Morro Strand State Beach Campground, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Morro Strand State Beach Campground lines a gorgeous stretch of sand between Morro Bay and Cayucos, with front-row views of the Pacific and Morro Rock on the horizon. It’s classic Central Coast beach camping: salty air, rolling surf, and sunsets that light up the entire strand. Expect simple, ocean-exposed sites a short walk over the dunes to miles of beach.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Beachy, breezy, and beautiful.” Campers love waking to surf sounds, walking straight to the sand, and the easy drive to Morro Bay’s Embarcadero or Cayucos pier. It’s open and social, with wind and fog part of the package.
Highlights
- Steps to sand: walk over the dunes to a wide, uncrowded beach.
- Views: Morro Rock and endless coast in both directions.
- Location: minutes to Morro Bay and Cayucos for food and supplies.
- Sunsets & stars: brilliant evening color and dark skies when fog lifts.
Frictions to plan around
- Wind/fog: frequent coastal breeze; stake tents and bring layers.
- No hookups: dry camping; bring power/water solutions.
- Limited privacy: open layout between sites.
- Sand everywhere: mats and a small broom are clutch.
Camper Quotes
“Fell asleep to the waves and woke up to surfers — perfect.”
“Basic campground, million-dollar beach.”
“Bring windbreaks and hot cocoa — sunsets are unreal.”
“Easy jump to tacos on the Embarcadero.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: ~70 beachfront and near-beach sites for tents, trailers, and small RVs.
- Hookups: none (dry camping); potable water spigots available.
- Facilities: restrooms, coin-operated showers, picnic tables, and fire rings.
- Access: paved and hard-packed loops; short paths over dunes to the beach.
- Pets: leashed in campground; check posted rules for beach sections.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via ReserveCalifornia.com. Beachfront sites book out quickly for spring–fall weekends; winter brings easier availability and migrating whales offshore.
Tip: If weekends are sold out, try Sun–Wed or shoulder season (late Sept–Oct) for calmer weather and better odds.
Best Sites
- Ocean-side row: closest to the dunes with peek-a-boo views.
- End/corner pads: a touch more elbow room and fewer passersby.
- Inner row (wind-sheltered): slightly less exposure for tents.
Pack sand stakes, a sturdy shade/wind tarp, and a brush to keep gear clean.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Morro Bay State Park: bayside sites with showers and some hookups.
- Montaña de Oro SP (Islay Creek): rustic coastal canyon camping 20 minutes south.
- San Simeon SP: two loops (San Simeon Creek & Washburn) north on Highway 1.
Map & Directions
From CA-1, take Yerba Buena St / Beachcomber Dr toward the ocean and follow signs for Morro Strand State Beach Campground. The campground sits just behind the dunes between Morro Bay and Cayucos.
Address: 200 Yerba Buena St, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Morro Strand State Beach FAQ
Are there hookups?
No — dry camping only. Water spigots are available; no site-level hookups.
Are showers available?
Yes — coin-operated showers near the restrooms (bring quarters).
Is it family-friendly?
Yes — flat loops, quick beach access, and easy drives to town.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
Check local/state rules posted at the entrances; dogs are allowed in the campground on leash.
When’s the best time to visit?
Fall for clearer afternoons and warm sunsets; spring for wildflowers; winter for whale sightings and fewer crowds.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
He’s rumored to comb the strand at dawn looking for perfect sand dollars. 👣🌊
