Islay Creek Campground

4.47

117 reviews

Islay Creek Campground, Pecho Valley Road, Los Osos, CA 93402

Scenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Featured in:Beach Camping California Hiking Camping California

Quick Facts

69 ft

Price

$27/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

47 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

69 ft

Price

$27/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

47 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Islay Creek Campground

$27.00 - $27.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsites cost $27 per night, payable upon entry or using the self-registration system. Fee includes one vehicle, with additional vehicles charged...

Standard Site Fee$27.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve California

Provider

(805) 772-6101interp@parks.ca.gov

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What Campers Say

4.47

Recommended

Based on 117 reviews

97 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspaciousbeach

"User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground’s serene atmosphere, proximity to trails and beaches, and well-maintained facilities. Criticisms include the lack of showers and occasional issues with ranger attitudes."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Islay Creek Campground, Pecho Valley Road, Los Osos, CA 93402

Islay Creek Campground

Islay Creek Campground, Pecho Valley Road, Los Osos, CA 93402

Driving directionsFrom San Luis Obispo: Head north on Highway 1 to the South Bay Blvd. offramp in Morro Bay. Turn left and drive about 6 miles before turning right onto Los Osos Valley Rd. Continue 1.5 miles to Pecho Valley Rd. and proceed for 3.5 miles to the Spooner Ranch House. Turn left into the campground. From the south on Hwy 101: Drive northbound to the Los Osos Valley Road offramp in San Luis Obispo. Turn left toward Los Osos, travel approximately 11 miles until the road becomes Pecho Valley Rd., and continue for about 3.5 miles to the Spooner Ranch House before turning left into the campground.

Accessible via paved roads. Pecho Valley Rd terminates within the park, requiring visitors to exit the same way they entered. Scenic but winding routes are available from Monterey through Big Sur, subject to road conditions.

Nearby places

Los Osos is 4 miles north (approximately 10 minutes), Morro Bay is 10 miles north (around 20 minutes), and San Luis Obispo is 15 miles east (about 30 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Los Osos offers grocery stores, gas stations, and dining options 4 miles away. Morro Bay, located 10 miles north, provides additional fuel stations, grocery stores, and dining establishments.

Best Time to Camp at Islay Creek Campground

Prepare for nature's natural air conditioning at Islay Creek, where summer temperatures hover a refreshing 30 degrees cooler than the sweltering inland valleys. The Pacific Ocean works its magic here, sending gentle fog fingers through the canyons and cooling breezes across the campsites. This coastal climate creates an ever-changing atmosphere where morning mists give way to brilliant afternoons, and evenings often bring that quintessential California coastal chill. Smart campers know the secret: pack those layers and embrace the fog—it's all part of the authentic Central Coast experience that makes every sunrise feel like a gift.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer has clearer skies and more activity; coastal temps are cool and pleasant compared to inland.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Likely good fall conditions with fewer crowds and mild weather; park open year-round.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring offers comfortable weather and trail access; wildflower potential implied by coastal park setting.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Winter brings heavier fog and cooler temps; tranquil but reduced visibility for views.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Islay Creek Campground

Tucked behind the historic Spooner Ranch House in Montaña de Oro State Park, Islay Creek Campground offers a genuine back-to-nature experience that feels worlds away from civilization. This peaceful retreat features 47 primitive campsites welcoming tents, trailers, and motorhomes seeking an authentic outdoor adventure. While you won't find modern hookups or shower facilities here, the campground provides everything you need for a memorable stay: sturdy picnic tables for sunset dinners, fire rings for evening storytelling, fresh drinking water, and convenient vault-style toilets. What truly sets Islay Creek apart is its perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness—you're just steps from spectacular hiking trails and breathtaking coastal vistas that remind you why California's Central Coast is legendary.

Islay Creek Campground accommodates tent camping, RVs, and primitive camping. Group sites and cabin lodgings are not available.

