Primitive camping near Santa Margarita, California sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,400 feet, creating dramatic temperature drops after sunset. The region experiences seasonal wind patterns, with strongest gusts typically occurring from late afternoon through evening hours. Vehicle access to most dispersed sites requires navigating unpaved roads that can deteriorate following winter rainfall.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Several pullouts on TV Tower Road serve as starting points for mountain bike routes. "Arrived on motorcycle at 10:30 at night... The view to the west is stunning, a sea of clouds and islands of distant mountain peaks all the way to the coast," notes Kyle K. about the panoramic riding opportunities.
Wildlife watching: Dawn hours offer optimal wildlife viewing with birds of prey common throughout the area. "Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites," reports Sebastian D. who camped at TV Tower Road.
Stargazing conditions: Clear nights reveal exceptional star visibility due to minimal light pollution. "The stars are beautiful and it's very quiet and cool. Got cold at night but nothing unbearable, lovely sunrise too," explains Caitlyn R. about her TV Tower Road experience.
What campers like
Ridge camping isolation: Many visitors appreciate the remote feeling despite proximity to populated areas. "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," notes G D. about Other Pullout on TV Tower Road.
Temperature variations: Higher elevation sites offer cooler temperatures during summer months. "Nice spot for large rv, but road up is winding. Great views. Great way to get a little bit cooler," explains Robert from his experience at Other Pullout on TV Tower Road.
Morning visibility: Clear mornings provide extensive visibility across San Luis Obispo County. "We 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," describes Kyle K. about the TV Tower Road vistas.
What you should know
Road surface conditions: Access roads can deteriorate rapidly after rainfall. "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," reports Caitlyn R. about TV Tower Road terrain.
Limited parking area: Most pullout sites accommodate 1-2 vehicles maximum. "Drive up was a little nerve wracking, but found a pull out for 2 vans and it was perfect," notes melissa about her experience at Other Pullout on TV Tower Road.
Insect preparation: Bring insect repellent for seasonal bug activity. "But thankfully I had bugspray the insect problem was solved," explains Sebastian D. regarding his TV Tower Road stay.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Choose spots farther from cliff edges for safety with children. "The spot is honestly wonderful! Such great views, quiet, not even too windy," shares Ala B. about finding family-suitable locations at TV Tower Road.
Weather protection: Pack extra layers for children as temperatures drop significantly after sunset. "It was very quiet and walking down the road was pleasant as there weren't any OHVs riding around on a Monday," notes Laura M. about Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping.
Alternative options: Consider developed sites nearby when primitive camping becomes challenging. "This is a great BLM campground with picnic tables, fire rings, and picnic shelters. Pretty much the only option for this setup anywhere around," explains Erik I. about Williams Hill Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size limitations: Most dispersed sites near Santa Margarita cannot accommodate large RVs. "Most of the spots only accommodate like van size and down," warns Rio S. about Williams Hill Recreation Area.
Level parking challenges: Finding flat spots for larger vehicles requires careful site selection. "7 mile dirt road at times a bit steep and rough. But we made it up here slowly and safely," shares Adam B. regarding his 27-foot RV at Williams Hill Recreation Area.
Turn-around space: Check for adequate space to maneuver before proceeding up narrow roads. "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," reports Brett L. about the challenging but manageable access at Williams Hill.
