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Top Free Dispersed Camping near Spreckels, CA

2 Reviews

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Spreckels? Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your California camping adventure.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Spreckels, CA (2)

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Spreckels

2 Reviews of 2 Spreckels Campgrounds

  • Austin C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluff Camp
    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

  • Austin C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cone Peak
    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 Spreckels

Camping near Spreckels, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Pinnacles Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "By day, of course, the trails are wild, like a moonscape."
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campers have spotted wildlife in the area. One camper at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground noted, "Seen a ton of wildlife and overall wasn’t very crowded."
  • Star Gazing: The dark skies around Kirk Creek Campground make it perfect for star gazing. A visitor shared, "Great views. Very dark at night which is great for star gazing."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views at Kirk Creek Campground. One review stated, "small hilltop campground with amazing sunrise and sunset view."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground said, "The bathroom/showers were cleaned regularly and stocked with shampoo conditioner and shower gel."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like New Brighton State Beach Campground are great for families. One reviewer mentioned, "Lots of families and lots of kids. Cool weather along the beach, can't ask for much more."

What you should know:

  • Heat in Summer: If you're camping at Pinnacles Campground, be prepared for the heat. One camper warned, "It is WICKED hot in the summer."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kirk Creek Campground, have minimal amenities. A visitor noted, "There are pit toilets and trash cans, but basically no other amenities."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at California Veterans Memorial Park Campground advised, "Your best bet to get a site is to show up a day or two early."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground that offer playgrounds and easy access to trails. One parent mentioned, "The playground was well maintained and modern."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand is a must. A camper at New Brighton State Beach Campground said, "Bathrooms were fine, no lines ever. Lots of cute dogs."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. A visitor at Big Sur Campground & Cabins noted, "The playground was well maintained and modern."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Mount Madonna County Park mentioned, "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great!"
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A visitor at Kirk Creek Campground noted, "No cell service or showers."
  • Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, arrive early. A camper at California Veterans Memorial Park Campground suggested, "We arrived around 11 and had no problem finding a camp spot."

Camping near Spreckels, California, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Spreckels, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Spreckels, CA is Bluff Camp with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.