Camping at Pinnacles National Park Campground

Location and General Overview

Pinnacles National Park Campground is located within Pinnacles National Park on the east side of the park in central California. The campground is situated near the visitor center and is the only campground within the national park. Managed by a private concessionaire, Pinnacles Recreation Company, it offers a convenient base for exploring the park's unique volcanic formations, talus caves, and diverse ecosystems.

Campground Amenities and Facilities

Amenities in Pinnacles National Park Campground include:

• Tent and group camping sites
• RV sites with electric hookups (no water or sewer hookups)
• Flush toilets and showers
• A swimming pool (seasonal)
• Fire rings and picnic tables at each campsite
• A camp store selling supplies and some food items
• Drinking water

Types of Campsites

The campground provides a variety of camping options:

• Standard Sites: For tents and smaller RVs; may include electric hookups.
• RV Sites: Specifically designed for RVs, with electric hookups.
• Group Campsites: For larger groups with multiple tents.
• Primitive Sites: More secluded, no hookups, typically for tent campers.

Activities and Sightseeing

Visitors to Pinnacles National Park Campground can enjoy various activities such as:

• Hiking: With over 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, hikers can explore the high peaks, caves, and valleys of the park.
• Rock Climbing: The park is known for its rock formations, offering climbers of all levels a chance to scale the peaks.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to various wildlife, including the California condor, bats, and wildflowers particularly during the spring.
• Cave Exploring: The park features talus caves like Bear Gulch Cave and Balconies Cave, which are partially formed by boulders falling into canyons.

Reservations and Fees

Camping reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall. Reservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or by phone. The fees for campsites vary depending on the type of site and the season. Prices are subject to change, so it's a good idea to check current rates when planning your trip.

Park Regulations and Important Tips

• Fire Restrictions: Check the latest fire conditions and restrictions as they can change due to weather and park conditions.
• Wildlife Safety: Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park.
• Weather: Be prepared for changeable weather and pack accordingly.
• Pets: Pets are allowed in the campground but must be kept on a leash. They are not allowed on most trails, in the caves, or in the wilderness areas.

Accessibility

The campground offers some accessible campsites and facilities. Visitors with disabilities are encouraged to contact the campground for specific details on accessibility.

Contact Information

To get more information or to make a reservation, you can contact the Pinnacles Recreation Company or visit the National Park Service's official website for Pinnacles National Park. It's always a good idea to check for any alerts or updates prior to your visit.