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Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site

7 ReviewsAdd Review

Within Los Padres National Forest, this dispersed camping area sits along TV Tower Road at ridge elevation, providing free camping with expansive views across the surrounding terrain. The US Forest Service manages multiple pullout sites scattered past a mountain bike staging area, with the most favored spots located beyond the television tower structure itself.

The winding access road requires time and attention, climbing steadily from Highway 101 through curves that challenge some vehicles. Campers report success with front-wheel drive cars, though high clearance proves advantageous on the rougher sections. Multiple pullout areas accommodate different group sizes, from single tent setups to larger RV configurations, though the narrow road and steep grades make this better suited for smaller rigs.

Ridge camping brings consistent wind exposure, particularly after dark when gusts pick up across the open terrain. sarah M. notes "lots of sunset watchers but none stayed the night," highlighting how day visitors enjoy the elevated views before departing. The area sees moderate traffic from other campers and sightseers using the road, creating some activity during peak times.

Cell service reaches most sites, and the location provides convenient access to both San Luis Obispo and campsites near Santa Margarita for supply runs. Pets accompany their owners freely here, making this a practical base camp for those exploring the broader forest network on foot or by bike.

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Map & DirectionsOther Pullout on TV Tower Road is located in California near Santa Margarita

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

35.352469 N
120.6507222 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/18/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/18/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews7 Camper Reviews - Other Pullout on TV Tower Road

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4.5

out of 5

7 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the scenic ridge location with ample spots and great views. Common feedback included challenging winding road access and windy conditions at night, though most found the elevated setting worth the drive.

Reviewed Apr. 5, 2026

Amazing view of SLO & mtns.

Such a great view with an awesome campsite but as other reviews warn, the road can get tricky. We were able to make it up with a RWD Tacoma just fine but a high clearance vehicle is definitely preferred. We camped in the beginning of April and the winds hit at night but definitely manageable by staking your tent down and securing wind/rain fly.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site by Evan R., April 5, 2026
  • Review photo of Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site by Evan R., April 5, 2026
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Reviewed Mar. 26, 2024

beautiful spot

Manageable with fwd vehicle, i’ve taken my car on worse. 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. lots of sunset watchers but none stayed the night

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site by sarah M., March 26, 2024
Reviewed Jul. 7, 2023

Cool Ridgetop camping

Awesome spot on the ridge, lots of sites up past the mountain bike staging area and the best spots are a little past the TV tower its self. 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. Takes a while to go up - winding road, so give plenty of time. But cool spot off the 101 and right near SLO

Sitemiddle, near TV tower.
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site by G D., July 7, 2023
  • Review photo of Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site by G D., July 7, 2023
Reviewed Jul. 3, 2023

Great spot

The road up the hill was small and rough, but the view is worth it! Only a few other campers were there.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Mar. 25, 2023

Beautiful

Drive up was a little nerve wracking, but found a pull out for 2 vans and it was perfect. Love this spot.

Sitea pull out
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site by melissa , March 25, 2023
  • Review photo of Other Pullout on TV Tower Road - Dispersed Site by melissa , March 25, 2023
Showing results 1-7 of 7 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping on TV Tower Road?

Dispersed camping on TV Tower Road follows standard dispersed camping protocols, including respecting existing fire rings and maintaining distance from other campers. Visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of proper spacing between vehicles - a common courtesy issue noted by campers. For specific permit requirements and current fire restrictions, check with the local land management agency before your trip.

Where is TV Tower Road dispersed camping located in San Luis Obispo?

TV Tower Road dispersed camping is located on a ridge in San Luis Obispo, accessible via a winding mountain road. The camping area extends past the mountain bike staging area, with the most desirable spots found just beyond the TV tower itself. The location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and provides a cooler alternative to lower elevation camping in the region.

What amenities or facilities are available at TV Tower Road dispersed camping?

TV Tower Road dispersed camping is primitive with no developed amenities or facilities. There are no restrooms, water sources, trash services, or established fire pits. Campers must pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste. The area is exposed and experiences significant wind, especially at night, so secure camping gear accordingly and prepare for potentially challenging weather conditions.

Do I need a 4WD vehicle to access the TV Tower Road camping areas?

While 4WD with decent clearance is recommended for accessing the best spots beyond the TV tower, some campers have successfully navigated the road with front-wheel drive vehicles. The access road is described as small, rough, and winding, which can be nerve-wracking for some drivers. Larger rigs like RVs are not advised for most areas, though there are a few pullouts suitable for larger vehicles near the beginning of the route.

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