping areas, as well as cabins and bungalows, Pismo Beach has something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about camping at Pismo Beach, including the types of camping available there and what makes each type unique. We’ll also provide some tips on the best places and times to camp and what to bring with you.

So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or just getting started, read on for the ultimate guide to camping at Pismo Beach!

Pismo Beach State Park

Pismo Beach State Park is an excellent place for both RV and tent camping. There are plenty of campsites to choose from with a variety of amenities.

If you’re looking for an RV campsite, there are several different options. For example, Pismo Coast Village RV Resort offers full hook-ups and is right on the beach.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more rustic camping experience, try North Beach Campground, which offers primitive tent camping and is located close to Carpenter Creek.

If you’re looking for another place to set up your tent, Pismo Beach State Park is a great option. Tents are allowed anywhere in the park, and there are plenty of spaces to choose from.

In case you are wanting a more unique camping experience, Pismo Beach also offers cabins, bungalows, or cottages. In addition, you can find some lovely cottages to stay in that allow you to enjoy RV camping without the RV at Pismo Sands RV Resort.

When it comes to deciding when to camp at Pismo Beach, the best time to go is during Spring or Fall when the skies are more clear, and the gatherings are smaller.

If you don’t mind the crowds and love being around people, spring break time is when most people visit Pismo Beach, so the campgrounds will be more crowded but also a lot more lively.

Map of Pismo Beach, California

History of Pismo Beach

Have you ever wondered how Pismo Beach got its name? The Chumash people named the area after the tar springs in Price Canyon, which were discovered by Spanish explorers. The tar was a valuable commodity that the Chumash utilized to seal their seagoing canoes, known as tomol, which traveled along the coast and across to the Channel Islands.

People have lived in the Pismo Beach region for at least 9,000 years, beginning with the Chumash Indians, who called it a spot to discover pismu (tar). The Pismo Beach location has an intriguing background going all the way back to 1769 when Don Gaspar de Portola and his followers camped there.

The City of Pismo Beach is located on the Central Coast of California in San Luis Obispo County, along the Pacific Ocean.

Pismo Beach, California is home to the world’s largest Clam Festival and one of its most famous beaches. It’s also known as the Clam Capital of the World, and it’s particularly noted for its outstanding clam digging sites.

Pismo Beach RV Camping

Pismo Beach is one of California’s most popular destinations for RV camping. There are several campgrounds that offer RV campsites in addition to tent camping and cabin accommodations.

If you are looking for a fabulous RV park to set up camp during your next trip to Pismo Beach, there are many great options listed in this guide!

Pismo Dunes Camping

One popular spot when visiting Pismo Beach is the sand dunes! Many campers love to hike into the Pismo Beach sand dunes to find pristine sandy hills that extend for miles.

If you plan to visit the sand dunes during your next trek to Pismo Beach, you may want to stay at one of the campgrounds listed below that are closest to the dunes.

Pismo Beach Tent Camping

Pismo Beach is a renowned camping destination for both RVers and tent campers alike. The mild weather and beautiful scenery make it the perfect place to set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors.

There are many different campgrounds to choose from when planning your next trip to Pismo Beach. However, if you are looking for a specific type of campsite, such as a beachfront campsite or one that is more secluded, you may want to do some research beforehand to find the perfect spot for your camping adventure. Hopefully, this guide will help you to find the best site!

Pismo Beach Camping Cabins

Pismo Beach is well known for its many camping options, but did you know that there are also many cabin rentals available?

Cabins offer a unique way to experience all that Pismo Beach has to offer. You can find cabins at many of the campgrounds in the area, as well as some private rental companies.

If you are interested in renting a cabin during your next trip to Pismo Beach, be sure to continue reading through this guide for more information.

Campgrounds on Pismo Beach

Before you head out to Pismo Beach, you will need to know the best places to set up camp. The following campsites in Pismo Beach have many great accommodations and activities for you to enjoy during your stay.

Oceano Dunes SVRA

This Oceano campground has about 250 camping units, so there is plenty of room to set up camp with your street-legal vehicles and green sticker OHVs.

