Top Campgrounds and RV Parks in Santa Maria, California

Located on Santa Margarita Lake in the Santa Margarita Lake Natural Area, this RV park is surrounded by several thousand acres of designated open space. The open space is accessible to hikers, equestrians, and bicyclists, but motor vehicles are not permitted. The area has countless species of wild animals and plants and is a great place to study nature or enjoy some time boating or fishing on the lake.

Why You’ll Love Santa Margarita KOA

This Santa Maria RV park is a great vacation destination for those who like to stay active. You’ll never be bored with the volleyball and basketball courts, jumping pillows, activity and game rentals, fishing and boating, and a nine-hole disc golf course. Santa Margarita KOA is near Hearst Castle.

What People Are Saying About Santa Margarita KOA

“Really great time here. The hosts were awesome. The grounds were spacious. The bathrooms were always clean, and the showers always hot.” – Daniel, Google Review

Pacific Dunes Ranch and RV Resort was awarded TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence in 2017 so you can expect the facility to offer some of the best RV camping in Santa Maria, California. It’s located on the dunes near the waves and boasts views of magnificent sunsets. Guests have access to numerous water sports, hiking and biking trails, swimming, boating, and fishing.

Why You’ll Love Pacific Dunes Ranch

Pacific Dunes Ranch and RV Resort offers many on-site activities. There is a clubhouse and game room, large barbecue areas and picnic tables, and horseback riding with guided trail rides to the beach. The offshore winds provide a great environment for flying kites.

What People Are Saying About Pacific Dunes Ranch

“This place was wonderful once we found our way tucked back out of the main roads and out in the farmland. Staff was friendly.” – Deborah, Google Review

Pismo Sands RV Park has been voted the Best Medium-Sized Park in California three times by the California Travel Parks Association. The park is just a few minutes from Pismo Beach and many other recreation opportunities on the Central Coast. The owners are avid RVers and know how to treat their guests.

Why You’ll Love Pismo Sands RV Park

An on-site pool and heated Jacuzzi are available, and guests can enjoy playing horseshoes and competing on the basketball and shuffleboard courts. The park has a camp store and a gated entry for safety. You can even rent a four-wheel ATV.

What People Are Saying About Pismo Sands RV Park

“Loved this RV park. Very clean and well maintained. Paved sites with grass areas at each site, some larger than others. Large, clean bathrooms with several showers. Also, large laundry room. Very nice pool area. Staff extremely friendly and helpful.” – Don, Yelp Review

An award-winning facility, Pismo Coast Village RV Park has received a high ranking on Good Sam as well as the highest rating from the Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds. It’s located right on Pismo Creek, and visitors can walk to the lagoon. It’s also within walking distance of Pismo Pier and downtown Pismo Beach, where there are several outlet stores and restaurants.

Why You’ll Love Pismo Coast Village RV Resort

This Santa Maria, California campground offers fun activities for children and adults. Arts and crafts, mini-golf tournaments, scavenger hunts, and more are usually going on, so you’ll never have a dull moment. The resort also features the Pismo Coast Village Grill that will deliver delicious meals right to your site.

What People Are Saying About Pismo Coast Village RV Resort

“My family and I have spent many a vacation at PCV. It has the charm of a comfortable camping environment with the convenience of hot showers, laundry facility, and a general store.” – Maxwell, Google Review

Located right on the beach, Bella Vista by the Sea definitely lives up to its name. The park is also within walking distance of Cayucos, which is referred to as California’s last funky beach town. It may be a bit pricey, but it’s well worth it if you are looking for a beachfront site for your vacation.

Why You’ll Love Bella Vista by the Sea

This RV campground near Santa Maria, California is one of the top locations on the central coast of California. You can stroll down Cayucos’ historic pier or go hiking at Harmony Headlands State Park. Estero Bluffs is also close by, and after a sunset walk along the beach, you can head to downtown Cayucos for some local food.

