Best Dispersed Camping near Los Olivos, CA
Dispersed camping opportunities exist in multiple areas surrounding Los Olivos, California, primarily within Los Padres National Forest and nearby public lands. Figueroa Mountain Road offers primitive campsites including roadside pullouts suitable for tent and small RV camping. Additional dispersed camping can be found at Old Sierra Madre, which features several informal sites, and at Carrizzo Plain National Monument where camping is permitted on designated public lands. Los Padres National Forest also contains backcountry camping areas accessible from forest service roads.
Access to most dispersed sites requires careful navigation on unpaved roads that may become difficult during or after precipitation. Many areas have no amenities whatsoever—no water sources, restrooms, trash service, or designated fire rings. Fire restrictions are common throughout the region, with complete bans in effect during high fire danger periods. Vehicle requirements vary by location, with some sites accessible to standard vehicles while others need high-clearance or four-wheel drive capability. Most areas limit camping stays to 14 days within a 30-day period.
The landscape provides a mix of mountain and valley terrain, offering privacy and natural settings for primitive camping experiences. "Pretty solid! Had great cell service and was a lovely drive to get there," noted one camper about Old Sierra Madre, while another mentioned it has "lovely hillside spots" with "bit of highway noise." At Carrizzo Plain, a visitor described "beautiful hilly landscape" with "silent night with great views of the night sky." Weather conditions can vary significantly by season and elevation, with some areas experiencing colder temperatures than forecasted. Most sites offer sufficient flat areas for setting up tents or parking small recreational vehicles, though larger RVs may find limited suitable locations due to narrow roads and limited turning space.
