Reopening of Vehicular Access at Oceano Dunes SVRA and Pismo SB FAQs

Current Features at Oceano Dunes SVRA and Pismo State Beach
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Aug. 6, 2021

Where is Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area and Pismo State Beach located?

What is currently open at Oceano Dunes SVRA and Pismo SB?

Am I able to ride my OHV in the dunes?

Is camping allowed at Oceano Dunes SVRA?

Is camping permitted at Pismo SB?


Where is Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area and Pismo State Beach located?
Located along California’s coastline in San Luis Obispo County, midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreation Area (SVRA) and Pismo State Beach (SB) receive more than 2.2 million visitors annually for off-highway vehicle recreation, surf fishing, camping and other coastal recreation activities. Both units are adjacent to each other. The SVRA is popular for the unique experiences it provides to visitors, such as beach camping, off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation and a myriad of aquatic activities. This popular destination is also home to the endangered Western snowy plover and the California least tern.

All parts of the SVRA are accessed through Pismo SB. The Oso Flaco non-motorized area is the exception.

What is currently open at Oceano Dunes SVRA and Pismo SB?
State Parks has actively worked on reopening Oceano Dunes SVRA and Pismo SB in phases since October 2020 to allow vehicle access that supports a safe and healthy environment for employees, natural resources and visitors. The reopening has also been designed to support a safe and healthy environment for the resident endangered species such as the Western snowy plover and California least tern.

Below you will find information on what is currently open and available at Oceano Dunes SVRA and Pismo SB:

  • Park Hours:
    • Open to daily vehicle traffic between 7 a.m. and 1 hour after sunset.
    • The new closing time aligns with other state park coastal units.
  • Camping:
    • Inventory at Oceano Dunes SVRA has been increased to 150 camping units.
    • Camping will be monitored and may incrementally be increased back to 500 units as park operations allow.
  • Visitation:
    • State Parks is limiting the total daily allowed number in both park unites, to 1,000 “street legal” vehicles and 1,000 “Green Sticker” OHVs.
    • Please note: There may be instances where the maximum allowance of vehicles will be met, and no further vehicles will be allowed to enter the beach due to the temporary capacity requirement. Daily visitation information is being posted on our Twitter and Facebook social media accounts.
  • OHV Rentals: OHV rental businesses are open.
  • Nighttime Riding: All vehicle activity is prohibited one hour after sunset with exception of visitors camping and traveling to/from their campsites and the park entrance; and emergency vehicles and authorized vehicles.

State Parks strongly advises the public to “Know Before You Go” and find out what services are available and what restrictions are in place at the park units. This is especially true for the SVRA. The dune sands have shifted, and topography has changed, creating a different terrain that riders and drivers will need to become familiar with to recreate responsibly.

All drivers are being asked to drive with care and provide shorebirds and pedestrians plenty of space as they enjoy the park. The speed limit on the beach is 15 miles per hour. For additional OHV tips, please visit RideSafelyCA.com.  

Am I able to ride my OHV in the dunes? 

  • Yes. “Green Sticker” OHVs and “street legal” vehicle recreation has been restored.
  • The daily allowed number of OHV’s has been temporarily limited to 1,000 per day for Oceano Dunes SVRA.

Is camping allowed at Oceano Dunes SVRA?
Yes. Currently 150 camping units are available for reservations via ReserveCalifornia.com. Staff will monitor conditions and operations and camping may be incrementally increased back up to 500 units as park operations allow.

Is camping permitted at Pismo SB?
Yes. On September 2020, developed campgrounds at Pismo SB reopened to visitors. Reservations are required. To book your reservation, please visit www.ReserveCalifornia.com.