I felt it was only appropriate to review one of my favorite state parks for my 1000th review. This park has an extensive history dating back to the Chumash Native American inhabitation. These people lived here long before European explorers arrived. The park was purchased in 1965 by the State of California and made a state park. Prior to it becoming a state park, the land was used for agricultural use as well as farming and dairy use. It consists of 8000 acres of cliffs, seven miles of shoreline, coastal plains, canyons and hills. There is such a peaceful and calm vibe that you feel as you enter the park. As you enter through this colossal Eucalyptus forrest, you are mesmerized with their size. Clouds flow through the forrest and open up to the mighty Pacific Ocean. I always feel like I am entering a different world when I come here. There are so many fun trails to hike at ocean level, mountain level etc. Abundant wildlife is everywhere. You can also just take leisurely walks and enjoy the beauty of the ocean. Plenty of places to picnic, and a small beach to hang out with family and friends. There is also a small campground but what a great place to camp! Dogs are allowed but need to be on a leash. My first time out here was back in 2021. I mainly walked the Bluff Trail and took in the wind shaped jagged cliffs, caves, and rocky shore. I then completed a long beach walk on the strand that led from the park to the shores of Morro Rock. I saw so many dead jellyfish which was odd. I also saw huge turkey vultures. The next summer I took a recommendation from a worker at a local coffee shop. He told me all about Coon Creek trail. I started on this trail but it was pretty flat and I wanted something a little more challenging. I saw a sign for Oats Peak Summit and I went for it. A steep climb but so worth it at the top. Views were incredible on this ultra sunny day. Last summer I took my hubby with me and we decided to hike Valencia Peak. Hiking from sea level up to 1,347 feet proved to be a challenge but such a fabulous reward at the top. I could have spent the day up there just taking in the 360 degree views of the ocean, Morro Bay, Los Osos, and the SLO valley in the background. We absolutely loved this hike! If you find yourself lucky enough to be visiting the central coast, be sure to check out this phenomenal state park. It's truly one of California's finest offerings. Most of all remember to pack in and pack out - LEAVE NO TRACE. read more

See all

The Montana de Oro State Park is so very nice, and a great place to take an easy walk along and above the cliffs. Parking is always easy and the view is stunning. We always try to take friends who are visiting, and they've all loved it. Thank you so much! read more

Gold Fashioned A mere fifteen miles west of SLO sits Montaña de Oro, which is one of California's largest state parks at a whopping 8k-acres. And the cherry on top of all that acreage, is a nice seven-mile stretch of California coastline. The Good: *Shockingly--free admission! *Superlative views of rocky shores, cool ocean breezes, and plenty of vitamin sea for everyone. *Bluff Trail is the best way to take advantage of those aforementioned seven miles of shoreline; easy, flat and nonstop ocean views. *Spooner's Cove is a great little beach to have a picnic at (pit toilets available). *Restrooms throughout the park *Mountain biking trails *Campgrounds & environmental camps available The Meh: *Dogs only allowed at Spooner's Cove and campgrounds, but we saw plenty along the trails. I guess it's not heavily enforced, but you take your chances. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ *A few AC parking lots but it's gonna be mostly edge of the shoulder parking. Please pay attention to any signage to avoid tickets/tow. *Little to no shade along the trails, which normally wouldn't be an issue as it's along the coast, but even the coast can get warm. So bring ya waters. The Ugly: *Very popular place and can fill up fast, so don't dilly-dally and get here early. Conclusion: Amazing park with fantastic views, but with a bit of a people problem. read more

See all

Located in 3550 Pecho Valley Rd, Los Osos, CA 93402 Montaña de Oro is 15 miles west of San Luis Obispo on Los Osos Valley Rd. until it turns into Pecho Valley Rd. I have been there many times since seven years ago and there used to be a set of wooden stairs that I would use them for getting to the beach but since two years ago they closed that path. It changed a lot during years ago but it still beautiful. People come here for walking, bicycling, surfing, swimming, camping and believe or not they used have free WiFi there. During thanksgiving and Black Friday I decided to go to nature instead of shopping; therefore, I went to a couple places including Montana de Oro and I am glad that I did that. It's was refreshing and very nice. read more

See all

Beautiful place. I love the beach there. It had this bug rock that is a great place to propose, take stunning pictures, or just relax, it's also super fun to climb on. Again with the photography, the whole place is great for photography, great light, landscape, and not a TON of people, many places without them. The road over is also beautiful, with Hazards Peak Trail, Sandspit, beach access, and many trails. Please come to this state park, for it deserves the title: #locallegend read more

Beautiful park!! Trails are amazing, with breathtaking ocean views! The trails are 5 stars!! One thing to note: They could use more signs with clearer directions on which trails are where in the main parking area. There is a small home that is now a museum and gift shop. (Def. Check that out! Lots of cool information regarding the war) Trails are pretty easy and we saw people of all age groups enjoying themselves. If you have a few hours , do yourself a favor and come here! read more

See all

There's never a bad time to go to MDO, it's truly beautiful any time of the year in any weather read more

See all

This is my fourth time here and it's still an amazing special place. Probably one of my favorite beaches in this area. Lots of cool rocks to look at on the beach and lots of cool layers of rocks on the side of the mountain. Best of all there is no paid parking here. You can also walk along the Bluff to get more views. read more

See all

This is an excellent park, a multitude of trails and plenty of parking. Gorgeous coastlines and hilly regions. A beautiful hike that overlooks the PG&E Nuclear Power Plant, Diablo Canyon is available at the end of the road. You must checkin with a PG&E person at the start and return for tracking. No fees anywhere at the park. read more

Montana de Oro State Park - PG&E hiking trail map at end of Pecho Valley Rd - Parks Near Me - Los Osos, California

A friend recommend we drive up past Pismo to check out this state park. So glad we did. Beautiful views. read more

See all

One of the must sees on our Central Cali Coast Trails, dunes, coves, & a historic home to tour read more

This is one of the most beautiful areas to walk and hike and observe wildlife in a unique setting. There's beautiful flowers, views of the coast, or you can hike up to the top of the peak and see for miles and miles. Definitely one of the nicest places to hike in the central coast. The others reviews go into detail about specific things so I won't repeat all of it, but I'll just say it's plan to spend a 1/2 day here and you won't be disappointed. read more

Since discovering Montana de Oro State Park a few years ago, it has become one of my favorite stops when we go to the central coast. We can't hike there, as we travel with our little schnauzer and dogs aren't allowed on the trails, but they can be on a leash at Spooner's Cove. Beautiful park. Great ocean views. Cool rock formations. Lots of trails. Camping. A historic house just past Spooner's Cove with a very knowledgeable docent. Lots of poppies in the spring time! read more

Montana de Oro State Park - Morro Bay from the park - Parks Near Me - Los Osos, California

See all

Beautiful hikes and ocean views. One of our favorite park. Montana de Oro is a gem Hazards beach is one of those places that looks prehistoric. read more

My cousin and I recently visited Montana de Oro State Park to hike the three peaks: Valencia Peak, Oates Peak, and Hazard Peak. Parking was a bit challenging, partially because we arrived so late in the day. By the time we started our hike, groups of people were already starting to leave. We went straight for the trail, promising ourselves some time to relax on the beach as a reward for hiking all three peaks, which we assumed we would quickly and easily achieve. Contrary to most of the pictures posted on Yelp, we were only within viewing distance of the ocean for the first mile or two of the hike. But, the trail was oriented so that we were usually hiking directly away from the ocean, with our backs to it. Hiking up to Valencia Peak, what I remember more than anything is an annoying abundance of shale. Even with my hiking boots and all my expertise, it was hard to get up the first few peaks without slipping. Once we reached the top of Valencia Peak, the views were pretty stunning. The forest appeared so vast and dense from where we were standing, we both kept saying that it felt like we were in a foreign country, not Southern California. The hike from Valencia Peak to Oates Peak was a lot more shale, and the directions became less and less clear. This is where most of the other hikers seemed to be turning around. The distance from Oates Peak to Hazard Peak seemed to be more than the rest of the hike, combined, but that might just be because the trail got steeper. The closer we got to Hazard Peak, the more we had to climb over rocks at the tops of summits. This is where the trail became indescribably beautiful. We were at cloud level, and could see some clouds, but it was still clear enough to see miles and miles of lush forest. It looked unreal, like something out of an advertisement. As we were about half a mile away from Hazard Peak, my cousin made a comment that the sun wasn't going down for three more hours. This is when I realized that she had been estimating how much time we had left based on the wrong season, and that we would in fact be hiking back in the dark. I said, "Oh my gosh, we have to turn around, now, and we can't stop any more or take any pictures or anything, we're gonna be hiking in the dark for like, an hour." At the beginning of the hike, my cousin had made a comment that she couldn't run for any reason. I'd said something to the effect of, "I bet you could if you had to." It turned out we were both able to run about 3 miles, which saved us some serious time on the way back. Even though we knew we'd run out of daylight, we couldn't help but stop to take some sunset pictures from about a mile up the trail. We didn't get back down to the ocean until it was completely dark, so we basically just stretched at the cove before heading home. I would note that the bathroom was at the trail head was a literal nightmare, and I would avoid it at all costs. All in all, we hiked about 13 miles. It was a great, challenging hike with spectacular views. Would love to do this again. read more

