Dispersed camping opportunities near Solvang, California extend throughout the Los Padres National Forest, where elevations range from 1,800 to 8,800 feet across various sites. The region's Mediterranean climate creates mild winters and hot, dry summers, with coastal influence moderating temperatures at lower elevations. Most primitive camping locations require self-sufficiency, with no established facilities and variable road conditions that worsen after winter rains.
What to do
Stargazing at night: Carrizzo Plain National Monument offers exceptional dark sky viewing with minimal light pollution. Jonathan E. reports, "The stars were also quite visible with minimal light pollution. The area is hilly and beautiful with enough flatness and openness to pitch a tent without issue."
Hiking coastal trails: Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry provides extensive hiking opportunities with ocean views. Kathleen L. shares, "It's only 4-miles from harbor to campsite, but it's mostly uphill. My friends were beginner backpackers so it was a bit tiring, but it was over quick and I still think it's a great trip for beginners."
Wildlife observation: Island foxes are frequently spotted on Santa Cruz Island. Tom M. notes, "Camped at site 1, had the most wind but also the best views of the ocean. Food storage locker provided to protect food from sneaky foxes."
What campers like
Solitude and isolation: Old Sierra Madre offers secluded spots with varying levels of privacy. Jason R. mentions, "Picked the first nook from the GPS pin but hiked up road and there are quite a few others, some shaded, some exposed."
Morning views: Sunrise viewing is particularly rewarding at higher elevation sites. A camper at Morrow Hill Dispersed observed, "We had a great and quiet night up there in our 21ft RV... Great view in the morning, beautiful. Would def come back."
Accessibility for smaller vehicles: Many areas accommodate standard cars and vans without requiring specialized equipment. Connor B. wrote about Old Sierra Madre, "pretty easy to find, road is also easy to drive. found a pretty good level spot, definitely camping right off the side of the road. pretty nice and low key tho."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Most dispersed sites have strict fire regulations that vary by location and season. At Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness, fires are prohibited year-round. A visitor cautions, "Situated high on a bluff it gets lots of wind, and with very little shelter around to break it, if you camp here you will get the brunt of it."
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires careful navigation, especially after rain. At Morrow Hill, Mareike W. advises, "The road is a little tricky and we almost wouldn't have driven there. Make sure, you really stay at the place up the hill (coordinates) otherwise the landlord will clarify that you're on private property."
Restricted zones: Not all public land allows primitive camping. Paul O. clarifies about Los Padres National Forest, "Disperse camping is NOT allowed on Hwy 33, the Rose Valley Recreation Area or the Pine Mountain Recreation Area or Matilija Canyon Rd. These are Restricted Use Zones."
Tips for camping with families
Water planning: Since most dispersed sites have no water sources, calculate family needs carefully. Kate W. from Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry advises, "Take advantage and hike as far as you can- it's unreal! But bring a ton of water because you'll want it!"
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, especially in winter. Jonathan E. warns about Carrizzo Plain, "It was about 15 degrees (F) colder than was forecasted (20 F vs 35 F) at night, so be prepared to be a bit chilly if visiting during the winter."
Storage solutions: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage. A visitor to Santa Cruz Island notes, "The crows are unruly so watch your belongings, and the fox are cute but sneaky... use the food storage boxes to protect your food from the foxes."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Figueroa Mountain Road Pullout 01 has terrain restrictions that limit larger vehicles. Roland L. reports, "The site is all up hill and really only has a small area where a few vans can fit. But the views are awesome."
Leveling challenges: Finding flat spots can be difficult in mountainous terrain. Elyse B. suggests about Old Sierra Madre, "Pretty solid! Had great cell service and was a lovely drive to get there. Probably wouldn't recommend if you have a tent or RV as the spots were a little small and rocky."
Road narrowness: Many forest roads become progressively narrower, creating turnaround difficulties. Jacob B. advises, "Easy spots to turn around and park. Beautiful views, slight road noise if you're not in the van but quiet inside. Wouldn't recommend anything bigger than a extended sprinter or transit."
