El Chorro Regional Park
A sprawling regional park offering hiking, camping, botanical gardens, and dog-friendly spaces with scenic valley views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
El Chorro Regional Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling regional park offering hiking, camping, botanical gardens, and dog-friendly spaces with scenic valley views.
"Sweeping views of majestic peaks and even Morro Rock from some points of property. Get out and check it out."
🚗 Day Use Fee
A $3 day-use fee applies on weekends from April to September. :moneybag:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Dogs are welcome on leash on most trails, perfect for furry friends! :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Eagle Rock Hike
Across from Cuesta College
A moderate 2.2-mile hike with stunning panoramic views of green valleys and distant hills.
SLO Botanical Garden
Within El Chorro Regional Park
A peaceful oasis featuring diverse plant life, perfect for a leisurely stroll or family outing.
Live Oak Music Festival
El Chorro Regional Park
An annual music festival bringing vibrant energy, diverse artists, and community to the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Camping & Amenities Check
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Day Use Fee
A $3 day-use fee applies on weekends from April to September. :moneybag:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Dogs are welcome on leash on most trails, perfect for furry friends! :dog:
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Campgrounds fill up fast, especially RV sites. Book ahead! :tent:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the trails and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Day Use Fee
A $3 day-use fee applies on weekends from April to September. :moneybag:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Dogs are welcome on leash on most trails, perfect for furry friends! :dog:
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Campgrounds fill up fast, especially RV sites. Book ahead! :tent:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the trails and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
🎶 Event Schedules
Check for events like Live Oak Music Festival; they draw big crowds. :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise El Chorro Regional Park for its beautiful green valleys, scenic hiking trails like Eagle Rock, and the tranquil SLO Botanical Garden. It's a versatile park with camping, picnic areas, and dog-friendly spaces. However, some campers have noted strict noise policies and occasional issues with RV hookup placement.
"The view on the small 2ish mile hike is something to behold. If you're into sweeping green valley, it's pretty much the hike for you. If you're into true isolation, you're not gonna wuite get that, but there is something to behold the view of the tiny cityscape next to the many hills. Before the specific rock, which would be the top of the hike, I would argue is a better vantage point a few feet off the beaten path. A few small rocks surrounded by tall grass being blown in the wind. T'was the PERFECT panaramic view."
Tran Nguyen
"First time staying here, and it was our worst camping trip by far. I felt like we were targeted. The very first day, rangers came to our spot around 3:30 PM, complaining that our music was too loud which it wasn’t, but I think it was more about the type of music. Then they came 3 more times in the night, complained again about the music, and commented that when she walked up, we turned it down, which was a complete lie because we didn’t even see them come up on us. They also complained about our fire and brought us a bucket and shovel. We mentioned to them that we are regular campers and know all the rules. So what they told us is basically they have an older crowd, and that they like the campground quiet, and they want to keep it that way. So my point is, if you’re going to go camping because you want to sleep and have absolutely no noise, then this would definitely not be the spot for you. The botanical hike was nice. So let me end this by saying the name of the campground says it all !!"
lupita valles
"El Chorro Park is a great County park. Botanical Gardens, golf, disc golf, camping, playgrounds, clubhouse, picnic/bbg, softball fields, dog park, and hiking on a huge property. Add a water feature, in the summer and it would be an ideal destination. Sweeping views of the majestic peaks and even Morro rock from some points of property. Get out and check it out."
Jaimal Hanson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Chorro Regional Park is located on State Highway 1 at Dairy Creek Road, across from Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. It's easily accessible by car. Parking is available, with a day-use fee on weekends during peak season.
While direct public transport to the park itself might be limited, San Luis Obispo has a bus system. You may need to combine bus routes with a short taxi or rideshare to reach the park. Check local SLO transit schedules for options.
The park is quite spread out, so driving between different areas like the botanical gardens and camping sites is common. For exploring trails, walking or biking is ideal. Electric bikes are also a fun option!