See all

Amazing! I am runner trying to lose weight and this was a beautiful place to workout! The cold water was a treat! read more

See all

Very beautiful park. I love Pacific Ocean. Recommend start hiking from late morning because usually early morning is foggy and view is not the best. We camped in the park. Campground was spacious and cozy. read more

See all

I have been visiting for a few years, the campground is small-ish. Site are hard to come by so make your reservations early! Sites are well maintained and easily accessible. The campground consists of 3 loop type sections, and can accommodate trailers shorter than 25 feet or so. There is plenty to do in the area, walking, hiking, mountain and road biking, kayaking, and swimming! ** BEWARE OF THE RACCOONS** although super cute, they will get into anything left unattended for ANY PERIOD of time including coolers, bags, and even your tent if they smell food in it! I've witnessed this so many times! Birds will also scoop up smaller things if left out. Cell phone service is very limited in the area especially toward the back of the campground. Montaña De Oro is a great campground year round and has been a personal favorite of mine for years. read more

Came here on a Saturday around 2:30 pm. Parking by Spooners Cove was a little tight but we got a spot. Just stayed on the beach at Spooners Cove. Climbed the rock in the middle of the beach and got a gorgeous view! Gorgeous spot. read more

Montana de Oro State Park - Spooners Cove - Parks Near Me - Los Osos, California

If you ever fantasize taking photos that look like National Geographic, then this is your place! Dramatic rugged coastline with huge terraces, caves, and plateaus set the stage; add clear blue skies (weather permits), puffy clouds, and white waves crushing against the dark rocks - - photo opportunities abound each and every direction you turn! It's about 20- 30 minutes from San Luis Obispo; easy drive and many parking lots on the way. Plan to hike as the most beautiful scenery only reveal themselves when you get close to the cliffs. We did the Bluff Trail, which is pretty easy and about 4 miles to and from (so you return to the same location). While the hike was easy, it can get very windy and you may get sweaty from walking under the sun so dress accordingly. Bring binoculars if you can. All and all an awesome treat of great nature - beautiful scenery, fresh air (likely as good as it gets), and wide open vastness! Awesome, as it just might leave you in awe! read more

See all

This state park is definitely one of the best of California. It has everything, and the weather is beautiful when it's 106 degrees 20 miles inland. If you learn a little bit about the geology of this area you will get much more out of your visit. This region is a textbook example of wave cut marine terraces, uplifted terrain, and compressed layers of strata. Hike the Valencia Peak and Bluffs Trail. At the end of this hike, head down to Spooner's Beach. If you're a camper, I saw some fantastic little isolated camping spots with shockingly beautiful views of the coast. The best thing about the state park, there's no fee to enter or Park. read more

