Oceano Dunes (Pismo) ride area
Welcome to Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area.
Formerly Pismo Dunes SVRA, this sand dune complex is
geologically unique and also provides an impressive playground for off-highway
enthusiasts from throughout the United States. One of several OHV areas
administered by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Oceano Dunes
also offers visitors other recreational activities such as swimming, surfing,
surf fishing, camping, and hiking. The staff at Oceano Dunes wishes you an
enjoyable and safe stay.
Sand Dunes
The Oceano sand dune area is recognized by scientists, conservationists,
government agencies, and the public as the finest, most extensive coastal dunes
remaining in California. Most of the material that forms these dunes has been
carried down to the ocean by various rivers and creeks, deposited here by ocean
currents, and then shaped by the wind into the dunes that we see today.
The prevailing winds that blow in from the ocean push sand particles up into
wave-like crests that run north-south. On the west or windward side the slope is
gentle. On the east or leeward side the slope is quite steep. Sand grains, as
they are blown over the dune crest tend to accumulate high on the leeward slope;
then, periodically thin tongues of sand slide down. For this reason the leeward
slope is called a "slipface."
PISMO CLAMS
Pismo clam populations fluctuate dramatically due to a variety of natural
influences. A fragile and valuable resource, Pismo clams may be taken under the
following regulations:
- Clammers must have a fishing license and an accurate (rigid) measuring device in possession.
- Only Pismo clams at least 4 1/2" in length may be possessed.
- Undersized Pismo clams must be immediately reburied in the area where dug.
- Bag limit is 10 Pismo clams.
- Hours of clamming are 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.
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CAMPING AND FACILITIES
Camping is allowed south of Post 2 on the beach and in the open dune area. Vault
toilets and chemical toilets are provided, but water-delivery and holding-tank
pump-out services are available on the beach. Campsite reservation information
can be obtained by calling 1-800-444-7275. Campsites are available by
reservation year-round and can be made from 10 days to six months in advance.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for holiday periods.
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.
Beach camping is recommended for 4- wheel drive vehicles only. A dump station,
located on Le Sage Drive, 1/10 miles North of Grand Ave. on Hwy 1, is available
to campers.
THE OHV AREA
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.
EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
In case of vehicle accidents or injuries, contact a ranger or attempt to radio
ranger base on CB radio, channel 9. An emergency solar-powered call-box is
located at the entrance to Sand Highway. Do not move an injured person unless he
is in immediate danger.
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.
REGISTRATION
All OHVs must be registered through the Department of Motor Vehicles and display
a current green sticker. Funds generated from OHV registration are used for
acquisition, development, and operation of OHV areas.
OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE USE
Driving an OHV can be an exciting, yet dangerous, adventure. You can minimize
your chance of injury and maximize your enjoyment through common sense,
intelligent vehicle operation and by extending courtesy and respect to other
riders.
SAFETY TIPS
- It is recommended that all ATV operators take part in a formal safety training course under supervision of a certified ATV instructor. Such training is mandatory for those under 18.
- Proper riding equipment is essential to the safe operation of an OHV. Each ATV rider must wear a helmet and should wear proper protective clothing.
- Before starting out, familiarize yourself with the terrain. Learn to recognize the telltale signs of a slipface. AVOID SURPRISES.
- Inexperienced riders should thoroughly acquaint themselves with all vehicle controls before starting out. Be especially cautious when driving east in the dunes because dune slipfaces normally face to the east.
- Drive within the limits of your ability. Don’t go faster or climb higher than you can safely handle. Watch out for other riders. When in doubt, take time to think and look the situation over before you proceed.
