Summary
Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management (BLM), offering mostly dispersed sites with no amenities—no toilets, water, picnic tables, or hookups. Some areas may have fire rings, but bring your own supplies and pack out all waste. No reservations or fees are required, though a free permit may be needed for campfires. Expect scenic settings ranging from forested mountains to high deserts. Popular spots include Eastern Sierra and Los Padres National Forest. Best visited spring through fall, these remote areas offer solitude, stargazing, and access to hiking, fishing, and off-road trails.
Nearby Campgrounds
free campsite
Free Campsite. Sunset-Sunrise
Monterey County Fairgrounds RV
Monterey Pines RV Military
Laguna Seca
Laguna Seca Recreation Area
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Camping Essential Practices
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.
Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge
Windyhill Park
Vince Dimaggio Park
Locke-Paddon Park
Los Arboles Sports Complex