See all

One of the most beautiful spots on God's great Earth! The Bluff Trail is flat and an easy walk, you'll wind around the bluffs overlooking the most magical and awe-inspiring views you'll ever see. Big majestic waves crashing over magnificent rock formations alongside time-etched cliffs. Many days you can see whales, surfers, and boats enjoying the Central Coast's stunning coastlines and ocean. Along the walk there are turnouts and benches, you'll definitely be stopping to watch Mother Nature's bounty. Plenty of birds to view and when the tide is right the tidepools are there for your enjoyment as well. Get your cameras ready, for as many times as I've adventured out, I always end up taking so many pictures. There are no dogs allowed on the trails, and please leave the trail cleaner than when you arrived. We all can do our part to keep this place as magical as it is. Trails are open for mountain biking, as well. Follow the signs in Los Osos and park along the road just past Spooners Cove and the campground. Although most visit to enjoy Bluff Trail, which is an easy walk. There are more difficult trails here as well; Oats Peak, Hazard Peak, and Valencia Peak. All hikes and walks have fantastic views. I believe there are about 10 trails to choose from, depending on your energy and stamina level. There are public restrooms along Bluff Trail, midway between the cliffs and the road. Please put this on your things to do while in the SLO area. Be kind to nature. CHEERS!! read more

See all

We decided to take a weekend getaway trip Just my love and I and ended up finding this park out just 20 minutes south of Morro Bay... We got there pretty early maybe about 9:30am and hardly anybody was there... There was a few ladies searching for gems in the beautiful sand! There were rocks that needed to be climbed in which we attempted but I'm not much of a rock climber...the water was blue and you could see through it This place would be ideal for engagement photos or even a picnic with the family... The bathrooms were super clean and the park was clean! There was a spot that I just can't get out of my head where the water was coming out from the rocks...absolutely gorgeous read more

See all

What a beautiful scenic drive! MDO was recommended by several friends from SLO and we decided to check it out after driving down from Paso Robles. We were not in hiking gear so we just drove along the route and stopped along the way to take some pictures. We stopped by the pebble beach area and parked our car there to enjoy the breeze. I was surprised since it wasn't a sand beach! I wore sandals so my feet did not like the pebbles/rocks. Everyone was socially distanced and wore their masks when they walked around. It was a nice day and we enjoyed the sunset while sitting on the beach. There were also some seagulls circling for peoples' foods! Next time when I'm dressed for the hike, I would definitely come back to check out the trails! read more

See all

Montana de Oro is a great state park located between Morro Bay and Pismo Beach. I never knew it was here until the front desk clerk at the hotel I was staying at told me that it was worthy of a visit. We took the Bluff trail, and although we didn't hike very long or very far, we were able to see Spooner's Cove from the overlook. We had a great view of north to Morro Bay. The view from the little part of the trial that we hiked were spectacular. It is a beautiful part of California and well worthy of being a state park. Even better is that it is free unlike some other state parks in the state. It is a great place that I was able to visit. read more

Neat little park with an easily accessible trail near the ocean. There are small wooden tables scattered about where one can sit and eat. Me and my family have hiked here many times, and we love it. Be aware that you have a good chance of seeing snakes on the paths and in the grass. (Personally, I like snakes, so this is a plus.) Be sure to always be aware of your surroundings, and you will be fine. read more

See all

This is a must see and do for your check list of places to visit in the Pismo area. The first beach and caves spot is ok but the tide pools are not as spectacular as the ones off of the Bluff Trail. Don't be scared of the rattlesnake sign. The trail is very wide of 4-6 feet for most of it with little side trails of about 2-3 feet wide. We didn't see any snakes. Just squirrels and lizards. There are 2 tide pool spots off of the trail. When you get to the second area instead of climbing down the dirt cliff, if you just Continue to the left of the tide pools, there are some stairs. The Bluff Trail is ideal for families and people of all ages. It's an easy trail that is mostly flat. It was exactly what I had in mind, a nice trail along the coast line. It's free to enter the park and free to park. Bring a lunch and you can either tail gate or sit on the rocky beach area with the caves. read more

See all

Very relaxing place to unwind and brush away the cares of the day. So many happy people strolling, kids running. Pure nature.

