Montaña de Oro is one of those places that isn't easily categorized. There are hiking paths, to be sure, at this 8,000-acre state park about 15 miles southwest of San Luis Obispo. There are rocky beaches with brilliantly icy blue crashing curls. There are 50 campsites, mountain vistas, horseback riding and sand dunes. There are even some great places to tear off on mountain bikes and views of migrating whales during the right time of year.

      So, to hammer "Oro" in any one category would be too generic, too homogenized for a place that could easily pass as one of the best parks in the state. It's better to assume that most people would find what they longed for here.

      To explore Montaña de Oro, or the Mountain of Gold, is to love this place. Climb to Valencia Peak where views from Point Sal take in the deep blues of the deep sea as well as the green tint of Morro Bay. Or wander along the cliff-side paths lining wind-swept sand dunes.

      Whatever your discipline or love of the outdoors, Montaña de Oro will probably have it.

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