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Dispersed Camping

Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping

Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping offers a landscape of rugged hills and dense woodlands. Temperatures range from 40°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Nearby, visitors can explore the scenic trails of the Santa Lucia Wilderness and the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

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Location

Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.38592863 N
120.2899974 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping needs a permit.

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General Info

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Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Mar. 22, 2021

Free Dispersed Camping

Turning on Redhill Road from hwy 58 follow the dirt road about 2 miles to the intersection of Redhill and Fernandez. This spot, and there are others, is right at the intersection so it can have some traffic with residents that live further down the road and OHV riders. It is a good spot for the night or to stay while you bike or ride ATVs. We stayed one night. It was very quiet and walking down the road was pleasant as there weren't any OHVs riding around on a Monday.

It is a fairly flat spot and we had no trouble with our 26ft Class C. The road in is wide and dirt with some washboard but fairly smooth overall. Further down the road is Navajo Flat Campground which is $20/night with additional fees. (see review of Navajo Flat campground) This spot is in National Forest Land so we camped for free. There seem to be other areas for dispersed camping but be mindful of the private property areas.

There is zero amenities so pack in and pack out. There is no water, garbage or fire pits. Cell service is spotty with Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. Download map before you come so you don't camp on private land.

Campfires are allowed with permit.

Overall a nice place to stay, quiet at night less traffic on weekdays. We would stay here again.

Month of VisitMarch
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  • Review photo of Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping by Laura M., March 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping by Laura M., March 22, 2021
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping?

    Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping is located at 1937 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is unknown, AT&T is available, and T-Mobile is unknown.