Williams Hill Recreation Area offers dispersed camping on a ridgeline 7 miles up a dirt road from Bradley. The Bureau of Land Management site sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation with temperatures often exceeding 90°F in summer months. Winter nights can drop below freezing with occasional fog or rain between November and April. The campsites are first-come, first-served with no reservation system.
What to do
Stargazing sessions: Set up at Williams Hill Recreation Area where minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "Beautiful sunrise off the hill in the morning and plenty of birds hanging out to watch while making our camp breakfast," notes Steffanie & Joshua, who camped with a rooftop tent.
Wine tasting tours: Visit local vineyards near Sun Outdoors Central Coast Wine Country, which serves as a convenient base for winery exploration. "The small vineyard next door is a must stop, especially since it's literally right next to the campground. It's also a short drive to downtown Paso and other nearby wineries," writes James B.
Hot springs soaking: Take a mineral bath at Franklin Hot Springs where the geothermal pools maintain a steady body temperature. "The thermal sulphur spring pool is amazing. It's windy so if you're in a tent tie it down! Great hidden gem," shares Monica M., noting the natural therapeutic qualities.
What campers like
Covered picnic areas: Williams Hill Recreation Area provides sheltered tables at designated sites. "Campsites all have a fire ring, and a shaded picnic table. There's a long drop toilet. Beautiful views too," mentions Ariel W., highlighting the basic but functional amenities available at this free camping area.
Lake access: Lake San Antonio - North Shore permits boat anchoring directly at the shoreline for convenient lake activities. "Launched the boat and anchored it to shore. Literally had the place to ourselves. Fishing was great from shore in morning and dusk," explains Jack J., who appreciated the accessibility.
Clean shower facilities: The San Simeon Creek Campground maintains well-functioning bathroom areas with hot water. "This was a beautiful campground with level, paved sites, lots of trees, great showers, and access to the beach within walking distance," notes Kelly H., emphasizing the practical comforts available.
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Prepare for persistent bugs at Williams Hill during warmer months. "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!" cautions Erik I.
Limited site availability: San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park requires early booking for peak season stays. "You can make a reservation ahead of time, but you cannot select a specific site until you arrive. The ranger will ask you to go check out the campgrounds, and compile a list of site numbers that you are interested in," explains a reviewer about the selection process.
Water quality concerns: Check current lake conditions before planning water activities, especially during drought years. "During the drought the water level has dropped significantly as well as the quality of the water. Some years the lake is almost dry," reports Chip K. regarding Lake San Antonio.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access options: When temperatures spike, Sun Outdoors Paso Robles RV Resort offers recreational swimming areas for all ages. "This is a resort style park with all the amenities. We used both pools and spas daily even in December," shares Michael D., noting the year-round availability.
Wildlife viewing spots: Schedule early morning observation times when birds and ground squirrels are most active. "Beautiful sunrise off the hill in the morning and plenty of birds hanging out to watch while making our camp breakfast," recommends a Williams Hill visitor.
Dog-friendly beaches: For dog friendly campgrounds near Bradley with beach access, San Simeon Creek provides coastal areas where dogs can accompany owners. "Tucked in among trees and only a 5minute walk to the beach: it's the best of both worlds," writes Kat B., describing the convenient proximity.
Tips from RVers
Access road considerations: Larger RVs should use caution when accessing Williams Hill Recreation Area. "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. Most of the spots only accommodate like van size and down," warns Rio S.
Private camping options: Road's End, Bradley Lockwood offers secluded sites with hookups for RVs seeking more isolation. "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," reports a reviewer who appreciated the privacy.
Electric hookup availability: For overnight stays requiring power, note the amperage limitations at various 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 Road's End visitor, providing specific details about the power options.
