Best Dispersed Camping near Templeton, CA

Dispersed camping opportunities near Templeton, California include several free primitive sites on public lands. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping offers ridge-top camping with expansive views of Morro Bay, Los Osos, and San Luis Obispo. Williams Hill Recreation Area, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), features seven designated sites with covered picnic tables and fire rings. Los Padres National Forest also provides dispersed camping options along forest roads. According to reviews, Williams Hill Recreation Area includes "one vault toilet, sometimes runs out of toilet paper on a busy weekend, picnic tables with shelter and fire pits."

Road conditions vary significantly between sites. TV Tower Road requires careful navigation on narrow, winding dirt roads with limited passing areas. Several campers noted it becomes "narrow, steep, unmaintained, and surrounded by cliffs" in some sections. Williams Hill Recreation Area access involves 5-7 miles of washboard dirt road that can be rough but is generally passable for most vehicles. Four-wheel drive is recommended for Will Creek Road and Plasket Ridge. Weekends typically see higher traffic on all roads, especially during summer months.

These primitive sites require self-sufficiency. No drinking water is available at any location, and campers must pack out all trash. Fire restrictions are common during dry months, with complete bans typically in effect throughout summer. Cell service ranges from good (Williams Hill) to non-existent (coastal sites). Temperatures vary seasonally, with coastal sites experiencing fog and wind. Night temperatures can drop significantly, even in summer. Wildlife encounters are possible, with wild boar and deer sightings reported near Williams Hill. The 14-day stay limit applies to BLM lands.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Templeton, California (9)

    1. TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Santa Margarita, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 865-0416

    "The road was a bit sketchy, any 4WD would be fine I think. I took my mini van and camped at a turn out along the road because I was a bit hesitant, but again, others would probably be fine."

    "We came up to TV tower road and found a great spot to pull the car into, with a little trail that pulls off to a spot to pitch the tent."

    2. Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site

    6 Reviews
    Santa Margarita, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 925-9538

    "Best with a decent clearance 4wd - definitely not an RV spot. Windy at night for sure, and can be a bit busy with people going past on the road."

    "Got there around 2pm and was the only car in sight until 4 ish when a car pulled up and parked for the night 5 feet away from me 🙄 RUDE!!"

    3. Williams Hill Recreation Area

    31 Reviews
    Jolon, CA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 582-2200

    "Amenities include one vault toilet, sometimes runs out of toilet paper on a busy weekend, picnic tables with shelter and fire pits. No water, no trash, fire bans most the dry months."

    "Sites have covered shelter with metal picnic tables with overhangs for stove and a fire ring. Sites 5 and 7 suitable for larger rigs. Site 5 is pull thru will accommodate 40ft+ rig and pull vehicle."

    4. Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping

    1 Review
    Santa Margarita, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 865-0416

    "Turning on Redhill Road from hwy 58 follow the dirt road about 2 miles to the intersection of Redhill and Fernandez."

    5. Will Creek Road Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    47 miles

    "Dispersed camping all along the trail, despite a sign saying no car camping. It was a 45 min (6 mile) trip up a dirt road but boy was it worth it."

    "I’m surprised I haven’t known about this little gem that is only 2 hours away from me. Above the fog line and beautiful views!!"

    6. Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

    7 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 242-0619

    "It's a very dry summer & residents are on edge - just a reminder:

    "Hey campers!"

    "Amazing location to wake up in the morning. View of the pacific ocean on one side and valley on the other. 4x4 vehicle needed. Fairly safe, clean, and not crowded."

    7. Old Sierra Madre

    4 Reviews
    Carrizo Plain National Monument, CA
    48 miles

    "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."

    "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"

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Templeton, CA

94 Reviews of 9 Templeton Campgrounds


  • Wandering C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 24, 2023

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Free BLM

    Amenities include one vault toilet, sometimes runs out of toilet paper on a busy weekend, picnic tables with shelter and fire pits. No water, no trash, fire bans most the dry months.

  • Robin L.
    Oct. 24, 2021

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Listen to the Quiet

    7 sites suitable for tents, vans, rv's, tt. Sites have covered shelter with metal picnic tables with overhangs for stove and a fire ring. Sites 5 and 7 suitable for larger rigs. Site 5 is pull thru will accommodate 40ft+ rig and pull vehicle. Site 7 is back-in site pull vehicle parks on one side of shelter, 40'+ capable. These sites are dry camping with vault toilet. Offers views of Coastal Range on west Salinas Valley on right. Eastern road from San Ardo/PCH unpaved, washboard on lower end, no steep grades. Turn onto W1 is close for larger rigs as well as turn into campground. Directly opposite of campground entrance is extra large flat dispersed site capable of any length. Road up is narrow must yield to downhill traffic. No electric hookups gens allowed but be mindful of neighbors.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 22, 2021

    Los Padres National Forest dispersed camping

    Free Dispersed Camping

    Turning on Redhill Road from hwy 58 follow the dirt road about 2 miles to the intersection of Redhill and Fernandez. This spot, and there are others, is right at the intersection so it can have some traffic with residents that live further down the road and OHV riders. It is a good spot for the night or to stay while you bike or ride ATVs. We stayed one night. It was very quiet and walking down the road was pleasant as there weren't any OHVs riding around on a Monday.

    It is a fairly flat spot and we had no trouble with our 26ft Class C. The road in is wide and dirt with some washboard but fairly smooth overall. Further down the road is Navajo Flat Campground which is $20/night with additional fees. (see review of Navajo Flat campground) This spot is in National Forest Land so we camped for free. There seem to be other areas for dispersed camping but be mindful of the private property areas.

    There is zero amenities so pack in and pack out. There is no water, garbage or fire pits. Cell service is spotty with Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. Download map before you come so you don't camp on private land.

    Campfires are allowed with permit.

    Overall a nice place to stay, quiet at night less traffic on weekdays. We would stay here again.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Free established BLM campground

    We stayed here for 3 nights in the summer, arriving on a Sunday, and it was great. I was worried about the heat, but it really wasn’t too bad, even on the hot days (low 90s) it cools down in the evening and didn’t get hot until early afternoon. Just be sure to get one of the shady spots! We set up in site #1 when we first arrived because it was private and had nice views, but it was way too much direct sun. We moved to #4 and it was much better- shady and even better views. 

    There were other people here when we stayed here but everyone was very quiet and respectful, and we didn’t hear any shooting like other reviews have mentioned— this may be due to the ban on shooting (and camp fires) at this time because of fire danger, but I was still impressed and surprised that people respected the ban. There is one pit toilet that we didn’t check out, but man you can smell it if you camp in one of the sites near to it. 

    We saw one volunteer/employee come and clean things up while we were here. We were pleasantly surprised that the trash wasn’t too bad here. No trash service so please pack out your waste. Cell service is good up at the campground, though you do lose it in parts on the drive up. We made it up in our 26ft class c no problem, though the road is narrow at times and we were glad we didn’t come across any oncoming traffic. Sites are relatively flat/ fixable with levels. Two of the sites are huge/ pull throughs so would be good for bigger rigs or big groups. If you get up here and all the sites are taken, there are several spots outside of the campground where you can disperse camp. 

    This is an OHV area but we didn’t see any while we were here. We hiked along the OHV trails and there was nothing- but I could see it getting busy on the weekends. 

    There's a 14 day stay limit. No water provided up here.

    My only complaint was the BEES! They were everywhere and aggressive, and all in our face, but didn’t sting us. One of the campers said that this was unusual though. Really nice campground, amazing that it’s free! Thanks BLM!

  • J
    Jun. 9, 2021

    Will Creek Road Dispersed

    Unbelievable Spot

    My wife and I found this spot on our Honeymoon. Dispersed camping all along the trail, despite a sign saying no car camping. It was a 45 min (6 mile) trip up a dirt road but boy was it worth it. The trail continued toward a campsite, but we found a spot that we couldn’t pass up (see pics). We were above the marine layer and the stars were something else never seen before. Highly recommend. No campfires.

  • B
    Jun. 2, 2021

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Hard to believe that it is free

    We towed our 30' travel trailer up to this dispersed campground that is located along a ridge line on the west side of the 101.  When we went, of the (7) formal sites that are up there, only 3 of them were taken and that was off and on.   We didn't need 4x4 getting up there or even a high clearance vehicle.  Our transmission did start heating up as the road was filled with washboard and it was steep and we had to go pretty slow.  However, any car will be able to make it up there.  The road was safe and relatively wide, but it drops off and you wouldn't stop until you got to the bottom.....  If the (7) spots are taken, there are at least 2 large areas before and after the camp ground that you can camp. 

    The view is fantastic, there is a really nice pit toilet, but I don't remember seeing any water hoses.

    Each of the (7) sites had a concrete pad with a covered picnic table and a BBQ pit!  Please pick up your trash if you go.  There was some beer cans and other garbage left behind by some mental midgets.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2024

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful View!

    The road was a bit sketchy, any 4WD would be fine I think. I took my mini van and camped at a turn out along the road because I was a bit hesitant, but again, others would probably be fine. There were lots of people going up the road until very late at night, then turning around and coming back down (I assume because there were no spots?) The stars are beautiful and it's very quiet and cool. Got cold at night but nothing unbearable, lovely sunrise too! I'd recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag and any essentials for dispersed camping. Honestly such a beautiful place, next time I'd like to find a space to set up my tent. Loved it!

  • Kristen The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 4, 2022

    Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

    Only when desperate

    Every campsite within an hour range of Big Sur was full, and it was getting dark so we opted for this road. It is the only road where dispersed camping is allowed but beware: it is narrow, steep, unmaintained, and surrounded by cliffs. If you happen upon a pull out that is not occupied, does not have a private property sign, and is somewhat flat, then it works as a spot to sleep that feels like you’re on the edge of the world.

