Dispersed camping near Coalinga, California provides opportunities for outdoor recreation across primarily BLM-managed lands. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet and experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F. Winter camping offers milder conditions with daytime temperatures in the 50s and 60s, though overnight temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Target shooting opportunities: The dispersed camping areas serve as popular shooting locations during daylight hours. "This is a shooting range. If you're in to target practice you'd give it a five. It's fairly desolate, a port-a-potty, (bring your own TP) and sparse camping spots," notes a camper at Tumey Hills Box Canyon.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities to observe native birds and animals. "Beautiful sunrise off the hill in the morning and plenty of birds hanging out to watch while making our camp breakfast," reports a visitor to Williams Hill Recreation Area.
Overnight rest stop: The Coalinga area serves travelers needing a convenient place to stop between destinations. "Got tired and needed a place to sleep for the night; this area is popular with semi drivers and safe and quiet, with 24-hour bathrooms nearby," shares a camper about the basic boondocking area.
What campers like
Ridgetop views: The elevated position of some camping areas provides extensive panoramas. "Stunning view and safe. Dirt road to get there but clean place," reports a camper about Williams Hill.
Free amenities: Some sites offer unexpected facilities for dispersed camping. "Campsites all have a fire ring, and a shaded picnic table. There's a long drop toilet. Beautiful views too," notes a Williams Hill camper.
Nighttime quiet: Despite daytime shooting activities, evenings offer peaceful conditions. "For us, needing only a stop-over, it was perfect," mentions a visitor to Boondocking - Coalinga. "The street ends and there is a dirt lot past it. You see other trucks, like two, not many at all, that are here resting."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access requires navigating unpaved routes of varying quality. "We didn't need 4x4 getting up there or even a high clearance vehicle. Our transmission did start heating up as the road was filled with washboard and it was steep and we had to go pretty slow. However, any car will be able to make it up there," explains a Williams Hill camper.
Limited sites: Arrive early to secure preferred camping spots, especially on weekends. "I've been twice now and both times the actual camp sites were full by the time I got there (2-3pm Friday). Leaving us to grab one of the few remaining dispersed spots," advises a visitor.
Insects can be problematic: Prepare for persistent bugs 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!" warns a Williams Hill camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pack out more than you bring: Teach environmental stewardship in areas showing impact from previous visitors. "Problem is the ground is covered, literally, with all the casings, glass, human trash everywhere. Please, always pack out a bit more than you've created in an area," advises a Tumey Hills visitor.
Water supply planning: No potable water exists at these sites. "There is no water or bathrooms so bring a jug from Lowe's with a spicket!" recommends a Tumey Hills Box Canyon camper.
Nearby services: Know the location of essential services for family camping. "You have like three fast food places within walking distance so you're not in a sketchy, middle of nowhere place and not many people come all the way to the end of the road," notes a Coalinga boondocking visitor.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Consider vehicle dimensions when selecting sites. "I wouldn't advise big RVs coming up here. Most of the spots only accommodate like van size and down," cautions a Williams Hill visitor.
Dust protection: Prepare for dusty conditions affecting equipment. "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. Nice spot just not a fan of taking a 27 foot 1996 RV up that road," shares an RVer at Williams Hill.
Alternative access routes: Consider different approach roads based on vehicle capabilities. "I would recommend driving up the mountain through Lockwood, the drive is much easier and less scary. We arrived around 5:30pm (end of march) and there was only 1 spot left," advises a Williams Hill camper.
