Pinnacles Campground
4.20581 reviews2400 HWY 146, Paicines, CA, 95043, USA
Pinnacles Campground
$43.00 - $139.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$43.00
Hookup Site Fee$60.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$110.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by site type: Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites are $43 with an additional $12 weekend fee; RV Electric sites are $60 with an additional $12 weekend fee; Group Standard Nonelectric sites are $110 with an additional $20 weekend fee; Cabin Electric sites are $139 with a $25 weekend fee; Cabin Nonelectric sites are $129 with a $25 weekend fee.
About this campground
Escape to Pinnacles Campground, where ancient volcanic spires meet modern comfort in the heart of California's youngest national park. This year-round sanctuary welcomes adventurers with thoughtfully designed spaces ranging from traditional tent sites to RV sites complete with electric hookups, and cozy tent cabins for those seeking a touch of glamping. After days spent exploring towering rock formations, refresh with hot showers, stock up at the convenient general store, and cool off in the seasonal swimming pool that beckons from April through September. With flush toilets and drinking water throughout, you'll find the perfect balance between wilderness adventure and essential amenities.
The campground accommodates tent campers, RV campers, and group setups. It also offers tent cabins for a semi-primitive experience with basic amenities.
Historical SignificanceCamp beneath the watchful eyes of California condors at this remarkable site where natural and cultural history converge. These dramatic spires and crags aren't just beautiful—they're the remnants of an ancient volcano that erupted 23 million years ago, then traveled 195 miles along the San Andreas Fault to create today's otherworldly landscape. Now serving as a critical sanctuary for the endangered California condor, Pinnacles represents one of conservation's greatest success stories, where visitors can witness these magnificent birds with nine-foot wingspans soaring above the very peaks that shelter them.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum at Pinnacles, where each season paints the landscape in different hues. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for early morning hikes and poolside afternoons. Winter offers crisp, mild weather ideal for rock climbing and wildlife watching. But it's spring that truly steals the show—when comfortable temperatures combine with carpets of wildflowers that transform the park into a photographer's paradise, creating the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
ElevationBegin your adventure at 824 feet, where the campground nestles in the valley floor, then let your ambitions soar to the surrounding peaks that climb dramatically to 3,304 feet above sea level. This elevation range creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems, offering everything from shaded valley walks to challenging summit scrambles, all within reach of your basecamp.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a landscape that feels both ancient and alive, where majestic Valley Oaks spread their gnarled branches alongside stately Blue Oaks and evergreen Coast Live Oaks, creating a natural canopy over your campsite. A gentle seasonal creek whispers through the grounds, its banks exploding with color when spring wildflowers paint the meadows in brilliant yellows, purples, and oranges. Every trail leads to new wonders—whether following flower-lined paths through oak woodlands or discovering hidden valleys where nature's artistry is on full display.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in 26,000 acres of geological wonder at Pinnacles National Park, where the dramatic remnants of a 23-million-year-old volcano create a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. The campground sits perfectly positioned within this natural amphitheater, surrounded by towering rock spires, deep caves, and boulder-strewn canyons. Rolling hills studded with ancient oaks provide a gentle counterpoint to the park's dramatic volcanic architecture, creating an ever-changing vista that shifts from pastoral to prehistoric with every turn of the trail.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible sites for RVs and mobility scooters. Restrooms and showers provide functionality for disabled individuals.
Sites SizeVaried sizes accommodating tents, RVs, and group setups.
Sites PrivacySome sites are described as private with trees and vegetation offering natural barriers, while others are open and exposed.
Total Campsites139 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded sites for summer visits to avoid heat exposure. Loop C offers sites with privacy and proximity to water spigots.
Best CampsitesSite 11 in Loop A is praised for its privacy and creekside location. Site 37 in Loop B is noted for its shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1PM for tent/RV sites, 3 PM for tent cabins.
Check-out
11 AM for all sites.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Tent/RV sites allow up to 6 people, 3 tents, and 2 vehicles. Group sites allow up to 20 people and 5 vehicles.
