Best Dispersed Camping near King City, CA

Dispersed camping options near King City, California include several Bureau of Land Management (BLM) sites offering primitive camping experiences. Williams Hill Recreation Area stands as the most developed option, featuring seven designated sites with covered picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet. According to reviews, "Sites 5 and 7 are suitable for larger rigs, with Site 5 being a pull-through that can accommodate 40ft+ rigs and tow vehicles." Additional overflow areas exist for dispersed camping if the main sites are occupied.

Access to Williams Hill requires navigating approximately 5-7 miles of dirt road with washboard sections and occasional steep grades. Most passenger vehicles can make the journey when driven slowly and carefully. The road is narrow in sections, requiring vehicles to yield to downhill traffic. Will Creek Road and Plasket Ridge provide more primitive dispersed camping options but demand higher clearance vehicles. Several campers noted that Will Creek Road "is very steep, going from 200' above sea level to over 3000' at the top" and requires off-road experience.

No potable water is available at any of these sites. Campers must pack in all water and pack out all trash. Fire restrictions are common during dry months, with complete bans typically in effect throughout summer. Cell service varies by location; Williams Hill generally provides good Verizon coverage, while more remote areas have limited or no service. The 14-day stay limit applies to all BLM sites in the region. Weather conditions range from hot days (90s) in summer that cool significantly at night, to mild winter temperatures in the 60s during day and 40s at night. Insects, particularly bees, can be problematic during certain seasons.

Best Dispersed Sites Near King City, California (10)

    1. Williams Hill Recreation Area

    28 Reviews
    Jolon, CA
    18 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."

    2. Will Creek Road Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    28 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!!"

    3. Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

    6 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    27 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."

    4. Cone Peak

    1 Review
    Lucia, CA
    23 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. "

    5. Tumey Hills Box Canyon

    11 Reviews
    Mendota, CA
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 582-2200

    "Took us about 15 min to drive to where we camped. There is no water or bathrooms so bring a jug from Lowe’s with a spicket!"

    "Easy overnight BLM spot, we stayed overnight on the way to San Jose - easy to navigate, find & park.

    Close by amenities gas stations, mcdonald’s & freeway about 10 mins out"

    6. Bluff Camp

    2 Reviews
    Carmel Valley Village, CA
    31 miles
    Website

    "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. "

    7. Timber Top Camp

    1 Review
    Big Sur, CA
    32 miles

    "It’s a ~2.8 mile hike in, but it is worth every step. Almost every hill top has a campsite, there is so many opportunities for stays."

    10. Boondocking - Coalinga

    5 Reviews
    Coalinga, CA
    50 miles

    "You can hear a highway close but honestly, not bad. I feel pretty relaxed and safe here."

    "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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 10 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near King City, CA

64 Reviews of 10 King City Campgrounds



Guide to King City

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near King City, California, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near King City, California

  • Be prepared for limited amenities, as many spots, like Williams Hill Recreation Area, do not provide drinking water or trash services, so plan to pack out all waste.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends, as places like Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground can fill up quickly.
  • Familiarize yourself with the access roads; for instance, the route to Will Creek Road Dispersed can be steep and narrow, so a vehicle with off-road capabilities is recommended.

Cone Peak for dispersed campers

  • The hike to Cone Peak is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit.
  • This area is perfect for experienced backpackers, as it requires a strenuous climb with significant elevation gain, making it ideal for those looking for a physical challenge.
  • Be aware that there are no facilities at the top, so campers should bring their own water and be prepared for backcountry conditions.

Dispersed campers should check out Tumey Hills

  • Tumey Hills offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • While the area is known for its beauty, visitors should be mindful of litter and respect the land to maintain its pristine condition.
  • The access road is well-maintained, but it can be narrow in places, so caution is advised when navigating through the hills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near King City, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near King City, CA is Williams Hill Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 28 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near King City, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.