Southwest Walk-In Campground Camping Area

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

The Southwest Walk-In Campground located in California’s Pinnacles National Park is known for its stunning views of the park’s unique rock formations and nearby hiking trails.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The campground offers 17 first-come-first-served campsites that are available year-round.

Surrounding Views:
The campground is nestled among towering rock formations and has views of the park’s famous High Peaks. Visitors can also enjoy views of wildlife such as California condors and bats that can be spotted flying overhead at dusk.

Nearby Points of Interest:
The campground is located near several hiking trails, including the Bear Gulch Trail and the Balconies Trail. The park’s Visitor Center is only a short drive away and offers educational exhibits on the park’s history and wildlife.

Campground Amenities:
The Southwest Walk-In Campground offers basic amenities such as restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, and fire pits. There are no RV hookups or showers available.

Interesting Facts:
Pinnacles National Park is home to a unique type of volcanic rock formation known as talus caves. Visitors can explore these caves on guided tours led by park rangers.

Best Time of Year to Visit:
The best time of year to visit the Southwest Walk-In Campground is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is mild with average temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s. Summer months can be very hot with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter months can be rainy and cold, with average temperatures in the 40s.

Sources:
- National Park Service. “Southwest Walk-In Campground.” Pinnacles National Park, U.S. Department of the Interior, 2021, www.nps.gov/pinn/planyourvisit/camping.htm.
- “Pinnacles National Park.” National Park Foundation, 2021, www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/pinnacles-national-park.

       

Weather Forecast

Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
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.

Related Links