One of the most unforgettable vanlife experiences? Beach camping at Pismo Beach, where you literally park your van right on the sand — just feet from the shoreline.
We rolled into Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, backed the van in, and were instantly living that dreamy oceanfront lifestyle: morning coffee with waves crashing, barefoot strolls at sunset, and sleeping to the sound of the surf.
🏕️ How to Reserve a Spot:
Beach camping here is open to everyone, but you’ll need to reserve ahead of time. Head to the official website below and book under:
👉 Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
🔗 https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1207
Spots fill up fast — especially on weekends — so plan early! And YES dog Friendly, we even saw a cat!
Total cost for stay was $18!!!!
✅ Things You Must Know Before You Go:
1. 4×4 Is Recommended (But Not Required)
If you don’t have 4WD, you’ll need a shovel and traction boards. We highly recommend the ones we use here. We got stuck more than once, but fellow campers are super helpful — you won’t be stranded long.
2. Lower Your Tire Pressure
We dropped ours to 17 PSI before hitting the sand — it makes a huge difference in traction.
3. It Gets Loud
Off-road vehicles are allowed and ride all day and night. Expect engine noise late at night and early morning. It’s part of the vibe, especially near the dunes.
4. Know the Tides
Don’t park too close to the water! At high tide, waves can reach much farther up than expected. Always check tide charts and give yourself space. They have stakes in the ground to show you how high the tides will rise, just park behind it.
5. It’s Cold.
Ocean breeze + night wind = freezing. Bring extra layers, a warm blanket, and a jack or two just in case.
6. Fire Pits Are Allowed 🔥
Wood burning is okay, so bring your fire pit and wood. Nothing beats a beach bonfire under the stars.
7. No Restrooms or Showers
This is dry camping — pack in what you need and plan to be fully self-contained.
8. Get There Early
To snag a front-row spot by the water, arrive early in the day. If you’re more into off-roading, park closer to the dunes and not too close to the surf.
9. After-Hours Check-In? Be Ready
If you arrive after the rangers or camp host leave, write your reservation confirmation number and place it on your windshield. If not, they might wake you up or even issue a ticket.
🎟️ Book Your Spot:
👉 Reserve through Oceano Dunes SVRA here
Pismo Beach camping is wild, beautiful, and full of energy — just the right mix of adventure and chill. Be smart, be prepared, and you’ll have an unforgettable stay right on the sand.
See you out there. 🏕️🌊🚐
vanlife4less 
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