US Forestry Department

For Californians seeking a truly off-grid, rugged, and rewarding outdoor experience, Hi Mountain Campground in Santa Margarita offers an unparalleled escape. Situated within the vast and diverse Los Padres National Forest, this campground is a secluded haven for those who cherish tranquility, panoramic views, and a genuine connection with nature. It’s a destination for the adventurous spirit, providing a stark contrast to more developed campgrounds, and inviting visitors to embrace a self-sufficient approach to their wilderness retreat.

Hi Mountain Campground is renowned for its remote feel and the breathtaking vistas it offers, with elevations providing sweeping views of the surrounding forest and mountains. While it caters to a more rustic camping style, its allure lies in its unspoiled beauty and the opportunity for deep immersion in nature. Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air, spending your days exploring rugged trails, and witnessing incredible sunsets and starry nights far from city lights. As a California local, you understand the value of these wild spaces, and Hi Mountain Campground is perfectly positioned to become your go-to spot for an authentic, challenging, and profoundly peaceful outdoor adventure in your home state.

Hi Mountain Campground is located near Santa Margarita, CA 93453, USA, specifically within the Los Padres National Forest. The address "13525 Hi Mountain Rd" is indicative of its remote, mountainous setting. The campground sits at an elevation of approximately 3,198 feet, offering a higher vantage point with expansive views of the surrounding rugged terrain.

Accessing Hi Mountain Campground requires navigating unpaved roads, which can be challenging, especially after heavy rains. The primary route is via Forest Road 30S05, which connects to Pozo Road. It’s recommended to have a vehicle with higher ground clearance, and AWD/4WD can make the trek significantly easier, as the dirt fire roads can become rutted. There are two main approaches: from San Luis Obispo, via Highway 101, Highway 58, and Pozo Road, then Forest Road 30S05; or an alternate route from Arroyo Grande. It's important to note that a portion of Hi Mountain Road is subject to seasonal closure, particularly during the rainy season, with gates maintained by the US Forest Service and County Public Works for public safety. Checking current road conditions with the Forest Service is crucial before planning your trip.

For California residents, this location offers a desirable balance of deep wilderness immersion and relative accessibility for those prepared for the drive. Its proximity to towns like Santa Margarita and Atascadero means that supplies are not entirely out of reach, though preparation is key given the remote nature of the campground. The commitment required for access adds to the sense of accomplishment and the reward of experiencing a truly secluded environment, making it an ideal choice for locals seeking a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path camping experience.

Hi Mountain Campground provides basic, rustic services designed to support an authentic dry-camping experience, aligning with its remote national forest setting:

• Campsites: Offers a limited number of parking pads/campsites, ideal for both tent camping and smaller RVs/vans. The sites are generally spacious, with some providing partial views through the trees. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for convenient outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are available at each site for campfires, subject to strict seasonal fire restrictions. Visitors should always check with the Forest Service for current fire regulations, especially in California's dry climate.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and maintained vault toilets (pit toilets) are provided for convenience.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to note that there is NO water available at the campground. Campers must bring their own sufficient supply of water for drinking, cooking, washing, and, most importantly, enough extra water to fully extinguish campfires. One past customer review specifically mentioned, "The water hose worked great for the obtaining of water," which might refer to a nearby water source outside the immediate campground or a personal setup, but official information states no water is available at the campground itself.
• No Hookups: The campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites, making it a true boondocking or dry-camping destination.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Visitors are expected to pack out all trash, maintaining the pristine natural environment.
• Stay Limit: There is a 14-day stay limit to ensure fair access for all visitors.

The features and highlights of Hi Mountain Campground emphasize its raw beauty and unique recreational opportunities, appealing to a specific type of outdoor enthusiast:

• Rugged Terrain and Scenic Views: The campground is located in a rugged area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Los Padres National Forest from various elevations.
• Remote and Secluded Atmosphere: Known for being a quiet and less-trafficked campground, it provides an excellent opportunity for solitude and a true escape from crowds.
• Proximity to Wilderness Areas: Close to the Santa Lucia and Garcia Wildernesses, offering extensive opportunities for challenging hiking and backpacking.
• Year-Round Accessibility: Temperatures range from 40°F in winter to 85°F in summer, making it suitable for year-round visits, though road conditions can be a factor in winter/spring.
• Mountain Biking Opportunities: The area offers "hard core bike rides" on forest roads and trails, appealing to serious mountain bikers.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem of Los Padres National Forest provides opportunities to spot various wildlife, including an abundance of bird species, and potentially mountain lions, foxes, and bobcats. The nearby Hi Mountain Condor Lookout is also a collaborative effort focused on reintroducing and tracking California Condors.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies are ideal for stargazing.
• "Roughing It" Experience: Ideal for campers who enjoy a more primitive and self-sufficient camping style, providing a true wilderness challenge.
• Relatively Close to Central Coast Attractions: While remote, it's within a reasonable drive of Central Coast attractions like Lopez Lake Recreation Area, Santa Margarita Lake, and the town of Santa Margarita itself.

For inquiries about Hi Mountain Campground, as it is managed by the US Forest Service, direct phone contact should be with the relevant Ranger District or the Forest Supervisor's Office. The provided contact information is likely for the Santa Lucia Ranger District, which oversees this area of the Los Padres National Forest.

Address: 13525 Hi Mountain Rd, Santa Margarita, CA 93453, USA

Phone: (805) 438-5711

Mobile Phone: +1 805-438-5711

It is strongly recommended for California residents planning a visit to call the Santa Lucia Ranger District (often reached via the main Los Padres National Forest number or a dedicated district line like (805) 925-9538 for Santa Maria) or check the Los Padres National Forest website for the most up-to-date information regarding road conditions (especially on Forest Road 30S05), current fire restrictions, and any alerts or warnings. Confirming the lack of water and bringing ample supplies is paramount for a safe and enjoyable trip. An Adventure Pass or interagency pass is required for parking your vehicle.

For California locals, Hi Mountain Campground offers a distinctive and highly rewarding outdoor experience that truly tests one's preparedness and appreciation for solitude. Its rugged beauty and remote setting within the Los Padres National Forest make it an ideal destination for those who wish to disconnect from the digital world and immerse themselves fully in nature. The "so damn beautiful" scenery and the opportunity for "hard core bike ride" or quiet contemplation appeal to a specific, adventurous segment of the local population.

While it requires careful planning due to the lack of services like potable water and potentially challenging road conditions, the reward is an unparalleled sense of peace and breathtaking views. If you're a Californian looking to venture beyond the typical campground experience and embrace a more authentic, self-reliant wilderness adventure, Hi Mountain Campground is perfectly suited to challenge and inspire you, making it a truly unique and memorable local escape.

US Forestry Department

13525 Hi Mountain Rd, Santa Margarita, CA 93453, USA