My (Sand) Bucket List-Pismo Beach Camping

I’ve just begun planning my next beach vacation, and we are headed across the country to Pismo Beach. I spent so much time camping on the beach when I was growing up, and my kids are so excited to go for the first time. When it comes to camping on the beach, there are just a few things you should make it a point to know about, or do! Keep reading for my complete Pismo Beach camping list:

Picking A Place to Stay

There are several campgrounds in Pismo Beach and many require reservations made in advance. Or, you could always find somewhere secluded to pitch a tent!

Pismo Coast Village RV Park: Ranked #1 in best places to camp, this is my favorite place to stay. With full hookups, you won’t even feel like you’re camping!

Pismo State North Beach Campground: Located right on the beach, Pismo State Campground is perfect for tent campers, and even tourists with trailers. Dogs are allowed, and there’s free wifi!

Pismo State Oceano Campground: While this campground is ranked well on virtually all travel sites, a little research tells me that this campground has fallen into a state of disrepair. It’s best to stay away from this campground!

Oceano Memorial Campground: Although some reviews claim that this campground could use a little TLC, we stayed here a few years ago and we loved it. There’s nothing like staying at a cabin directly on the beach!

North Beach Campground: This is where we are staying, and I was so excited to book our trip based on the photographs alone! All campers have to do is cross a path to access the beach. There’s free wifi, and even a beach-side snack bar. Yes please!

Things to Bring

-Some form of shelter. We always camp in tents, but it’s up to you!

-A tarp or a tent “footprint” to help reduce the amount of sand drug into your tent.

-Sleeping bags (even nights at the beach get cold!)

-Blankets, beach towels, and an umbrella to keep the sun off of your back.

-Food and water. Because you’d be downright miserable without it.

-Swimsuits and enough sunscreen for everyone camping.

-Flip flops, Tevas, or other water shoes. Campground bathrooms are disgusting, and who wears tennis shoes on the beach?

-Aloe Vera or after sun lotion (obviously)

Pismo Beach Rules 

-Furry friends are welcome, but must always be on a leash.

-Fires are permitted–in designated areas.

-Camping is not permitted in some areas on the beach–ask a park ranger to clarify for you, or you could end up with a hefty fine!

Things to Do on Pismo Beach

-Check out the monarch butterfly grove for waves of orange that you won’t forget.

-If you have a future palentologist on your hands, take them to the Dinosaur Caves Park.

-Take surfing lessons or try your luck on a stand up paddle boards!

-I like to stay away from malls on vacation, but if shopping sounds fun for you (and if you lost your beach shoes) check out Pismo Beach Premium Outlet Mall.