Page 44 - SLO Visitors Guide - Spring 2026

44 SPRING 2026 slovisitorsguide.com
Los Osos
Hiking, biking, camping, wildlife,
and rugged coastal scenery
Montana De Oro is a stunning
state park spanning over 12
square miles of rugged cliffs, se-
cluded sandy beaches, coastal plains,
streams, canyons, and hills, includ-
ing the 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. The
park's name, Spanish for "Mountain
of Gold," comes from the golden
wildflowers that bloom in spring.
From day use to camping, fami-
lies, naturalists, backpackers, and
equestrians can enjoy the solitude
and freedom found along the park's
trails. The best-known beach is
Spooner's Cove, across from the
campground. On a clear day, there
are magnificent views of the park
from the top of Valencia Peak. The
trailhead for Valencia Peak is from
the main campsite near Spooner’s
Cove.
Wildlife in the park includes
black-tailed deer and the black oys-
tercatcher. The park offers primitive
and equestrian campsites, as well as
picnic areas, hiking trails, prime scu-
ba diving, guided tours, and more.
The weather can be changeable;
layered clothing is recommended.
Only visiting for the day?
You might change your mind after
viewing the list of things to do. Along
with picnic and barbecue
areas, there are a variety of things to do
for every level of outdoor enthusiast.
Experience the
natural wonders
of Montana de
Oro State Park
• Visit the historical and
cultural site, participate in a
variety of exhibits, programs,
and guided tours
• Fish, SCUBA dive, or snorkel
• Take a hike on any of the trails
or enjoy the beaches and tide
pools.
• Cycling and horseback riding
are allowed for most of the
trails. Dogs are not allowed
on trails.
A variety of campsites
The park has family camp-
sites, environmental campsites,
primitive campsites, and even
a campsite for horses and rid-
ers. There is also RV and horse
trailer access. Be sure to check
campsite availability and make
reservations.
Comforts that make it
worth staying
Amenities include RV
parking, drinking water, coin-
operated showers, and firewood
available for purchase.
Dogs are permitted in camp-
sites and on park roads and must
be kept on a leash no longer than
six feet held by an adult. Dogs
are not allowed on the trails or
the beach except Spooner’s Cove
beach, and may not be left alone
in campsites.
Montana de Oro State Park
is six miles southwest of Morro
Bay and seven miles south of Los
Osos on Pecho Road. For more
information, campsite reserva-
tions, and campfire restrictions,
visit parks.ca.gov or call
(805) 528-0513.
Spectacular views can be enjoyed from the park’s trails.