Best Dispersed Camping near Cambria, CA

The coastal region surrounding Cambria, California features predominantly dispersed camping options on public lands, with sites scattered across Los Padres National Forest and Bureau of Land Management properties. Williams Hill Recreation Area, located about 45 minutes inland, offers seven designated sites with covered picnic tables and fire rings, while more adventurous campers can explore TV Tower Road near Santa Margarita for primitive roadside camping with panoramic views. Most camping opportunities require self-sufficiency, as developed campgrounds with full amenities are limited in the immediate vicinity.

Road conditions significantly impact accessibility to many camping areas near Cambria. Williams Hill Recreation Area requires navigating approximately 5-7 miles of dirt roads with washboard sections, though most passenger vehicles can manage the drive. As one camper noted, "The road was safe and relatively wide, but it drops off and you wouldn't stop until you got to the bottom." TV Tower Road and Will Creek Road present more challenging access, with narrow, winding routes often requiring high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. Fire restrictions are common during dry months, and campers should be prepared for variable coastal weather, including marine fog, strong winds, and cool overnight temperatures even in summer.

Spectacular views constitute the primary draw for dispersed camping in the Cambria region. Sites along ridgelines and elevated areas provide vistas of the Pacific Ocean, coastal mountains, and night skies with minimal light pollution. "We were above the marine layer and the stars were something else never seen before," reported one visitor to Will Creek Road. Most dispersed sites lack amenities, requiring campers to pack in water and pack out waste. Williams Hill stands out with its vault toilet and designated sites, though even here campers should bring their own toilet paper and expect no water or trash service. Weekends typically see higher visitation, with some areas becoming crowded during summer months and holiday periods.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cambria, California (9)

    1. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    33 Reviews
    Santa Margarita, CA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 865-0416

    "The road was a bit sketchy, any 4WD would be fine I think. I took my mini van and camped at a turn out along the road because I was a bit hesitant, but again, others would probably be fine."

    "We came up to TV tower road and found a great spot to pull the car into, with a little trail that pulls off to a spot to pitch the tent."

    2. Williams Hill Recreation Area

    28 Reviews
    Jolon, CA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 582-2200

    "Amenities include one vault toilet, sometimes runs out of toilet paper on a busy weekend, picnic tables with shelter and fire pits. No water, no trash, fire bans most the dry months."

    "Sites have covered shelter with metal picnic tables with overhangs for stove and a fire ring. Sites 5 and 7 suitable for larger rigs. Site 5 is pull thru will accommodate 40ft+ rig and pull vehicle."

    3. Will Creek Road Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    31 miles

    "Dispersed camping all along the trail, despite a sign saying no car camping. It was a 45 min (6 mile) trip up a dirt road but boy was it worth it."

    "I’m surprised I haven’t known about this little gem that is only 2 hours away from me. Above the fog line and beautiful views!!"

    4. Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site

    6 Reviews
    Santa Margarita, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 925-9538

    "Best with a decent clearance 4wd - definitely not an RV spot. Windy at night for sure, and can be a bit busy with people going past on the road."

    "Got there around 2pm and was the only car in sight until 4 ish when a car pulled up and parked for the night 5 feet away from me 🙄 RUDE!!"

    5. Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

    6 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 242-0619

    "Amazing location to wake up in the morning. View of the pacific ocean on one side and valley on the other. 4x4 vehicle needed. Fairly safe, clean, and not crowded."

    "I showed up around 5 pm and there were still a lot of sites open."

    6. Cone Peak

    1 Review
    Lucia, CA
    41 miles
    Website

    "* 11.1 miles from trail head to the summit

    • 5,600 ft. in elevation gain
    • Took 7.5 hours total (4.5 hours moving time)
    • Limited water on trail. "

    8. Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping

    1 Review
    Santa Margarita, CA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 865-0416

    "Turning on Redhill Road from hwy 58 follow the dirt road about 2 miles to the intersection of Redhill and Fernandez."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cambria, CA

86 Reviews of 9 Cambria Campgrounds



Guide to Cambria

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cambria, California, where nature meets tranquility. With stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots offer the perfect escape for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Cambria, California

Scenic views and wildlife encounters while dispersed camping

  • Experience breathtaking vistas and wildlife sightings at Cone Peak, where the hike rewards you with stunning panoramas.
  • Keep an eye out for deer and wild boar while driving to Williams Hill Recreation Area, as the area is known for its diverse wildlife.
  • Enjoy the expansive views of San Luis Obispo from TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping, which offers some of the best lookout points in the region.

Activities to enjoy while free camping near Cambria

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cambria, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cambria, CA is TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping with a 3.9-star rating from 33 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cambria, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Cambria, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.