Discover the Beauty of Morro Bay State Park: Camping Adventure

Morro Bay State Park is a haven of natural beauty with its stunning views of wind-sculpted dunes and a lagoon in a natural bay habitat. The Park offers a variety of activities, such as sailing, fishing, and hiking, making it a perfect destination for a family day out or a weekend getaway. Surrounded by eucalyptus and cypress trees, the 2,700-acre Park also boasts one of California’s best campgrounds, with over 100 sites for tents and RV’s up to 30 feet long for those interested in an extended stay.

Morro Bay State Park Point of Interest

At Morro Bay State Park, the fun never ends. With an extensive trail system, a nearby pristine saltwater marsh estuary that supports a thriving bird population, a vibrant marina with boat and kayak rentals, a horse camping site, an 18-hole public golf course, a restaurant, and a museum, there’s something for everyone. The Museum of Natural History houses exhibits illustrating Morro Bay’s geology and oceanography, cultural history, and early Native American life, making it a must-visit.

Morro Bay Natural History Museum

The Museum of Natural History at Morro Bay State Park is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, and entry fees are only a few dollars for adults and are free to children 16 and under. The Museum invites guests to experience the past and present through lectures, puppet shows, videos, and docent-led tours. While just outside, visitors can stroll through the Chumash garden to see how the region’s Indigenous Indian tribe used the area’s natural resources daily, including nearby Morro Rock. https://centralcoastparks.org/portfolio-item/morro-bay/

Morro Rock, One of the Nine Sisters

Sometimes called the “Gibraltar of the Pacific,” the Chumash tribe considered The massive 50-acre volcanic plug is the last in a chain of extinct volcanoes from Morro Bay to San Luis Obispo. Morro Rock was formed about 23 million years ago and became a State Landmark in 1968. Since then, the area around it has been designated a bird sanctuary for the flocks of Peregrine falcons, egrets, and blue herons. While you can’t climb Morro Rock, the area around it offers plenty of activities. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and bird watching.

Camping at Morro Bay State Park

Morro Bay State Campground features 134 sites for tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 35 feet), with 27 sites offering electric and water hookups. There are also two group campsites and facilities for hike & bike campers. The Park also has a day-use area, but most stay for at least a few days. All the sites are in a shady forest area initially planted in the 1930s. The best campsites are 1 through 10. They are the closest to the Marina and boardwalk. Sites 118 through 134 are at the back of the campground and near the set to the Black Hill trailhead.

Rules and Regulations

Campfires are allowed only in the provided fire rings. Campers can bring their wood or purchase it from the camp host. Dogs are welcome with the usual restrictions. The Park accommodates RVs and trailers up to 35 feet in many sites, with some sites offering electric and water hookups. It’s advisable to make reservations for campsites, especially during peak seasons. You can book through Reserve California by calling or online. Reserve California. https://www.reservecalifornia.com/Web/

Morro Bay State Park Map

Morro Bay State Park Marina

The Marina at Morro Bay State Park offers rental canoes and kayaks. A favorite local tradition is to paddle from Morro Bay State Park to the massive four-mile sand spit that protects the bay from the open ocean for a picnic. Also at the Marina is the Bayside Cafe, where you can enjoy fish and chips or crab cake sandwiches with a view of Morro Bay. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor patio dining area. Morro Bay and Los Osos are nearby, offering additional dining, grocery, and gas options. Visit the Bayside Cafe website for open hours and to view their menu. http://baysidecafe.com/

Getting to Morro Bay State Park

Located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, Morro Bay State Park is a premier summer destination open year-round. Whether you’re looking for an affordable day trip or an overnight camping adventure, there’s no better way to enjoy the central California coast than by playing and staying on the water at Morro Bay State Park.

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Places to Camp Along California’s Central Coast

Los Osos California Central Coast

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