Pinnacles National Park
Soledad, CA
Eroded volcanic spires and rock walls rise above chaparral hills, with a trail through the Bear Gulch talus caves when they are open. The park has separate east and west entrances with no road between them, so pick the side that suits your route.
The rock spires of Pinnacles are the remains of the Neenach Volcano, which erupted about 23 million years ago. Along the San Andreas Fault, the volcanic rock traveled about 195 miles (315 km) northwest to its present location. The High Peaks are made of consolidated breccia. In 1908 the area became a national monument under President Theodore Roosevelt, and in 2013 a national park. It covers about 26,600 acres (10,800 ha) in central California, roughly 5 miles (8 km) east of Soledad.
The park has an east entrance and a west entrance, with no road between them; they are connected only on foot. From the east side start the Moses Spring Trail with the Rim Trail (one to two hours) and the Condor Gulch Trail (60 to 90 minutes). Here you may, with some luck, spot California condors. The Bear Gulch caves are closed in whole or in part at times to protect the bats; check the current status before your visit. It is hot in summer, and spring and fall are the most popular seasons.
- Nearest town
- Soledad, CA
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 36.4906, -121.1825
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May–September. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Nearby
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Campsites nearby
- Pinnacles CampgroundCampsite2 mi from Pinnacles National Park · 134 pitchesTentsCaravansWaste disposalWi-Fi
- Yanks RV ResortMotorhome stopover11 mi from Pinnacles National ParkMotorhomesElectricityWaste disposalWi-Fi
- Radio RidgeCampsite23 mi from Pinnacles National ParkWi-Fi
- Walnut CampCampsite24 mi from Pinnacles National ParkWi-Fi
- Lodge CampCampsite24 mi from Pinnacles National ParkTentsCaravansWi-Fi
- Bee CampCampsite24 mi from Pinnacles National ParkWi-Fi
All campsites in California · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Pinnacles National Park?
Pinnacles National Park is in Soledad, CA, at GPS 36.4906, -121.1825. It is about 19 mi from King City.
Can you camp near Pinnacles National Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Pinnacles Campground, about 2 mi away; within 25 mi there are 29 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near Pinnacles National Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: McWay Falls (36 mi), Kirk Creek Campground (39 mi), Bixby Creek Bridge (41 mi) and Monterey Bay Aquarium (41 mi).
When is the best time to visit Pinnacles National Park?
The most pleasant months are usually May–September. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)