San Luis Obispo is located along the central coast and is one of California’s oldest European-founded communities. It was founded in 1772 as the site of the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, founded by Saint Junipero Serra. Today visitors can visit the mission and learn more about its role in the city’s expansion. The town achieved rapid growth after the America Conquest of California.
San Luis Obispo, or "SLO," is known for its relaxed atmosphere and lush surroundings. It’s a popular tourist destination known for its historic buildings, unmatched hospitality, and vineyards such as Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards, Wolff Vineyards, and Saucelito Canyon. It’s also home to the famous California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
San Luis Obispo has a rich history that locals take great pride in showing off. Visitors to the region can learn more about the city’s past and its historic downtown by taking a walking tour. Walking tours are free and led by the History Center of San Luis Obispo County. The tours are held all summer on Saturdays starting at 10 a.m. at 696 Monterey Street. Story maps are available online for visitors who want to take the tour but arrive outside of tour hours. Other fun things to do to learn more about the city's history include ghost and true crime tours where you'll learn more about hidden stories and hauntings of the downtown area. Also check out, essential Downtown SLO, a self-guided audio tour of San Luis Obispo’s highlights and history.
Morro Bay Avocado Margarita Festival - A three-day food and drink festival in September where gourmet chefs share their avocado-inspired recipes, and there are plenty of opportunities to try unique margaritas.
City of Arroyo Grande Summer Concert Series - A free summer concert series sponsored by the City of Arroyo Grande Recreation Services Department that takes place every Sunday through mid-September.
Cruisin’ Weekend - A favorite summertime event in mid-August that gets people literally dancing in the streets to some of their favorite music by local bands.
At 85 miles away, Pinnacles National Park is the closest national park to San Luis Obispo. Known for its majestic wildlife, canyon bottoms, and bat caves, there are plenty of places to explore on foot by hiking one of the various trails, such as the Balconies Cave, High Peaks, and Old Pinnacles Trail Loop trails. You can even schedule a ranger tour through the visitor's center.
Channel Islands National Park is about 112 miles from SLO and is an undeveloped ocean wonderland. With year-round highs hovering around 60 degrees, only the bravest snorkelers dare venture into the water. Yet, there are other things to do, such as hiking Elephant Seal Cove, kayaking alongside marine life like sea lions, or filling your stomach at one of the restaurants throughout the Channel Islands.
Get lost among the ancient trees of Sequoia National Park. The park is 112 miles from San Luis Obispo, near the tiny town of Three Rivers, CA. Hike to General Sherman, Sequoia's most famous tree, take a horseback ride among one of the designated horse trails, or drive through the park stopping at scenic sights and browsing the various gift shops and small stores.
Morro Bay State Park is home to the volcanic peak Morro Rock and features a natural habit and lagoon. There are approximately 13 trails, including the popular Black Hill Trail, within and near the park, numerous fishing and bird-watching opportunities, and even an 18-hole golf course for golf enthusiasts.
Pismo Beach State Park is a water lover's paradise with over 17 miles of shoreline. There's excellent fishing at Oceano Lagoon behind the campground and visitor's center, an educational Junior Rangers Program for children ages 7-12, and campfire programs offered during summer nights and weekends. The real stars of Pismo Beach State Park, though, are the Monarch butterflies, which take up residence between November and February.
The San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area gets its name from the man-made lake that connects to San Luis Creek. The area has four campgrounds and is perfect for campers who love a little water to go along with their adventure. The campgrounds have full amenities so that you won't lack creature comforts after a full day of hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and general outdoor activities.
Tour the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, a historic Spanish California mission open-year round for visits. The museum is home to American, Mission Era, and Native California artifacts. There's no charge for admission, but donations are encouraged. The Mission is also an active parish. Those who wish to participate in Mass are welcome.
San Luis Obispo has several nearby RV parks and campgrounds, including the ever-popular Avila / Pismo Beach KOA. Like most KOA parks, this is a family-friendly park with the kids in mind. There's a large playground on the campground, and Avila Beach is a short walk away, which many describe as one of the best beaches in the area.
Check out Port San Luis RV Campground for campers who want to wake up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore. It's on San Luis Obispo Bay, and there's not a lousy pad in the entire park. Every site features ocean views. Get to the campground early in the day to claim a spot because it doesn't take reservations.
If you want to be by the beach, but don't want the stress of hoping there's an available spot, check the reservable Coastal Dunes RV Park and Campground. This county RV park and campground is clean, about three miles from the town of Arroyo Grande, and the WiFi signal is strong for those working from the road.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in San Luis Obispo, CA, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in San Luis Obispo?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in San Luis Obispo from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in San Luis Obispo?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.
