Top Free Dispersed Camping near Taft, CA

Looking for dispersed camping near Taft? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Taft, CA (8)

    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Sierra Madre
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp

    2. Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp

    2 Reviews
    3 Photos
    57 Saves
    • Pets
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness
    • No image available
      • No image available

        5. Old Sierra Madre - Medicine Bow National Forest Dispersed

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        3 Saves

        Contact the ranger station for disperse camping information: (805) 925-9538 Mon-Fri, 8:00-4:30pm.

        • Dispersed
        • No image available
          • No image available

            7. Lane Ranch Campground — Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area

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            15 Saves

            Hungry Valley SVRA is the third largest unit of California State Park's Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division. Located in the Tejon Pass north of Los Angeles and along the Interstate 5 corridor, Hungry Valley offers 19,000 acres and more than 130 miles of scenic trails for motorcycle, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV), dune buggies, and 4x4 recreation. All levels of OHV operator skills will be challenged by the wide variety of terrain and trails at Hungry Valley SVRA.

            Elevations at Hungry Valley range from 3,000 to nearly 6,000 feet. Occasional snowfalls occur during the winter. Summers are most often hot, dry and dusty. The most pleasant times of the year for OHV fun are during the Spring and Fall months when the temperatures are mild and occasional rain showers make for good traction and reduced dust. Nighttime temperatures often drop below freezing in the Spring and Fall, as well as during the Winter.

            The wide variety of trails at Hungry Valley provides excitement for both beginner and experienced off-roaders. For experienced OHVers challenging trails can be found in the hills and sand washes of the back- country section of the SVRA. Beginners can enjoy the scenery and relative ease of the trails in the Native Grasslands Management Area. Trails in the adjoining Los Padres National Forest are recommended for experienced riders only.

            Recreational Land Management Providing long-term, sustained OHV recreation opportunity is a top priority in SVRA Management. Provisions in California law require actions to stabilize soils and to provide for healthy wildlife populations in OHV recreation areas. Projects are ongoing to stabilize soil areas by reshaping slopes, reseeding and replanting bare areas. Vegetation creates wildlife habitat while plant roots help stabilize the soil. Project areas are temporarily closed to OHV use through the use of barriers, such as fences, hay bales, brush piles and signing. Where possible, well-designed OHV trails are provided through project areas. Other project areas may be closed for a number of years before being opened again for OHV use. Your understanding and support in staying out of areas closed for restoration helps ensure OHV recreation opportunities for years to come.

            Where to get help The State Park Rangers who patrol Hungry Valley SVRA are peace officers, who are trained Emergency Medical Responders. Entrance station employees and park maintenance personnel can also summon medical help. If no State Park personnel are available, dial 911 from any telephone. Pay phones are located at many business locations in Gorman. Cellular telephone coverage is intermittent throughout most of the SVRA. There are no emergency medical facilities in Gorman. The nearest hospital to Hungry Valley SVRA is Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, located approximately 30 miles to the south in Valencia. To drive to the hospital, take Interstate Highway 5 south to the McBean Parkway exit and turn left (east) on McBean Parkway. Henry Mayo Hospital is located approximately one mile from I-5 on the left-hand side at 23845 McBean Parkway.

            • Fires
            • RVs
            • Tents
            • Dispersed
            • Toilets
            • No image available

            Recent Dispersed Reviews In Taft

            3 Reviews of 8 Taft Campgrounds


            • Paul O.
              Camper-submitted photo from Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp
              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."

            • Jessica P.
              Camper-submitted photo from Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp
              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.

            • robherr
              Camper-submitted photo from Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness
              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.



            Guide to Taft

            Camping near Taft, California, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to bustling campgrounds, there's something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

            What to do:

            • Boating and Fishing: At Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy boating and fishing. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is perfect for boating, but since it’s a drinking water reservoir, there is no body contact with this body of water."
            • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Lopez Lake Recreation Area. A camper noted, "Hilly area, lots of trails, lots of rain," highlighting the area's natural beauty.
            • Beach Activities: Refugio State Beach Campground is great for beach lovers. One visitor shared, "Every campsite is a few steps from the beach, made picturesque by a line of palm trees."

            What campers like:

            • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Bakersfield River Run RV Park. A reviewer said, "Clean, grassy, bath houses and laundry, many different flowers, pool and hot tub."
            • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the generous space at Orange Grove RV Park. One camper mentioned, "Large sites, semi-private with orange trees, pool, clubhouse, laundry, dog areas and VERY clean."
            • Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views at Emma Wood State Beach. A visitor noted, "Ocean almost comes to your doorstep."

            What you should know:

            • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wheeler Gorge Campground, lack certain amenities. A camper pointed out, "No running water available; fire ban."
            • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can get busy. One reviewer at Lopez Lake Recreation Area said, "Way too crowded for our taste."
            • Wildlife Precautions: Be aware of wildlife, especially at places like Wheeler Gorge Campground. A camper shared, "They let us know there was a bear in the area."

            Tips for camping with families:

            • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Lake Casitas Recreation Area. One family mentioned, "The campground is broken down into a bunch of different camping loops, each with different amenities and vibe."
            • Plan for Meals: Bring enough food and snacks, as some campgrounds, like Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, have limited stores. A camper noted, "The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something."
            • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A reviewer at Refugio State Beach Campground mentioned, "Children riding scooters, children riding bicycles, children driving a Barbie jeep."

            Tips from RVers:

            • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of RV sites, especially at Bakersfield River Run RV Park. One RVer said, "The pull-through sites alternate direction of entry."
            • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds, like Orange Grove RV Park, can have highway noise. A camper noted, "At times you can hear the freeway and trains passing by."
            • Bring Your Own Firewood: Many campgrounds do not provide firewood, so it's best to bring your own. A visitor at Emma Wood State Beach mentioned, "There are large bin trash cans for trash."

            Camping near Taft, California, has its unique charm and challenges. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there's a campground that fits your needs.

            Frequently Asked Questions

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

              According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Taft, CA is Old Sierra Madre with a 4-star rating from 3 reviews.

            • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Taft, CA?

              TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Taft, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.