Pinnacles Campground

Overview

This is the park’s main basecamp on the east side, tucked among oaks with a seasonal creek and easy access to the heart of the trails. It’s open year-round and sits near the East Entrance and Visitor Center. There’s no road through the park between east and west, so plan to explore from this side.

Campsites and Amenities

You’ll find family tent/RV sites and reservable group sites. RV pads offer 120v/30‑amp electric only—no water or sewer hookups at sites—while potable water spigots and flush toilets are spread through the loops. Showers are coin‑operated by the main bathrooms near the camp store. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, and there’s a dump station for registered guests (accessed during store hours). A small general store sells basic food and camping supplies, and Wi‑Fi is available around the store area with 30 minutes complimentary and paid extensions. There’s also a dedicated EV charger by the store; charging at campsites is prohibited. A swimming pool typically opens spring through early fall, weather permitting.

Typical capacities: tent/RV sites host up to six people; group sites up to twenty (no RVs in group sites). Check‑in is 1 pm and quiet hours run 10 pm–6 am. Generators aren’t allowed—if you need power, book an electric site.

Getting Around and What to Do

The Bench Trail connects the campground directly to marquee hiking areas like Bear Gulch and the High Peaks, so you can leave the car at camp when day‑use lots fill. The park’s 30+ miles of trails include talus caves (bring a headlamp) and stellar ridge walks. Rock climbers will find plenty of options nearby.

Wildlife

This is prime California condor country—glance up around late afternoon and you might catch condors, turkey vultures, and hawks riding the thermals. Around camp, expect deer, wild turkeys, quail, and opportunistic raccoons. Don’t feed wildlife and keep food secured.

Rules and Fire Restrictions

Pets are welcome on a six‑foot leash in the campground, paved roads, parking lots, and picnic areas, but not on trails. Seasonal fire restrictions are common; open flames (wood, charcoal, and often even propane fire pits) may be banned. When restrictions are in place, only gas or tablet stoves with protected burners are typically allowed for immediate cooking in designated areas. Always re‑check current conditions before your trip.

Reservations and Logistics

This is a reservations‑only campground—no first‑come, first‑served. Tent/RV sites can be booked up to six months out; group sites up to twelve months. There’s a standard park entrance fee per vehicle, and site prices vary by type and size. Don’t wash dishes or brush teeth at spigots; carry wastewater to toilets and keep vehicles fully on designated pads.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are the sweet spots—cooler temps, greener hillsides, and the pool tends to be open in the warmer months. Summer gets hot and shade can be limited, so start hikes at dawn and use the pool to cool off later. Weekends and holidays are busy; book early and hike from camp to skip day‑lot parking crunches.