3550 Pecho Valley Rd
San Luis Obispo County, CA

Few areas include such a diversity of landscapes as Montaña de Oro, a state park located in Los Osos. Tucked along the shoreline at the southern end of Estero Bay, this 8,000-acre state park is one of California’s largest. From eucalyptus groves to wildflowers, tidepools to towering dune mountains, Montaña de Oro always offers more to discover. Hike one of multiple trails here, like the serene Bluff Trail that takes in the coastline, or the challenging Valencia Peak trail, which summits at 1,347 feet. Or take your mountain bike out for a spin on the Hazard Peak trail, which travels a total of 11 miles and includes dramatic ocean views. Spend a morning down at Corallina Cove watching hermit crabs, sea stars, urchins and anemones in their miniature tidepool worlds. Take your kayak and your fishing rig out at Spooner’s Cove to catch your dinner—or just drop a line amongst the rocks at Hazard Canyon Reef. And if you’re a well-seasoned surfer? Paddle out at Sandspit, Spooner’s Cove, or Hazards for one-of-a-kind waves, best tackled by advanced surfers. Wildlife, history, views, sunbathing, and much more await the curious visitor at this generous state park.

3550 Pecho Valley Rd
San Luis Obispo County, CA

Beaches at Montaña de Oro State Park include quaint, protected coves, long stretches of sand, remote shores and ideal surfing conditions.

3550 Pecho Valley Rd
San Luis Obispo County, CA

Whether you’re a die-hard hiker or someone who just likes to walk on the wild side, Montaña de Oro State Park should be at the top of your list. With dozens of hiking trails, it’s considered one of the best locations for hiking along Highway 1. Enjoy a wide range of hikes here, from flat, open and easy trails that skirt the bluffs to multi-mile trails that summit challenging peaks. No matter which you choose, it is guaranteed to include scenic ocean views, sometimes even with glimpses of Morro Rock and other landmarks. Take breaks along the way to sit on a bench, check out tidepools, or simply take in the scenery. But before you lace up your hiking shoes, please note: dogs are not allowed on any trails within Montaña de Oro State Park. Not even on leash! According to state law, pups are only allowed on roadways, at Spooner’s Beach, and in campgrounds.

3550 Pecho Valley Rd
San Luis Obispo County, CA

Camping in Montaña de Oro allows visitors from across the globe to experience California in its natural state. With nearby hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, surfing, and fishing, these campsites can be reserved at ReserveCalifornia.com.

3550 Pecho Valley Rd
San Luis Obispo County, CA

Montaña de Oro means “mountain of gold” in Spanish—not to describe golden sand dunes (as some mistakenly assume) but to describe mountains covered in wildflowers. Depending on the year, this area can be covered in mustard flowers, sticky monkey flowers, or poppies—or a combination of all three. When these are in full bloom, it’s easy to imagine an early visitor feeling moved to name the area for its colorful hillsides. The combination of blooming wildflowers and rugged coastline is a dramatic one, to be sure. In season, all of Montaña de Oro State Park’s hiking trails afford views of wildflowers, but one in particular is simply spectacular. The walk along the Point Buchon Trail takes in wide-ranging glimpses of wildflowers, especially abundant thanks to rotational cattle grazing practices. This highly recommended trail requires a reservation, as the 6.6-mile round-trip route travels through land owned by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). See our page about wildflower viewing for more details.

3550 Pecho Valley Rd
San Luis Obispo County, CA

California Quail Montana de Oro State Park, San Luis Obispo Co., CA Fanciest quail in North America?

Bluff Trail
San Luis Obispo County, CA

A dramatic, rocky section of coastline, Hazard Canyon Reef is one of the best tide-pooling locations in the state. Visit at low tide to see creatures like sea anemones, urchins, sea stars, and crabs in abundance. (Check tide information for best times to tidepool.) Other activities include walking 1.5 miles to Sandspit Beach to the north, and perhaps even several miles further into Morro Bay State Park. Find sand dunes near the parking lot to jump, roll and play on. Explore the reef by following the trail north from the parking lot to a deep drop to the water. Amenities include free parking and equestrian use. Surfing is also popular here, though this is an advanced surfing area; do so at your own risk. To find this beach, enter the park, pass the eucalyptus grove and look for the Hazard Canyon Parking sign.

3550 Pecho Valley Rd
San Luis Obispo County, CA

Los Osos is home to the majestic Montaña de Oro State Park. A geologist and/or naturalist’s playground, Montaña de Oro is defined by its rugged cliffs, tucked-away sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, with spectacular scenery produced through millions of years of volcanic activity, plate tectonics and erosion. Montaña de Oro is perfect for backpackers seeking solitude along quiet trails. Other trails include those for mountain biking and horseback riding. Spooner’s Cove, a beloved Montaña de Oro beach, is ideal for get-togethers, families, or sunbathing, with a seasonal stream flowing to the ocean, as well as restrooms, picnic facilities and parking.