Pismo State Beach Camping

Camping at Pismo State Beach is a must for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy California’s central coast. The beach offers two popular campgrounds: North Beach Campground and Oceano Campground, each providing unique amenities and easy access to various attractions. Whether you’re interested in traditional tent camping or bringing an RV, Pismo State Beach camping offers something for everyone.

North Beach Campground

North Beach Campground is one of the top options for Pismo State Beach camping. Located on Dolliver Street in Pismo Beach, it features 103 campsites without hookups, perfect for tents, RVs, and trailers. Campers have access to several amenities, including:

• Restrooms

• Pay-operated hot showers

• Picnic tables

• Fire rings

The campground also offers easy access to Pismo State Beach, where visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities like birdwatching, hiking along the dunes, and beachcombing. The famous Pismo Monarch Butterfly Grove is just a short walk away, where thousands of butterflies gather between November and February. North Beach Campground is family-friendly, featuring Junior Ranger Programs and Campfire Programs during summer months.

Oceano Campground

For those seeking RV camping at Pismo State Beach, Oceano Campground is the ideal choice. Located beside the Oceano Lagoon, the campground features both tent and RV sites, with RV hookups (water and electricity) available at select sites. Visitors can enjoy:

• Restrooms and showers

• A campfire center

• Wildlife viewing along the lagoon

Oceano Campground offers direct access to Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA), where visitors can drive on the beach and explore the dunes by off-road vehicle. The nearby Oceano Dunes Visitor Center provides information on local wildlife, history, and other activities in the area, making it a popular stop for families.

Reservations and Camping Fees

Pismo State Beach camping is available year-round, but reservations are recommended during peak seasons and holiday weekends. To secure a campsite:

• Reservations can be made through [Reserve California](https://www.reservecalifornia.com/) or by calling 1-800-444-7275.

• Reservations are available up to six months in advance.

• Camping fees are $35 per night for standard sites and $50 per night for RV sites with hookups at Oceano Campground.

• RV dump stations are available at both campgrounds for a $10 fee, payable by credit card at Sani-Star kiosks.

Beach Access and Activities

One of the highlights of Pismo State Beach camping is the wide range of activities available for visitors. From surfing to fishing, Pismo State Beach offers something for every type of camper. Activities include:

• Surfing, swimming, and fishing: The beach is known for its great waves and fishing opportunities.

• Clam digging: Pismo Beach is famous for its clams, though strict regulations apply to protect the local population.

• Hiking: Trails are available along the sand dunes and coastal areas.

• Birdwatching: Particularly around the Pismo Creek Lagoon and Oceano Lagoon, where a variety of bird species can be observed.

Campers can also enjoy beach bonfires with firewood available for purchase from the camp host. Campfires must be no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high, using only clean wood.

Driving on the Beach and Off-Roading

Unique to Pismo State Beach is the ability to drive on the beach. Vehicles can enter the beach from the Grand Avenue entrance in Grover Beach or Pier Avenue in Oceano. It is highly recommended that only 4-wheel drive vehicles access the beach, especially for venturing into the Oceano Dunes SVRA, where off-road enthusiasts can explore the dunes. For those without vehicles, ATVs and off-road tours are available from nearby outfitters.

Camping Rules and Accessibility

To ensure a smooth camping experience, campers must follow a few key rules:

• Check-in time is 2:00 PM, and check-out time is 12:00 PM.

• Dogs are allowed on a leash (6 feet or shorter) but are not permitted in certain protected areas like the \Pismo Dune Preserve.

• ADA accessible restrooms are available at all beach entrances, and sand wheelchairs are available free of charge at park entrance stations on a first-come, first-served basis.

Conclusion

For anyone searching for the perfect Pismo State Beach camping experience, this destination offers everything from beachside relaxation to outdoor adventure. Whether you’re camping at North Beach or Oceano Campground, the proximity to the ocean, dunes, and natural attractions makes it a top choice for campers. With activities like surfing, clamming, and off-roading, along with family-friendly programs and wildlife viewing, Pismo State Beach is an ideal spot for a memorable camping trip.

For more information or to book your spot, visit [Reserve California](https://www.reservecalifornia.com/) or call 1-800-444-7275.