What People Are Saying About Bella Vista by the Sea

“Almost every site has a view of the ocean. We love this place. Not great TV reception, but I’m not here to watch TV with this gorgeous view, beach, and town.” – Bianca, Google Review

This campground near Santa Maria, California boasts a great location near Morro Bay. It’s adjacent to Atascadero Beach and offers views of the iconic Morro Rock. Morro Dunes RV Park is near the Morro Bay State Park and the natural history museum, and there are excellent seafood restaurants just a short walk away.

Why You’ll Love Morro Dunes RV Park

This RV park near Santa Maria features easy access to golfing, surfing, wine tasting, and many other water and sightseeing activities. There are awesome views of the rocks and ocean.

What People Are Saying About Morro Dunes RV Park

“I pulled in our spot, walked about 30 feet, and saw the ocean. Wow! What a view. The rock is right there with a nice sidewalk pathway that goes right to Morro Bay restaurants.” – Jim, Google Review

Lopez Lake Recreation Area is a San Louis Obispo County Park. You can do things there like hiking and mountain biking, zip lining, boating, and fishing. The local hills are filled with fossils from when the area was covered by ocean.

Why You’ll Love Lopez Lake Recreation Area

Lopez Lake Recreation Area offers a beautiful woodland location for outdoor recreation. It has trails for hiking and is near the Vista Lago Adventure Park that has rope courses and other fun things to explore. The Mustang Water Park is also nearby.

What People Are Saying About Lopez Lake Recreation Area

“Beautiful campgrounds. Offers tent or RV camping. There is a boat ramp, a restaurant, a water park, zip lining, running trails and more. Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife.” – T H, Google review

This RV park is operated by San Luis Obispo County, and it is within walking distance of Pismo Beach. Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground is located right next to Grover Beach Amtrak Station, and the town of Arroyo Grande is about 3 miles away. The RV pads at this campground are grassy, and there are plenty of trees for shade.

Why You’ll Love Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground

The best thing about Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground is that it’s so close to the beach. If saltwater isn’t your thing, you also have the option of relaxing at this RV park’s pool. Since Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground is operated by the county, it is always kept in great condition.

What People Are Saying About Coastal Dunes RV Park & Campground

“Not my favorite place to go at the beach but that is only because of the noise level on both sides. You are between the highway and the railroad. But, the bathrooms are basically clean and it’s easy to level our rig. It is nice to enjoy the full hookups.” – C, Google Review

This campground near Pismo Beach, California is just a few steps from the Pacific Ocean. It’s also near other coastal California towns. You will have access to surf fishing, off-road vehicles and strolls along the sand dunes.

Why You’ll Love Le Sage Riviera RV Park

This RV park in the Pismo Beach, California area offers many amenities to make your visit interesting. You can walk to the golf course, restaurants, and other nearby attractions. It’s a good place for a family vacation if you want to visit many of the Central Coast’s hotspots.

What People Are Saying About Le Sage Riviera RV Park

“Nice RV park! You can walk to the beach or a nice restaurant in minutes and there is live music on the weekends. Just south of Pismo Beach what a gem!! Golf course next door and the entire Central Coast is within your reach. Well-kept and the staff is amazing. Highly recommended.” – Melody, Google review

North Beach Campground at Pismo State Beach is regulated by the California State Parks Department. There are all-terrain vehicles for rent two blocks from the park. Some of the activities you can do at the beach include digging for clams, surf fishing, swimming, hiking, birdwatching and butterfly viewing.

Why You’ll Love North Beach Campground

There are no hookups at this RV park near Pismo Beach, but there is all-terrain vehicle riding nearby. The southern sites are closer to the beach, which offers good perch fishing and plenty of room for a dog to play. There are four restaurants within walking distance of the park.

