Dispersed camping near Cambria, California focuses primarily on the eastern ridgelines of the Santa Lucia Mountains, where elevations range from 1,500 to 4,000 feet above sea level. Most primitive camping sites sit along dirt forest service roads that climb from Highway 1 or inland routes, with summer temperatures typically 10-15°F cooler than valley floor locations. Winter conditions can bring occasional snow to higher elevation sites, making seasonal accessibility variable.
What to do
Stargazing after sunset: At TV Tower Road, the elevated position provides exceptional night sky viewing. "Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites. Would for sure camp again if in the San Luis Obispo area," reports Sebastian D. about camping at TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. "Plenty of birds hanging out to watch while making our camp breakfast," notes Steffanie & Joshua from their stay at Williams Hill Recreation Area.
Mountain biking: Several routes connect dispersed camping areas to established trails. "Awesome spot on the ridge, lots of sites up past the mountain bike staging area and the best spots are a little past the TV tower itself," says G D. about Other Pullout on TV Tower Road.
Hiking: For more adventurous campers, backpacking routes lead to remote sites. "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," writes Austin C. about Cone Peak, noting the "11.1 miles from trail head to the summit" with "5,600 ft. in elevation gain."
What campers like
Marine layer views: The elevation of many dispersed sites puts campers above coastal fog banks. "Beautiful sunrise off the hill in the morning," according to Steffanie & Joshua at Williams Hill Recreation Area.
Solitude during weekdays: Most primitive camping sites near Cambria see limited use Monday through Thursday. "It was very quiet and walking down the road was pleasant as there weren't any OHVs riding around on a Monday," notes Laura M. about Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping.
Apple trees at some sites: Certain camping areas feature unique natural elements. "I found a perfect pullout overlooking the ocean between two apple trees, blissful to say the least," shares Kristian W. about Plaskett Ridge Dispersed Campground.
Tree coverage at select sites: Wind protection becomes important in this region. "We stayed one night and were able to find spots with tree covers in case of wind," mentions Yohann G. about Plaskett Ridge.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Some routes require high-clearance vehicles while others are manageable with passenger cars. "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," explains Caitlyn R. about TV Tower Road.
Summer insects: Be prepared for various bugs in warmer months. "The gnats, bees, mosquitoes, and flies are relentless!" warns Erik I. about Williams Hill Recreation Area.
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations before planning cooking methods. "Hi- My name is Tom Collins. I'm a director with the Big Sur Community Association... 'Hey campers! If you're planning to visit the Big Sur Coast this summer, just a heads up: campfires are NOT permitted outside of established campgrounds during the summer months,'" shares Colleen W. about Plaskett Ridge.
Campsite availability: Arrive early for best options, particularly on weekends. "I showed up around 5 pm and there were still a lot of sites open," notes Kristian W. about Plaskett Ridge Dispersed Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for safety: Choose pullouts with adequate space from drop-offs. "The road was safe and relatively wide, but it drops off and you wouldn't stop until you got to the bottom," cautions Brett L. about Williams Hill.
Weather preparedness: Bring extra layers for children regardless of season. "Got cold at night but nothing unbearable, lovely sunrise too! I'd recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag and any essentials for dispersed camping," advises Caitlyn R. about TV Tower Road.
Navigation challenges: Download offline maps before departing. "Download map before you come so you don't camp on private land," recommends Laura M. about Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping.
Bug protection: Pack insect repellent for comfort. "But thankfully I had bugspray the insect problem was solved," mentions Sebastian D. about TV Tower Road.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. "I wouldn't advise big RVs coming up here. Most of the spots only accommodate like van size and down," warns Rio S. about Williams Hill Recreation Area.
Steep approach roads: Consider your vehicle's climbing capacity. "7 mile dirt road at times a bit steep and rough. But we made it up here slowly and safely. Nice spot just not a fan of taking a 27 foot 1996 RV up that road," shares Adam B. about Williams Hill.
Transmission concerns: Monitor vehicle temperature during climbs. "Our transmission did start heating up as the road was filled with washboard and it was steep and we had to go pretty slow," notes Brett L. about Williams Hill Recreation Area.
Turn-around space: Verify adequate room to maneuver larger vehicles. "We towed our 30' travel trailer up to this dispersed campground that is located along a ridge line on the west side of the 101. We didn't need 4x4 getting up there or even a high clearance vehicle," explains Laura M. about Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping.
