Dispersed camping near Carmel Valley Village, California encompasses areas within Los Padres National Forest beyond the commonly accessed dispersed campsites. The region includes several backcountry trail camps that provide primitive experiences at varied elevations from 1,500 to 5,155 feet. Trail conditions frequently change based on winter storms and seasonal closures, with many requiring stream crossings that become impassable during high water periods.
What to do
Backpack to remote trail camps: Bluff Camp offers a moderately challenging hiking experience along the Carmel River Trail. "This is a trail camp in the Ventana Wilderness along the Carmel River Trail. The trailhead and parking lot is at the Los Padres Dam. The trail is pretty easy to follow, but crosses the river/creek extremely frequently. I had to cross the river about 50 times in a weekend in an out & back trip," reports Austin C.
Summit Cone Peak: The 11.1-mile trail to Cone Peak provides significant elevation gain and exceptional coastal views. "This was one of the most beautiful backpacking hikes I've ever done, but also one of the more challenging ones to do in one day. 5,600 ft. in elevation gain. Took 7.5 hours total (4.5 hours moving time)," notes one experienced hiker.
Explore multiple ridge routes: The network of forest service roads includes options beyond the main access roads. "I recommend four wheel drive to go to the place in the pictures above. So many trails to explore and spots to stay at. You can explore the different trails such as Prewitt, Coastal Ridge Road and Nacimiento Ferguson from this road," explains one regular visitor to Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground.
What campers like
High elevation ocean views: The ridge locations offer dual viewing perspectives. "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," shares Ken K. about Plasket Ridge.
Uncrowded backcountry sites: Timber Top Camp provides isolation with spectacular scenery. "This might be the most beautiful camping spot I have ever stayed at. It's a ~2.8 mile hike in, but it is worth every step. Almost every hill top has a campsite, there are so many opportunities for stays," notes Carina M.
Free camping near premium destinations: The dispersed sites provide no-cost alternatives to established campgrounds. "This was a perfect campground for Big Sur, just past the Plaskett Creek campground which is expensive and requires reservations. I drove up the road for about 20 minutes and found a perfect pullout overlooking the ocean between two apple trees," reports Kristian W.
What you should know
Seasonal road closures common: Will Creek Road Dispersed frequently closes during winter or high fire danger periods. "Attempted to camp on 12/01/2024 and the road was closed. Beautiful views on the way, but unfortunately the gate was locked," reports Ascelin P.
Vehicle requirements vary by location: Road conditions can damage standard vehicles. "Definitely a sketchy road. It gets really steep and sandy, I was in an HRV and made it. Though my car is super scratched up now," cautions Emily H.
Water sources limited or nonexistent: Backcountry camps require filtration equipment. "Limited water on trail. Saw some springs during the first half but none within miles of the top," notes Austin C. about Cone Peak.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessibility level carefully: Plasket Ridge offers drive-up sites with varied terrain difficulty. "Every campsite within an hour range of Big Sur was full, and it was getting dark so we opted for this road. It is narrow, steep, unmaintained, and surrounded by cliffs. If you happen upon a pull out that is not occupied, does not have a private property sign, and is somewhat flat, then it works as a spot," advises Kristen.
Arrive early for optimal sites: Competition increases on weekends. "This place was busy! Almost every pull off on the side of the road was taken but we were able to find a spot! Get here early for the best chance of finding a good spot," recommends Kathryn Z.
Prepare for weather variations: Bluff Camp and other trail camps experience significant temperature fluctuations. "No potable water - bring a filter, Pack in pack out trash, Fires may be restricted, No restrooms or other facilities, Lots of poison oak, Trail may be impassable at some points," warns an experienced backpacker.
Tips from RVers
Pull-off size restrictions apply: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller vehicles only. "Going up or down that road is only for 4x4 and keep an eye out for crazy drivers. One lane road in many spots," cautions Kate N. about the narrow access roads.
Seasonal overcrowding affects dispersed areas: Weekend competition limits availability. "Too crowded on weekends. Practically camping on top of each other," notes a reviewer about Plasket Ridge during summer months.
Wind protection considerations: Exposed ridge sites experience significant wind. "It did get very windy during the night so recommend putting everything away during the evening. We stayed one night and were able to find spots with tree covers in case of wind," suggests Yohann G.
