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Best Dispersed Camping near Taft, CA

12 Reviews

Dispersed camping opportunities near Taft, California include several primitive sites scattered around the region. Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed offers drive-in tent and RV camping with campfires permitted on open, rolling hills with minimal shade. A visitor noted, "The stars were quite visible with minimal light pollution," though winter temperatures can drop significantly lower than forecasted. Old Sierra Madre provides car camping spots along hillsides with some road noise from the highway. The area features several pull-off locations suitable for smaller vehicles, particularly vans and car campers.

Most dispersed sites around Taft lack basic amenities—no drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Caliente Mtn Ranch and Los Padres National Forest offer free camping options, though fire restrictions apply in many areas. Roads to sites like Morrow Hill can be challenging, with one camper mentioning, "The road is a little tricky and we almost wouldn't have driven there." Visitors should verify locations carefully, as some areas border private property. Cell service varies by location, with Old Sierra Madre noted for good connectivity despite its remote setting.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Taft, California (12)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Taft, CA

10 Photos of 12 Taft Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Taft, CA

12 Reviews of 12 Taft Campgrounds

  • robherr The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2018

    Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness

    Windy and high, Chorma Camp is a quick stop

    Chorma Camp is the first spot you will encounter on the hike south through Cherry Creek. 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.

    There are no amenities at any of the campsites in this area, they are all primitive dispersed camp areas.

    Continuing on past Chorma if you can make it to Maple it is better campsite down in the valley.

  • Gert K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2025

    Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed

    Beautiful and peaceful

    Beautiful hilly landscape. Despite the absence of trees or bushes for shadow, we had a wonderful evening here, on our way to santa barbara. At the mentioned location we soon encountered a sign saying the motorized vehicles are prohibited from that point on. We drove a bit further down the main road than the gps location suggests, and took the next road to find a spot. The area map with zones for dispersed camping is not too clear, but it seems that you can camp to a certain distance from the main road, and this distance varies. After taking the next road, we found a simple semi-prepared spot. Some warm breezes in the evening, silent night with great views of the night sky.

  • Natalie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 23, 2024

    Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed

    Rolling Hills & Plains

    ☆ No target shooting allowed ☆ Arrived on a drizzly day & tried going further down the road to other more secluded camping spots. However the dirt road was slick & minivan, loaded down, was slipping & sliding. Backtracked to a nice spot, camaflouged by a small hill, it'll protect my gear tent. This is open castle range.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Lovely hillside spots

    Picked the first nook from the GPS pin but hiked up road and there are quite a few others, some shaded, some exposed. Bit of highway noise.

  • Jonathan E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2025

    Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed

    Peaceful and Beautiful

    I visited in January on my way to the Bay Area and loved this campsite. I didn’t see anyone else around, nor did I see any wildlife, so it was very quiet and peaceful. 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.

    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.

    All in all, great site and I would definitely return if I need a place to camp in the area again.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 4, 2025

    Old Sierra Madre

    Great for Van camping

    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

  • Jessica P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2021

    Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp

    Good place after a long hike

    This site is next to chorro grande trail which is about a 9 mile hike. After your long hike of you want to rest go up the mountain site across and it’s an awesome place to camp out. This is dispersed campsite. You will also come across many people parked on the side for those who hike the trails so if you go up the little hill mountain you can camp out peacefully with awesome sunrise and sunsets.

  • Paul O.
    Mar. 28, 2022

    Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp

    No disperse camping allowed along the 33.

    There is a nice hike-in campsite about 1.5 miles up the Chorro Grande trail called Oak Camp. I think the other review here might be unintentionally implying that camping along the 33 is allowed. It isn't. This is from the district web page:

    "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."

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Old Sierra Madre

    Nice Car Camping Spot

    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. But I only went a little past where the directions take you, so not sure what else is up there.

    Arrived just at sunset and loved the views! It was very peaceful and far enough from the highway. It seemed like the same truck was driving up and down a couple times which was the only downfall.

    Overall a good experience.

Guide to Taft

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Taft, California, where nature awaits with stunning landscapes and serene spots to unwind. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a peaceful retreat, these locations offer a unique camping experience.

Scenic Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • The Old Sierra Madre area features lovely hillside spots, providing a mix of shaded and exposed areas perfect for setting up camp.
  • If you're seeking a peaceful environment, the Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp offers a tranquil setting next to hiking trails, ideal for unwinding after a long day of exploration.
  • For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness is a great starting point for hikes, although be prepared for windy conditions.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Taft, California

  • Always check for specific regulations, as some areas like the Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp have restrictions on camping along certain highways.
  • Bring your own supplies, as amenities are limited at spots like Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness, which is a primitive site with no facilities.
  • For a more accessible option, consider the Old Sierra Madre, which is easy to find and offers a straightforward drive-in experience.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Old Sierra Madre

  • The Old Sierra Madre is well-reviewed for its easy access and level spots, making it a great choice for a quick night of camping.
  • Enjoy the views and peaceful atmosphere, as this area is far enough from the highway to provide a relaxing escape.
  • While some spots may be small and rocky, the scenic drive and surrounding nature make it a worthwhile destination for dispersed campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Taft dispersed camping located?

Taft dispersed camping areas are located in California, primarily in the Los Padres National Forest region. Specific locations include Old Sierra Madre, which features hilly terrain with spots suitable for vans and smaller vehicles. The area offers beautiful views and is accessible via drive-in routes. Some sites are situated along forest roads with varying degrees of accessibility depending on vehicle size and weather conditions.

What are the rules for dispersed camping at Taft?

Dispersed camping rules at Taft generally prohibit camping directly along Highway 33 and in designated no-camping zones. At Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp, camping is allowed in designated areas, but not randomly along roads. Be aware of private property boundaries, as noted at Morrow hill dispersed where staying outside marked areas can result in trespassing issues. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and check for fire restrictions which vary seasonally.

Is Taft dispersed camping free?

Yes, Taft dispersed camping areas are typically free to use. Sites like Carrizzo Plain National Monument Dispersed and Caliente Mtn Ranch Dispersed don't charge entrance or camping fees. These areas provide budget-friendly options for overnight stays while exploring the region. However, while there's no cost, these free sites generally offer no amenities - you'll need to be self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and other camping necessities.

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