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Morro Strand State Beach Campground

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If you dream of pitching your tent on the sand and falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves, Morro Strand State Beach Campground is your spot.

Sites are nestled in the dunes and come with picnic tables and fire rings to keep you cozy. With the iconic Morro Rock looming just a few miles away, visitors here can explore sand dunes and tide pools, surf, and take in epic sunsets over the Pacific Ocean from camp. Morro Bay's restaurants and markets are close by, making for an easy last minute and family friendly camping getaway.

Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation

All of Morro Strand State Beach Campground’s sites can be reserved online up to six months in advance starting at 8am PT. Same-day reservations are available for open sites, but there are no first-come, first-served sites here.

The park frequently fills up during the summer and weekends, so book ahead.

When to Go

Morro Strand State Beach is open year-round. Its mild coastal climate means it’s never too hot here, even in the summer when highs reach the upper 60s. Fall, winter, and spring visitors should prepare for cool nights (with lows in the 40s) and the chance of rain. Gray whales can be seen off Morro Bay during the winter, and humpback whales during the summer. For a quieter campground experience, come during the winter or weekdays.

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32 ratings · 4 reviews

Alexis B.

July 18, 2018

Who doesn't love camping in Morro Bay? Two things; 1) make friends with your neighbors if your up to it. We did and had such a great time spending our trip with them! 2) make sure to make time to check out downtown Morro Bay, you could walk away with some cool treasures from the local thrift store or play human chess.

Vanessa D.

December 31, 2017

Booked on a busy holiday weekend because othering neighboring campgrounds were fully booked. I got a central spot which was basically two large parallel parking spots with a grass strip in between and a picnic table. When we arrived our site was being used for some other camper’s lawn games—they did continue their lawn games and horrible loud music to the next site over since it was not yet occupied. Tons of rednecks that weekend—their dogs running around off-leash, lots of beer drinking. We lasted an hour and skedaddled to take our chances finding another campsite on New Year’s weekend. May be nice during the week, dunno, but wouldn’t recommend on a holiday weekend or one of the center spots.

John M.recommends

May 31, 2017

hook-up sites can accommodate any length RV. 30 and 50 amp

Rob G.

March 2, 2016

This is a great campground when not crowded. You have a huge beach nearby, and lots of stuff to do on the central coast. Usually only a few sites taken midweek in winter months, but the weather might be better than the summer. The best sites for tents or small RVs is along the west side. Great beach views. There are now site specific reservations. The central sites are basically parking spaces. Showers available at Morro Bay SP; save your camp stub. Can get kinda flooded in really big rain.

Your guide to camping in Morro Strand State Beach Campground

Overview

Fishing

Morro Strand State Beach visitors can surf fish for perch, jacksmelt, rockfish, and more. You must be over the age of 16 with a California Fishing License to fish here. For exact rules and regulations, check with the park rangers.

Hiking

Morro Strand State Beach has 3 miles of beach to run, hike, or stroll. The Morro Strand Trail provides a designated path through the park’s dunes.You can also drive to the nearby Morro Rock and explore the base of this spectacular volcanic plug.

Wind sports

With its steady ocean winds, Morro Strand State Beach is also a popular spot for windsurfing. Consider a wetsuit!

Surfing

Morro Strand State Beach is known for large waves and cold water. Experienced surfers come here for head-high (or taller) waves in the fall and winter. Summers waves are smaller and more beginner friendly. There are surf shops in town that rent boards and wetsuits. Make sure to check the local weather report to stay up to date on unpredictable surf and winds if you plan on getting in the water.

Swimming

If you’re comfortable in cold water and waves, Morro Strand State Beach makes for a great place to splash around. For a beach with lifeguards, head south to Moro Rock Beach aka City Beach, which staffs 2 lifeguard towers during the summer months.

Wildlife watching

Morro Strand State Beach has tide pools where you can spot otherworldly anemone, sea slugs, and urchins. A number of seabirds take refuge here, including the western snowy plover. Seals, sea lions, and otters may be found nearby in Morro Bay. Gray whales and humpback whales migrate offshore here as well.