What People Are Saying About North Beach Campground

“We adored this campground. The location is…right on the beach and walking distance from downtown Pismo Beach. It is dog-friendly, family friendly and super chill. You have trees for shade…open field for games and racing, a beach for sunbathing and a super-hot shower. Great spot hands down.” – Me, Google review ,

The Pismo Dunes Resort is a gated 55+ retirement community located in Pismo Beach, California. Situated within five minutes of downtown Pismo Beach and within walking distance of a famous California beach, the resort provides fantastic amenities for those who choose to spend time in the community. The professional staff creates imaginative activities that keep people busy throughout the week, with special events happening on the weekends. Children and grandchildren are welcome for short visits.

Why You’ll Love Pismo Dunes Resort

Most guests at this resort are permanent residents, while others rent available motorhomes. A few spaces that aren't filled with motorhomes are available for RVs. Residents and guests enjoy exercise classes, billiard tables, pickleball, bocce ball, badminton courts, tennis courts, a mini-golf course, and much more. The resort features an impressive aquatic center with a large swimming pool and hot tubs. The resort provides a restaurant and store inside the gates.

What People Are Saying About Pismo Dunes Resort

“Husband and I went here for our anniversary. In the first week of February. It's beautiful there very quiet must of the time.” –Heidi, Yelp Review

Located two blocks from the beach, this Pismo Beach, California campground has first-class amenities for a great vacation. You can watch the dolphins in the waves, go horseback riding on the beach or enjoy ATV four-wheeling. Fine dining and fresh produce are nearby.

Why You’ll Love Holiday RV Park

Whether you come to the beach to relax or enjoy an adventure, you will find it when you stay at the Holiday RV Park in Pismo Beach. You will have access to golfing, kayaking, surfing, horseback riding and other activities. Shops, farmers’ markets, and entertainment venues are also nearby.

What People Are Saying About Holiday RV Park

“Awesome park! Clean, quiet with the most friendly and helpful staff. Pet and family friendly and within walking distance of the beach, Pismo Pier and downtown Pismo Beach.”

Avila/Pismo Beach KOA is located in a small beachside town surrounded by hills that act as barriers against the ocean fog. It has pet-friendly bike paths and a game room, and it’s across the street from a petting zoo and hayride excursions. You can visit nearby farmers’ markets and wineries from here.

Why You’ll Love Avila/Pismo Beach KOA

There is a lot to do in the area besides visiting the gorgeous beaches. Some of the most popular destitions include the Avila Wine Trail, the Central Coast Aquarium, the Pismo Dunes and the Morch Butterfly Grove. The Hot Springs of Avila are just a few steps from the RV park.

What People Are Saying About Avila/Pismo Beach KOA

“It is a nice quaint campground. It does not offer much in the way of views, nor is it particularly beautiful on its own merits. However, the beauty lies in its location. A quick ride will get you to the best beaches or to San Luis Obispo, which offers much more non-camping entertainment.” – Michael, Google review

This RV park is located in south San Luis Obispo, and it is operated by KOA. Like other KOA parks, Avila / Pismo Beach KOA is geared toward families with small children. There are a number of amenities on site to keep children active and entertained.

Why You’ll Love Avila / Pismo Beach KOA

Avila / Pismo Beach KOA contains all of the amenities that you need to keep kids happy and well-fed. There is a large playground on site, and you can stock up on supplies at the camp store. Avila Beach is only a short walk away from this campground.

What People Are Saying About Avila / Pismo Beach KOA

“It is a nice quaint campground. It does not offer much in the way of views, nor is it particularly beautiful on its own merits. However, the beauty lies in its location. A quick ride will get you to the best beaches, or to San Luis Obispo which offers much more non camping entertainment.” – Michael, Google Review

RV parking in the San Luis Harbor is run by the Harbor Commission, which aims to provide marine recreation while maintaining sustainability and environmental responsibility. This location is available for special events and meetings. It also hosts community events, such as the Dive Cleanup at the Central Coast Aquarium.

Why You’ll Love Port San Luis Harbor District

While this park offers no frills, it has all you need for a great time at the beach. The recreational opportunities you’ll find here include boating, fishing, paddle boarding, and swimming. The park is close to local attractions, golf courses, restaurants, and shops, and if you have your own boat, you can launch it and moor it for free while you are staying at the park.