Some fantastic features of this campsite include boating, hiking trails, horseback riding, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, windsurfing, and more.

You can even bring your furry friends with you to this campsite! Oceano allows leashed dogs. You just cannot bring them with you to Oso Flaco Lake or Pismo State Beach Dune Preserve.

The Oceano Dunes SVRA campground offers both hook-up sites for RV campers as well as tent camping sites. Visitors have direct access to the beach from the campground and can easily explore the wildlife along a freshwater lagoon.

There is also an excellent Visitor Center that you won’t want to miss, and in the summer, Jr. Ranger Programs and Campfire Programs are held at the campfire center here as well.

Dates Open: All year
Available Campsites: 250
Reservations: Yes
Nightly Cost: $25 during the off-season and $35 during peak season
Features & Services: Pump-out services, picnic table, fire area, open dune areas, nearby hiking trails, vault toilets, chemical toilets, nearby dump station, beach camping, and a solar-powered call box.
Accessible Sites: Yes

Oceano Campground Reservations

The Oceano Dunes SVRA is open every day from 7 in the morning until an hour after sunset for vehicle day use. You can purchase day-use passes for $5 per vehicle,, but they are only available on a first-come, first-serve basis at the beach entry kiosks at Grand Ave.

If you are planning a trip to the Oceano Dunes SVRA beach camping area, you will want to contact Reserve California for reservations.

Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort

This resort is a very special RV resort in the Pismo Beach area. This RV resort features spectacular sand dunes and exuberant waves in the breathtaking Oceano Preserve.

At the Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort, you will enjoy stunning vistas and trails to the beach. This resort is secluded and peaceful but not too remote.

Located on the coast, the Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort provides numerous water sports and activities, including fishing, surfing. swimming, boating, and more.

If you are not a fan of the water, however, you may love to experience all of the biking and hiking that the expansive land of this resort has to offer.

Pismo Beach North Beach Campground

This campground features facilities for tent camping as well as a campfire center. Unfortunately, there are no available hook-up sites at this campground, so it is probably better for those that use a tent to camp rather than an RV.

Visitors to North Beach Campground can access the beach directly from the campground and appreciate the scenery along Carpenter Creek. You can also visit the Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove directly from the campground.

During the summer, In the summer months, visitors can enjoy Jr. Ranger Programs and Campfire Programs at the campfire center.

Dates Open: All year
Available Campsites: 103
Reservations: Yes
Nightly Cost: $25 during the off-season and $35 during peak season
Features & Services: Monarch butterfly grove, grill, generators, campfire center, showers, dump station, restrooms, trails, picnic table, and pets are allowed.
Accessible Sites: Yes

Campgrounds Near the Beach

If you are looking for beach views or at least easy access to the beach while camping in Pismo Beach, look no further than the following campsites!

Pismo Coast Village RV Resort

This resort can be found in-between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort has a gorgeous landscape and is located directly on Pismo Beach.

Pismo Coast Village RV Resort is a nationally recognized and award-winning resort that is conveniently located within walking distance from downtown Pismo Beach where you can find restaurants, shopping, and the famous Pismo Pier.

This resort features 400 full hook-up sites, and each includes complimentary wireless Internet access and cable TV! This resort stretches a vast 26 acres and has many outstanding amenities, including bicycle rentals, miniature golf, a heated pool, arcade, laundromat, general store, and more.

At Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, you can unwind to the sound of the surf, the fragrance of the salty air, and the feeling of the ocean breeze. It is truly a unique camping experience that you will not want to miss!

Dates Open: All year
Available Campsites: 400
Reservations: Yes
Nightly Cost: $54 on weekdays, $58 on weekends, $64 on prime dates, and $71 on summer dates
Features & Services: Heated swimming pool, Laundry facilities, RV storage, service calls, propane sales, general store, water views, picnic tables, ocean proximity, full hook-ups, free WiFi, free cable, miniature golf course, bicycle rentals and an arcade.
Accessible Sites: Yes

Holiday RV Park

This RV park is located just two blocks from the stunning beaches of the pacific ocean on the central coast of California.

