Morro Bay State Park Campground
4.52132 reviewsState Park Road, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Morro Bay State Park Campground
$35.00 - $50.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$50.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees range from $35 for standard sites to $50 for sites with full hookups. Additional fees include a $10 dump station fee and $8 for firewood.
About this campground
Nestled between the shimmering waters of a protected lagoon and the dynamic natural bay, Morro Bay State Park Campground invites you to experience coastal camping at its finest. Choose from 134 thoughtfully positioned campsites that welcome both tent enthusiasts and RV adventurers (up to 35 feet). Wake up to the sound of seabirds and enjoy modern conveniences including flush toilets, token-operated hot showers, and convenient dump and water-fill stations. Your days here can be as adventurous or relaxed as you wish—trek scenic hiking trails, paddle through calm waters in a kayak, spot rare coastal birds through your binoculars, or take a fascinating journey through time at the Museum of Natural History, just a pleasant walk from your campsite.
The campground accommodates tents, RVs, and group camping. Primitive camping is not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of history at this storied coastal haven, where the Chumash and Salinan peoples first thrived along these productive shores for thousands of years. European explorers later marveled at this natural harbor, and during the 1930s, the skilled hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed the landscape, creating enduring structures that now grace the National Register of Historic Places. These Depression-era craftsmen left their mark in stone and timber, building facilities that continue to serve modern visitors while preserving the architectural heritage of America's conservation movement.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's air conditioning along California's Central Coast, where ocean breezes keep summer temperatures a refreshing 30°F cooler than inland valleys. This year-round mild climate creates perfect camping conditions in every season, though savvy visitors know to pack layers—morning fog often gives way to sunny afternoons, and evening coastal air brings a crisp coolness that makes campfire gatherings all the more inviting.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering eucalyptus groves perfume the air and provide natural windbreaks throughout this coastal paradise, while ancient volcanic sentinels—Black Hill and Cerro Cabrillo—stand guard over the landscape. The campground's crown jewel location offers front-row seats to one of California's most productive estuaries, where the Morro Bay Estuary's nutrient-rich waters nurture everything from tiny shorebirds to migrating whales. Saltwater marshes teem with life, creating a birder's paradise, while the iconic Morro Rock rises majestically from the bay—a dramatic reminder of the powerful forces that shaped this coastline.
Geological RegionDiscover California's Central Coast at its most dramatic, where ancient volcanic forces meet the relentless Pacific. The campground sits in a geological wonderland shaped by fire and water, featuring tranquil lagoons and dynamic bay habitats framed by volcanic peaks. Black Hill and Cerro Cabrillo reveal their volcanic origins in every weathered outcrop, while the magnificent Morro Rock—a 23-million-year-old volcanic plug—stands as a 576-foot testament to the Earth's creative power. This unique geological setting creates diverse microclimates and habitats that make every visit a new adventure in natural discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include five accessible campsites, one group site, accessible restroom/shower combo buildings, and accessible trails such as the Marina Peninsula Trail (0.7 miles) and Museum Trail (0.1 miles). Picnic tables adjacent to the campfire center are generally accessible. Users have praised some sites, like #33 and #34, for accessibility and proximity to amenities.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as moderately small with some offering pull-through spaces for RVs. Site-specific features include a maximum RV length of 35 feet and 2 vehicles per site.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is minimal, especially in crowded areas. Vegetation provides limited separation, and sites are noted as being 'right on top of each other' by some reviewers.
Total Campsites134 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in loop 118-135 are quieter and more spacious, with tall trees providing shade. Sites 1-30 offer water and electricity hookups.
Best Campsites30, 61, 63, 64, 66, 71, 78, 82, 83, 84, 87, 88, 92, 94, 96, 101, 102, 106, 110, 113, 114, 124.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Campers may stay a maximum of 10 nights consecutively, with a restriction of 20 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 guests per campsite.
Groups
Group sites are available and include accessible features. Details on maximum capacity are unclear.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out in loops, with some sites offering hookups and others suited for tent camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made online through ReserveCalifornia or by calling 1-800-444-7275 between 8am and 6pm Pacific Time.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available depending on cancellations or no-shows, but campers report difficulty securing these sites due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through ReserveCalifornia. Refund policies may vary depending on the timing of cancellation.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers numerous activities, including hiking, fishing, bird watching, kayaking, and exploring the nearby Morro Bay Museum of Natural History. Its proximity to Morro Rock adds to its appeal.