Plenty of parking along the street on a Saturday morning. The hike was super easy and scenic. I stopped to enjoy the ocean several times. Along the way you can also go to swim in the clear water and have picnic. No shade so only choose shady day read more

See all

I've been to this park just south of twenty times I try to go on the weekdays to avoid the visitors, living in Los Osos makes it an easy motorbike ride up the hill. NO DOGS ALLOWED and few benches. I usually follow the road to the very end and park there, a new restroom is there as well. The walk is relaxing and mostly a flat trail to the coast. The view from the cliffs over the rocks are spectacular. Whales (spouts) can be seen during their migration time. Sunset it a great time to get impressive photos provided there are some clouds overhead. Take a lunch and beverages, no concessions here. Foodguy-martin read more

See all

Really pretty place to do some hiking, lots of trails! Did Valencia Peak which was a short hike and not too steep with good views at the top, Bluff Trail was really pretty along the water. Really interesting rock formations, would recommend! Free to visit, plenty of parking, good spot! read more

Montana de Oro State Park is so picturesque! The hikes near the beaches are absolutely breathtaking. The views of the ocean do not compare and it's so pretty out there! We went on a Saturday, and it wasn't crowded at all. There are numerous parking lots, so definitely places to park here and there. The only thing that was a little confusing was finding all the different trails. The first trail we went on wasn't marked clearly and ended up being a horse farm trail! We had to go back and drive more down and then we ended up finding the beach hikes. We would have loved to see the visitor center and store, but it was closed due to covid. I would love to go again and do more hikes that are closer to the beach! read more

This little state park is truly the gem of the central coast. There are beautiful trails, lovely path walks and even a hole stop Valencia peak. The cover is truly a masterpiece spot to sit and watch the waves and do a bbq or enjoy a picnic lunch. The park has so many hidden little places that the entire family could easily find stuff to do. It's off the beaten path, drive through our scenic Los Osos, that still has NO drive through fast chain restaurants. This sleepy community backs up to the state park that boasts horse trails, epic surf spots and secluded out of the way places all along the dunes. Make a day out of sleepy Montana De Oro and bring plenty of water and warm clothes as it can get foggy. A++ read more

See all

AWESOME EFFIN AWESOME. I came here w/my brother, sister in law, sister & niece and took a walk on Bluff Trail. Bluff Trail is very easy hike that is only about 2.38 miles on a bluff that overlooks the ocean from a variety of beautiful vantage points. The problem is all the spectacular views that keep you from walking consistently because you need to pause to take in the beautiful views. The walk is mainly on a plateau overlooking the ocean. There are some spectacular views along the route that you will want to stop at to take pictures and gaze at the natural beauty that presents itself. We saw an assortment of wild life. Everything from spotted groundsquirrels, deer, cormorants & seals. I would rather let the pictures do the talking. "It's like they say a picture is worth a 1,000 words" read more

See all

Absolutely gorgeous state park, but be prepared to have your socks knocked off by the wind action! We were lucky to get some incredible cliffside ocean views and a few family pics before our kids were getting upset from the blistering cold gale and cold temps (this was in late May while the rest of SLO was 80-90 degrees). There was more than one parking lot but it is a pretty busy park and many tour groups unloading in the lots. Still would visit again but maybe at the height of summer. read more

Breathtaking doesn't even begin to describe Montana de Oro-"Mountain of Gold". If you are ever in the Central Coast region, Montana de Oro State Park is an absolute must state park. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and crashing waves, you can experience hiking trails, pristine beaches, biking, horse trails, and primitive camping. There are several areas to park (no fee). We decided to spend three nights at the Islay Creek Campground. Located in a canyon, Islay Creek Campground is close to the beach and near Spooner's Cove. I can see why it is tough to get a reservation at this popular site. This is probably one of the most beautiful locations we have camped at (we had a peekaboo distant ocean view). This is primitive dry camping and you should be prepared. No hookups, including water (there is potable water). If you are camping with a trailer or RV you can fill your water tank at the Morro State Beach campground. We stayed in January, and the nights get a bit chilly (be prepared). My top two favorite experiences during the trip was hiking (easy hike) a portion of the Bluff Trail and spending time at Sandspit Beach. The Bluff Trail is such an enjoyable coastal hike with the most amazing views. Around three miles or so. I had little ones that we pulled in a wagon and there were several benches along the way to take breaks and soak in the sun and waves. Sandspit Beach has a bit of dune hike down to the water, but totally worth it. There are bathrooms and parking available. It felt so peaceful and secluded. Not nearly as many people as other Central Cost beaches. Gorgeous views of Morro Rock rock to north. I enjoyed looking for Moonstones and found several. I believe you can walk about 10 miles to Morro Bay from here. read more

