Reservations possible?
No
RV Hookups
No
Potable water
Yes
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The backcountry campsites at Castle Rock State Park are an easy 2.5-mile hike from the main parking lot. You can take the Saratoga Gap or Ridge Trail to get there, as this campground is at the apex of the loop.

The campsites are well maintained, spacious, and come equipped with fire pits and picnic tables. Finding level ground should not be an issue here. Potable water is located in a few locations throughout the campgrounds. A small amphitheater, restrooms, and a bad weather shelter is provided as well.

The only real downside to to this otherwise fantastic campsite is the constant gunfire from a nearby gun range. Despite that fact, this may be a good spot to launch onto the Skyline to Sea Trail. The first 2.5 miles of the 30-mile trek to Waddell Beach is at this point.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Parking Pass

General Day Use Fee

Pros

Spacious campsites. Reasonable hiking distance from the parking lot.

Cons

Gunfire from nearby range.

Pets allowed

Not Allowed

Managed by

California State Park

Features

Flushing toilets
Vault toilet
Potable water
Picnic tables

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

Castle Rock Trail Camp is closed indefinitely due to COVID-19; see the Castle Rock State Park page for details.
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=538

Hi. I am looking at camping with friends for 2 nights at Castle rock State park. But, this is not a backpacking trip. Are there camp grounds available to reserve in advance? The website provides for only backcountry camp sites.
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