Your detailed guide to the best Morro Bay camping options, including the most scenic campgrounds and what to expect at each campsite.
Big Sur, Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea: these big-name coastal towns need no introduction. But Morro Bay? Well, if you haven’t heard of it, let me introduce you.
Morro Bay is a quaint little gem located along the Central California coast.
One of the signature attractions in town is Morro Bay State Park, which features views of the iconic Morro Rock – the remnants of an ancient volcano.
Morro Rock is a haven for threatened bird species like peregrine falcons, and every year the town holds a bird-watching festival in January.
Other attractions around Morro Bay include its beaches, where you’ll find tide pools teeming with life.
You can also hop on a cruise, go kayaking to see annual whales migrating down the coast, or step into the Estuary Nature Center to see some cute otters!
Otherwise, the Morro Bay Natural History Museum features educational exhibits about the geology and wildlife in the area. And, finally, the Morro Bay Golf Course is very highly rated by serious golfers.
If you’re ready to plan your trip to Morro Bay and you’re looking to camp in the area during your stay, this is our full list of the best Morro Bay campgrounds.
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Map of Campgrounds Around Morro Bay
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Best Time to Camp in Morro Bay
The best time to make reservations at Morro Bay campgrounds is May through November.
With that said, the coastal climate at Morro Bay State Park and the surrounding area stay almost the same year-round.
The average high is around 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit from May to November, and the average low is about 48 degrees Fahrenheit.
In the winter months, the high changes only slightly; the high is in the low 60s, and the low is in the low 40s.
Best Campgrounds in Morro Bay
Morro Bay State Park Campground
GPS coordinates: 35.3538 N, -120.8326 W
Phone number: (805) 772-2560
Cost: $35 for standard sites, $50 for RV sites
Amenities: Picnic tables, fire ring, grill, flush toilets, potable water, hot showers
Why it’s worth camping at: You get the best view of Morro Rock.
Located in Morro Bay State Park, Morro Bay State Park Campground is a fantastic place for boating, fishing, sunbathing, bird-watching, and golfing.
Morro Bay tent camping sites sit amongst a mixed forest with close access to the marina, golf course, and natural history museum.
Online reservations can be made here.
Morro Strand SB Campground (Morro Bay, CA)
Address: Hatteras St, Morro Bay CA 93442
Phone number: (805) 772-8812
Cost: $35 for standard sites, $50 for RV sites
Amenities: Picnic tables, fire pit, grill, RV hookups, flush toilets
Why it’s worth camping at: You can camp right on the beach.
If Morro Bay State Park campground is full, you can look for more Morro Bay campsites at Morro Strand State Beach Campground.
This campground is directly on the beach and includes full RV hookups and scenic picnic areas.
Make online reservations here.
El Chorro Regional Campground (San Luis Obispo, CA)
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Address: State Highway 1 at Dairy Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408
Phone number: (805) 781-5930 x 4
Cost: See fee schedule here
Amenities: Full RV hook-ups, group campsites, flush toilets, coin-operated showers, dog park, volleyball court
Why it’s worth camping at: Enjoy the hiking trails of El Chorro Regional Park.
El Chorro Regional Campground offers camping near Morro Bay and includes a range of activities to enjoy.
As a bonus, the park offers an El Chorro group camp option, so you can easily reserve spaces for group get-togethers.
Cerro Alto Campground (Los Padres National Forest)
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GPS coordinates: 35 degrees, 25’ 39.0000’’N 120 degrees 44’ 17.9999’’ W
Phone number: (805) 434-1996
Cost: $25/night
Amenities: Picnic table, grill, vault toilets, potable water, RV sites (no hookups)
Why it’s worth camping at: It’s a mountain biking mecca!
Of the campgrounds near Morro Bay, Cerro Alto Campground stands out because of its access to amazing hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding opportunities.
You’ll get grand vistas of both the coast and the inland valleys to the east from the campground.
Just note that park roads are paved but are winding and steep.
