California
Pismo Beach Oceano Dunes Dispersed Area
Dispersed Camping
The only remaining stretch of California coast where you can camp directly on the beach in your rig. Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area allows dispersed camping on the sand, with sites stretching along miles of Pacific shoreline. Popular with ATV riders and 4WD enthusiasts, but plenty of room to find solitude. Beach fires allowed below high tide line with proper permits.
Entry requires airing down tires and beach driving experience — soft sand claims rigs regularly. Access via Pier Avenue in Oceano. Best camping north of Grand Avenue entrance away from the main OHV areas. Tide charts essential for safe camping. Water and supplies in Pismo Beach.
California's last drive-on beach camping
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Pismo Beach, CA |
| Miles from pavement | 0 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD |
| Access road surface | Sand |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 100 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $5.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 7 nights |
| Best season | Year-round |
| Land manager | State Park |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |