Best Campgrounds near Bradley, CA

Bradley, California is surrounded by diverse camping areas including Williams Hill Recreation Area, offering dispersed camping with RV accessibility, and Lake San Antonio with both North Shore and South Shore campgrounds. The area features a mix of established campgrounds with amenities like Lake Nacimiento Resort, which accommodates tents, RVs, cabins, and glamping options, as well as more basic dispersed camping opportunities. Several private RV resorts including Sun Outdoors Paso Robles and Wine Country RV Resort provide cabin accommodations alongside their primary RV facilities. These camping areas are distributed throughout the region surrounding Bradley, with options ranging from lakeside camping to more remote hilltop settings.

Camping in the Bradley area experiences hot summer temperatures that frequently exceed 100°F, particularly around Lake San Antonio and Lake Nacimiento. Water levels in these lakes fluctuate significantly with drought conditions, which can affect both the camping experience and water activities. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially for sites with hookups or during peak summer months. The region's campgrounds vary in amenities, with some offering full hookups, showers, and boat facilities while others provide more primitive experiences. Road's End offers electric hookups and water but no dump stations, making advance planning important for RV campers. As one visitor noted, "It was a warm weekend at San Antonio. The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer. There is ample space for camping. You'll need reservations if you want a hookup."

Lakefront camping represents the most distinctive feature in the Bradley area, with both Lake San Antonio and Lake Nacimiento providing waterfront sites that campers particularly value. Several visitors highlighted the ability to dock boats directly at their campsites, creating seamless water access. The lake campgrounds accommodate various camping styles, from tent sites to cottages and cabins. Some campers report that certain areas, particularly at Lake Nacimiento Resort, can be crowded and noisy during peak season, with one reviewer describing it as having "definitely a party vibe." In contrast, more secluded options like Road's End provide peaceful settings with scenic views, described by one camper as "quiet, serene and green and beautiful." Bathroom and shower facilities receive mixed reviews across campgrounds, with cleanliness varying significantly between locations and seasons.

Best Camping Sites Near Bradley, California (87)

    1. Williams Hill Recreation Area

    33 Reviews
    Jolon, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 582-2200

    "Lots of area to explore, but this is mainly an off road vehicle area."

    "covered structure, picnic table and fire pit A few additional overflow areas to park and camp •Pit toilet - BYO toilet paper •No trash receptacles •Great Verizon reception / Decent Sprint reception •Drive"

    2. San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    61 Reviews
    San Simeon, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 772-6101

    $35 / night

    "General: Two campgrounds: San Simeon Creek, close to Highway One and the beach and Washburn Primitive, located about a mile inland."

    "This is a quaint campsite along California’s Central Coast. Not a lot at the site but in great proximity to Hearst Castle, elephant seals, zebras (no joke) and cute towns."

    3. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort

    18 Reviews
    Paso Robles, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 242-4700

    $119 - $219 / night

    "There is also a little hiking/walking trail around the campground."

    "The area is surrounded by natural grassy areas with some trails. The park was busy and a bit loud over the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend, but otherwise not busy and very quiet."

    4. Lake Nacimiento Resort

    7 Reviews
    Bradley, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 237-4924

    $45 - $55 / night

    "Overall, the privately-owned sites at Lake Nacemiento resort are good - but you'll probably want to get one of the reserved spots!"

    "We camped right on the lake and were able to pay to have our boat docked overnight. Huge lake awesome experience, we were able to do some night wake boarding which I had never done ."

    5. Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

    7 Reviews
    Jolon, CA
    12 miles

    $29 - $59 / night

    "The hilltop is 180 degree surrounded by olive trees and vines with the owners residences on the other sides of the fences. We felt super safe in spite of our seclusion."

    "Enjoyed the tranquil and well equipped location. The fire pit, water, 30A outlet, and party lights allowed for a nice visit."

    6. Lake San Antonio - North Shore

    5 Reviews
    Bradley, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 472-2311

    "We stayed at a cottage at Lake San Antonio. We were fortunate to have a local show us around."

    "The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer. There is ample space for camping . You’ll need reservations if you want a hookup . Boat ramps are available."

    7. Vines RV Resort, A Sun RV Resort

    6 Reviews
    San Miguel, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 467-2100

    "I came to the Vines in an old vintage beat up RV with quite the traumatic story trailing and I have been blessed beyond what I could imagine would be possible."

    "The dog area isn't much, but the bathrooms near the office are nice. The bathrooms in the back weren't quite as nice. Spots are close together like any RV park, but you can tap into full hookups."