HikingTrails vary in difficulty and include Black Hill Trail (offering panoramic views) and Marina Peninsula Loop Trail (a 0.7-mile accessible trail with scenic views). The trailhead to Black Hill begins within the campground.
FishingFishing is available in Morro Bay, which is a protected estuary. Specific fish types are not detailed.
BikingMountain biking is allowed on several trails, particularly in the Black Hill area.
BoatingBoating is popular in Morro Bay, with options for canoe and kayak rentals at the marina. Users emphasize checking tide schedules for safety.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is notable for bird species such as peregrine falcons, herons, and egrets. The estuary serves as a feeding ground for migratory birds.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsPrograms at the Museum of Natural History include exhibits on geology, oceanography, and Native American history. Interpretive events such as Adventures with Nature are hosted. Junior Ranger Programs are offered during summer.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFalling trees during high winds have been reported. Wildlife such as raccoons and crows may disturb campsites.
Active alertsNone currently.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 100%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Foggy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include hospitals and police stations in the town of Morro Bay (1.5 miles north).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing applies year-round at this campground.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but specific details about pickup schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Morro Bay and marina. Walking distance to the estuary.
Common complaintsComplaints include noisy generators, crowded campsites, and poorly maintained bathrooms and showers.
HostOnsite hosts sell firewood and provide assistance at site #135.
Campground Map
State Park Road, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Driving directionsFrom the town of Morro Bay: South on Main St., which becomes State Park Rd. (Look for the state park entrance sign). Continue south to get to the marina and campground. From San Luis Obispo: North on Highway 1 to the South Bay Blvd. offramp. Turn left, go about 1 mile and turn right (Look for the state park entrance sign). From the south on Hwy 101: Northbound on Highway 101 to the Los Osos Valley Road offramp in San Luis Obispo. Turn left toward Los Osos and travel about 10 miles to South Bay Blvd., then turn right and go about 3 miles to the state park entrance (Look for the state park entrance sign). For those seeking an adventure, an even more scenic route may be taken south from Monterey through Big Sur on a 124-mile journey winding along Highway 1 (When road conditions permit).
The campground is accessible via paved roads. The routes include Highway 1 and State Park Road, which are open year-round. Conditions along Highway 1 may vary seasonally due to weather; travelers are encouraged to check road conditions.Nearby places
Morro Bay (1.5 miles north), Cayucos (7.5 miles north), Los Osos (5 miles south)
Nearby supplies
The town of Morro Bay (1.5 miles north) provides amenities such as grocery stores, gas stations, and dining options. Additional supplies are available in Cayucos (7.5 miles north) and Los Osos (5 miles south).
Camper Reviews
4.5
132 reviews
Morro Bay State Park Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with positive feedback about the convenient location and scenic surroundings but criticism of bathroom cleanliness and crowded campsites.
Review Summaries
Users frequently praised the campground's proximity to local attractions like the marina, Morro Rock, and hiking trails. Accessibility to amenities and the peaceful atmosphere were noted.
Complaints centered around bathrooms and showers being dirty, cramped site sizes, generator noise, and expensive fees for amenities such as showers and the dump station.
Several reviews recommend choosing sites #118-134 for quieter and more spacious camping. Visitors are advised to bring shower shoes and avoid peak seasons due to crowding.
Summer months are popular but can be crowded. Winter experiences include strong winds and falling trees but peaceful conditions during butterfly overwintering season.
'Beautiful location just off the bay in eucalyptus groves.' - Fiona Cole. 'Bathrooms smelled like urine.' - Snarkwhaler. 'Showers cost tokens that you can buy in the center of the campground.' -...
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Best sites include #30, #61, #63, #64, #66, #71, #78, #82, #83, #84, #87, #88, #92, #94, #96, #101, #102, #106, #110, #113, #114, #124. Site #46 was criticized for being near poorly maintained...
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Users found sites #33 and #34 most accessible and praised features such as proximity to amenities. Accessibility for disabled visitors is generally good.
Pets are allowed and must be leashed. The campground is described as dog-friendly with ample space for pet exercise.
Last updated July 31, 2025