MEMORIAL CAMPGROUND
Los Padres National Forest, CAMemorial sits in a fold of the Santa Lucia Mountains where a trout stream cuts through sandstone and oaks. Eight sites, vault toilets, no water — the kind of setup that keeps the crowds thin and the quiet intact.
Campground Details
- 💵Fee per Night
- Free
- 📍GPS
- 36.11710, -121.46270
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 805-434-1996
- 🗺️Address
- CA
The Camp
The campground hugs a trout stream with sandstone formations rising around the sites. Each of the eight spots comes with a picnic table and fire ring, scattered among ponderosa pine, oak, madrone, and sycamore. The stream provides the soundtrack; the rock outcrops provide the exploring.
Two vault toilets serve the campground, but that's where the amenities end. No potable water means hauling everything you need for drinking, cooking, and washing. No dump station either, so plan accordingly if you're bringing an RV.
What to Know
Memorial runs year-round with no reservations mentioned in the official details — likely first-come, first-served. The remote location in the Santa Lucias means fewer weekend warriors, but also means commitment to self-sufficiency. Bring extra water beyond what you think you need.
The combination of equestrian designation and trailhead access suggests this place sees horse traffic, particularly on weekends. If you're not bringing horses, expect to share space with those who are.
Nearby
Trailheads start right from camp, with additional trails a short drive away. The network covers hiking, biking, backpacking, and horseback riding through sandstone landscapes that shift with wildflowers seasonally. Wildlife sightings come with the territory in this undeveloped section of forest.
The San Antonio Mission sits within 15 minutes by car — one of California's oldest missions, worth the detour if you're mixing history with outdoor time. The fishing happens right at camp along the trout stream, no driving required.