Historical SignificanceLong before tents dotted these meadows, this land told a different story as part of the sprawling Rancho Cañada de los Osos y Pecho y Islay. In the early 1900s, pioneering rancher Alden B. Spooner II transformed these coastal acres into a thriving farm and dairy operation, leaving behind the charming ranch house that still greets visitors today. The echoes of Spanish ranchero culture and American frontier ambition blend seamlessly in this landscape, where cattle once grazed the same trails hikers now explore. When California acquired this treasure in 1965, it preserved not just spectacular scenery but a living piece of the state's ranching heritage, allowing modern adventurers to camp where vaqueros once rode and dairy cows once roamed.

Weather and SeasonsPrepare for nature's natural air conditioning at Islay Creek, where summer temperatures hover a refreshing 30 degrees cooler than the sweltering inland valleys. The Pacific Ocean works its magic here, sending gentle fog fingers through the canyons and cooling breezes across the campsites. This coastal climate creates an ever-changing atmosphere where morning mists give way to brilliant afternoons, and evenings often bring that quintessential California coastal chill. Smart campers know the secret: pack those layers and embrace the fog—it's all part of the authentic Central Coast experience that makes every sunrise feel like a gift.

ElevationWhile the campground itself nestles in the gentle foothills of Montaña de Oro, adventurous souls can ascend to Valencia Peak's commanding 1,347-foot summit for a perspective that transforms your understanding of the California coast. This dramatic elevation change within easy reach of camp means you can wake up among the coastal scrub and spend your afternoon touching the sky, all while witnessing the landscape transform from intimate creek valleys to sweeping Pacific panoramas.

Natural Features and SceneryIslay Creek Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring one of California's most dramatically beautiful coastlines. Rugged cliffs plunge into hidden coves where sand dollars wash ashore on secluded beaches few visitors ever discover. Inland, the landscape softens into rolling coastal plains threaded with babbling streams that have carved intimate canyons perfect for exploration. Ancient marine terraces tell the story of rising and falling seas, while morning visitors might spot deer grazing in the meadows, bobcats prowling the chaparral, or raccoons investigating last night's campfire remains. Overhead, California quail scurry through the underbrush while black oystercatchers patrol the tideline, their distinctive calls echoing off the cliffs.

Geological RegionCamping at Islay Creek places you at the heart of a geological wonderland where the earth's powerful forces have created a masterpiece millions of years in the making. The park's dramatic landscape showcases the fascinating Miguelito Shale formations and a stunning staircase of marine terraces that chronicle ancient sea levels. These successive terraces, carved by relentless waves and lifted by tectonic forces, create the park's distinctive profile of cliffs, beaches, and plateaus. Ancient sand dunes frozen in time blend with active coastal processes, while streams continue their patient work of sculpting new canyons. It's a living geology textbook where every trail reveals another chapter in California's tumultuous geological story, from seafloor sediments thrust skyward to modern beaches still being shaped by Pacific storms.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2PM

Check-out

12 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 10 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy of 8 people per campsite.

Groups

No group camping sites are available at Islay Creek Campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into spacious sites, providing privacy and accommodating tents, trailers, and motorhomes up to 27 feet in length.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served availability is not highlighted; reservations are strongly recommended.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation terms are available via ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.

AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible campsites (5, 35, and 48) and restrooms. Picnic areas and trails within the park also offer accessibility features.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious, mainly flat, and ample in size. Reviewers indicate that the flat areas around fire pits and tables provide good space for tents.

PrivacySites are spaced out sufficiently to provide a sense of privacy. Several reviews praise the quiet nature of the campground and the feeling of serenity.

Total Campsites47 campsites

Recommended SitesQuotes from reviews suggest campsite 18 for its privacy and proximity to trees, and campsite 44 for scenic views.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Islay Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, ranging from hiking and biking trails to wildlife viewing and access to Spooner’s Cove Beach. There is no swimming pool, but beach access compensates for water-related recreation opportunities.

