Best Dispersed Camping near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Cardiff-by-the-Sea? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your California excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA (5)

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Showing results 1-5 of 5 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

7 Reviews of 5 Cardiff-by-the-Sea Campgrounds


  • Gabriel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    Nice quick and easy getaway

    Quite easy to get to. I drive an Acura RDX and had no problems (I actually had a lot of fun driving the road). 

    There were way more flies than we were expecting. Prepare to get swarmed. Luckily just gnats and no mosquitoes from what we experienced.

    We applied for a permit on Friday and did not get it by Saturday when we departed. Luckily, no rangers patrolled during our stay.

    Some spots with good shade.

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    Peaceful and secluded

    A great spot if you want to get away and enjoy some alone time. It’s a little warm in the day in august this time of year so you can’t hike around or explore too much. My girlfriend and I stopped in Julian on our way out to get a late lunch and then head to the campsite. The road is paved until you turn off Lone Creek Road and then it is a dirt road. I have a stock Rav4 and it was able to drive on it although there are a few spots you need to be careful at so you don’t scrape the bottom of your car. We only spent one night but we never saw another person during our stay

  • anna I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kitchen Creek Road
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Kitchen Creek Road

    Decent spot to stop

    Pretty small spot off the road, does get kind of loud from cars but overall a decent and clean spots

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Creek Road Camp
    May. 27, 2024

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    Dispersed Camping

    This was a last minute Memorial Day weekend trip with my boyfriend and 2 dogs. Friday sent an email to SM.FS.DescansoRD@usda.gov requesting the free permit (after doing research and finding out you need one), filled out the form, and got it back in the same day. Easy to get there, easy directions once there just make you pass the sign that says leaving the recreation area after that you can find any spot and camp. It was a little bumpy but nothing too bad. Drove with my jeep renegade that isn’t a 4wheel drive. A little busy due to the holiday but not too bad. Cyclist riding by, vehicles, and hikers. Which was nice saying hi. Hardly any service for my carrier which is T-Mobile. Definitely will camp out here again.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kitchen Creek Road
    Feb. 4, 2024

    Kitchen Creek Road

    Decent. Tough time of the year

    Could be maintained. Went during a very rainy season. So it could definitely be attributed to the time of year. Will be another opportunity in the future.



Guide to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the great outdoors in a more secluded setting.

Dispersed campers should check out Otay Mountain Camp

  • This area is known for its peaceful surroundings, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Check it out at Otay Mountain Camp.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California

  • When heading to Pine Creek Road Camp, be prepared for a few flies; they can be quite abundant, but thankfully, mosquitoes are less of a concern.

Proctor Valley Nature Reserve for dispersed campers

  • If you're looking for a peaceful spot, Pine Creek Road Camp offers secluded areas where you might not encounter another person during your stay, perfect for a quiet getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA is Otay Mountain Camp with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.