Best Dispersed Camping near Pinnacles National Park

Dispersed camping options near Pinnacles National Park include several Bureau of Land Management (BLM) sites offering primitive camping experiences. Williams Hill Recreation Area features seven designated sites with covered picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet. The campground sits along a ridgeline with expansive views of the Coastal Range and Salinas Valley. Additional overflow areas accommodate campers when the main sites are full. A 14-day stay limit applies to all visitors.

Access to Williams Hill requires navigating approximately 5-7 miles of dirt road with washboard sections and occasional steep grades. Standard passenger vehicles can make the journey when driven cautiously. According to reviews, "The road was safe and relatively wide, but it drops off and you wouldn't stop until you got to the bottom." Sites 5 and 7 accommodate larger rigs, with site 5 being a pull-through capable of handling 40+ foot vehicles.

These dispersed camping areas provide no potable water, electricity, or trash service. Campers must pack out all waste and bring sufficient water supplies. Fire restrictions are common during dry months, with complete bans typically enforced throughout summer. The vault toilet at Williams Hill occasionally runs out of supplies on busy weekends, so carrying personal toilet paper is recommended. Cell service is generally good at Williams Hill but unreliable at other dispersed sites in the region.

Weather conditions vary seasonally, with summer daytime temperatures reaching the 90s, cooling significantly in evenings. Winter brings milder days in the 60s with nights dropping to the 40s. Several campers noted insect activity during warmer months, particularly bees that can be persistent around campsites. The area serves dual purposes as an OHV recreation zone, so weekend traffic and occasional target shooting noise should be expected.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pinnacles National Park (9)

    1. Williams Hill Recreation Area

    27 Reviews
    Jolon, CA
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 582-2200

    "Amenities include one vault toilet, sometimes runs out of toilet paper on a busy weekend, picnic tables with shelter and fire pits. No water, no trash, fire bans most the dry months."

    "Sites have covered shelter with metal picnic tables with overhangs for stove and a fire ring. Sites 5 and 7 suitable for larger rigs. Site 5 is pull thru will accommodate 40ft+ rig and pull vehicle."

    2. Tumey Hills Box Canyon

    11 Reviews
    Mendota, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 582-2200

    "Took us about 15 min to drive to where we camped. There is no water or bathrooms so bring a jug from Lowe’s with a spicket!"

    "Easy overnight BLM spot, we stayed overnight on the way to San Jose - easy to navigate, find & park.

    Close by amenities gas stations, mcdonald’s & freeway about 10 mins out"

    3. Will Creek Road Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    45 miles

    "Dispersed camping all along the trail, despite a sign saying no car camping. It was a 45 min (6 mile) trip up a dirt road but boy was it worth it."

    "I’m surprised I haven’t known about this little gem that is only 2 hours away from me. Above the fog line and beautiful views!!"

    4. Bluff Camp

    2 Reviews
    Carmel Valley Village, CA
    30 miles
    Website

    "This is a trail camp in the Ventana Wilderness along the Carmel River Trail.  The trailhead and parking lot is at the Los Padres Dam. "

    5. Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

    6 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 242-0619

    "Amazing location to wake up in the morning. View of the pacific ocean on one side and valley on the other. 4x4 vehicle needed. Fairly safe, clean, and not crowded."

    "I showed up around 5 pm and there were still a lot of sites open."

    6. Cone Peak

    1 Review
    Lucia, CA
    37 miles
    Website

    "* 11.1 miles from trail head to the summit

    • 5,600 ft. in elevation gain
    • Took 7.5 hours total (4.5 hours moving time)
    • Limited water on trail. "

    7. Timber Top Camp

    1 Review
    Big Sur, CA
    37 miles

    "It’s a ~2.8 mile hike in, but it is worth every step. Almost every hill top has a campsite, there is so many opportunities for stays."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pinnacles National Park

58 Reviews of 9 Pinnacles National Park Campgrounds



Guide to Pinnacles National Park

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pinnacles National Park in California, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers unique spots for camping that allow you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Pinnacles National Park

  • Enjoy the peaceful surroundings at Tumey Hills Box Canyon, where the green hills provide a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploring.
  • Experience the thrill of target practice at Tumey Hills, which is known for its shooting range, making it a unique spot for those interested in firearms.
  • Take advantage of the nearby amenities at Williams Hill Recreation Area, where you can enjoy hiking trails and beautiful views while being just a short drive from gas stations and restaurants.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Bluff Camp

  • Hike into Bluff Camp for a backcountry experience along the Carmel River Trail, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature and the challenge of river crossings.
  • Be prepared for a true wilderness experience, as this location offers no facilities, so pack in your own supplies and enjoy the solitude of the Ventana Wilderness.
  • The scenic beauty of the area is complemented by the opportunity to spot wildlife, making it a great choice for nature enthusiasts.

Cone Peak: A Must-Visit for Dispersed Campers

  • The challenging hike to Cone Peak rewards you with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment, perfect for those seeking adventure.
  • With no amenities available, this spot is ideal for experienced campers who appreciate the beauty of backcountry camping and are prepared to pack out their waste.
  • The stunning sunsets from the summit create unforgettable memories, making the effort to reach this dispersed camping area worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pinnacles National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pinnacles National Park is Williams Hill Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 27 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pinnacles National Park?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Pinnacles National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.