Pinnacles Campground

For Californians seeking a truly unique and awe-inspiring outdoor experience, Pinnacles Campground stands as an unparalleled destination. Nestled within the dramatic landscapes of Pinnacles National Park, this campground offers more than just a place to stay; it's a direct portal into a world of towering rock formations, ancient talus caves, and the majestic flight of California condors. It represents an opportunity to explore a geological wonder right in our own backyard, making it a beloved spot for local adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

Pinnacles Campground is widely praised for its exceptional cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay even amidst the rugged beauty of the park. As one delighted camper shared, "The site was spotless—hands down the cleanest campground bathrooms I’ve ever seen. The roads were well-maintained, and check-in was a breeze." This commitment to cleanliness, along with convenient amenities like a well-stocked market and camp store, makes the transition from everyday life to wilderness exploration seamless. The store, while noted for being "pricey" for items like firewood, is a valuable resource for essentials and educational materials about the park's unique wildlife and plants.

The true highlight of Pinnacles Campground, however, is its strategic location. "The real highlight is the location—stunning caves are nearby, with even more a 1.5-hour drive around the park. Spring was breathtaking: lush greenery, wildlife galore (we saw condors!), and cave exploring." This speaks to the immersive experience visitors can expect. Whether you're drawn to the mysterious depths of the talus caves, eager to witness California condors soaring overhead, or simply wish to enjoy the tranquility of nature, the campground serves as the perfect base. The seasonal pool provides a refreshing respite during warmer summer visits, ensuring comfort no matter the time of year. Its versatility, accommodating both tent and RV campers, solidifies Pinnacles Campground as a highly recommended destination for any Californian looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Pinnacles Campground is located at 2400 Highway 146, Pinnacles Area, Paicines, CA 95043, USA. This address places it on the east side of Pinnacles National Park, a geographically distinct section from the park's west side. It is approximately 32 miles south of Hollister, CA, on Highway 25, or 29 miles northeast of King City, CA, also on Highway 25. It’s important for visitors to note that there is no road connecting the east and west sides of Pinnacles National Park; the shortest route between them requires exiting the park and driving around, typically through King City on US 101. This separation means campers at Pinnacles Campground will primarily explore the East Side of the park.

Access to the campground is straightforward via Highway 25 and then onto Highway 146. The East Entrance is open 24 hours, providing flexibility for arrivals. While the main roads leading to the park are generally well-maintained, it's always wise to check for any current road conditions, especially during or after severe weather. RVs and large vehicles should be aware of specific restrictions if attempting to access the park's west side (which is not recommended via CA 146 from Soledad due to steep and narrow roads). Within the campground, roads are well-maintained. Parking is available at each site, with overflow parking behind the camp store for additional vehicles. Although Wi-Fi is available near the store, it can be spotty, and visitors should be prepared for limited connectivity, though some cell services, like AT&T, have been reported to work well. This allows for a comfortable yet still wonderfully disconnected camping experience.

Services Offered:

• 134 RV and tent campsites, including standard, RV electric, tent-only, and group sites.
• 10 canvas-sided tent cabins available for a glamping experience.
• Picnic tables and fire rings at each campsite (fire restrictions apply seasonally).
• Restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers.
• RV dump station available for registered guests.
• Potable water spigots throughout the campground.
• Campground Store and Office (open 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily) for essentials, firewood, and resources.
• Seasonal swimming pool (open April 1 to October 31, weather permitting).
• Campfire Center for evening programs during peak season.
• Interpretive programs and ranger-led walks available.
• Wi-Fi available near the store (complimentary 30 minutes, generally slow and spotty).
• Pets are allowed on leash in the campground, paved roads, and picnic areas (not on hiking trails).

Features / Highlights:

• Talus Caves Exploration: Direct access to the famous Bear Gulch Cave (seasonal closures apply for bat protection and water levels), offering unique geological exploration. Balconies Cave is on the west side, requiring a drive around the park to access.
• California Condor Sightings: Pinnacles is a release site for the endangered California Condor. Campers often witness these magnificent birds soaring over the ridges, especially near the High Peaks area.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Over 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, provide opportunities to explore the park's diverse landscapes, including the High Peaks Trail with its iconic rock spires.
• Rock Climbing: The park is a popular destination for rock climbers, offering a variety of routes on its unique volcanic formations.
• Seasonal Wildflower Blooms: In spring (especially March-May during wet years), the park is carpeted with vibrant wildflowers, creating a spectacular display.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Renowned for its spotless bathrooms and well-kept grounds, enhancing the camping experience.
• Swimming Pool: A rare amenity for a national park campground, offering a refreshing way to cool off during warmer months.
• Stargazing: Away from major city lights, the night sky over Pinnacles offers excellent opportunities for clear stargazing.
• Wildlife Abundance: Home to diverse wildlife, including prairie falcons, coyotes, deer, and over 400 species of bees.
• Educational Programs: Ranger-led programs and a Nature Center enhance understanding of the park's natural and cultural history.

Contact Information:

Address: 2400 Hwy 146 Pinnacles Area, Paicines, CA 95043, USA

Phone: (831) 200-1722

Reservations: Highly recommended, can be made up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. First-come, first-served sites are NOT available.

Pinnacles Campground is an exceptional choice for Californians looking for a truly distinctive outdoor adventure. For us, Pinnacles National Park stands out with its dramatic, other-worldly landscapes formed by ancient volcanic activity and tectonic shifts – a unique piece of California's geological story. Camping at Pinnacles places you directly in the heart of this natural wonder, making it incredibly convenient to explore its famed talus caves and witness the inspiring sight of California condors in their natural habitat.

Its well-maintained facilities, including remarkably clean bathrooms and a refreshing pool, offer a comfortable base after a day of strenuous hiking or cave exploration. This blend of wild beauty and essential amenities makes it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of local campers, from families to avid hikers and climbers. Whether you're seeking the thrill of exploring the caves, the quiet wonder of watching condors, or simply a peaceful escape into a landscape unlike any other, Pinnacles Campground offers a profound and memorable connection to the extraordinary natural heritage of our Golden State. It's truly a must-experience destination for every Californian outdoor enthusiast.

Pinnacles Campground

2400 Hwy 146 Pinnacles Area, Paicines, CA 95043, USA