Here you will enjoy an 83-degree swimming pool, spa, clubhouse, 54 channels of complimentary cable, and more. You will also enjoy some fun nearby activities, including fishing off the 1200 foot long pier, golfing, kayaking, surfing, horseback riding, four-wheeling in the Oceano Dunes, and more!

You will have so much fun watching lively dolphins surfing the waves while taking a relaxing walk on the beach and viewing the breathtaking colors of the Pacific sunsets.

At Holiday RV Park, you can treat yourself to fine dining while enjoying the many restaurants and cafes in town. You can also pick up some fresh produce and homemade bakery items at the local farmer’s markets. You will also be able to enjoy shopping, arcades, bowling, specialty shops, and more that are only a few blocks away.

Dates Open: All year
Available Campsites: 195
Reservations: Yes
Nightly Cost: $55 during non-prime dates and $70 on prime dates
Features & Services: Lending library with books and puzzles, clubhouse, showers, dumpsters, full hook-ups, free cable, jacuzzi, heated swimming pool, restrooms, group picnic area, vending machines, laundry facilities, weekly rates, and dogs are allowed.
Accessible Sites: Yes

Avila/Pismo Beach KOA

You can rent a cabin or set up camp in your RV at this campsite. This site features a hot tub and swimming pool that are open all year round.

You can also enjoy the Avila/Pismo Beach KOA activity courts for playing shuffleboard, basketball, and more. This campsite also offers free cable!

If you are a tent camper, this site will not work well for you as Avila/Pismo Beach KOA only accommodates RV camping.

Dates Open: All year
Available Campsites: 89
Reservations: Yes
Nightly Cost: $85+
Features & Services: Basketball court, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard court, playground, communal fire pit, general store, and rental cabins, showers, restrooms, laundry facilities, outdoor movie theater, planned activities, kid zone, bike rentals, common area, and it’s pet-friendly.
Accessible Sites: Yes

Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground

Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground is the perfect place to stay while exploring the Central Coast! It is conveniently located next to Grover Beach Amtrak Station and adjacent to the railroad tracks making it easy to get around.

Plus, this campsite also has restrooms, hot shower facilities, and laundromats on-site so you can always feel refreshed and clean.

Don’t miss out on all the local attractions while you’re here! Pismo State Beach is just a short walk away, or for the more adventurous, try out some ATVs at the Oceano Dunes.

And if you’re looking for a night of entertainment, The Great American Melodrama is just minutes away.

Dates Open: All year
Available Campsites: 250
Reservations: Yes
Nightly Cost: $25+ for primitive sites, $42+ for electric sites and $40+ for full hookups.
Features & Services: Restrooms, shade trees, communal picnic area with grill, paved roads, off-road trails nearby, ocean proximity, fire pit, full hook-ups group sites, rental cabins, showers, laundry facilities, and back-in and pull-through sites.
Accessible Sites: Yes

Local Attractions in Pismo Beach

If you are planning your next camping trip itinerary and want to add some fun local attractions to check out while in the Pismo Beach area, we have listed some of the best for you below!

San Luis Obispo Museum of Art

The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art is the heart of the California Central Coast art community and is a vital link to the cultural life of the region. With its downtown location in the cultural district and its free admission, it’s accessible for all.

SLOMA is located in downtown San Luis Obispo, which puts you close to everything the amazing city has to offer. While you’re there, make sure to check out some of our famous beaches, like Pismo State Beach, which is just a short walk away.

Or take an ATV ride through Oceano Dunes. And don’t forget about The Great American Melodrama nearby!

Avila Hot Springs

Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Why not relax and rejuvenate at Avila Hot Springs? Their natural artesian mineral hot springs oasis is the perfect place to unwind and take in the stunning Central Coast scenery.

It’s just 2 miles from the beach, and its idyllic location offers year-round sunny weather and beautiful ocean breezes.

Whether you stay in one of their cozy cabins or dry tents, you’re sure to have a relaxing and memorable experience. So, come kick back, relax, and enjoy all that Avila Hot Springs has to offer!