Montana de Oro State Park - Islay Creek Campground - Parks Near Me - Los Osos, California

See all

Love at first sight. I believe in it Montaña de Oro State Park. There is so much to offer here. *Spooners Cove* - it's not the soft sandy beach one might expect, but kiddos, families, & lovebirds will still enjoy it. *Islay Creek Campground* - the camp host is a very nice older man with a dog he refers to as his family member. But of course! They should all be. Firewood is available near his trailer $7 cash or credit. At night, it's so peaceful that you only hear the waves crashing and owls hooting. Oh, and it was a bit windy the two nights we stayed (4/20 & 4/21/19), but not intolerable. Glad we had our own bathroom in our trailer because the no-flush bathrooms were too full in my opinion. Spigots available. Narrow roads going in. Mobile coverage at the beach access nearby, but no service once in the campground. Several ADA sites available to reserve. Dogs allowed. So many California poppy's - our state flower - out at this time. Remind the youngsters it's illegal to pick them on state property. Please remember to... Pack it in, pack it out. LNT - Leave No Trace. Only footprints. Highly recommend reservations: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=592 read more

Montana de Oro State Park - April 20-22, 2019 - Parks Near Me - Los Osos, California

Absolutely gorgeous spot along the equally gorgeous Central Coast. Took us a few trips to SLO to get ourselves here, and now we're not sure why we waited so long. We hiked the Bluff Trail, an easy jaunt that's just a few miles roundtrip. Between the soaring birds and crashing waves, the rolling hills and lilting flora, Montaña de Oro is a true paradise that could easily take days to explore. And even though there were quite a few people exploring during our visit, there was ample parking and no area felt too crowded or cramped. read more

Montana de Oro State Park - Bluff Trail at Montaña de Oro - Parks Near Me - Los Osos, California

See all

Put simply, Montana de Oro is one of the top five most beautiful state parks I've ever visited. I'm sure it had something to do with our exquisitely timed hike on a sunny, Spring day at the peak of the flower blooms, but I honestly couldn't see this being a bad place to visit, even on the worst day of the year. We pulled in and drove up the hill past Spooner Beach. There are two main hiking trails you can access. One more strenuous route heads up toward the top of the mountain and is the path less travelled. We opted for the more popular but still 5+ mile loop that takes you down along the cliffs. Here there are several nicely maintained benches and outlooks where you can soak in some absolutely breathtaking views of the coastline. We stopped at one and ate a pack lunch. All along the way the poppies were in full super bloom and we were snapping shots like crazy. There weren't a lot of people on a Tuesday, as expected, even when it was sunny. There are also a couple beach access points for looking at shells, waves and sea life. If you can manage a hike such as this, it's the perfect way to enjoy pristine coastline and get some exercise in before heading to nearby Spooner Cove in the afternoon. Whatever the case, I would consider it an absolutely essential visit (at least in the Spring) when in the area. read more

See all

Excellent state park for an day trip. There are many options here from beach walking, cliff walking, tidepools, mountain hiking and casual trails... My review will be about the less crowded area of the park. This is important to know if you're visiting during the summer or weekend when the visitation swells to "very crowded" levels.. My usual starting point is at the Point Buchon trail parking lot (aka Coon Creek parking lot).The main advantage of beginning your adventure here is that it's less crowded. The walks from here are great for stretching legs and breathing in the fresh sea air. There is also a bathroom here. - Point Buchon trail. This is a private trail owned by Pacific Gas and Electric. You can be granted access on a few specified days a week. There's a Yelp page for this trail and it's recommended. - Bluff trail. This is the less populated portion of this cliffside trail. Great views of the ocean from here.. - Spooner's Cove. Mostly pebbles.. read more

See all