Dispersed camping areas near Pine Mountain Club, California range across Los Padres National Forest between 6,000-9,000 feet elevation. These sites typically have limited facilities and function on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping opportunities vary from basic roadside pullouts to remote backcountry locations requiring high-clearance vehicles or hiking to access.
What to do
Stargazing at high elevations: The Mt. Pinos area serves as one of Southern California's premier astronomical viewing locations. At Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos, a camper noted meeting "a guy named Bob and helped set up his telescope in the parking lot, he let anyone who wanted check out the amazing night sky!" Permits required for parking.
Seasonal winter camping: Snow remains in higher elevations well into spring, creating opportunities for winter camping. One visitor at Chula Vista reported "It has been one of our favorite places to Snow Camp every January, as it is relatively close and even during the drought there was usually a little bit of snow at the top. There are many places to make snow runs down the slopes, build snow caves, etc."
Off-road exploration: The surrounding forest contains numerous OHV trails. At Goldhill Camping Area, visitors can access nearby trails for day trips. The location provides strategic positioning for off-road enthusiasts seeking primitive camping options.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Cherry Creek Campground offers privacy away from crowds. A visitor mentioned, "If you have 4WD and a strong stomach, you can squeeze all the way up the mountain to a beautiful campsite at the end of the trail at the top of the mountain. Great firepit just waiting for you and an overall great spot with plenty of wood to chop for a big fire."
Temperature differences: Higher elevation camps provide relief during summer months. At San Emigdio Campground, campers appreciate the cooler conditions. One reviewer reported, "Super secluded lots of trails. Went there last weekend, such a beautiful campground hardly any people. No access to showers, but restrooms are clean and have sinks."
Accessible wilderness: Many tent camping options require minimal hiking while providing substantial solitude. At Rancho Nuevo Campground, a visitor described, "Nice small campground with Rancho Nuevo creek flowing right next to it. We had to walk about a mile and a half to the campground as the seasonal gate was closed. Campground consists of three sites with fire rings with steel grated stoves."
What you should know
Fire restrictions fluctuate: Regulations change based on seasonal conditions and fire danger. At Chula Vista, one camper warned, "Ranger said he has written 100 tickets this summer for people having campfires when it's posted no campfires. I think he visits the site daily."
Pack in all supplies: Most camping areas lack amenities and services. A camper at Pine Mountain Campground observed, "No water. Site 6 is closest to the toilet - only one I'd avoid. Sites 1 & 5 were nice. Site 7 is up the road, far away from the toilet and other sites but secluded and private."
Road access challenges: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. A visitor to Dutchman Campground reported, "It can be difficult to get to if the road is rutted but a 2wd vehicle can make it up there without a problem if the road is graded."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for weather variability: At higher elevations, conditions change rapidly. When visiting Chula Vista with children, bring layers as temperatures drop significantly after sunset even in summer. One camper advised, "It can get pretty windy up here so make sure your tent is staked down well."
Insect preparation: During certain seasons, flying insects become prevalent. A visitor to Pine Mountain Campground noted, "In the afternoon there were a lot of non-biting small flies, normal for this environment."
Wildlife awareness: Multiple camping areas have active wildlife. At San Emigdio, a camper warned simply, "Beware of rattlesnakes." Proper food storage and animal precautions remain essential throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The best tent camping near Pine Mountain Club, California includes few suitable locations for larger RVs. At ATV Campground, campers should verify current status before traveling. A recent visitor noted, "The post fire which burned the area of 10,000 acres on June 15, 2024 has caused this area to be closed until further notice."
Vault toilet availability: Most camping areas feature limited facilities. Reyes Peak Campground offers vault toilets but no water. One visitor observed, "Lovely small campground high up in the Sespe Wilderness. Pine Forest. 7 sites. Primitive vault toilet."
Advance planning required: Many camping areas close seasonally. Check Forest Service websites or contact ranger stations before traveling as roads may be impassable or areas closed without notice due to weather or maintenance.