Pismo Beach Clam Festival

The Pismo Beach Clam Festival is just around the corner! Each year around October, you can enjoy a weekend filled with fun activities, delicious food, and beautiful views.

You can get tickets to participate in the Clam Chowder Cook-Off or head down and enjoy some of the best seafood California has to offer.

They have vendors and food available all day long at Pier Plaza, so make sure you come hungry. And don’t forget to stick around for the clam festival parade – it’s always a blast.

Trails and Wildlife in Pismo Beach

If you are an avid hiker and would like to spend your camping trip checking out all of the great trails that Pismo Beach has to offer, we’ve got you covered.

We have listed a few of our favorite trails below for you to check out, but make sure to do your own research before heading out to see what best suits your needs.

Monarch Butterfly Grove Trail

The Monarch Butterfly Grove Trail is a must-see for nature enthusiasts visiting the Pismo Beach area. This easy, 1.5-mile trail takes visitors through a beautiful grove of monarch butterflies and offers lovely views of the surrounding countryside.

Whether you’re looking for an invigorating hike or an easy walk in nature, this trail will do the trick. Dogs are welcome on leash, so feel free to bring your furry friend along!

Pismo Preserve Trails

Looking for an outdoor adventure that offers breathtaking views and miles of trails to explore? Look no further than the Pismo Preserve!

With over 11 miles of trails winding through beautiful oak woodlands and along stunning coastal ridgelines, the Pismo Preserve is a nature lover’s paradise.

And with panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean stretching from the Irish Hills to Point, it’s it’s easy to see why this is one of California’s most popular recreational spots! So come on out and enjoy all that the Pismo Preserve has to offer!

Black Lake Trail

Looking for a quick and easy hike that offers stunning views? Look no further than Black Lake Trail. This 2-mile trail is accessible year-round and showcases Black Lake in all its glory. So pack a picnic lunch and soak up the beautiful California landscape!

Oceano Dunes Preserve Trail

If you are looking for an adventurous way to spend your next vacation, look no further than the Oceano Dunes Preserve Trail in California!

This unique trail offers hikers, surfers, paragliders, fishermen, and horseback riders a chance to experience all that the beautiful California coast has to offer Don’t forget – you can also drive on the beach in the Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreation Area!

Make sure to stop by the Oceano Dunes Visitor Center when you’re in the area. It’s a state-of-the-art facility that will help you make the most of your visit. So come on down and explore all that the Oceano Dunes Preserve Trail!

Chumash Park Trail

Are you looking for a quick and easy hike near Pismo Beach? Look no further than the Chumash Park Trail! This 1-mile out-and-back trail is perfect for hikers of all levels, with an average completion time of just 28 minutes.

The trail is open year-round and offers stunning views of the California coast – including wildflowers and wildlife. And your four-legged friends are welcome too, as long as they remain leashed. So come on down to Chumash Park and enjoy the trails!

Wildlife

Pismo Beach is home to a variety of wildlife, making it the perfect place for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.

Some of the animals you might see while camping in Pismo Beach includes California brown pelicans, herons, egrets, peregrine falcon, wild turkeys, tule elk, deer, and many more. So make sure to keep your eyes peeled while you’re exploring the area!

Weather and the Best Time to Visit Pismo Beach

When planning your trip to Pismo Beach for some camping, you will want to make sure you plan according to the weather and the time of year. Certain times of year are perfect for camping at Pismo Beach, while other times are less than ideal.

Best Weather in Pismo Beach

One thing you will want to keep in mind when planning your visit to Pismo Beach is the water level. You will want to avoid camping near the beach when the waves are high or when it is hurricane season.

Pismo Beach gets an average of about 16+ inches of rain each year, and they see most of that rain during January, February, and March.

Hurricane season in California runs from about May 15th to November 30th with about 6 hurricanes in an average year. So while California doesn’t typically get hurricanes, they do get strong winds and rain during this time of year.

The temperatures in Pismo Beach are their highest during the summer months, but the highs only reach about 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The lower temperatures in the summer can reach about 53 degrees, so just keep that in mind when packing, so you don’t forget a jacket and some blankets!

