Dispersed camping near Paso Robles offers primitive sites in the Los Padres National Forest and surrounding public lands. These rustic spots range from ridge-top locations with panoramic vistas to secluded forest pull-outs, with elevations varying from 1,800 to 3,500 feet. Temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night, with summer daytime highs reaching 90-100°F while nighttime temperatures can drop to 40-50°F even in summer months.
What to do
Mountain biking access points: Several spots along TV Tower Road serve as staging areas for mountain biking trails. "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," notes a camper at TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution at higher elevations creates exceptional night sky viewing. A visitor at Other Pullout on TV Tower Road mentioned, "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. Best with a decent clearance 4wd - definitely not an RV spot."
Photography and sunrise viewing: Early risers can capture stunning morning photos. "I woke first thing in the morning and the view to the west is stunning, a sea of clouds and islands of distant mountain peaks all the way to the coast," reports a motorcyclist who visited TV Tower Road.
What campers like
Privacy between dispersed sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between pullouts. "Manageable with fwd vehicle, I've taken my car on worse. Got there around 2pm and was the only car in sight until 4 ish," shared a visitor at Other Pullout on TV Tower Road, though they noted someone later "parked for the night 5 feet away from me. RUDE!! Remember to be respectful of others space especially if there's 15+ other spots available."
Easy access to nearby towns: The proximity to San Luis Obispo and the coast makes these sites convenient. "Cool spot off the 101 and right near SLO," notes one camper at Williams Hill Recreation Area, which offers "picnic tables, fire rings, and picnic shelters. Pretty much the only option for this setup anywhere around."
Availability without reservations: Most sites remain accessible even on busy weekends. "There are lots of pullouts. I did see a Prius go as far as I did. So higher ground clearance suggested but not needed," reports a Williams Hill visitor, showing these areas can sometimes accommodate standard vehicles despite challenging roads.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and fire restrictions: Access can be limited during high fire danger periods. "Closed due to fire hazard since 9/7. Gate blocking road up," reported a visitor about TV Tower Road. Similarly at Will Creek Road Dispersed, a camper noted, "Attempted to camp on 12/01/2024 and the road was closed. Beautiful views on the way, but unfortunately the gate was locked."
Insects can be problematic: Bugs may detract from comfort, particularly in warmer months. At Williams Hill Recreation Area, one camper warned, "The gnats, bees, mosquitoes, and flies are relentless!"
Cell service varies by location: Coverage is inconsistent but often available at higher elevations. "Good place to crash for a few to days. Decent cell service. Nice put toilet," noted a camper at Williams Hill Recreation Area, one of the few sites offering any facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites with minimal facilities: For families, the few locations with basic amenities provide better experiences. At Williams Hill Recreation Area, a camper reported, "Campsites all have a fire ring, and a shaded picnic table. There's a long drop toilet. Beautiful views too."
Arrive during daylight hours: Navigating rough roads is much safer before dark. A visitor at Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping advises, "Download map before you come so you don't camp on private land," emphasizing the importance of preparation.
Prepare for temperature swings: Bring appropriate clothing and sleeping gear for both hot days and cool nights. "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," advised a TV Tower Road camper.
Tips from RVers
Length and clearance limitations: Most dispersed sites cannot accommodate larger rigs. At Williams Hill Recreation Area, one RVer shared their experience: "7 mile dirt road at times a bit steep and rough. But we made it up here slowly and safely. A few other campers here. Some flies but a slight breeze that will hopefully keep them at bay. Nice spot just not a fan of taking a 27 foot 1996 RV up that road."
Prepare for washboard roads: Rough terrain can impact 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. When we went, of the (7) formal sites that are up there, only 3 of them were taken and that was off and on. We didn't need 4x4 getting up there or even a high clearance vehicle. Our transmission did start heating up as the road was filled with washboard and it was steep and we had to go pretty slow," reported a visitor at Williams Hill.
Arrive early for better spots: The limited number of suitable RV spots fill quickly. At Old Sierra Madre, a van camper noted, "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."
