Be aware of local road conditions to plan your next road trip to Morro Bay
Learn MoreJust ten miles from downtown Morro Bay, Montaña de Oro State Park feels like the edge of the world in the best way.
With eight miles of coastline, windswept cliffs and coves, wildflower-covered hills, and peaks with panoramic views, this park invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with the rugged beauty of the Central Coast. It’s a local favorite for hiking, surfing, tidepooling, mountain biking, and coastal camping. And with free entry and parking, it’s an easy add to any outdoor itinerary.
Plenty of state parks are beautiful. Few pack in this much scenery. In a single day, you can spot sea otters off the coast, hike to a 1,300-foot summit, picnic by the waves, and explore tidepools filled with sea life. It’s wild and peaceful all at once. The park feels remote, but it’s just a short drive from Morro Bay, making it an ideal day trip or overnight destination.
Start your visit at Spooner’s Cove, the heart of the park. It’s a great spot to picnic, look for sea glass, or just sit and enjoy the ocean breeze. Across the road, the Spooner Ranch House offers a glimpse into the area’s ranching past. Built in the 1890s, the home is now a visitor center with exhibits, friendly volunteers, and a small nature store stocked with trail maps, local books, and souvenirs.
From here, head out in any direction — literally. A gentle hike up Islay Creek Trail takes you past stream crossings and up to a small seasonal waterfall. Walk the Bluff Trail for jaw-dropping coastal views and access to tidepools at Corallina Cove. For those seeking more of a challenge, Valencia Peak, Hazard Peak, and Oats Peak offer some of the best summit hikes on the Central Coast. The reward? Sweeping views of the Pacific, Morro Bay, and the Irish Hills.
Prefer two wheels to two feet? Many of the park’s trails are open to mountain bikers, including the flowing singletrack of Hazard Peak Trail and the longer, scenic Oats Peak Trail.
Horseback riders can access several equestrian trails and even stay overnight at the Hazard Canyon Horse Camp, which offers stalls, fire rings, and water troughs.
Montaña de Oro is a hiking paradise. You’ll find trails for every level—from easy bluff walks to thigh-burning peak climbs. No matter which route you choose, you’ll be treated to ocean views, coastal canyons, and maybe even a few wildlife sightings.
A flat, scenic trail that hugs the coastline. Great for beginners and families. Stop at Corallina Cove or Quarry Cove to explore tidepools.
Climb to one of the park’s highest points at 1,347 feet. This 4.5-mile round-trip trail offers a serious workout and unbeatable panoramic views.
A steady, manageable ascent with views of Morro Bay, eucalyptus groves, and wide-open ocean. This 6-mile trail is popular with hikers and mountain bikers.
One of the park’s longer trails, this 10.8-mile out-and-back hike includes sweeping views of the Irish Hills and coastline. Look for shaded spots and a small stream along the way.
A gentle canyon route that runs alongside a seasonal creek. The 6-mile round trip includes access to a small waterfall and an old barn.
A quick 2-mile loop through cottonwood trees and the remnants of the park’s old water system. Easygoing and great for a midday walk.
Springtime brings golden mustard, poppies, and sticky monkeyflower to the hills—giving the park its name, Montaña de Oro, or “Mountain of Gold.” It’s one of the most vibrant wildflower displays on the Central Coast.
Wildlife is everywhere here. Look out for black-tailed deer, bobcats, quail, and raccoons. You might also spot seals and sea otters along the coast. Head to Hazard Canyon Reef or Coon Creek Beach during low tide for the best tidepooling. Expect to see sea stars, anemones, urchins, and tiny crabs crawling over rocky shelves.
Islay Creek Campground sits just across from Spooner’s Cove and offers tent and RV sites, fire rings, and toilets. No hookups, showers, or dump stations, but you’ll find peaceful surroundings and great stargazing.
Hazard Canyon Horse Camp is designed for equestrians and includes stalls and basic amenities. A horse is required to reserve.
Environmental campsites are hike-in only and very rustic. They offer solitude and views, but no fires, water, or dogs.
Mountain biking is big here. Trails like Hazard Peak, Oats Peak, and Islay Creek offer everything from flowing downhills to steep climbs. Bells are encouraged for safety. Check out the “Bells 4 Bikes” box at trailheads if you need one..
Fishing is allowed along much of the coast. Try surf fishing at Sandspit Beach, rock fishing from the bluffs, or kayak fishing from Spooner’s Cove.
Surfing is possible at spots like Hazards, Sandspit, and Lonesomes, but the conditions are for experts only. Cold water, strong currents, and reef breaks are the norm. Wetsuits and caution required.
Nope! Day-use and parking are free.
Yes, but only on leash and only in specific areas: Spooner’s Cove, the campground, and paved roads. Dogs are not allowed on any park trails.
Yes to both. Surfing is best for advanced surfers—check out spots like Hazards and Sandspit. For fishing, try Spooner’s Cove or rockfishing from the bluffs. Kayak fishing is also popular.
Visit ReserveCalifornia.com for all Montaña de Oro camping reservations.
Dress in layers. It’s often 30 degrees cooler here than inland. Bring sturdy shoes for trails and a wetsuit if you plan to surf.
If you’re planning to explore Montaña de Oro, Morro Bay is your closest and most convenient hub. Stay oceanside, grab a breakfast burrito from a local café, then make the 15-minute drive to the park entrance. After a full day of hiking or surfing, head back to town for a seafood dinner and sunset along the Embarcadero.
You get the best of both worlds: cozy coastal comfort and wide-open wilderness, all within reach.
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