Oceano Dunes Svra Campground

About

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area is a unique beach camping destination on California's Central Coast, offering 1,500 acres of beach and sand dunes within the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes complex. Unlike traditional campgrounds, there are no designated campsites; campers can set up primitive sites anywhere on the beach or dunes. This flexibility makes it popular with off-highway vehicle enthusiasts who enjoy motorcycle, four-wheel drive, ATV, and dune buggy riding. Beach camping is recommended for 4-wheel drive vehicles only due to soft sand conditions. High tides, heavy rains, and blowing sand can impact driving conditions. Access to the camping area requires crossing Arroyo Grande Creek, which can temporarily close when water depth exceeds 12 inches, potentially preventing access for up to 7 hours during large tidal swings. The OHV area begins at Post 2, one mile south of Pier Avenue on the beach. Facilities are primitive, with vault and chemical toilets scattered throughout the recreation area. No hookups, water, or amenities are provided at campsites. A fee-based dump station is available on Le Sage Drive. Service trucks patrol the beach selling firewood, ice, water, and RV holding-tank pump-out services. Reservations are made through Reserve California up to six months in advance.

Directions

Access via Grand Avenue or Pier Avenue in Oceano. Day use passes are sold at beach entry kiosks. The OHV and camping area begins at Post 2, one mile south of Pier Avenue on the beach. 4-wheel drive recommended for beach camping.