Best Time to Visit Pismo Beach

The best time to visit Pismo Beach is from September to November. The fall offers warm temperatures in the 70s and has less fog than the summer months. There are also multiple festivals and events in the city during these months, including the spectacular Pismo Beach Clam Festival, which happens in October each year.

Avoid the Beach Crowds

Summer is extremely popular at Pismo Beach each year. So if you are not a fan of crowds, summer is probably not the best month for you to visit and the beach is probably going to be packed full of hundreds of people.

Towards the end of the summer, typically around the end of August through the beginning of September, the crowds at Pismo Beach tend to get a bit smaller so this would be a great time to visit if you prefer to keep to yourself.

Winter Camping in Pismo Beach

The wintertime is great for Camping at Pismo beach as the crowds are thinner and the weather is cooler. However, there are a few things that you will want to consider before planning your winter camping trip in the Pismo Beach area.

When camping in the Pismo Beach area during the winter months, it’s usually best to camp in an RV or trailer rather than a tent. The cold wind is no match for a tent and you want to make sure that you can camp comfortably.

If you do not have access to an RV for camping, however, you can make tent camping work as long as you have a warm sleeping bag and lots of warm blankets as well as thermal clothing. Safely using a tent heater will help tremendously as well.

Also, even though it is more chilly during the winter, you will still experience lots of that California sun, so don’t forget the sunscreen!

Pismo Beach Pet Policy

Feel free to bring your furry friends along with you while visiting Pismo Beach as they are allowed in most places with the exception of the pier.

You will need to keep your pooch on its leash at all times while visiting the beach and make sure to clean up after your pet as well!

What is Near Pismo Beach?

Pismo Beach is very close to San Luis Obispo, which is the main city in the area. Many historic buildings are close to the beach as well.

There are even several national parks within driving distance of Pismo Beach such as Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, and Kings Canyon National Park. Each of these parks is about a 4-hour drive from Pismo Beach.

What is San Luis Obispo Known For?

Many know San Luis Obispo as the city where the Madonna Inn, which dates to the 1950s is located. You will also find the Fremont Theater there which is one of the oldest theaters that is still showing movies in the entire country.

Does San Luis Obispo Have a Beach?

Yes, San Luis Obispo does have its very own beach! However, it is closely connected to Pismo Beach so you can end up entering the city directly from the beach without even realizing it.

Pismo Beach Camping FAQs

Can You Camp Anywhere on Pismo Beach?

Yes, you can for the most part! Camping directly on the beach is permitted south of Post 2 as well as in the open dune area. There are no defined spaces, but the vehicle length limit is 40 feet. Tents are allowed as well!

Can You Park Overnight in Pismo Beach?

Yes, you definitely can! Parking is allowed in front of North Beach Campground on Dolliver Street. Your vehicle should be fine there. However, we do suggest not to leave any valuables in your vehicle overnight.

Do You Need Reservations for Pismo Beach Camping?

No, reservations are typically not required. However, all camping spots are first-come, first-served. So, since Pismo Beach is a popular spot, you will want to make sure to get there early enough to claim your favorite campsite!

All camping reservations must be made online at Reserve California or by calling Reserve California directly. Reservations are required during peak season and holiday weekends.

How Much Does it Cost to Camp on Pismo Beach?

Be sure to read through this guide to find the specific nightly costs for each campsite. On average, reservations for Pismo State Beach Campgrounds are about $35 per night ($25 in the off-season) and Oceano Hook-up sites are typically about $50 per night ($40 in the off-season).

We Hope You Enjoy Your Stay at Pismo Beach!

Pismo Beach is a great place to camp, whether you’re looking for RV camping, tent camping, or cabins. The best time to visit is from September to November when the temperatures are still warm and there are many festivals and events going on.

If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, be sure to avoid the beach during the summer months as it will be packed full of people!

However, the wintertime is great for camping too, as the crowds are smaller and the weather is cooler. Make sure to pack warm clothes and sunscreen, as you will still experience plenty of that California sun!

We really hope that this Pismo Beach Camping Guide was helpful to you and we hope that you will enjoy your next stay at Pismo Beach!

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