Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Lompoc, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Lompoc is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Lompoc, reviewed by campers like you.
"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, but again, others would probably be fine."
"We came up to TV tower road and found a great spot to pull the car into, with a little trail that pulls off to a spot to pitch the tent."
"Picked the first nook from the GPS pin but hiked up road and there are quite a few others, some shaded, some exposed. Bit of highway noise."
"Easy spots to turn around and park. Beautiful views, slight road noise if you’re not in the van but quiet inside. Wouldn’t recommend anything bigger than a extended sprinter or transit"
GuideThe 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, but again, others would probably be fine. There were lots of people going up the road until very late at night, then turning around and coming back down (I assume because there were no spots?) The stars are beautiful and it's very quiet and cool. Got cold at night but nothing unbearable, lovely sunrise too! I'd recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag and any essentials for dispersed camping. Honestly such a beautiful place, next time I'd like to find a space to set up my tent. Loved it!
TravelerWe came up to TV tower road and found a great spot to pull the car into, with a little trail that pulls off to a spot to pitch the tent. This is definitely a great spot for car camping, parking, or camping. It was absolutely beautiful, and we only passed a few cars on the way up. Our 4WD car was able to handle the dirt road. The drive was manageable, but high up!
LegendMy husband and I decided to do a road trip along the PCH up the coast (with Big Sur as the final destination). Along the way, we made multiple stops and camped at TV Tower Road since we heard so many phenomenal things about the view.
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Pro Tip: Drive up TV Tower Road before sunset. 1) Sunsets are magical here 2) Better visibility of the road while the sun is still out. There are no road or street lights to guide you.
Product Review
As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time - this weekend I was incredibly BLESSED with the opportunity to test out the Maverick Camper by Escape Campervans. This opportunity couldn’t have come at a better time since my cat recently just passed away, and I do not take a second of this for granted. So where did we decide to go? First on the list, Morro Bay! My (now) husband and I fell in love in Morro Bay 6 years ago, and then he proposed to me at the Morro Bay Rock 2 years later. We figured we would bring our cat’s ashes to “The Rock” as a final resting place so we can make an effort to return as often as possible. After our day in Morro Bay, we continued on along the majestic Pacific Coast Highway until we reached Big Sur on Hwy 1.
I’ve done this road trip many times since childhood, but it felt like an entirely new experience doing the trip in a campervan. I am, now, totally convinced that the #vanlife is for me. Here are my thoughts on the Maverick #JetsonVan.
Tips for maximizing your campervan experience!
TravelerOk so my first encounter with this road (TV Tower Road) was after 10 p.m. in mid-July. We were trying to find a spot to camp near San Luis Obispo and hoped to find a place in Los Padres Natl Forest. We saw the road in our map book and aimed to follow it.
It was dark, and we had to anticipate the road off 101 S, because it comes quickly and the signs are easy to miss. We were able to exit and follow the one-lane road (it’s narrow) as it began to wind up the hillside. We weren’t counting on gaining so much elevation, but we were pretty stoked because after two switchbacks we had an amazing view of the sky. The pavement ended and we continued on a packed dirt road.
It is quite narrow at parts, but there are spots along it where 2 cars can pass each other. There are bumps and rough patches, but nothing you haven’t encountered if you do much backwoods driving. Anyways.
That night was a Friday, and it was also a peak viewing night for the comet, and there were SO many (like 8) cars that we had to pass/maneuver around. In the dark, without knowing the road, it was pretty high pressure, and we chose to turn around about halfway up, without knowing how the road ended.
So, disappointment. However, after a fun day in Los Osos and Morro Bay, we decided to tackle the road in the daylight. We got there around 6, in full summer light, and only encountered one driver coming down.
When you reach the top of the ridge, the road opens up. It’s the bumpiest here, but there’s a lot of space to spread out & set up. We saw probably 12 other cars (vans, SUVs, RVs) there, and some people had set up tents. The views are incredible. It’s a super peaceful place to spend a night or two.
We had binoculars for stargazing, but with them we could explore the details of the hills and landmarks. If you’re into radio, reception is very clear. The temperature was overall very comfortable, and we had a great night car camping.
The biggest caution is driving—expect to have to deal with some cars going the other way. Also, keep an eye out for hikers and mountain bikers who also use the road. If you’re down to try it, this spot is so worth it!!
Bring food, water, a flashlight...the regular. There are no bathrooms, so be warned.
GuideThis place was awesome. Heard about it from a friend who goes to school at SLO. We arrived around 4pm on a Saturday and all spots were open except for one. The road is a bit rocky and steep but we were fine in an old ass 2WD 4runner. We settled on a nice spot nestled in the trees. There was a pre made fire pit which we may or may not have used. The road is a hiking trail as well so we went on a little walk to watch the sunset. Only bad thing was the flies. These bitches were on the offense. Bring bug spray and citronella candles or be smart and don’t go in mid july like we did. It’s close to downtown slo which is very charming with great food. On our way out we ate at seeds for some delicious smoothies and paninis. Overall very great place and have recommended it to friends.
ScoutDrove up here at night and the road is windy and bumpy and narrow and youre on the side of a cliff. Was a bit scary but the view was beautiful in the morning. The wind is loud and powerful and will push your car a bit thru the night. No restrooms but lots of shrubbery. Got there at 11 pm and the stars were amazing due to no light pollution.
TravelerGood spot for car camping. We were into the clouds when we arrived but in the morning we had a beautiful view. Some other campers around, really quiet and respectful.
GuideNice place to go for car camping. There were a lot of other campers along the road in different spots. I didn't drive all the way to the end but turned and picked a spot that looked nice. A bit windy, but great views in the morning.
GuideThis spot was perfect for car camping. The night I was there was very windy and rocked the car most of the night. 3 other cars also stayed at the top of this mountain. Beautiful views in the morning!
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lompoc, California, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom of choosing your own spot while taking in stunning views and the tranquility of the outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in the Lompoc area?
When dispersed camping in the Lompoc area, follow standard dispersed camping regulations: camp at least 200 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings if fires are permitted (check current fire restrictions), and pack out all trash. At Old Sierra Madre, camping is free but with no facilities, so be prepared to be fully self-sufficient with water and waste management. At Caliente Mtn Ranch Dispersed, similar rules apply for this free camping area. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware that most dispersed sites have maximum stay limits, typically 14 days within a 30-day period.
Where can I find dispersed car camping near Lompoc?
TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping is a popular spot for dispersed car camping near Lompoc. The road has multiple pull-offs and turnouts where you can park and camp. While the road can be steep and rocky in places, many standard vehicles can access it, though 4WD is recommended. Campsites offer spectacular views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Another option is Figueroa Mountain Road Pullout 01, which provides free dispersed camping with drive-in access in the Los Padres National Forest area near Lompoc.
What is the best time of year for dispersed camping near Lompoc?
Spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions for dispersed camping near Lompoc. Summer can be quite hot during the day but cooler at higher elevations. At Old Sierra Madre - Medicine Bow National Forest Dispersed, camping is enjoyable from late spring through early fall. Winter camping is possible but prepare for potentially cold and wet conditions. Be aware that wind can be a significant factor year-round, especially at exposed sites like TV Tower Road where campers report very windy conditions that can be challenging overnight. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out, as seasonal changes can affect accessibility.
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