    8. Lake San Antonio - South Shore

    3 Reviews
    Bradley, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 472-2313

    "I love this lake it has something for everyone. Like swimming, boating, camping, going on a picnic, and fishing in some areas. I would consider this one of the best campsites I’ve been to"

    "So many spots right on the lake and lots of areas to explore. Always enjoy boating, wakeboarding & tubing. Love that you always have your own big area."

    9. Sun Outdoors Central Coast Wine Country

    8 Reviews
    Paso Robles, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 238-4560

    $73 - $234 / night

    "The sites are very close to each other unless you upgrade but still will get to know your neighbors."

    "The surrounding streets are either small two-lane roads with no shoulder or a 65 MPH highway. There's no place to walk, hike, or safely bike."

    10. Franklin Hot Springs

    15 Reviews
    Paso Robles, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 712-5372

    $28 / night

    "The area around the pool is covered. The lake next to the pool is used for fishing.
    The camp fee includes a fee per person to access the spa."

    "We also enjoy the surrounding wildlife and lack of noise. Friendly owners."

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Recent Reviews near Bradley, CA

811 Reviews of 87 Bradley Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Peaceful and quiet.

    A really nice and quiet camping spot. Only negative was the vault toilet. Dirty and almost full. Also there is a ban on fires here right now.

  • Greg W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    El Chorro Regional Park

    El Chorro

    It's clean, quiet and your belongings are safe. The stsff takes great care of the grounds, and are friendly. I use this when I'm working locally.

  • Sophia L.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

    Raccoon Attack

    the overall site was nice and everything went smoothly during the day. There are no bear boxes (big metal boxes at most campsites to store food so animals can’t get to it) so we put all our food in a big cooler that we thought nothing could get into. Wake up after 30 mins of sleeping to noises outside, a whole family of raccoons are eating our food. they destroyed a good amount of our food and our camping materials and the problem was they wouldn’t leave us alone. they were aggressive and would not leave, climbing the trees above us and popping left and right out of the bushes. we have no where to put our food (since raccoons can get into your car through the engine and cause major damage). They were surrounding us, we were yelling and jumping to try and scare them away but they were persistent. We thought they might even attack us as they did not seem very scared and were very aggressive. We had no choice but to quickly pack up all our stuff while someone was on raccoon guard and leave in the middle of the night. I was very disappointed.

  • K
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Camping spot

    Great spot with fire pits & gazebos it’s first come first serve also has a bathroom, no water or electricity, park ranger comes up nd does routine check but it’s great camping spot over all very quiet came up here an their was others but everyone minds their own really great place to camp, I’ll definitely becoming back again

  • Jake M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    Spaced out sites. Friendly people

    Fairly large campground. Store, showers, toilets, purified water is all inclusive . Being bug spray and be prepared to see wildlife at night. Skunks, raccoons, and other animals will come and take food.

  • Bobbii J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Vinyl Vineyards

    GORGEOUS !

    I had such an unforgettable stay at Vinyl Vineyards! I stayed at the David Bowie trailer, and it was pure nostalgia full of vintage charm, character, and cozy vibes. Everywhere I looked felt like stepping into a different era in the best way possible. The property itself is expansive and breathtaking. I got a private UTV tour across their 120 acres of vineyards, and it was absolutely unbeatable, wide open views, rolling vines, and that peaceful Paso Robles magic. The vibe on the property was incredible, and the outdoor shower was such a unique, refreshing touch that made the stay even more memorable. And the wine? Unforgettable. Their rosé is absolutely on point, hands down my favorite. Do the tasting, you won’t be disappointed! I felt completely at home here, and I can’t wait to come back, next time with my pets and my daughter in tow. Vinyl Vineyards is such a gem, and I’m already counting the days until I return.

  • Barbara G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Flying Flags Avila Beach

    Great place

    Views are amazing. You can hear the sea lions at Port San Luis, birds of paradise and other lovely flowers, palm trees and eucalyptus. Very well maintained. Beach is 10 minute walk and allows dogs. Near to San Luis Obispo and so much more that the lovely Central Coast has to offer. Staff were very attentive and helpful. There are areas with community fires for gathering, small store. Bocce ball and other games. I dry camped which worked out just fine. $10 dump fee when you leave is available for dry campers. Full hookups also available but they fill up so advance reservations needed.


Guide to Bradley

Lake Nacimiento and Lake San Antonio form the main anchors for camping sites near Bradley, California. Located in the southern Monterey County region where summer temperatures often reach 90-100°F, the area offers camping opportunities ranging from free Bureau of Land Management sites to developed campgrounds with boat access. The landscape varies from rolling oak-studded hills to lakeside settings with elevation changes between 800-1,500 feet throughout the region.

What to do

Fishing from shore or boat: At Lake San Antonio - North Shore, campers can access productive fishing spots directly from their sites. "Launched the boat and anchored it to shore. Literally had the place to ourselves. Fishing was great from shore in morning and dusk," notes Jack J.

