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Best Dispersed Camping near Salinas, CA

3 Reviews

Ventana Wilderness offers several backcountry camping options near Salinas, California. Accessible sites include Bluff Camp and Timber Top Camp, both requiring hikes along established trails. Bluff Camp sits along the Carmel River Trail with trailhead access at Los Padres Dam, requiring numerous river crossings. Timber Top Camp is approximately 2.8 miles from its trailhead, with campsites available along the trail and atop hills offering mountain and ocean views.

Cone Peak provides a more challenging backcountry experience, requiring an 11.1-mile hike with 5,600 feet of elevation gain to reach the summit camping area. Limited water sources exist on these trails, with none available near Cone Peak's summit. All sites require standard backcountry preparations: water filtration, pack-in/pack-out practices, and awareness of seasonal fire restrictions. According to one visitor, Cone Peak "was one of the most beautiful backpacking hikes I've ever done, but also one of the more challenging ones to do in one day." Poison oak is prevalent throughout the region, and trails may become impassable during certain seasons.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Salinas, California (4)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Salinas, CA

6 Photos of 4 Salinas Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Salinas, CA

3 Reviews of 4 Salinas Campgrounds

  • Austin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2019

    Bluff Camp

    Great Solo Backpacking Trip in Ventana Wilderness

    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.  The trail is pretty easy to follow, but crosses the river/creek extremely frequently.  I had to cross the river about 50 times in a weekend in an out & back trip.

    This is backcountry backpacking, so:

    • So potable water - bring a filter

    • Pack in pack out trash

    • Fires may be restricted

    • No restrooms or other facilities

    • Lots of poison oak

    • Trail may be impassable at some points

    I got in Friday afternoon so could only hike a few miles before dark.  The Bluff camp was the first real trail camp along the trail, but there are several more further on

    Here is the trail info:

    http://www.ventanawild.org/trails/ventana-wilderness-trails/carmel-river-trail

    Here is an interactive Map: http://bigsurtrailmap.net/interactivemap.html?latlon=36.0898,-121.5651&zoom=11&bkgmap=USGS+Quad+%2BWilderness&mode=trailmap&control=0

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 20, 2024

    Bluff Camp

    Drove Here to find it is on private property , this is not a campsite

    Private property, you can't even go through the road

  • Austin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 29, 2019

    Cone Peak

    Grueling but worthwile backpacking climb

    This was one of the most beautiful backpacking hikes I've ever done, but also one of the more challenging ones to do in one day.

    • 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.  Saw some springs during the first half but none within miles of the top

    Camping at the top was spectacular.  The sunset was one of the best I have ever seen.  There is an old outpost at the top that someone else was sleeping at to provide shelter for the wind (it was pretty vicious).  The hike down was much, much easier.

    Obviously this is back country camping, so

    • No water supply
    • Pack in Pack out
    • Limited to no cell service

Guide to Salinas

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Salinas, California, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of activities, this area offers a perfect escape for those looking to connect with nature.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Salinas, California

  • Always pack out what you pack in, as sites like Bluff Camp require you to leave no trace behind.

Cone Peak for dispersed campers

  • For those seeking breathtaking views, Cone Peak offers a challenging hike that rewards you with stunning sunsets and panoramic vistas.

Hiking and river crossings while free camping near Salinas

  • If you're up for an adventure, the trail to Bluff Camp involves frequent river crossings, making it a unique experience for backpackers looking to explore the Ventana Wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Salinas, CA?

Free dispersed camping near Salinas can be found in the Los Padres National Forest. Timber Top Camp offers beautiful free sites about 2.8 miles from the trailhead via hiking, with multiple camping opportunities along hilltops and the trail. Another option is Nacimiento Road Camp, which provides drive-in access for those who prefer not to backpack. Keep in mind that dispersed camping in this region often requires permits from the Forest Service, especially during fire season. Always pack out what you pack in, follow Leave No Trace principles, and check current forest conditions before heading out.

Is there BLM land available for camping near Salinas?

While there is limited Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land immediately around Salinas for camping, nearby Los Padres National Forest offers similar dispersed camping opportunities. Cone Peak is located within Forest Service land and provides beautiful backpacking destinations. This challenging 11.1-mile trail with 5,600 feet of elevation gain rewards campers with stunning views. Note that most public lands near Salinas fall under Forest Service rather than BLM jurisdiction. Always check with the Monterey Ranger District of Los Padres National Forest for current regulations, fire restrictions, and required wilderness permits before heading out.

What secluded camping spots can I find around Salinas?

For truly secluded camping around Salinas, Bluff Camp offers a remote experience along the Carmel River Trail in the Ventana Wilderness. This backcountry camp requires hiking from the Los Padres Dam trailhead and involves numerous river crossings. Note that recent reports indicate access issues may exist, so verify current status before visiting. For those seeking different secluded options, the Los Padres National Forest contains numerous hidden gems accessible via hiking trails. Most secluded sites in this region require wilderness permits, have no facilities, and follow strict fire regulations. Prepare for self-sufficient camping with proper navigation tools and water filtration systems.

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