Dispersed camping near San Simeon, California frequently places campers above the marine layer at elevations between 1,800-3,000 feet. These high-elevation sites experience significant temperature fluctuations, with daytime summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F dropping to 45-55°F at night. Road closures occur regularly during wet winter months when erosion and washouts make access impossible.
What to do
Stargazing after sunset: Williams Hill Recreation Area offers exceptional night sky viewing conditions due to minimal light pollution. According to Anniek, "The view is amazing!! I would recommend driving up the mountain through Lockwood, the drive is much easier and less scary."
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers at Plaskett Ridge Dispersed Campground can spot deer, wild turkeys, and raptors. Ken K. notes it's "Amazing location to wake up in the morning. View of the pacific ocean on one side and valley on the other."
Mountain biking: The TV Tower Road area features multiple off-road trails suitable for intermediate riders. Henry D. confirms the location has "Pretty sick views" and "Lots of spots" for parking bikes and camping gear.
Photography: Visit during spring (March-May) for wildflower displays along ridgelines. Kristian W. found "a perfect pullout overlooking the ocean between two apple trees, blissful to say the least" at Plaskett Ridge.
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: Most dispersed areas near San Simeon see minimal traffic Monday through Thursday. At Other Pullout on TV Tower Road, Sarah M. arrived "around 2pm and was the only car in sight until 4 ish."
Above-fog camping: Many sites sit above coastal fog, creating unique views. Joe V. at Will Creek Road Dispersed reported, "We were above the marine layer and the stars were something else never seen before."
Budget-friendly options: All dispersed camping sites near San Simeon are free with no reservation requirements. Kristian W. called Plaskett Ridge "a perfect campground for Big Sur, just past the Plaskett Creek campground which is expensive and requires reservations."
Diverse terrain: From ridge tops to canyon bottoms, camping options vary widely. Julian T. found that at Other Pullout on TV Tower Road, "The road up the hill was small and rough, but the view is worth it! Only a few other campers were there."
What you should know
High winds common: Strong evening winds affect most ridge locations, especially during summer. G D. notes that TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping is "Windy at night for sure, and can be a bit busy with people going past on the road."
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many access routes deteriorate after rain. Emily H. warns Will Creek Road "gets really steep and sandy, I was in an HRV and made it. Though my car is super scratched up now."
Limited cell coverage: Signal strength varies dramatically between sites, with ridge tops generally providing better reception. Rio S. reported that at Williams Hill Recreation Area there was "Good cell service. Nice pit toilet."
Strict fire regulations: Year-round fire bans apply to most sites. Tom Collins from the Big Sur Community Association reminds visitors: "campfires are NOT permitted outside of established campgrounds during the summer months. This is crucial to prevent forest fires."
Site availability fluctuates: Arrive early on weekends to secure spots. Ryan K. notes about Williams Hill Recreation Area: "I've been twice now and both times the actual camp sites were full by the time I got there (2-3pm Friday)."
Tips for camping with families
Best family site: Williams Hill Recreation Area provides the most infrastructure for children. Ariel W. confirms "Campsites all have a fire ring, and a shaded picnic table. There's a long drop toilet."
Insect preparation: Pack insect repellent for gnats and mosquitoes. Erik I. warns, "This is a great BLM campground with picnic tables, fire rings, and picnic shelters... However, the gnats, bees, mosquitoes, and flies are relentless!"
Safety considerations: Keep children away from unstable edges at ridge camping spots. Kate N. cautions that at Plaskett Ridge, "Going up or down that road is only for 4x4 and keep an eye out for crazy drivers. One lane road in many spots."
Weather planning: Pack layers for children due to significant temperature drops at night. Several campers note the need for warm sleeping bags even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs (under 25 feet). Rio S. advises that at Williams Hill "I wouldn't advise big RVs coming up here. Most of the spots only accommodate like van size and down."
Road challenges: Access roads require careful navigation. Adam B. reports about Williams Hill: "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... Nice spot just not a fan of taking a 27 foot 1996 RV up that road."
Leveling difficulties: Most pullouts feature uneven terrain. Robert notes that Other Pullout on TV Tower Road offers a "Nice spot for large rv, but road up is winding. Great views. Great way to get a little bit cooler."
Washboard surfaces: Prepare for slow travel on rutted roads. Brett L. shares that at Williams Hill "Our transmission did start heating up as the road was filled with washboard and it was steep and we had to go pretty slow."