  • Summer A.
    Jul. 17, 2022

    TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping

    Seclusion

    We came up to TV tower road and found a great spot to pull the car into, with a little trail that pulls off to a spot to pitch the tent. This is definitely a great spot for car camping, parking, or camping. It was absolutely beautiful, and we only passed a few cars on the way up. Our 4WD car was able to handle the dirt road. The drive was manageable, but high up!


Guide to Templeton

Dispersed camping near Templeton, California encompasses a mix of ridge-top and forest sites where temperatures can vary dramatically between seasons. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 80-100°F, dropping to 45-65°F at night, while winter can see overnight lows in the 30s. Many sites lack cell service entirely, with Williams Hill being a notable exception where campers report reliable connectivity for remote work needs.

What to do

Sunrise viewing: TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping offers exceptional morning views of the coastline. "I woke first thing in the morning and the view to the west is stunning, a sea of clouds and islands of distant mountain peaks all the way to the coast," notes Kyle K. about the stunning dawn experience.

Wildlife watching: Williams Hill Recreation Area provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We stayed one night. It was very quiet and walking down the road was pleasant," reports Laura M., who enjoyed exploring the surrounding trails.

Stargazing: For unobstructed night sky views, head to higher elevation sites. "Nightsky was amazing! I saw a shooting star and many satellites," shares Sebastian D. about TV Tower Road, where minimal light pollution creates ideal viewing conditions.

Mountain biking: Several ridge-top areas provide access to mountain biking trails. "Awesome spot on the ridge, lots of sites up past the mountain bike staging area," mentions G D. about the Other Pullout on TV Tower Road, indicating good trail access.

What campers like

Secluded spots: Old Sierra Madre offers quieter alternatives to busier sites. "Picked the first nook from the GPS pin but hiked up road and there are quite a few others, some shaded, some exposed," reports Jason R. about finding more private camping options.

Above the fog: Plaskett Ridge Dispersed Campground sits high enough to escape coastal marine layers. "Amazing location to wake up in the morning. View of the pacific ocean on one side and valley on the other," writes Ken K. about the elevated position.

Covered picnic areas: Williams Hill Recreation Area provides more amenities than most rustic camping near Templeton. "Campsites all have a fire ring, and a shaded picnic table. There's a long drop toilet. Beautiful views too," notes Ariel W. about the unexpected comforts.

Quick overnight options: Some sites work well for travelers needing just a night's rest. "Easy enough to find for a night's stop," mentions Frances L. about TV Tower Road's accessibility as a temporary stay.

What you should know

Road conditions vary significantly: TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping access can be challenging. "The road was a bit sketchy, any 4WD would be fine I think. I took my mini van and camped at a turn out along the road because I was a bit hesitant," reports Caitlyn R. about navigating the access road.

Weekend crowds: Many sites fill quickly on Fridays and Saturdays. "I've been twice now and both times the actual camp sites were full by the time I got there (2-3pm Friday)," warns Ryan K. about Williams Hill Recreation Area's limited availability.

Insect management: Bug spray is essential during warmer months. "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!" cautions Erik I. about Williams Hill.

Seasonal closures: Always check current status before traveling. "Attempted to camp on 12/01/2024 and the road was closed. Beautiful views on the way, but unfortunately the gate was locked," reports Ascelin P. about Will Creek Road.

Tips for camping with families

Site selection matters: Choose locations with more amenities for easier family camping. "We towed our 30' travel trailer up to this dispersed campground that is located along a ridge line on the west side of the 101. When we went, of the (7) formal sites that are up there, only 3 of them were taken," shares Brett L. about Williams Hill's family-friendly setup.

Temperature planning: Pack for significant overnight temperature drops. "Got cold at night but nothing unbearable, lovely sunrise too! I'd recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag and any essentials for dispersed camping," advises Caitlyn R. about TV Tower Road conditions.

Spacing consideration: Other Pullout on TV Tower Road offers multiple sites but requires etiquette. "Got there around 2pm and was the only car in sight until 4 ish when a car pulled up and parked for the night 5 feet away from me. RUDE!! Remember to be respectful of others space especially if there's 15+ other spots available," notes sarah M. about the importance of camping courtesy.

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Smaller RVs fare better at most rustic camping sites near Templeton. "Nice spot for large rv, but road up is winding. Great views. Great way to get a little bit cooler. Windy in night," advises Robert about Other Pullout on TV Tower Road's accessibility.

Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. "7 mile dirt road at times a bit steep and rough. But we made it up here slowly and safely. A few other campers here. Some flies but a slight breeze that will hopefully keep them at bay. Nice spot just not a fan of taking a 27 foot 1996 RV up that road," shares Adam B. about his Williams Hill Recreation Area experience.

Road width concerns: Many access roads have limited passing areas. "Nous étions en RV 24 feet et nous avons dû faire demi tour! Route à sens unique étroite sinueuse et dangereuse. Pas fait pour un RV," warns martins A. about TV Tower Road's unsuitability for larger vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Templeton, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Templeton, CA is TV Tower Road Dispersed Camping with a 4-star rating from 35 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Templeton, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.