Pismo and surrounding areas

Crossing the country in 2 weeks and plan on spending a few days in socal. I'll be pulling an adventure trailer everywhere I go. With that said, I've never driven on sand, but I do know to air down and maintain momentum. How easy is it to get stuck at pismo? Also from what I've seen online it seems to be a pretty rowdy place. Are there peaceful camping spots somewhat secluded from the dune guys (I know I sound like a fruit, but we have 2 small children who would want to wander around a little in the sand) I don't want to have to worry about the girls walking 20 or 30 feet from our truck and a SXS flying by etc. If this is the atmosphere do any of y'all locals suggest anywhere else that is camp friendly? We aren't limited to socal and could also drive up to norcal too, thanks for your time.

 

Midweek is usually fine, doesnt usually get crazy until holidays or events. The more crowded it gets the more torn up the sand gets and the easier it is to grt stuck. Im 2wd and usually tow onto the beach just fine. Once you get on the beach stay close to the water (but not in it) while driving. Hardpack is obviously easier to navigate. Stay away from the poles, bathrooms and dune access lanes as thats where the most traffic is. Usually a decent spot though, but do NOT camp in the dunes and off the beach. Id stay as close to the beach as possible since there is a speed limit of 15mph and is usually observed, or at least safer than camping near a dune and having some jackhole jumping off it and into your camp

 

Thanks for the info. So you pretty much just find a spot on the beach and set up?

 

Exactly. You can go onto reserveamerica.com and search the oceano dunes svra and reserve a pass. There are no actual spots, but they do limit beach camping.

 

Try north beach campground or Lopez lake. Lopez lake is about a 25min drive from the dunes and north beach campground is down the street from the dunes. This time of year the dunes are packed especially during the weekend.

 

if you dont reserve a spot, you may very well be SOL. Lately people reserve then scalp the reservations. Also tide has been very high lately, just take note and park away from the beach side trailers.

 

pretty much