There aren’t many places left in California where you can still drive your rig straight onto the sand, kick open your door, and fall asleep to the sound of waves. Pismo Beach, specifically the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA), is one of those places (35.10549, -120.63052). We’d heard stories for years: “Deep sand,” “River crossing,” “People get stuck every weekend,” “It’s chaotic but unforgettable.” And honestly? All of it’s true. And that’s exactly what makes camping here such a wild little adventure.
We rolled in on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, with only about an hour to spare before peak high tide. Right away, we saw a sign for a high tide warning and that rangers could close the river crossing at a moment’s notice. This wouldn’t be such an issue, but to reach the camping area, the only way is to cross the river. If they closed it, it’d mean we’d have to find somewhere else to boondock for the night, and it was already getting late in the day.
At the kiosk, you’ll pay $10 per night, which feels almost suspiciously cheap for what you’re about to get, prime beachfront real estate. It’s important to note that even though there aren’t designated campsites, they do (and often) fill up. Luckily, we didn’t have any issues getting there at about 3:30 in the afternoon, but to make sure you don’t get turned away, reservations are strongly encouraged. You can make them year-round, up to six months in advance, through Reserve California at (800) 444-7275 or online at www.parks.ca.gov.
With our camping permit in hand, we were ready to drive onto the sand.
Preparing to Drive Onto the Sand
If you’ve never driven on sand before, Pismo will give you a crash course fast. The sand here can get deep, and the softness varies depending on tides, recent storms, and how many vehicles have churned it up that week. The deepest part was actually driving onto and off the beach that weekend. If you’re planning on just driving on the hard-pack beach, you probably don’t need to air down, but should have 4-wheel drive.
Since we wanted to camp next to the dunes for some protection from the surf and wind, we pulled aside and dropped our tires on the truck to 20-25 PSI. Our favorite way to air down efficiently, so we can get to camp quickly, is by using these automatic tire deflators.
In addition to airing down, it’s also a good idea to have some recovery gear so you’re not paying crazy fees to get towed out. Other things we’d recommend you have are:
The River Crossing
A little way down, you’ll come to the part that can and does change frequently depending on the season and tide, the river crossing
Depending on the season, it might be ankle-deep, knee-deep, or full-on “stop the car and check this thing” deep. We’ve heard horror stories of cars getting stuck, and worse, getting pulled out to sea. The rangers will close it if it gets to a certain depth, but it’s always a good idea to make sure you’re comfortable before crossing any water.
Luckily for us, the high tides this week weren’t that high, but don’t underestimate what a threat the river crossing can be with the tides.
Choosing the Perfect Campsite
We continued to drive down the beach, past beach post marker #8, and then cut into the dunes. We were able to find a spot, away from anyone else, that was still close enough to the ocean to enjoy the view, but far enough away to be protected from the winds (and they do get wild here).
If you want to camp directly on the beach, but you’re not sure where the tide will land (and honestly, we weren’t), check the tide charts before settling in. Nothing ruins a perfect night faster than waking up at 2 a.m. because your wheels are suddenly in the surf.
Evening rolled in with that golden glow that makes the Pacific look unreal. We watched groups of ATVs and dirt bikes ride up and down the dunes, and be prepared, there will be ATV/dirt bike noise. As it got dark, though, it got quiet and was just a peaceful spot on the sand.
Facilities, Rules, and What to Expect
While the experience is raw and sandy and kind of wild, there are some things to keep in mind:
- You need an SVRA camping pass: That’s the $10 fee you pay at the kiosk or when you make the reservation.
- Camping is typically limited to certain areas: There will be signs and markers showing where camping is allowed.
- You can have campfires: Ground fires are allowed on the sand, but they must be smaller than 3’ in diameter and 3’ high. You’re only permitted to burn clean wood (no pallets or treated wood), and all fires should be put out with water, not by burying coals in the sand.
- There are vault toilets nearby: But you might be walking quite a ways. We recommend bringing everything you’d bring for dispersed camping: a portable toilet, trash bags, and water.
- The wind can get spicy: Especially in the afternoons. Bring sand stakes or something to weigh down anything lightweight.
- Whips and flags are required for dune riding: If you are driving into the dunes, all vehicles must have a whip and flag.
This isn’t traditional campground camping. It’s a weird blend of off-roading, dispersed camping, beach living, and pure coastal chaos, and that’s exactly why people love it.
Driving Out in the Morning
Leaving the next day is just as important as arriving. The sand tends to be softer midday as the sun warms everything up, so if your rig struggles, try to leave earlier. Airing back up at the exit is easy; there are spots to pull over in the neighborhoods nearby. To air back up quickly, we love our ARB Onboard Air and MorrFlate Quad Tire Inflator. And yes, you have to cross that river again, so make sure you’re checking the tides.
Final Thoughts: Is Camping at Pismo Beach Worth It?
Absolutely, and we hope to be back again!
Pismo Beach is one of the last few places in California where you can camp directly on the sand. It delivers something you don’t get many places anymore, pure freedom.
We left feeling recharged, a little (actually a lot) sandy, and already plotting our next visit.
Want to watch our full camping adventure at Pismo Beach? Click here.
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