California's Only Vehicle-Friendly Beach State Park Has Reopened For Off-Roading & Camping

The state of California is home to 840 miles of stunning coastline along the Pacific Ocean, which makes it a haven for marine wildlife and people who love to swim, surf, and soak up the sun. There are over 400 public beaches to explore, as well as several popular U.S. cities located right on the water.  One thing you're not allowed to do at nearly all of California's beaches is drive out on the sand. But there is one coastal spot that does allow off-roading on its impressive dunes. 

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area is located on California's Central Coast, about half way between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Pismo Beach, a beloved beach town, is just a few miles away. In early April of 2026, Oceana Dunes SVRA closed for off-roading and camping temporarily due to an on-going lawsuit. Environmentalists argued that off-roading on the beach puts an endangered species of bird, the snowy plover, at risk. Thankfully for ATV enthusiasts, the closure ended on May 21, 2026, and the Oceano Dunes SVRA is now once again open for off-roading and camping. However, there are still regulations in place to help ensure that wildlife is protected. 

The best way to visit Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area is on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. It's under a half hour from San Luis Obispo, which is where the nearest commercial airport is located. Both Los Angeles International Airport and San Francisco International Airport are about four hours away by car.

There are more than 3,600 acres of land at Oceano Dunes where you can go off-roading, so you're definitely going to want to have a 4x4 vehicle that's capable of exploring. ATVs and Dune Buggies can be rented at outfitters nearby; prices at a popular rental shop called Sun Buggy Fun Rentals start at around $112 per person. The beautiful sand dunes are a major highlight. They're some of the last coastal sand dunes in California. When you aren't exploring the park in your vehicle, you can enjoy activities like surfing, swimming, fishing, hiking, and bird watching.

If you're just stopping by Oceano Dunes SVRA for the day, you only need to pay a $5 fee per vehicle. The park is open from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. and access is first come, first serve. If you plan to camp overnight, you'll want to make your reservation well in advance because it's a popular spot and camping availability tends to fill up. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance online at reservecalifornia.com. The camping fee is $10 per night and all camping is primitive — there are no designated sites.

While Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area has reopened for off-roading and camping, there are some important rules and regulations in place, and it's crucial that you respect the rules and wildlife if you plan to visit. An announcement posted on the California State Parks website reminds visitors about shorebird nesting season: "To help protect sensitive wildlife habitat and assist in preserving OHV recreational opportunities at Oceano Dunes SVRA, please remain out of all fenced and posted closure areas, obey the 15-mph shoreline speed limit, and remember that wildlife always has the right-of-way." 

There are now specific driving routes so that habitats aren't disturbed. New protected zones may be established at any time. Environmental protection, species preservation, and recreation access all remain top priorities at Oceano Dunes SVRA, so if you visit, be sure to do your part and help preserve this one-of-a-kind destination.

For more fun on the sand in the Golden State, check out our list of the most underrated beaches in California.