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BLM Camping

Williams Hill

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 a federal agency of the United States Department of the Interior. Established in 1946, it controls over oversees 700 million acres of public lands. These public lands comprise around 10% of the total land area in the country. The BLM conserves and manages public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. The Williams Hill Campground is located on the south end of the Williams Hill Recreation Area above Salinas Valley. It offers visitors great views of the valley and a fantastic camping experience. There are seven camping sites, and it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations or payments are required, but a 14-day camping limit exists. If you plan to visit Pinnacles National Park, Williams Hill Campground is a good spot to stay overnight on your way to or from the park. Pinnacles National Park is situated 52.3 miles north of the campground. Additionally, Los Padres National Forest is located 206 miles south of Williams Hill. This forest contains three national recreation areas and ten wilderness areas. Some RVers visit this area to see some of California's endangered wildlife.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Los Gatos Creek Trail

The Los Gatos Creek Trail is a 9.7-mile pedestrian and bicycle trail that runs through western Santa Clara County. This trail offers birdwatching opportunities as well as a lovely pond. Benches along the way allow you to sit and rest if needed. Length: 5.4 miles Intensity: Moderate

Jack's Peak and Skyline Trail

The Jack's Peak and Skyline Trail is considered an easy route. It is a one-mile loop trail that has a self-guided path with numbers. Hiking to the top of the Jack's Peak and Skyline Trail lets you enjoy beautiful 360-degree views of Monterey Bay and Carmel. On average, it takes about 22 minutes to complete this trail. This trail is excellent for hiking or running. Length: 1 mile Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

RVers camping at Williams Hill can enjoy fishing and water sports like boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and paddle boarding at the nearby Lake Nacimiento. Located 40 miles south of the BLM site, the lake is known for its clear water and is home to various fish species like white bass. This recreation area has a resort and marina to accommodate visitors. Due to the area's favorable climate, RVers can enjoy activities on the lake at any time of the year.

Climbing

Climbers can find excellent climbing terrain in the nearby Salinas Valley. If you are new to climbing, outfitters in bigger cities like Salinas can offer climbing equipment, guides, and lessons to ensure a smooth climbing experience. In addition, you may practice your climbing abilities in one of the indoor climbing facilities in the area before heading outdoors.

Wildlife Viewing

Visitors can see various plant species and wild animals at Williams Hill. The area is home to over 3,000 species of plants and about 500 species of wildlife. Some wild animals that inhabit the area include mule deer, gray foxes, bobcats, wild pigs, reptiles, and ground squirrels. Doves and quail are common bird species in this area. Also, you'll see larger birds like roadrunners and eagles.

Picnicking

Picnicking is a must-do activity at Williams Hill Campground. The seven campsites at the campground have picnic tables, fire pits, and grills, making them the perfect spots to enjoy a meal with family and friends, even if you are not staying overnight.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

If you want more amenities than BLM RV camping offers at Williams Hill, there are other options in the area. Less than 40 miles away, Clear Lake Campground is close to Cache Creek, the only outlet of Clear Lake, and 10 minutes from Austin Park, which has a beach where you can swim. Alternatively, situated 30 miles from Williams Hill, Rocky Canyon Campground offers a variety of amenities, including a playground, pull-through sites, showers, restrooms, and drinking water. You can also buy firewood, fuel, and ice from the campground's marina.

Free Camping

In addition to the campground at Williams Hill, the area offers other Bureau of Land Management free camping in dispersed camping locations. To find these sites, you can search "BLM camping near me" on your smartphone or other devices once in the area.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Williams Hill BLM trip

Williams Hill Campground is open year-round, but the area's climate changes significantly with the seasons. When preparing to embark on your trip, pack clothing appropriate to the weather to ensure you are comfortable. The area's mosquito population blooms in the spring and early summer, making bug repellent necessary to enjoy your experience during these times. In addition, it is always a good idea to have a hat and sunscreen with you. Bureau of Land Management campgrounds offer a secluded outdoor experience where you can get closer to nature. They are also a budget-friendly way to enjoy your vacation. However, it takes careful planning to ensure you have everything you need when staying at camping spots that offer few or no amenities. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

BLM regulations require all groups arriving at Williams Hill to take care of the land they visit and leave it in the same condition they found it. To ensure that your trip will have minimal impact on the local environment: • Use existing fire rings and campsites if they are present. • Keep your pets leashed. • Ensure your campsite is 100 yards from any water source. • Pack out all your garbage or dispose of it in the appropriate trash cans. These are a few, but It is your responsibility to review the "Leave No Trace" guidelines put in place to make sure these lands are pristine for generations to come.

Williams Hill Location

To reach Williams Hill from US Highway 101, take the San Ardo exit and drive west onto Paris Valley Road. Next, turn left onto Lockwood-San Ardo Road. Approximately five miles from the Lockwood-San Ardo Road turnoff, you will arrive at Williams Hill. If you want to stay overnight, turn onto road W1 and head south to arrive at Williams Hill Campground. Address: Lockwood-San Ardo Road, Bradley, CA 93426 Ready to visit Williams Hill? 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 exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy 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.

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