Groups
Group sites accommodate up to 20 people and 5 vehicles. Ideal for large gatherings. Users noted that some group sites lack proximity to restrooms.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops (A, B, C, D, G) with tent cabins, group sites, and RV sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst come, first served sites are not available at this location.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made ahead of the arrival date. There is a $10 cancellation fee and the first night's fee is forfeited for cancellations within one day of check-in.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers diverse activities suitable for all types of campers. Hiking trails connect directly to the campground, leading to iconic sites like Bear Gulch and Balconies Cave. Visitors can also enjoy rock climbing, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. A swimming pool offers relief during hot summer months.
Hiking
Over 30 miles of trails are accessible, ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs. Popular destinations include High Peaks and Bear Gulch Reservoir.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Swimming
A swimming pool located near the store is open seasonally, offering a refreshing escape during warm weather. Some users noted the pool cleanliness could improve.Biking
Limited biking routes available; users suggest the campground could expand biking-friendly areas.Wildlife viewing
Frequent sightings of deer, turkeys, and California condors. Raccoons are a common nuisance noted by campers, stealing food if precautions aren't taken.Cultural and Educational Programs
Occasional ranger-led activities and Junior Ranger programs designed for families and educational purposes. Limited availability reported during off-seasons.Winter Activities
Minimal winter-specific activities mentioned, apart from hiking during colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as options in this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are generally allowed but may be restricted during fire season. Propane fire pits are subject to approval.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as raccoons and squirrels can pose a nuisance by attempting to steal food. Seasonal flooding may occur during heavy rains.
Active alertsActive construction and septic system upgrades may cause noise and restricted access to certain areas.
Weather forecast
96
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations in Hollister or King City, approximately 30 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles available throughout the campground. Recycling options not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresA seasonal creek runs through the campground. Bear Gulch Reservoir is accessible via nearby hiking trails.
Common complaintsCommon concerns include noise disturbances during quiet hours, issues with electrical hookups, construction noise, and aggressive raccoons.
HostCampground hosts are available and provide assistance with facilities and reservations.
Campground Map
2400 HWY 146, Paicines, CA, 95043, USA
Driving directionsPinnacles National Park is located 32 miles south of Hollister, CA on Hwy 25 and 29 miles northeast of King City, CA on Hwy 25. Campground is located on the east side of Pinnacles National Park off Hwy 25.
Road access quality varies depending on the season. Roads and parking spurs within the campground are gravel. The main access roads (Hwy 25) are paved and generally accessible year-round, but caution is advised during heavy rain due to potential flooding.Nearby places
Hollister (32 miles, approximately 40 minutes driving), King City (29 miles, approximately 35 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
A general store with basic foods and camping supplies is located on-site. Additional grocery stores and fuel stations are available in Hollister and King City.
Camper Reviews
4.2
581 reviews
Pinnacles Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Pinnacles Campground garners mixed reviews, with campers praising the park's unique natural features and abundant wildlife while critiquing some aspects like maintenance issues and raccoon infestations.
Review Summaries
Based on 581 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, access to free showers, well-maintained trails, ample wildlife sightings, and a swimming pool are frequently appreciated.
Based on 581 reviewsCommon Concerns
Raccoon nuisance, construction noise, limited restroom and shower facilities, and poor Wi-Fi connectivity. RV-specific issues include narrow roads and inaccessible dump stations.
Based on 581 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra layers for winter trips; summer campers should opt for shaded sites. Secure food to avoid raccoon encounters. Early hikes are recommended to avoid midday heat.
Based on 581 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter visitors report peace and fewer crowds, while summer visitors face heat and limited shade. Spring is favored for wildflower blooms and milder weather.
Based on 581 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The campground updates aren’t the best. Pretty sure they just crowded more sites closer together.'
2. 'The raccoons are not shy and will come up to your site looking for food.'
3. 'Free hot...
Based on 581 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 11 is noted for excellent privacy and proximity to the creek. Site 104 is popular among RV campers for its spacious layout. Tent cabin sites like 80 are appreciated for convenience but...
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Accessibility Features
Mobility scooters work well on flat trails. Accessible RV sites are available, though restroom proximity could be improved.
Based on 581 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but limited to the campground area. Users recommend keeping pets leashed at all times due to wildlife.
Based on 581 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025