Dispersed camping near Soledad, California ranges from high-elevation backcountry campsites at 5,000+ feet to lower valley options with seasonal wildflower displays. The camping region sits at the northern edge of the Ventana Wilderness where coastal mountain terrain creates significant temperature variations—sites above 3,000 feet may be sunny while coastal areas remain fog-covered. Most access roads close during winter storms and after significant rainfall.
What to do
Backpack to Timber Top Camp: Hike the 2.8-mile trail to reach panoramic viewpoints with established campsites on multiple hilltops. At Timber Top Camp, campers discover "the most beautiful camping spot I have ever stayed at. It's worth every step. Almost every hill top has a campsite, there are so many opportunities for stays. Even if you can't make it to the top, there are spots to camp all along the trail!"
Challenge yourself with summit camping: Advanced hikers can tackle the 11.1-mile trek to Cone Peak for unparalleled views. The trail gains 5,600 feet in elevation and takes approximately 7.5 hours round trip. One backpacker notes: "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 from the wind."
Target practice at designated areas: For those interested in shooting sports, Tumey Hills offers space for target practice. Be aware that this area serves dual purposes, as one visitor observed: "I couldn't really identify this place as a campground. It is a shooting range. If you're in to target practice you'd give it a five."
What campers like
Above-fog experiences: Camping on ridges often puts you above the marine layer. At Will Creek Road Dispersed, one camper shared: "You'll find the best spot inside the marine layer, this was the best." Another noted: "Above the fog line and beautiful views! I recommend four wheel drive to go to the place in the pictures above."
Solitude during weekdays: Most dispersed camping areas see significantly fewer visitors midweek. One reviewer at Plaskett Ridge Dispersed Campground observed: "Amazing location to wake up in the morning. View of the pacific ocean on one side and valley on the other. Fairly safe, clean, and not crowded."
Night sky viewing: Ridgetop locations offer exceptional stargazing conditions when clear. A visitor to Will Creek Road reported: "We were above the marine layer and the stars were something else never seen before."
What you should know
Road difficulty varies significantly: Many sites require driving on unmaintained roads with steep sections. At Williams Hill Recreation Area, a camper warned: "7 mile dirt road at times a bit steep and rough. But we made it up here slowly and safely. Nice spot just not a fan of taking a 27 foot 1996 RV up that road."
Seasonal closures are common: Forest roads frequently close during winter and after storms. A visitor to Will Creek Road reported in December 2024: "Attempted to camp and the road was closed. Beautiful views on the way, but unfortunately the gate was locked."
No fires allowed in summer months: Fire restrictions are strictly enforced. A local official 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, which we've struggled with in the past."
Tips for camping with families
Pack adequate water supplies: No water sources exist at most dispersed sites. For Bluff Camp, backpackers need filtration equipment: "This is backcountry backpacking, so no potable water - bring a filter."
Choose developed sites for easier access: Families should consider Williams Hill Recreation Area for its more stable road conditions and facilities. A recent visitor noted: "Campsites all have a fire ring, and a shaded picnic table. There's a long drop toilet. Beautiful views too."
Prepare for insects: Bug protection is essential, particularly during warmer months. One camper at Williams Hill observed: "This is a great BLM campground with picnic tables, fire rings, and picnic shelters. Pretty much the only option for this setup anywhere around. However, the gnats, bees, mosquitoes, and flies are relentless!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations affect campground choices: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Williams Hill, one camper advised: "Only 6 spots first come first serve and decently spaced out. The road in was dusty and kinda long way up a hill. I wouldn't advise big RVs coming up here. Most of the spots only accommodate like van size and down."
Arrive early for flat spots: Level parking areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor noted: "We arrived around 5:30pm (end of March) and there was only 1 spot left."
Monitor transmission temperature: The steep, washboard roads can strain vehicles. One RVer with a 30-foot travel trailer reported: "Our transmission did start heating up as the road was filled with washboard and it was steep and we had to go pretty slow."
