The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is the federal agency responsible for managing and preserving public lands throughout the United States. In California, the BLM oversees about 15 million acres of land. These lands are available for camping and other recreational activities. You can expect regulations that cover firewood policies, pet restrictions, and noise requirements in the campgrounds. Remember that there may also be a small fee to stay overnight. Located on the central California coastline, the Piedras Blancas Light Station BLM site offers RVers a rare opportunity to see a late 19th-century lighthouse in an idyllic setting. This landmark was constructed in 1875 and still has its original structural outline. Visitors can marvel at the lighthouse's bright beacon of light, which still operates today. RVers should be aware that access to Piedras Blancas is by guided tours. Tours are offered year-round, and on the tour, you will hear about the light station's history and enjoy stunning views from the top. After seeing the historical structure, other nearby exceptional places to visit include Hearst Castle, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and Channel Islands National Park.
This route is an out-and-back trail near San Simeon that takes most people less than two hours to complete. The coastal terrain consists of dunes, beach strands, and rocky outcroppings. The hike's highlight is a spectacular view of seals lounging on the beach. Length: 5.2 miles Intensity: Easy
This out-and-back trail passes by Piedras Blancas Light Station at the start and ends at San Simeon Cove. The trail meanders along the coast with stunning views of the ocean and incredible bird-watching opportunities. It takes about 20 minutes to complete. Length: 0.8 miles Intensity: Moderately challenging
Friends of Elephant Seals Trail is another short hiking route that takes about 12 minutes to complete. It is an easy walk near seal breeding grounds, and you can sometimes spot calves. Length: 0.6 miles Intensity: Easy
There is a public boat launch at Morro Bay, about 36 miles south of Piedras Blancas Light Station. This launch is popular with kayakers and jet skiers. There is a small fee to park, and you can take advantage of the boat wash-down area when you are done for the day. Anglers can fish from the beach, and there is a fish-cleaning station at this location so you can get your catch ready to bring back to camp.
Park Ridge Rock is about 40 miles south of Piedras Blancas Light Station and is great for beginners because it is a short ascend. It has five routes that can be easily top-roped with good anchors by taking a short walk to the right or left side of the rock. At the top, climbers will be rewarded with excellent ocean views.
The area around Piedras Blancas Light Station is home to a variety of coastal wildlife. You can often spot harbor elephant seals, sea lions, brown pelicans, and sea otters. Various songbirds, raptors, and small mammals such as foxes, skunks, and raccoons inhabit the nearby forests. If you visit during the right time of year, you can also spot migrating whales as they swim along the shore.
The grounds around the lighthouse are ideal for picnicking and relaxing. Picnic tables are available throughout the site, and there are plenty of secluded spots to escape the crowds.
RV camping is availabe near Piedras Blancas Light Station. San Simeon Creek Campground is in Hearst San Simeon State Park and is 12 miles south of Piedras Blancas Light Station. It has 134 campsites that can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet long. Each site has a fire ring and a picnic table, but there are no hook-ups. However, showers and flush toilets are available at the site. If you want more amenities, Morro Dunes RV Park is about 35 miles south of the lighthouse and has 139 full hook-up sites. This campground also has shower facilities, and the campsites are a short walk from the beach.
Williams Hill is about 80 miles northeast of Piedras Blancas Light Station and offers free BLM camping sites suitable for RVs. There are vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, but no other amenities. Dispersed camping is allowed outside of the established campsites. You can also locate other BLM sites by searching "BLM camping near me" on your device once you are in the area.
When planning your trip to Piedras Blancas Light Station BLM site, keep in mind that you must reserve your spot on a guided tour if you want to go inside the lighthouse. You should also dress for windy weather and bring plenty of water. No potable water is available, and the area can be very hot in the summer. It is also a good idea to wear a hat and have sunscreen available for protection from the sun. If you plan to picnic at the site, the nearest town is San Simeon, where you can pick up supplies. BLM camping in the area around Piedras Blancas Light Station offers you a chance to camp for free or for a small charge. It is also an opportunity to get away from developed campgrounds and closer to nature. However, if you have never overnighted in an undeveloped campground before, the prospect may be intimidating. Before heading out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Remember to follow the "Leave No Trace" principles. This includes packing out all your trash, not disturbing wildlife, and staying on established trails. Additionally, it is important to be considerate of other campers and keep noise to a minimum. With careful planning and respect for the land, you can help preserve BLM lands for future generations.
Take Highway 1 to San Simeon and continue 4.5 miles north of the Piedras Blancas Visitor Center. You will see the Point Piedras Blancas Lighthouse on your left. The parking area entrance is about 0.3 miles past the lighthouse. Address: 3801 Pegasus Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93308 Ready to visit Piedras Blancas Light Station? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, enjoying a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