Morro Dunes RV Park
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Address: 1700 Embarcadero, Morro Bay CA 93442
Phone number: (805) 772-2722
Cost: $35 for tents, $55 for RVs
Amenities: Potable water, full hookups, 50 and 30 Amp Service, free WIFI, and tent sites
Why it’s worth camping at: Full hookups and free WIFI.
For Morro Bay RV camping, look no further than Morro Dunes RV Park. This RV park also offers tent sites and is located just south of Morro Strand State Beach.
Islay Creek Campground (Montaña de Oro State Park)
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Address: 3550 Pecho Valley Road, Los Osos, CA 94402
Phone number: (805) 772-7434
Cost: $35/night
Amenities: Picnic table, fire pits, grill, potable water, and vault toilets
Why it’s worth camping at: Enjoy quiet beaches and trails among beautiful scenery.
Islay Creek Campground is located in Montaña de Oro State Park. It is an excellent place for a more secluded camping experience in the area with access to coastal hiking trails.
The campground features 50 campsites, six bike campsites, and six horse camps or group sites. The campsites aren’t directly on the beach but are within walking distance.
Make online reservations here.
FAQs About Camping in Morro Bay
How much does it cost to camp in Morro Bay?
Morro Bay State Beach Campground and the surrounding campgrounds are around $35/night for standard sites and $50 for RV sites.
Where’s a good place to camp with dogs in Morro Bay?
El Chorro Regional Campground offers an off-leash dog park, making it a great place to stay with dogs.
Where can you camp for free in Morro Bay?
Los Padres National Forest allows dispersed camping. Check out the guidelines for dispersed camping here.
How many days do I need in Morro Bay?
Morro Bay has lots to offer! Plan to spend at least two full days to take advantage of all the local attractions.
What to Pack for Camping in Morro Bay
If you’re planning a trip to Morro Bay State Park or surrounding areas, be sure to pack all the “toys” you need, like golf clubs, kayaking equipment, or binoculars for wildlife watching.
In addition to the fun stuff, don’t forget:
- Sunscreen
- Sun hat and/or beanie
- Sunglasses
- Swimsuit
- Beach towel
- Water shoes/flip flops
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Toiletries and personal medications
- Tent – read our guides for the best 4-person tent, 6-person tent, 8-person tent, 10-person tent, 12-person tent, instant tent, pop up tent, winter tent, large family tent, 3-room tent, inflatable tent, tunnel tent, canvas tent, waterproof tents, insulated tents, winter tents, and cabin tents.
- Sleeping pad
- Sleeping bag
- Inflatable camping pillow
- Earplugs and eye mask (if you’re a light sleeper)
- Bug spray
- Headlamp
- Camp food + mess kit
- Lantern(s)
- Water bottle and hydration pack (if you plan to go hiking)
- Daypack
- Warm layers for once the sun goes down (Read our guide to the best hiking clothes for women – it works for camping too!)
- Hiking shoes
- Hammock
- Camping Cot
- Camp
- Outdoor watch (like a Garmin watch)
- Multi-tool
- Jetboil
- Biodegradable soap
- Quick-drying microfiber towel
- First-aid kit
- Screen house for a bug-free trip
- Tent air conditioner or fan if it’s going to be hot
- A durable phone case
If you’re looking for glamping options near Morro Bay, read our complete guide to glamping California.
Get your FREE California Travel Planner – including printable checklists and my favorite two-week itinerary for the state.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Meredith Dennis
Meredith is a biologist and writer based in California’s Sierra Nevada. She has lived in six states as a biologist, so her intel on hiking and camping is *chef’s kiss* next level. One of her earliest camping memories was being too scared to find a bathroom at night on a family camping trip. Thankfully, she’s come a long way since then and she can help you get there too!
Looking for more Central California and camping inspiration? Check out these related posts below!
Pinnacles National Parks Guide
Things to do in San Luis Obispo
Best Campgrounds in Northern California
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