The most popular State Park is the Hearst Castle State Historical Monument in San Simeon. A page is devoted to Hearst Castle on this site.

The second most popular park is Morro Bay State Park which is next to the town of Morro Bay. This park has something for the entire family. The park has a visitor center, docent led walks, marina, restaurant, and golf course. The campground requires reservations be made far in advance particularly during the summer season.

The nearby town of Morro Bay may be reached by car or bicycle. Many restaurants, motels, kayaking, fishing and other past times are available.

Montana de Oro is a favorite of the locals. Surfing and many hiking and biking trails are available. Horse trails are also in this park. This park in contrast to Morro Bay State Park has much back country. This park commands many views of the Pacific Ocean and Morro Bay. Bring your camera when you come. Limited camp sites are here.

Between Morro Bay and Cayucos are more camping spots. North of Cambria camp sites can be had.

Montana de Oro or Mountains of Gold so named because of the California Poppies growing on the mountain sides. This is now a state park.

Avila Beach has camping along the shore of San Luis Bay. More camping can be found on highway 1 just in south Pismo Beach.

Oceano State Park has a quiet setting next to the Oceano Lagoon. This, like the Morro Bay State Park has many trees. The wildlife here is abundant.

The famed Pismo Dunes are in the Southern part of San Luis Obispo County. Dune buggies flood this area at certain parts of the year.

For reservations call: 800-444-7275

For reservations on tours of the Hearst Castle State Historical Monument call; 800-444-4445

Go to Coast Country Arts for more about what this area offers.