Yes! El Chorro is close to Cuesta College, and a short drive from downtown San Luis Obispo with its farmers market and unique shops. Morro Bay and Avila Beach are also nearby for coastal exploration. +1
While El Chorro offers camping, sleeping in your car outside of designated campsites is generally not permitted and may result in being asked to leave or fined. For free or cheap overnight options, you might need to look at dispersed camping areas further out or specific overnight parking regulations in SLO.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $3 day-use fee per vehicle on weekends and holidays between April and September. Camping fees vary depending on the site and season.
Yes, booking camping in advance is highly recommended, especially for RV sites and during peak season or events like the Live Oak Music Festival. Sites can fill up quickly.
The park is generally open daily, but specific facilities like campgrounds or restrooms may have their own hours. It's best to check the official San Luis Obispo County Parks website for the most current information.
Yes, El Chorro Regional Park hosts events like the Live Oak Music Festival, AcroFest SLO, and is a popular spot for community gatherings. Check their schedule for upcoming events. 
Absolutely! El Chorro has picnic areas with BBQ facilities, making it a great spot for a day out with your own provisions. Remember to pack out all your trash.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Eagle Rock trail is a popular 2.2-mile hike offering great views. The trails around the SLO Botanical Garden are also lovely for a more relaxed walk. Many trails are dog-friendly on leash.
Yes, El Chorro Regional Park features playgrounds and open spaces, making it a family-friendly destination. The botanical gardens are also engaging for kids.
The park has a dedicated dog park area, and dogs are allowed on leash on most trails, providing ample space for your canine companions to enjoy.
El Chorro offers various camping options, including RV sites with hookups (though placement can vary) and tent camping. It's a popular spot for both short stays and longer visits. +1
Visitors rave about the sweeping green valley views, and from some vantage points, you can even see Morro Rock. The Eagle Rock hike offers particularly stunning panoramic vistas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within El Chorro Regional Park. However, the park has picnic areas with BBQ facilities, so bringing your own food is a great option.
San Luis Obispo, just a short drive away, offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Downtown SLO also has a popular farmers market with food vendors. +1
Yes, El Chorro Regional Park is equipped with picnic areas and BBQ facilities, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic or a cookout.
During special events like the Live Oak Music Festival, food vendors are typically present, offering a variety of options for attendees.
For camping, plan your meals and bring a cooler with non-perishables and items that can be kept cold. Many campers enjoy grilling at their sites.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Eagle Rock offers breathtaking panoramic views, especially during golden hour. The SLO Botanical Garden provides beautiful floral and landscape photo opportunities.
Absolutely. The rolling hills, expansive valleys, and distant views make it a prime location for landscape photographers. The changing seasons also offer different visual appeal.
Yes, capturing the energy of events like the Live Oak Music Festival is encouraged. Be mindful of performers' privacy and any specific event photography guidelines.
The combination of natural landscapes, the botanical garden, and the occasional event provides diverse subjects. Look for interesting textures in the rocks and the way the light hits the rolling hills.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hour) offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Many of the hiking trails are also suitable for families, especially the gentler paths within the garden area. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as there are picnic areas with BBQ facilities perfect for a family meal. 🐶 Dog Owners
+1 Just be sure to keep your dog leashed when not in the designated dog park area and always clean up after them. 🏕️ Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking at El Chorro: Trails for Every Level
Beyond Eagle Rock, the park features numerous other paths, many of which are integrated with the SLO Botanical Garden. These trails offer a more leisurely experience, perfect for families or those seeking a peaceful nature walk. Dogs on a leash are welcome on most trails, making it a great destination for pet owners.
+1 Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in places, and always carry water, especially during warmer months. Camping Experience: What to Expect
While many campers enjoy the park's amenities, including proximity to the golf course and botanical gardens, some reviews mention strict noise policies and ranger patrols, especially in certain campground areas. If you're looking for a quiet, serene camping experience with minimal noise, this might not be the ideal spot, as some campers have reported feeling targeted by noise complaints.
Events and Activities at El Chorro
+2Beyond music festivals, El Chorro also hosts events like AcroFest SLO, a celebration of acro yoga that brings together practitioners for classes and workshops.
The park's expansive grounds are also utilized for community gatherings, picnics, and recreational sports. Its diverse offerings make it a dynamic destination throughout the year, attracting a wide range of visitors seeking outdoor recreation and entertainment. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit