90 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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.
"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"
"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."
from $35 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $119 - $219 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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 ."
from $45 - $55 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $29 - $59 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"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."
from $73 - $234 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $28 / night
Check Availability
ScoutThis was such a gem of a campground, there was a bunch of sites open and incredible views. The road to the top is about 20minutes and very pot hole heavy so a high clearance vehicle would be required. Campfires are NOT allowed and there is no trash or restrooms so please be sure to clean up after yourself!
ScoutCamped two nights over the weekend because San Martin Top / Prewitt ridge were socked in with fog. It is quiet, and the creek noise is great to fall asleep to. It worked in a pinch. Campsites are close. Water spigot did not work, there were a lot of pesky gnat flies and some mosquitos. The two outhouses were really unfortunate. Generally clean on the outside, but possibly the worst outhouse smell ever... felt like they did not empty them in a long time. We said screw it and set up our portable potty.
Travelerposted that generator thefts are common, but didn’t expect our nice stack of red oak to disappear when we were away at the beach for a few hours. yes the toilets stink
ScoutThe few days thus far have been therapeutic. Great view of the pacific and that enormous rock protruding from the ocean in Morro Bay.
GuideOne of few free overnight in-vehicle camping spots in the area. This is across from a viewpoint pull off and does not have any no camping signs.
The night I camped here there were about 10 other vans/RVs/cars here before I arrived at 10 PM. This is in the shadows of hurst Castle and steps away from the ocean.
Not a spot for tent campers or those needing to spread out. It is truly just a pull off on the side of the road. But, it felt surprisingly safe, was not too loud until traffic picked up in the morning, is beautiful, and close to both Cambria and San Simeon.
Good spot for free overnight parking if you are driving hwy 1.
RangerLove the location, we were socked in with fog so I THINK the views were good, crammed our 22ft rv into a beach site, if we go back I’ll take a back row rv site with hookups. No on site dump if you aren’t on full hookups.
RangerThe winding road to get here is definitely out of the way, and the bumpy drive left one of our passengers feeling pretty carsick. That said, it was absolutely worth it.
I have to give this place a 5-star review. When it comes to dispersed camping, I’m used to rough clearings and overgrown roads, but this site was exceptionally well maintained. It had fenced campsites, a bathroom, covered pavilions, picnic tables, and fire pits. There was a burn ban in effect during our visit, so we couldn’t use the fire pits, but I was still impressed by the overall setup.
One thing I really appreciated was the balance of sun and shade. I was able to park in full sun for my solar panels while still enjoying shade under the pavilion and surrounding trees. Cell reception was also good.
We visited on a Saturday in June and were surprised by how uncrowded it was. Only a few other campers were there. It was also reassuring to see several other dispersed camping areas along the drive in, providing additional options if this site happened to be full.
In dry conditions, I think a two-wheel-drive vehicle can make it here. The roads are bumpy but generally well maintained. We saw several two-wheel-drive cars at the campsite. That said, there are a few sandy uphill sections where traction could become an issue, so you’ll still want to drive carefully.
The bugs were a little annoying, with both flies and mosquitoes present, but that’s something you can encounter almost anywhere depending on the season.
Overall, this is one of the nicest dispersed camping areas we’ve stayed at and a place I would gladly return to.
ScoutGreat place to hook up for the time with your RV or 5th Wheels. Right on the ocean!!
TravelerBeautiful relatively small campground on the bluffs west of Highway 1. Things to note: No water The raccoons will find your food if not properly secured. Bring EVERYTHING you are going to need. There is a small General Store 8.5 miles south in Gorda but everything there is extremely expensive including Gas at $10.49 for a gallon of regular.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 90 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 36 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.
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