Santa Lucia Ranger District

Rules for Dispersed Camping
Groups of over 75 people who wish to use the forest, need to obtain a special use permit. Permits can be obtained at the nearest District Office.
You need to be self-contained. No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans. Pack out what you pack in.
You may camp in a dispersed area for a limited period of time, usually 14 days, but this can be further limited in some National Forest areas. Inquire about stay limits at the nearest District Office.
Please place your campsite at least 150 feet from any stream or other water source.
Be Bear Aware. There are bears on the National Forest, so keep a clean camp and store your food and garbage appropriately.
How to Pick a Campsite
The best way to find out what areas are open to dispersed camping is to contact the nearest District Office to the area you wish to visit. Typically, dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads.

There are dispersed camping spots you can reach by many graded dirt roads, but there are some rough, steep, or narrow roads that are dangerous for the family car or larger recreation vehicles (RV's). Ensure the road you plan to take is safe for your class of vehicle. You can do this by talking to the staff at your local Forest Service office. The Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) is a free map that shows the roads systems available for motor vehicle use within the Ranger District you are planning to visit. Other forest maps are also available for download or purchase.

Make sure your vehicle is in good working order and that you have plenty of gas and daylight remaining to find a spot.

To prevent resource damage, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. Do NOT camp within 150 feet of any water source, as plants near water are especially fragile.