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Pismo State Beach/Oceano

Overview

Pismo State Beach/Oceano Campground offers a quintessential coastal experience where the rugged Pacific shoreline meets California's famous sand dunes. Located along the central coast, this park provides a unique gateway to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. It is a destination where the rhythmic sound of crashing waves serves as a constant backdrop, offering a balanced mix of high-energy adventure and peaceful seaside relaxation for every visitor.

Location & Surroundings

Nestled in the charming community of Oceano, CA, the park is situated between a serene freshwater lagoon and the vast expanse of the beach. The surroundings are defined by towering eucalyptus trees and rolling coastal dunes. Guests are just a short walk from the water, and the area is home to a protected coastal habitat that serves as a vital sanctuary for local wildlife and seasonal migrations.

Amenities & Park Features

The Oceano section of the state beach is particularly popular among RVers because it offers water and electric hookups, which are a rarity in many California state park settings. The campground is designed to accommodate various rig sizes and provides essential facilities for a comfortable stay. Key features include:

  • Clean restrooms and coin-operated hot showers
  • A centrally located dump station for RV sanitation
  • Individual campsites equipped with sturdy fire rings and picnic tables

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Outdoor enthusiasts can spend their days surf fishing, swimming, or hiking the scenic trails surrounding the lagoon. For those seeking more speed, the adjacent dunes allow for off-roading and ATV rentals. During the winter months, the nearby Monarch Butterfly Grove becomes a spectacular site as thousands of butterflies cluster in the trees. Additionally, the historic Pismo Beach Pier is just a short drive away, offering local dining and shopping opportunities.

Who This Park Is Best For

This park is an ideal match for active RV travelers who want direct access to beach activities and off-road adventures. Because it provides hookups, it is also a great choice for families who prefer the convenience of modern amenities while still enjoying a rustic, natural environment. It remains a top pick for nature photographers and birdwatchers who will appreciate the diverse ecosystems found within the park boundaries.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• Ocean
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Body Of Water (Pacific Ocean)
• Horseshoes
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Watersports

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Day Max Stay (7)
• No Tents

- Other Amenities & Services

• Restroom and Showers
• Restroom/Showers ($)

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Fishing
• Hiking
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Boating
• Watersports

- Facility

• Type (State Park)
• Partial Handicap Access

- On-Site Rentals

• 

- Sites

• Spaces Available (82)
• Width (15)
• Paved Sites (82)
• Max Length (36)
• 20 Amp
• Water (39)
• Electric (39)
• No Hookups (43)
• Max Amps (20)
• Pull-thrus (62)
• Pull-thru Size (15 x 36)
• Back-ins (15 x 31)
• Site Length (36)

User Reviews

BETO CHINGON

September 08, 2025

This is the only place is California to go to the sand dunes and the ocean when you are camping, the weather is normally cold but enjoyable if you take firewood, there is the option of buying firewood and other services for camping. Great place to get out of the city and have a great time with the family riding ATVs at the sand dunes! Make sure to take plenty of firewood if you're planning to be there for a few days! Big place plenty of space for camping!

Changjae Kim

July 09, 2025

Good camping spot. Easy to access the beach (10min walk) and good lake view and clean restrooms. But beware of mosquitoes

Savvy Brown

July 03, 2025

This campground was very clean and was a nice place to camp for a first time camper. The bathrooms and showers were cleaned regularly and they were very nice. The walk to the beach was nice find that we could drive on the beach was nice but also shocking. My friend and I have never seen so many intact sand dollars and they were so pretty. Warning: BEWARE of the squirrels! They crawl up onto the table and go through your things. I kept our food not the coolers in the car and that seemed to be the safest way. Hope to come again soon! Hopefully, the weather next time will be warmer.

Maddy Cole

May 30, 2025

Such a unique camping experience! We car camped on the beach for one night. It was awesome waking up to the waves. Be aware that nights can be cold by the water, so bring layers. Also you will have sand everywhere!! There were no facilities if you camp on the beach; there is little privacy, and you would have to walk a bit. We had so much fun in the morning frolicking in the sand dunes!!

Freddie Gomez III

May 01, 2025

Very very clean restrooms, hot fresh water showers.. agreeable amount of lighting at night.. plenty of hiking paths, to the beach, around and over the creek, fresh water bass in the creek.. excellent nature scenery, pines, grass, rock, squirrels (bold & brave), was a very nice place all in all.. we will be back!!!

Map for Pismo State Beach/Oceano

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