Washburn Campground at San Simeon State Park, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Washburn Campground sits high above the coast in San Simeon State Park, offering wide-open views of the Pacific and surrounding hills. It’s the park’s upper, more primitive loop — a favorite for campers who value space, sunsets, and stargazing over amenities. The ocean roars below, and the ridge catches breezes that keep the air fresh even on warm summer days.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Peaceful and panoramic.” Campers love the privacy, the views, and the feeling of being perched above the Pacific. It’s breezy and rustic, but much quieter than the lower San Simeon Creek Campground.
Highlights
- Big views: sunsets over the Pacific and starry nights overhead.
- Quiet atmosphere: fewer crowds and more spacing between sites.
- Easy access: short drive or walk down to the beach and lower campground.
- Wildlife: deer, hawks, and elephant seals nearby.
Frictions to plan around
- No hookups: dry camping; fill water before heading up.
- Vault toilets only: no showers or flush restrooms.
- Wind exposure: expect strong coastal gusts — stake tents securely.
- Access road: narrow and unpaved in sections; go slow with larger rigs.
Camper Quotes
“Views forever — you can see whales spouting from camp.”
“Windy but worth it — peaceful and gorgeous sunsets.”
“Dry camping done right. Clean, quiet, and star-filled nights.”
“Feels wild but close to everything — best of both worlds.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: ~45 sites for tents, vans, and smaller RVs (under ~30 ft recommended).
- Hookups: none; dry camping only.
- Water: no potable water on-site; fill tanks at San Simeon Creek Campground below.
- Facilities: vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, trash bins.
- Pets: welcome on leash.
- Accessibility: basic gravel surfaces, some slopes; not fully ADA accessible.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via ReserveCalifornia.com. Washburn often has sites available when San Simeon Creek is sold out — a great backup option for last-minute coastal camping. Open year-round, with cooler weather and fog in summer.
Tip: Bring extra water, secure your tent, and plan for sunsets — they’re among the best on the Central Coast.
Best Sites
- #95–102: prime ocean-view ridge sites with sweeping panoramas.
- #88–90: slightly sheltered from wind, easy access to the entry road.
- #100–104: larger pads suitable for small RVs or families.
Arrive before sunset — site selection is first-come-first-served, and evening light up here is unbeatable.
Nearby Campgrounds
- San Simeon Creek Campground: lower loop with water and showers, great for families.
- Morro Bay State Park: marina setting and more developed facilities (~30 minutes south).
- Montaña de Oro State Park: larger, scenic coastal campground (~45 minutes south).
Map & Directions
From Cambria, drive north on Highway 1 for about 3 miles. Turn right at the signed entrance for San Simeon State Park. Continue uphill about 1 mile past San Simeon Creek Campground to reach Washburn Campground on the ridge.
Address: 500 San Simeon-Monterey Creek Rd, Cambria, CA 93428
Washburn Campground FAQ
Are there hookups?
No — this is a primitive, dry campground. Fill water below before arrival.
Are campfires allowed?
Yes, in designated fire rings when no fire restrictions are in effect.
Is it windy?
Yes — the ridge is breezy, especially in afternoons. Bring extra stakes and tarps.
Can I bring my RV?
Yes, though rigs over ~30 ft are not recommended due to narrow access and slopes.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, leashed, in camp and designated beach trails below.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
Pretty good — rumor says he prefers the upper ridge for better stargazing. 👣✨