Olive grove exploration: At Road's End, campers have access to unique surroundings. "The sites are clean and the views are lovely. We loved the fire pits and the string lights hanging from the trees," reports Eva C. The property borders olive groves, providing a distinctive camping atmosphere.

Stargazing opportunities: The low light pollution at dispersed camping areas creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The full moon was beautiful and the last night was fantastic for star gazing (tons of stars, milky way, etc.) before the moon came up," reports a camper at Road's End.

What campers like

Private campsites: Bradley area campgrounds offer various levels of privacy. "There are two campsites (both RV accessible) about 300' apart, you can barely see the other. We stayed in January and since the other site was unoccupied we had the whole hilltop to ourselves," shares a camper at Road's End.

Protected camping at Williams Hill: Williams Hill Recreation Area provides free camping with basic amenities. "Campsites all have a fire ring, and a shaded picnic table. There's a long drop toilet. Beautiful views too," writes Ariel W. The site offers elevated perspectives across the surrounding terrain.

Hot springs access: Franklin Hot Springs provides a natural mineral water experience. "A bit run down, campsites are pretty basic, but for me it's nice to find a hot springs that is not overly developed and will allow my dog. Water is about body temperature and contains minerals," reports Ronald K.

What you should know

Road conditions to dispersed sites: Access to Williams Hill requires preparation. "7 mile dirt road at times a bit steep and rough. But we made it up here slowly and safely. A few other campers here. Some flies but a slight breeze that will hopefully keep them at bay," reports Adam B.

Pest issues at certain times: Insects can be problematic at some campgrounds. "This is a great BLM campground with picnic tables, fire rings, and picnic shelters. Pretty much the only option for this setup anywhere around. However, the gnats, bees, mosquitoes, and flies are relentless!" warns Erik I. at Williams Hill Recreation Area.

Limited facilities at primitive sites: San Simeon Creek Campground offers more services than most. "Sites are spaced a decent amount apart, some with foliage providing privacy. The camper pads are level, paved, and designated as either 25- or 35-foot campsites," explains Lee D. However, many sites in the Bradley area lack hookups and other amenities.

Tips for camping with families

Dog-friendly options: Several campgrounds welcome pets. "Since the property is fenced in (except for three vehicle accesses) we could let our dogs off leash," notes a Road's End visitor. For families with pets, this provides additional recreation space.

Kid-friendly activities: Lake settings provide natural play areas. "Our two dogs really enjoyed chasing after ground squirrels and significantly improved their digging skills," shares a camper at Road's End. Children similarly enjoy exploring these outdoor spaces.

Beach access camping: Some coastal options provide water access. "This was a beautiful campground with level, paved sites, lots of trees, great showers, and access to the beach within walking distance," says Kelly H. about San Simeon Creek Campground.

Tips from RVers

Limited hookup availability: Lake Nacimiento Resort provides some services but availability varies. "We were in pine knoll with a great view of the lake! We scored with the size of our site! Our site was shaded all morning and all afternoon," reports Lindsey.

Site selection strategy: For RVers, choosing the right spot makes a significant difference. "Only 6 spots first come first serve and decently spaced out so that's good too. The road in was dusty and kinda long way up a hill. So everything was covered in dirt. I wouldn't advise big RVs coming up here," cautions Rio S. about Williams Hill Recreation Area.

Electrical access notes: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "Each site has 30amp electrical and water (no dump station available). There also is a shared 50amp EV charger near site #1," explains a camper at Road's End, highlighting the limited but useful electrical options for RV camping near Bradley.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at John Cook Memorial Campground in Bradley?

John Cook Memorial Campground in Bradley offers basic amenities typical of rural camping areas in the region. Based on similar campgrounds in the area like Plaskett Creek Campground, you can expect amenities such as designated campsites, picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. The campground likely provides access to outdoor recreation opportunities while maintaining a rustic camping experience. For more developed amenities, nearby Morro Bay State Park Campground offers additional facilities. Check with camp hosts upon arrival for the most current information.

Where is John Cook Memorial Campground in Bradley located?

John Cook Memorial Campground is located near Bradley, California in southern Monterey County. While specific coordinates aren't available, it's in the same general area as Lake San Antonio - North Shore, which is a popular recreation destination near Bradley. The campground is part of the network of outdoor recreation areas in this region that includes Williams Hill Recreation Area, offering visitors access to the natural beauty of the central California coast and inland areas.

What camping is available near Bradley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Bradley, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 87 campgrounds and RV parks near Bradley, CA and 10 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Bradley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bradley, CA is Williams Hill Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 33 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bradley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Bradley, CA.