Montaña de Oro (MDO) State Park
Along the western edge of San Luis Obispo County, a little south of Los Osos, MDO is an 8,000-acre park and nature preserve. Here we host two regular events: the Bluffs walk and Valencia Peak hike.
Quick facts:
- Only service dogs on leash are allowed in the park.
- Pit toilets are available near Spooners Cove, environmental campsites, and near the parking lot near Coon Creek.
- The park’s name comes from its golden flowers that bloom in the spring.
“Montaña de Oro State Park features starry nights, rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Naturalists and backpackers enjoy the solitude and freedom found along the park's many back country trails (Camping is not permitted outside of the campgrounds). There are also mountain biking and equestrian trails for the more adventurous. The best-known beach is Spooner's Cove, across from the campground. The park's name, "Mountain of Gold," comes from the golden wildflowers that bloom in spring. Wildlife in the park includes black tailed deer, bobcats, raccoons, California quail, black oystercatchers and much more!”