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Margo Dodd Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 790 Google reviews · Running trail in Pismo Beach, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Margo Dodd Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Small, grassy park atop a coastal bluff featuring a gazebo, ocean views & beach access.
What runners say about Margo Dodd Park
“The area was clean, quiet, and perfect for photos, a slow walk, or just unwinding.”
“This has to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pismo/ Shell beach, the views are spectacular, especially around sunset.”
“We stopped by Margo Dodd Park to watch the sunset, and it ended up being one of the most peaceful spots on the Central Coast.”
This small beauty should not be over looked. Just down the street from Dinosaur Caves Park, this small patch of grass houses a gazebo that over looks the ocean. To the left, large rocks covered with pelicans and other birds. However, the real treasure is to the right, below the cliffs.
Beautiful small outlook and park located on a cliff above the ocean. Surrounded by gorgeous properties, several small benches, and a fancy gazebo. Great spot for a small wedding or event. Ample parking near dinosaur cave park, and a short 5 minute walk.
A beautiful, well maintained park with trails by the coast! The park also has a playground for kiddos and a clean restroom beside it. You can come here to relax, picnic with family or friends or just enjoy the sound and view of the ocean. This is a very lovely park.
Beautiful little park on the cliffs overlooking Pismo beach. Toys/ playground was very busy when we were there. A nice path goes along the cliff with lots of places to sit and enjoy the views
Trail conditions & character
“This has to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pismo/ Shell beach, the views are spectacular, especially around sunset.”
“We stopped by Margo Dodd Park to watch the sunset, and it ended up being one of the most peaceful spots on the Central Coast.”
“The park also has a playground for kiddos and a clean restroom beside it.”
“This precious gem is located in the Shell Beach area, adjacent to 'Dinosaur Caves Park' with plenty of parking.”
“I liked that the water fountains also have a bottom bowl fountain for the doggies!”
Plan your run at Margo Dodd Park
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- Websitepismobeach.org
- Phone(805) 773-7039
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Pismo Beach
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Dinosaur Caves Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 5,055 reviews
A grassy lawn, playground & walking trails mark this 11-acre park situated atop oceanfront bluffs.
Pismo Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,021 reviews
900-acre nature preserve open to the public for docent-led hikes, runs, bike rides & horse rides.
Pismo Beach
5 ★★★★★ 1 reviews
Pismo Beach Walkway & Boardwalk
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,172 reviews
Popular beach with a pier and shops, where surfers love the waves and kids play volleyball.
