Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area in Oceano California offers a unique camping experience. Primitive camping on the beach is open to both tent and RV campers. Located 1 mile south of the entrance to the dunes the camping area is popular for OHV enthusiasts. Four wheel drive is highly recommended to reach the camping areas... you will drive on the sand to reach the camping areas. Do some research about driving on sand including airing down the tire, using momentum and how to get "unstuck". Entering at the Oceano Beach access point drivers descend from pavement on to the sand and travel along the packed "moist" sand near the crashing surf. Plan your travels during low tide notably if you are inexperienced. Drivers must cross the Arroyo Grande Creek where it enters the ocean. During the summer months this is no big deal but during the winter and spring the creek can flow pretty good and create a formidable barrier for standard street vehicles. Once at the camping areas you will need to drive far enough up onto the soft sand to avoid being washed out to sea by the rising tide (or getting a little salt water in the car). Generally a party atmosphere campers pack out what they pack in. There are no amenities out here except for a few pit toilets. Regularly patrolled by park rangers. The park has been forced to start limiting access to a maximum number of OHV vehicles so advanced reservations are recommended. If you don't own a OHV the beach is a unique place to stay; bring the fat-tire bikes and ride along the sand bring a surf board or even fish from the shore. Camping is allowed south of Post 2 on the beach and in the open dune area. Vault toilets and chemical toilets are provided, and water-delivery and holding-tank pump-out services are available on the beach. Campsite reservation information can be obtained by calling 1-800-444-7275. Campsites are available by reservation year-round and can be made from 48 hours up to seven months in advance. Reservations are highly recommended (especially for holiday periods).