Pinnacles National Park RV Camping – Plan Your Perfect Trip
Exploring Pinnacles National Park is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, climbers, and nature lovers. Known for its dramatic rock formations, caves, and diverse wildlife, it’s a perfect destination for an RV camping trip. Whether you want to camp inside the park or at a nearby site, this guide will help you plan your adventure.
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Introduction to Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park, located in central California, is the youngest national park in the United States. It was formed by volcanic activity over 23 million years ago, creating its iconic spires and talus caves. The park is divided into an East side and West side, which are not connected by a road. Each side offers unique hiking trails, scenic vistas, and wildlife spotting opportunities, including the rare California condor.
Visitors can explore over 30 miles of hiking trails, including the popular High Peaks Trail and Bear Gulch Cave Trail. With its mild climate and abundant natural beauty, Pinnacles is a fantastic destination for RV campers seeking adventure and relaxation.
RV Camping Inside Pinnacles National Park
The only campground inside Pinnacles National Park is located on the east side of the park, accessible through Highway 146 from the town of Soledad. Pinnacles Campground is managed by a concessionaire and offers options for RV camping, tent camping, and group camping.
Key Features of Pinnacles Campground for RVs:
- RV Sites with Hookups: Many RV sites offer electrical hookups (30 and 50 amp) and are equipped for RVs up to 40 feet long. Most RV sites share community tables and barbecue pits, and many are shaded by oak trees.
- Amenities: The campground provides potable water, flush toilets, coin-operated showers, a dump station, a swimming pool (typically open from mid-April through the end of September), and a camp store.
- Proximity to Trails: Campers have direct access to hiking trails, including Bear Gulch and Condor Gulch.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak seasons, as the campground is a popular choice for both RV and tent campers.
RV Camping Nearby Pinnacles National Park
If Pinnacles Campground is fully booked or you prefer additional amenities, several RV parks and campgrounds near the park cater to RV travelers.
Nearby RV Camping Options:
Yanks RV Resort
Distance to East Entrance at Pinnacles: 17.2 miles
Distance to West Parking Lot at Pinnacles: 19.4 miles
Yanks RV Resort, located in Greenfield, California, is ideal for those looking to explore Pinnacles National Park with an upscale vibe. Just a short drive away from the park’s East Entrance, this resort offers convenient access to all of the park’s amazing hiking trails and scenic overlooks. Regarding amenities, Yanks RV Resort has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Their spacious sites are equipped with full hookups, allowing you to easily set up camp and relax after a day of exploring the park. The resort also features a clubhouse where you can gather with other travelers and share stories of your adventures.
We selected this RV Park for our recent visit to Pinnacles. You can watch a YouTube video of our overview of Yanks RV Resort here.
Amenities at Yanks RV Resort:
- Pull thru sites to 100 feet long (no need to unhook your tow vehicle)
- Wide paved roads and many pull through sites
- Easy on/off Highway 101, convenient to freeway.
- Sites have concrete pads and patios
- FREE Wi-Fi throughout the park, FREE cable TV
- Full electric hookups with 30/50 amp electrical
- Each site has a picnic table and BBQ
- Propane filling station on site
Thousand Trails – San Benito RV Resort (Paicines, CA)
Distance to East Entrance at Pinnacles: 18.3 miles
- Located about 30 minutes from the East Entrance.
- Features full hookups, a clubhouse, a pool, and spacious sites.
- Family-friendly and great for extended stays.
These options allow you to tailor your camping experience to your needs, whether you prefer proximity to the park or a more luxurious RV camping setup.
Best Time to Visit Pinnacles for RV Camping
Pinnacles National Park is open year-round, but the best time for RV camping depends on your preferences and the activities you wish to enjoy.
Spring (March to May)
- Why Visit: Wildflowers bloom across the park, and temperatures are mild, making it ideal for hiking and condor spotting.
- RV Considerations: Sites fill quickly, so reserve early.
Fall (September to November)
- Why Visit: Cooler weather returns, and the park is less crowded than in spring.
- RV Considerations: A great time for those who enjoy quiet, peaceful camping experiences.
Summer (June to August)
- Why Visit: Longer days allow for extended exploration, though temperatures can be very hot.
- RV Considerations: Stay prepared with air conditioning and plenty of water.
Winter (December to February)
- Why Visit: Mild weather and fewer crowds offer a serene camping experience.
- RV Considerations: Some amenities, like the pool, may be closed.
Tips for a Successful RV Camping Trip to Pinnacles
- Reserve Early: Pinnacles Campground can fill up months in advance during peak seasons.
- Prepare for No Cell Service: Limited connectivity means downloading maps and guides beforehand.
- Check for Cave Closures: Bear Gulch and Balconies caves may close seasonally to protect bats.
- Pack Layers: Temperatures vary widely between day and night.
- Select Which Side To Visit: Pinnacles has two entrances—the East entrance and the West entrance. No road connects these two entrances, so you’ll likely want to concentrate your visit on one side of the park unless you choose to split your visit among several days.
- Plan Your Food in Advance: One general store in the park has very limited offerings. You’ll want to arrive with your supplies, food, snacks, and drinks.
- Prepare to Pay the Entrance Fee: The park charges a $30 entrance fee. For $80, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass. This annual pass covers entrance fees to National Parks for one year.
Things To Do at Pinnacles National Park
Exploring Pinnacles National Park offers a variety of popular activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Here are some top things to do during your visit:
Pinnacles National Park Visitor Center
Start with the Visitor Center: We recommend a stop at the visitor center to begin your visit. It is located in the Pinnacles Campground. Here, you can learn about current conditions including trail and cave updates. You can get your passport stamped and buy official park souvenirs. The store is open daily, including holidays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. A private, non-profit organization operates the park store called Western National Parks Association (WNPA).
Hiking
Pinnacles boasts over 30 miles of trails that range from easy walks to challenging hikes. Popular trails include the High Peaks Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the park’s unique rock formations, and the Bear Gulch Cave Trail, which leads you through fascinating talus caves.
Rock Climbing
Pinnacles is a rock climber’s paradise known for its distinctive spires and crags. The park offers climbs for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly routes to advanced challenges. Be sure to check for any seasonal restrictions before you go.
Bird Watching
Pinnacles is one of the few places where you can spot the majestic California condor. The park’s diverse habitats also attract a variety of other bird species, making it a prime location for bird enthusiasts. Common bird varieties found in the park include the California quail, western bluebird, wild turkeys, and red-tailed hawk. Birdwatchers can also watch for the rare prairie falcons and golden eagles in the skies above.
Cave Exploration
Discover the park’s talus caves, which are formed from massive boulders piled into steep canyons. Bear Gulch Cave and Balconies Cave provide a thrilling experience for visitors, though they may be closed seasonally to protect the resident bat populations. Bear Gulch Cave is home to a colony of several hundred Townsend’s big-eared bats. This is the largest known colony between San Francisco and the Mexican border. The cave is sometimes closed because the bats are highly sensitive to human disturbance.
Stargazing
With its remote location and minimal light pollution, Pinnacles National Park is an excellent spot for stargazing. On clear nights, the sky is filled with countless stars, making it a perfect activity after a day of exploring.
These activities ensure a memorable visit to Pinnacles National Park, offering a blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.
Closing Thoughts – RV Camping at Pinnacles National Park
With its unique landscapes and wildlife, Pinnacles National Park is a great place in California to consider for an RV camping experience. A visit to the park rewards you with acres of spectacular rock formations. Whether you stay inside the park or choose a nearby campground, your trip to Pinnacles will surely be one to remember.
Thanks for reading our article. Happy camping!
Julie & Art
