Camping in San Luis Obispo, CA, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
—
California
—
San Luis Obispo

95% (5539 reviews)

Popular camping styles for San Luis Obispo

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Los Alamos

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Sequoia National Forest

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

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Friends, dark chocolate, and a few bottles of wine. The climb up to the top of Moro is SOOO worth it. (Jump the railing and head due south-west for this hang out spot!)

Sequoia National Park

519 campgrounds

Esalen Hot Springs

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Los Padres National Forest

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Under $50

86%

(644)

Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

12 sites · RVs, Tents124 acres · 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 enter Gate 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.

97%

(130)

Broken Branch Creek

9 sites · RVs80 acres · Paso Robles, CA

Broken Branch Creek is a new family farm in Paso Robles, CA. Our land is abundant with with blue oaks, local wildlife, and plenty of walking trails running through it. There is a creek bed, usually dry most of the year, that provides excellent rock hunting and a shady hike with overhanging oaks. 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.

Relaxing Natural Hot Springs

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Templeton, CA

Franklin Hot Springs is an all-natural hot spring in the middle of beautiful Paso Robles wine country. We are located about a mile from the city limits " out in the country". Our water has one of the healthiest and dense mineral breakdowns compared to waters tested around the world. Our natural hot springs has been a treasured local gem since the 1950's offering relaxation and rejuvenation to visitors of all ages. Experience the therapeutic benefits of our pure, chemical-free waters, naturally infused with Magnesium, Lithium, Sodium, and Potassium. Our spring fed pools maintain a blissful temperature of 98 - 100 degrees. Our springs are considered among the top 5 destinations for psoriasis treatment. Our water follows a natural " flow-through" system, originating from a main well, then replenishing our fish filled lake before winding its way through parts of Paso Robles and eventually merging with the Salinas River. In addition to overnight camping and soaking in our natural hot springs, we offer fishing and boating as part of your stay. You do not have to have a fishing license; we are a member of the Fish and Wildlife and are considered an Aquaculture Farm. We offer several Dry camping sites (no electricity) and 3 sites that have electric hook-ups.

96%

(868)

Camp Arroyo Grande

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents29 acres · Arroyo Grande, CA

Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy our 29-acres that feature beautiful ocean views, oak woodlands, and plenty of rustic charm. All this is conveniently tucked into the hillside just steps away from the Village of Arroyo Grande where you will find restaurants, coffee, shopping, parks and roosters. The property is home to many youth groups and local non-profits, continuing a 135-year legacy as an Event Center and Retreat Space. The historic Tabernacle building has been hosting church and schools gatherings, dinners, fundraisers, weddings, family reunions, festivals and more since 1897. Community Events are likely to be taking place but follow quiet time guidelines. *pool is seasonal and subject to availability

Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

2 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · 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.

12 top campgrounds near San Luis Obispo

96%

(868)

Camp Arroyo Grande

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents29 acres · Arroyo Grande, CA

Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy our 29-acres that feature beautiful ocean views, oak woodlands, and plenty of rustic charm. All this is conveniently tucked into the hillside just steps away from the Village of Arroyo Grande where you will find restaurants, coffee, shopping, parks and roosters. The property is home to many youth groups and local non-profits, continuing a 135-year legacy as an Event Center and Retreat Space. The historic Tabernacle building has been hosting church and schools gatherings, dinners, fundraisers, weddings, family reunions, festivals and more since 1897. Community Events are likely to be taking place but follow quiet time guidelines. *pool is seasonal and subject to availability

La Montaña Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents142 acres · Santa Margarita, CA

Our property is 142 acres located on the top of east Cuesta grade, elevation approximately 2100. We are secluded enough to feel like you're far away from city life but in reality only 20 minute drive to downtown San Luis Obispo. The main road up continues past our property and turns into the Los Padres National Forest and is very popular for hiking and biking with locals. We also have private trails within our property. We have a farm consisting of 10 sheep, 10 goats, 30 chickens, 2 pigs, 4 dogs, a cat. Interaction with farm animals may be possible upon request. Most campsites are close to our animal pastures. Guests have enjoyed having a morning coffee in the company of sheep and a couple of pigs on the other side of the fence. Bee hives are located on the property as well. Honey, eggs and firewood are available for purchase. :)

Enney's Ranch

4 sites · Lodging850 acres · 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.

99%

(1231)

SLO Country Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · 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: wash/kitchen prep, and cold-water outdoor shower. Site 1 is best for trailers but Site 2 is adequate. 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, my 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. My 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.

Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

2 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · 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.

Oak Heart Estate

4 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · 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!

98%

(651)

Vinyl Vineyards

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Paso Robles, CA

Vinyl Vineyards is a 120 acre ranch, working vineyard, wine label, and 10 site private glampground on the Union Rd wine trail in Paso Robles, CA. The magnificient property includes hiking trails through vineyards, ancient oak forests, canyons, and flower filled fields, creeks, two seasonal ponds, 26 acres of vineyards, alpacas, vegtable gardens, sunset vistas, bbq grills, outdoor tables, frisebee golf, and more... We also raise alpacas, chickens, and honey bees which you can experience on the ranch. Just 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles, we are walking distance to several wineries, a 5 minute drive to golf, Sensorio, Vina Robles, and boast enough natural beauty and amenities to never leave your site. Check our website for FAQ's, how to plan your trip, and liability waiver downloads.

Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

12 sites · RVs, Tents124 acres · 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 enter Gate 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.

Relaxing Natural Hot Springs

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Templeton, CA

Franklin Hot Springs is an all-natural hot spring in the middle of beautiful Paso Robles wine country. We are located about a mile from the city limits " out in the country". Our water has one of the healthiest and dense mineral breakdowns compared to waters tested around the world. Our natural hot springs has been a treasured local gem since the 1950's offering relaxation and rejuvenation to visitors of all ages. Experience the therapeutic benefits of our pure, chemical-free waters, naturally infused with Magnesium, Lithium, Sodium, and Potassium. Our spring fed pools maintain a blissful temperature of 98 - 100 degrees. Our springs are considered among the top 5 destinations for psoriasis treatment. Our water follows a natural " flow-through" system, originating from a main well, then replenishing our fish filled lake before winding its way through parts of Paso Robles and eventually merging with the Salinas River. In addition to overnight camping and soaking in our natural hot springs, we offer fishing and boating as part of your stay. You do not have to have a fishing license; we are a member of the Fish and Wildlife and are considered an Aquaculture Farm. We offer several Dry camping sites (no electricity) and 3 sites that have electric hook-ups.

100%

(83)

Hazel Homestead- Central Coast Farm

3 sites · Lodging, RVs1 acre · Nipomo, CA

We are a small farm on a 1 acre gated property that has two RV spots and a bar shed. We have full hookups in both sites. Our town is rural but it's still close to HWY 101. We do live on the property, close enough if you need anything but far enough for privacy. We host happy hour for campers who are interested. Although the hours depend on arrival and our availability. We have a common area between the two sites that offered a nice fire pit. Our farm has 3 goats, 2 pot bellied pigs and 20 chickens that lay fresh eggs daily. We LOVE animals but we CANNOT ALLOW PETS. Also, sorry no tent camping. RV's only. We do not provide bathrooms or showers on site. Don’t have an RV? RENT OURS! We have everything you need for your family. Enjoy a weekend on the farm and glamp in our RV. We have all the amenities of home. Coming to enjoy the area? The property is just a few mins off the 101 freeway on the Central Coast. We are only 15 mins South of Pismo Beach, 30 mins south of San Luis Obispo and an hour North of Santa Barbara. The beach, wineries and shopping are all very close. Or if you are looking for a quiet retreat with some super sweet farm animals stay here and enjoy the farm. We do rent both sites out at the same time so if it’s privacy you are looking for please message us. Or If you would like to camp with friends or family we can accommodate two additional trailers. Again please message us to arrange this. Come stay awhile! It doesn't get any better than this!

96%

(90)

Union Road Wine Trail Sites

3 sites · RVs20 acres · Paso Robles, CA

We bought this place as our eventual retirement home. We love to share the space with friends and family hence here we are even sharing it on this platform

Broken Branch Creek

9 sites · RVs80 acres · Paso Robles, CA

Broken Branch Creek is a new family farm in Paso Robles, CA. Our land is abundant with with blue oaks, local wildlife, and plenty of walking trails running through it. There is a creek bed, usually dry most of the year, that provides excellent rock hunting and a shady hike with overhanging oaks. 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.

Dog-friendly getaways

96%

(868)

Camp Arroyo Grande

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents29 acres · Arroyo Grande, CA

Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy our 29-acres that feature beautiful ocean views, oak woodlands, and plenty of rustic charm. All this is conveniently tucked into the hillside just steps away from the Village of Arroyo Grande where you will find restaurants, coffee, shopping, parks and roosters. The property is home to many youth groups and local non-profits, continuing a 135-year legacy as an Event Center and Retreat Space. The historic Tabernacle building has been hosting church and schools gatherings, dinners, fundraisers, weddings, family reunions, festivals and more since 1897. Community Events are likely to be taking place but follow quiet time guidelines. *pool is seasonal and subject to availability

98%

(598)

Enney's Ranch

4 sites · Lodging850 acres · 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.

99%

(243)

Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

2 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · 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.

97%

(126)

La Montaña Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents142 acres · Santa Margarita, CA

Our property is 142 acres located on the top of east Cuesta grade, elevation approximately 2100. We are secluded enough to feel like you're far away from city life but in reality only 20 minute drive to downtown San Luis Obispo. The main road up continues past our property and turns into the Los Padres National Forest and is very popular for hiking and biking with locals. We also have private trails within our property. We have a farm consisting of 10 sheep, 10 goats, 30 chickens, 2 pigs, 4 dogs, a cat. Interaction with farm animals may be possible upon request. Most campsites are close to our animal pastures. Guests have enjoyed having a morning coffee in the company of sheep and a couple of pigs on the other side of the fence. Bee hives are located on the property as well. Honey, eggs and firewood are available for purchase. :)

99%

(1231)

SLO Country Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · 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: wash/kitchen prep, and cold-water outdoor shower. Site 1 is best for trailers but Site 2 is adequate. 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, my 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. My 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.

