Best Dispersed Camping near Los Olivos, CA

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Los Olivos, look no further. Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Los Olivos, CA (6)

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Showing results 1-6 of 6 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Los Olivos

8 Reviews of 6 Los Olivos Campgrounds


  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Jan. 4, 2025

    Old Sierra Madre

    Great for Van camping

    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

  • Natalie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed
    Nov. 23, 2024

    Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed

    Rolling Hills & Plains

    ☆ No target shooting allowed ☆ Arrived on a drizzly day & tried going further down the road to other more secluded camping spots. However the dirt road was slick & minivan, loaded down, was slipping & sliding. Backtracked to a nice spot, camaflouged by a small hill, it'll protect my gear tent. This is open castle range.

  • Connor B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Good spot for a quick night

    pretty easy to find, road is also easy to drive. found a pretty good level spot, definitely camping right off the side of the road. pretty nice and low key tho

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Lovely hillside spots

    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.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Nice Car Camping Spot

    Pretty solid! Had great cell service and was a lovely drive to get there. Probably wouldn’t recommend if you have a tent or RV as the spots were a little small and rocky. But I only went a little past where the directions take you, so not sure what else is up there.

    Arrived just at sunset and loved the views! It was very peaceful and far enough from the highway. It seemed like the same truck was driving up and down a couple times which was the only downfall.

    Overall a good experience.

  • Paul O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp
    Mar. 28, 2022

    Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp

    No disperse camping allowed along the 33.

    There is a nice hike-in campsite about 1.5 miles up the Chorro Grande trail called Oak Camp. I think the other review here might be unintentionally implying that camping along the 33 is allowed. It isn't. This is from the district web page:

    "Disperse camping is NOT allowed on Hwy 33, the Rose Valley Recreation Area or the Pine Mountain Recreation Area or Matilija Canyon Rd. These are Restricted Use Zones."

  • Jessica P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp
    Oct. 12, 2021

    Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp

    Good place after a long hike

    This site is next to chorro grande trail which is about a 9 mile hike. After your long hike of you want to rest go up the mountain site across and it’s an awesome place to camp out. This is dispersed campsite. You will also come across many people parked on the side for those who hike the trails so if you go up the little hill mountain you can camp out peacefully with awesome sunrise and sunsets.

  • robherr The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness
    Sep. 14, 2018

    Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness

    Windy and high, Chorma Camp is a quick stop

    Chorma Camp is the first spot you will encounter on the hike south through Cherry Creek. Situated high on a bluff it gets lots of wind, and with very little shelter around to break it, if you camp here you will get the brunt of it.

    There are no amenities at any of the campsites in this area, they are all primitive dispersed camp areas.

    Continuing on past Chorma if you can make it to Maple it is better campsite down in the valley.


Guide to Los Olivos

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Los Olivos, California, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations to choose from, you can enjoy the great outdoors while soaking in the stunning landscapes.

Dispersed campers should check out Old Sierra Madre

  • The Old Sierra Madre area offers easy access with drive-in capabilities, making it a convenient choice for those looking to set up camp quickly.
  • Reviewers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, with many noting the lovely views and level spots available for camping right off the road.
  • While some highway noise can be heard, the overall experience is described as low-key and enjoyable, perfect for a quick getaway.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Los Olivos, California

  • When visiting Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp, be aware that dispersed camping is not allowed along Highway 33, so plan your route accordingly.
  • This area is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure, but make sure to follow the guidelines for responsible pet ownership.
  • The site is conveniently located next to the Chorro Grande trail, making it an ideal spot for hikers looking to rest after a long trek.

Enjoy hiking and nature while free camping near Los Olivos

  • If you're up for a hike, consider stopping by Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness, which is situated along the Cherry Creek trail and offers a primitive camping experience.
  • Be prepared for windy conditions at Chorma Camp, as it sits high on a bluff with little shelter, making it a unique spot for those who enjoy a challenge.
  • For a more sheltered experience, continue your hike to find better campsites down in the valley, where you can enjoy a more tranquil environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Los Olivos, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Los Olivos, CA is Old Sierra Madre with a 4.3-star rating from 4 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Los Olivos, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Los Olivos, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.