Camping-Touring the California Coast: Some Tips and Suggestions

The California coast is in a way like her gorgeous mountains - the higher up (the coast) you travel, the more rugged and majestic the scenic landscape. California is blessed with a diverse abundance of natural resources and camping locales. However, no area in the state, not even Yosemite Valley, can best her Pacific coastline for spectacular vistas and pure camping enjoyment! From the flat sandy beaches around San Diego, to the craggy cliffs near Crescent City, State and National Parks plus private campgrounds line her shore. That equals over 1000 miles of coastline-most of that is open to public access.

The Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast highway (PCH) and/or Highway101 will take you to about any location along the California coast. I remember well how awestruck I was on my first camping trip up the coast. Around every twist and bend of PCH a totally new and different vista unfolds. Campgrounds and parks are very crowded during summer months-so it's wise to make advance reservations. Of course Pam, my wife, and I have our favorites; a few of these I will mention here. The California State Parks web page is a great place for camping information and reservations, as is the National Park Service web site. The Offical California Home Page provides valuable information on touring, events and regional topics throughout the state. Try the California Travel Park Association for private RV park information.

The Southern Coast

On California's south coast, Dohney State Beach (Dana Point, Ca.) is our favorite choice. Located just west of San Juan Capistrano, Dohney has a wide, sandy beach, a grassy day use park and large well-separated campsites. Tents to large motorhomes are welcome. Dana Point Harbor has some very interesting gift shops (and chocolate fudge), and San Juan Capistrano has lovely swallows (when they return). About a fourth of the campsites are beach front, but reservations are a must to get one. Enjoy Dohney between November and March to avoid the crowds!

The Central Coast

Up the coast a ways, beautiful Morro Bay State Park is located on Morro Bay - believe it or not. About 15 miles west of San Luis Obispo, the park is just across the road from the Pacific. Old and aromatic eucalyptus trees provide shade at most campsites, but beware of the local Turkey Buzzards! They enjoy roosting in the eucalyptus and offer donations day and night. Morro Bay has an adjoining golf course, a museum and a quaint fishing village. Big ole Morro Rock sets proud and weathered in the bay.

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