What People Are Saying About Port San Luis Harbor District

“This is our favorite place! The only thing is that the shower rooms are getting run down. Otherwise, it’s dog-friendly and we love the beach. There is also so much to offer out on the Old Port.” – Ty, Google review

See the Central Coast like you’ve never seen it before with Flying Flags at Avila Beach’s seaside campsites, spacious RV sites and stunning beach cottages.The newest central coast RV Park overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Accommodations for a wide variety of RVs. Enjoy group amenities including cornhole, bocci ball, bath facilities, and espresso coffee. Conveniently located within two miles from the charming beach town Avila Beach and easy access to a dog friendly beach.

Why You’ll Love Flying Flags Avila Beach

Whale watching, wine testing, beach access and water views - do we really need to say more? The dream California vacation you've always wanted is possible at Flying Flags Avila Beach! The only hard part is going to be having to go home.

This RV park is operated by San Luis Obispo County. It’s situated within a huge regional park that is located a short distance north of the city of San Luis Obispo. This park features multiple playgrounds, and a golf course is nearby.

Why You’ll Love El Chorro Regional Park

El Chorro Regional Park is a great place to commune with nature. Even though it is close to Highway 1, this RV park is practically silent at night. You could spend days exploring the winding nature trails located throughout this huge property.

What People Are Saying About El Chorro Regional Park

“Stayed one night at the primative campsite, beautiful little camping spot not far from towns. The bathrooms and showers ere well maintained. Didn’t try them it was too cold. There was some light traffic noise but not bad at all!” – Bonnie, Google Review

Morro Bay State Park Campground is run by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. The bay has a pristine saltwater marsh on its northeast edge that offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. There is a Museum of Natural History in the park.

Why You’ll Love Morro Bay State Park Campground

Morro Bay State Park offers a beautiful escape from city living. It’s adjacent to the majestic Morro Rock and offers opportunities for fishing, sailing, birdwatching, and hiking. It also has a marina and is near an 18-hole golf course.

What People Are Saying About Morro Bay State Park Campground

“Very friendly staff and perfect location for hiking and golfing. Sites are a little close together inviting conversation with your neighbors. We like privacy, but we met wonderful people. We will come back based on the location.” – Quiteria, Google review

Cerro Alto Campground is located in Morro Bay. This remote facility is open to RVs, and it features stunning views. The area surrounding Cerro Alto Campground is filled with lush verdure, and the beach is nearby.

Why You’ll Love Cerro Alto Campground

Cerro Alto Campground is practically silent at night. You won’t need 4WD to get to this campground, and each campsite offers plenty of privacy. If you want to go to the beach, Morro Bay is about 15 minutes away.

What People Are Saying About Cerro Alto Campground

“Beautiful, green, quiet, and campsites are spacious! The only drawback was that in November, fires were still not permitted. That is not the fault of the campground. It’s under the direction of the US Forest Service. But we’ll definitely return! It’s a gorgeous campground.” – Joyce, Google Review

Morro Strand RV Park is within walking distance of Morro Bay, and it’s one of the smallest RV parks in the area. There’s a general store on site, and the park owners sell firewood. Morro Strand RV Park’s motto is “If it can fit on the road, it can fit in our park,” which means that they offer extra-large RV lots.

Why You’ll Love Morro Strand RV Park

If you want to keep to yourself while you enjoy the beach, Morro Strand RV Park is the place for you. This RV park becomes relatively empty in the winter, but the sunsets stay beautiful all year long. Unlike other RV parks in the area, Morro Strand RV Park offers monthly rates.

What People Are Saying About Morro Strand RV Park

“The place to RV while in Morro Bay. They have bathrooms, laundry room and a small store . All nice and clean. The manager (Maya) is very helpful and nice.” – Mary, Google Review

Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is operated by the County of Santa Barbara. It’s located northwest of Santa Barbara on the shores of Lake Cachuma. This RV park is one of the largest in the area, and it’s open year-round.

Why You’ll Love Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

Lake Cachuma is a beautiful spot to visit any time of year. In the winter, you can bundle up in your camper and watch the peaceful lake. During the summer, you can join the throng and splash around. Best of all, Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is only about 20 miles away from Santa Barbara.

What People Are Saying About Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

“Nice near-lake campgrounds with RV and tent spaces, yurts and little cabins, store and gas station. Lake is still low at about 35% capacity. New disc golf course with 18 holes, Mach V orange baskets, four pin positions for every hole, nice tees and signs. Really nice course!!” – Mark, Google Review

Refugio State Beach is located a few minutes west of Santa Barbara. This RV park features beach access, and the beach is lined with looming palm trees. Refugio State Beach can accommodate campers that are up to 30 feet long.

Why You’ll Love Refugio State Beach

At Refugio State Beach, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean every morning. The camp store is open on Saturdays and Sundays, and Santa Barbara is only minutes away. This RV park is relatively small, so it stays pretty quiet at night.

What People Are Saying About Refugio State Beach

“Huge campground sitting right on top of the Pacific. Well kept, clean showers (bring quarters!). Perfect for families, kids exploring, and grilling at night. And if you forgot anything, there’s a convenience store.” – Thorsten, Google Review

Treat the family to memorable camping on California's Central Coast at Sun Outdoors Santa Barabara. This fantastic resort is situated in Santa Barbara, where the Pacific Ocean and Ynez Mountains offer a spectacular setting and stunning backdrop for activities and adventure.

Why You’ll Love Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

Choose your experience with a selection of spacious RV and tent sites. Enjoy fun amenities like a heated swimming pool and the market that features camping gear, souvenirs, local wine, craft beer, and beach gear. Gather for seasonal outdoor movie nights on the Market lawn. Explore trails on docent-led hikes, take the kids to our llama and goat farm, and check out the events hosted at the El Capitan Canyon Market, located at El Capitan Canyon, sister resort.

What People Are Saying About Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

“Loved, loved this resort. The bathrooms were clean with plenty of space in the shower area. The grounds were kept up and the walking trails were great! We appreciated that the RV parking areas were concrete slabs. Close to the beach with trail access. I would recommend this resort to family and friends for sure and will return!” -Percilla Romaro, Google

This campground is located in sunny Santa Barbara, a southern California city famed for its nightlife and beautiful beaches. At Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, you have vistas of the sea, large private lots, and even family movie nights on their big screen in the park. You’re just a short drive down the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway from the center of Santa Barbara as well, though you might not want to leave. El Capitan Canyon, a luxury campground, is right next door, and they offer a huge general store as well as an on-site spa.

Why You’ll Love Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

Why you’ll love Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara reviews call it the “Hilton Hotel of RV parks” for a reason. This is definitely one of the nicest California campgrounds out there. You can reserve ocean view lots that overlook the magnificent El Capitan State Beach, spend the day relaxing in their on-site spa, or even hold a meeting in their “Adventure Yurt”. Their El Capitan Beach Store has everything you need for a day of recreation and cooking out, and they often plan evening activities that are fun for the whole family.

Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara is located directly on the beach. It’s part of El Capitan State Beach and is situated about five miles outside of Santa Barbara. Every RV pad is surrounded by shade trees, and ocean views are abundant.

Why You’ll Love Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

Nothing beats being able to walk to the beach whenever the mood strikes. The sunsets at this RV park are absolutely beautiful, and you can hear the waves crashing at night. If you need to stop into town, Highway 1 runs through the El Capitan area.

What People Are Saying About Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara

“The park was almost empty, which is probably one reason I rated it so high. We had the place to ourselves, but having said that, it is a very nice spot even if full. Nicely kept sites with lots of trees. Hedges separate the sites. However, in some areas, the hedges are small. Wi-Fi was excellent.” – Gerry, Google Review