Mike and I have been wanting to go camping since we left our last beautiful camping trip in Northern California. With so much going on in our country right now, it’s always nice to unplug, unwind and enjoy the beautiful nature that California has to offer.
We originally wanted to go somewhere up in the mountains, but unfortunately there were still some fire restrictions and many campsites did not allow any fires. Coastal camping is always beautiful and we discovered a beautiful campground in central California in San Luis Obispo County at Hearst San Simeon State Park.
About the Campground
- There are two campgrounds, Washburn Campground and San Simeon Campground. Washburn is a primitive campground on a plateau overlooking the mountains. It has beautiful view! We walked through this campground and noticed most were in RV’s up here. The campsites had a decent amount of space but there wasn’t much shade or privacy for the sites. We stayed at the San Simeon Campground which was a mix of tent and RV camping. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table and there are flush toilets and showers available. Our site was pretty private and had enough space to set up two large tents. I would recommend staying on the outer sites as the one in the middle had little to no privacy and less shade.
- You can hear the waves crashing from your campsite. It was incredibly relaxing for us! However if you don’t like any noise, even ambient noise when sleeping, come prepared for the ocean sounds.
- The campground is about a 3-5 minute walk from the beach. There is a day area near the beach with picnic benches available.
- There is a 3.3 mile hike available that is accessible from the campgrounds. We did it and highly recommend! During the hike you will experience the Santa Rose Creek Preserve and beautiful San Simeon Natural Preserve. There are plenty of bench rest spots along the way as well as panels with information on wildlife in the area.
Things To Do in the Area
- Don’t miss your chance to view the Elephant Seals! There is a viewing point at the Elephant Seal Boardwalk in the State Park. You can also drive north about 5 minutes for other viewing points. During this time it was mostly the young pups as the older ones are out mating.
- Hearst Castle is also about a 5-7 minute drive north of the campground. It was closed due to COVID, but I HIGHLY recommend going if it is open. There are some great tours you can take of the breathtaking property. On your drive up to the castle, you may be able to see some zebras roaming with the cows. There used to be a zoo at Hearst Castle years ago. When the zoo closed they kept the Zebras on the property with the cows. Be sure to check our video in this post. We were able to spot some zebras!
- Two miles north of the campground is the town of Cambria. There are one-of-a-kind local restaurants and shops, art galleries and wineries! Definitely stop by and check it out.
- Six miles north of Hearst Castle is the historic Piedras Blanca Lighthouse. It also was unfortunately closed when we went, but there are great tours typically available.
Although we went in November, the weather and scenery was still beautiful but the colds were definitely cold so be sure to bundle up! This is a great campground to visit year-round. It is in such a great location with plenty of activities to keep you busy. Be sure to book early, especially if you are trying to go in the summer as they book up very quickly!