HikingThe campground is located near Valencia Peak trail, with easy access to numerous hiking trails in Montaña de Oro State Park. The trails range in difficulty and provide scenic views of the coastline, marine terraces, and sand dunes. Reviews frequently commend the proximity to trails and the quality of the hiking experience.

FishingFishing is permitted in Spooner’s Cove Beach, located a short walk from the campground. Surf fishing is a popular activity indicated by park guides.

BikingThe park includes mountain biking trails that provide challenging terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. Bicycles are also allowed on paved roads within the park.

Wildlife viewingWildlife such as black-tailed deer, bobcats, raccoons, and California quail can be observed within the park. User reviews highlight the richness of natural sights and sounds, including the quail's nighttime songs.

Beach activitiesLocated near Spooner’s Cove Beach, campers can engage in beachcombing, picnicking, and surf fishing. The beach is sandy and clean, making it a popular spot for relaxation and exploration.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe Junior Ranger Program offers educational activities at the Campfire Center. The Spooner Ranch House provides interpretive exhibits on the park's history and natural science.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews and official sources warn of raccoons, poison oak, and rattlesnakes. 'Beware of the raccoons at night; they stole our food.' Poison oak is prevalent on trails, and rattlesnakes may be encountered.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are provided at campsites to protect against raccoons. 'Each campground is actually a wooden cabinet that can lock things,' mentions one user review.

Fire PolicyFires are only allowed in designated fire rings. Collecting wood is strictly prohibited. Firewood is available for purchase from hosts.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are accessible by dialing 911. The Marine Mammal Center and Pacific Wildlife Care offer wildlife assistance nearby. For injured seals, sea lions, whales, dolphins, and sea otters, contact The Marine Mammal Center.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are not explicitly mentioned for Islay Creek Campground, leading users to rely on recycling and proper trash disposal practices. Reviewers frequently remind future campers to store food securely to prevent raccoon theft.

Water FeaturesLocated near Spooner’s Cove Beach, a short walk from the campground. Streams and coastline are integral features of the surrounding park.

Camp HostCampground hosts are available onsite, selling firewood and maintaining clean restrooms. User reviews describe the hosts as 'friendly and helpful.'

Weather at Islay Creek Campground

Reviews

4.5

117 reviews

Recommended

Islay Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground’s serene atmosphere, proximity to trails and beaches, and well-maintained facilities. Criticisms include the lack of showers and occasional issues with ranger attitudes.

Review Summaries

Based on 117 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the spacious and private campsites, proximity to Spooner’s Cove Beach, and clean vault toilets. Many reviews praise the camp hosts for their friendliness and upkeep of facilities.

Based on 117 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the lack of showers, pit toilets, and occasional raccoon issues. Some reviewers also mention poor experiences with campground management or ticketing policies.

Based on 117 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing extra stakes for tents due to wind conditions, securing food tightly overnight, and arriving with prepared hiking supplies (e.g., water, poison oak precautions).

Based on 117 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground experiences heavier fog and cooler temperatures during winter months, which some campers appreciate for its tranquility. Summer sees more activity and clear skies, but poison oak on...

Based on 117 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Each campsite is spaced out far enough that it feels private. You can hear the ocean waves at night." - Selby Glynn 2. "Sites are well maintained, but beware of the critters!" - Ross Micheli 3....

Based on 117 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Best campsites identified by reviews include sites 10, 16, 18, 25, 27, 30, 39, 40, 44, and 50. Campsite 18 is frequently highlighted for its scenic location and privacy.

Based on 117 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites and restrooms are available, though vault toilets might pose challenges for some users with mobility concerns. Trails such as the Bluff Trail offer compacted surfaces and seating...

Based on 117 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed within the campground but not on trails or beaches. Reviews emphasize the importance of keeping dogs on leashes and picking up after them.

Based on 117 reviews

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