Oceano Dunes SVRA

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State Vehicular Recreation Area 

One of several off-highway vehicle (OHV) areas administered by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) offers visitors recreational activities such as swimming, surfing, surf fishing, camping and hiking.

Day Use Hours 

The Oceano Dunes SVRA is open daily from 7 a.m. to one hour past sunset for vehicle day use.  Day use passes are sold on a first come first serve basis at the beach entry kiosks at Grand Avenue and Pier Avenue. Day use passes are $5 per vehicle. Please monitor the district's Facebook and Twitter for updates on day use capacity.

Vehicle Access

Post 2 is one mile south on the beach from Pier Avenue and marks the beginning of the OHV area. All OHVs must be transported to this point before off-loading. Fenced and signed areas are closed to vehicular use either because the property beyond is private or because the area contains sensitive plant and animal life.

High tides, heavy rains, and blowing sand determine whether or not you can drive down the beach without getting stuck. Access to the OHV and camping area may be restricted periodically by Arroyo Grande Creek which is subject to water releases at Lopez Dam and increased flow during winter storms. 

All vehicles must be registered through the Department of Motor Vehicles and display current registration.

Camping

The SVRA offers primitive beach and dune camping with no designated campsites.  Facilities include vault and chemical toilets. All camping reservations must be made through Reserve California. Reservations are available up to six months in advance from your arrival date. Beach camping is recommended for 4- wheel drive vehicles only. A fee based dump station is available to campers and it is located on Le Sage Drive, 1/10 miles North of Grand Avenue.

Ocean Safety

Dangerous currents, called rip currents, are caused by the combination of wave action and the shape of the shoreline. Should you become caught in a rip current while swimming, don't try to swim against the current. Swim parallel to the shore until you're out of the rip. Then make your way to shore. There is lifeguard service available at Oceano Dunes SVRA June through Labor Day.

Emergency Situations

In case of an emergency, contact a Ranger or dial 911 from a cell phone and advise that you are at Oceano Dunes SVRA. An emergency solar-powered call-box is located at the entrance to Sand Highway at approximately Post 4-1/2. Do not move an injured person unless he is in immediate danger.

Special Events/Film Permits

Special events require an advanced permit through the California Department of Parks and Recreation.  Please contact the district office for more information. 

Concessions

For information on OHV Rentals and other park concessions, please visit the Additional Services Page.