Oceano Dunes FAQ
The questions everyone asks before their first trip: hours, fees, dogs, driving on the beach, fires, and reservations. Straight answers, no runaround.
What are the hours at Oceano Dunes?
Vehicle day use runs 7 AM to 10 PM daily. Registered campers can be on the beach overnight.
How much does it cost to get in?
Day use is $5 per vehicle, paid at the beach entrance kiosks on Grand Avenue (Grover Beach) or Pier Avenue (Oceano), first come first served. Walking and biking in is free. Full details on our Day Use page.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on a maximum 6-foot leash at all times. Two exceptions: dogs are prohibited at Oso Flaco Lake and the Pismo State Beach Dune Preserve. Clean up after your dog, and bring shade and water; summer sand gets hot.
Can you still drive on the beach at Pismo?
Yes. Oceano Dunes is the last California state beach where you can drive on the sand in a street-legal vehicle. The speed limit is 15 MPH on the beach, and the OHV riding area starts at Post 2, one mile south of Pier Avenue. New to it? Read our first-timer tips.
Do I need 4-wheel drive?
4WD is strongly recommended, and beach camping is recommended for 4WD only. Two-wheel drives get stuck every single weekend. Whatever you drive, air down to 18 to 20 PSI before you hit the sand.
Are campfires allowed?
Yes. Wood fires are allowed on the sand south of Grand Avenue, up to 3 feet across and 2 feet tall. Burn clean, untreated wood only (no nails, metal, or pallets), never leave a fire unattended, and put it out by dousing with water, never by burying; buried coals stay hot for hours and burn feet.
How do I reserve camping?
Through ReserveCalifornia or by phone at (800) 444-7275, from 10 days to 6 months ahead. Holiday weekends sell out fast. It's primitive camping: bring all your water, pack out your trash. Our Camping guide covers the rest.
Is the creek open?
It changes with rain and Lopez Dam releases. When Arroyo Grande Creek is posted closed, crossing gets you a ticket, no exceptions. Check our live creek status before you tow out.
What are the clamming rules?
California fishing license plus a rigid measuring gauge. Pismo clams must measure at least 4½ inches, the bag limit is 10, and undersized clams go back in the hole where you dug them. Hours run half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset. More on the Day Use page.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
More than most people expect. Sand wheelchairs are available first come, first served at all entrance stations. ADA restrooms sit at both beach entrances, a one-mile accessible boardwalk crosses Oso Flaco Lake to the beach, and another accessible boardwalk with viewing platforms runs north from Grand Avenue. Some concessionaires offer accessible OHV rentals and Hummer tours. Details at access.parks.ca.gov or call (805) 773-7170.
Can I rent an ATV or buggy?
Yes. Four official concessionaires rent quads, buggies, and side-by-sides right at the entrances: Arnie's, BJ's, Steve's, and Sun Buggie. Helmets and flags included. Numbers are on our Day Use page.