Star Hosts in San Luis Obispo

99%

(243)

Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

2 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · 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.

SLO Country Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · 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: wash/kitchen prep, and cold-water outdoor shower. Site 1 is best for trailers but Site 2 is adequate. 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, my 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. My 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.

Enney's Ranch

4 sites · Lodging850 acres · 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.

Camp Arroyo Grande

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents29 acres · Arroyo Grande, CA

Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy our 29-acres that feature beautiful ocean views, oak woodlands, and plenty of rustic charm. All this is conveniently tucked into the hillside just steps away from the Village of Arroyo Grande where you will find restaurants, coffee, shopping, parks and roosters. The property is home to many youth groups and local non-profits, continuing a 135-year legacy as an Event Center and Retreat Space. The historic Tabernacle building has been hosting church and schools gatherings, dinners, fundraisers, weddings, family reunions, festivals and more since 1897. Community Events are likely to be taking place but follow quiet time guidelines. *pool is seasonal and subject to availability

La Montaña Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents142 acres · Santa Margarita, CA

Our property is 142 acres located on the top of east Cuesta grade, elevation approximately 2100. We are secluded enough to feel like you're far away from city life but in reality only 20 minute drive to downtown San Luis Obispo. The main road up continues past our property and turns into the Los Padres National Forest and is very popular for hiking and biking with locals. We also have private trails within our property. We have a farm consisting of 10 sheep, 10 goats, 30 chickens, 2 pigs, 4 dogs, a cat. Interaction with farm animals may be possible upon request. Most campsites are close to our animal pastures. Guests have enjoyed having a morning coffee in the company of sheep and a couple of pigs on the other side of the fence. Bee hives are located on the property as well. Honey, eggs and firewood are available for purchase. :)

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(9)

Santa Margarita Lake

Santa Margarita, California

96%

(436)

Los Padres National Forest

Mission Canyon, California

94%

(70)

Montaña de Oro State Park

Los Osos, California

93%

(94)

Pismo Beach State Beach

Grover Beach, California

91%

(85)

Morro Bay State Park

Morro Bay, California

After setting up, the wind kicked up so we moved over a spot for some better wind protection. The sand gets kicked up off the beach and stings a bit on a super windy day!

88%

(32)

Morro Strand State Beach

Morro Bay, California

Hearst San Simeon State Park

California

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

California

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near San Luis Obispo guide

Overview

Set between the ocean and Santa Lucia Mountains, San Luis Obispo is a fantastic base for exploring the beaches and natural attractions of California's Central Coast. This inland town is known for its abundance of wine tasting rooms and its Spanish-style architecture downtown, including the 1772 Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. From the rugged mountains to whales breaching in the bay, SLO also within 15 miles of three public beaches (Pismo State Beach, Morro Strand State Beach, and Avila Beach) and just a short drive from some of the region's other most popular parks, including Santa Margarita Lake Recreation Area and Montaña de Oro State Park, both of which offer camping.

Where to go

San Luis Obispo County

San Luis Obispo County is full of spots to visit, from the hot springs and wineries of Paso Robles to the ornate Hearst Castle near Cambria. The closest beach to SLO, Avila Beach, is small and secluded, making it popular among families and sunbathers. A short drive further up Highway 1 is Morro Bay State Park, which offers not only tent and trailer camping sites with showers, but also an 18-hole golf course, its own Museum of Natural History, and wildlife like sea otters, birds, and whales. Nearby Morro Strand State Beach is another sandy, 3-mile stretch popular for surfing and long walks. Its campground is right on the beach—a rarity in California. Lastly, Pismo Beach is a classic California beach town with a historic pier and a protected monarch butterfly habitat.

Santa Barbara County

While the city of Santa Barbara, celebrated for its historic mission, is the best-known destination in Santa Barbara County, there are plenty of other spots worth visiting. Head to the Santa Ynez Valley to taste award-winning wines, or check out the historic homes in the beach community of Goleta.

Ventura County

On the opposite side of Santa Barbara County, Ventura County is great for camping and exploring, with a mix of forest areas and more arid expanses—not to mention tons of beaches with county-run campgrounds. Head to the Ojai Valley to soak in hot springs or venture into the Simi Hills for a bit of canyon hiking.

When to go

San Luis Obispo is a year-round destination, and while winters get some rain, temperatures generally hover between the mid-40s and mid-60s. If you like warm weather but want to avoid the summer vacation crowds, it's wise to camp in SLO during in late spring or early fall. To see wildlife, winter is the best time, as monarch butterflies overwinter at Pismo Beach from November through February, which is also high season for whale-watching along the coast.