Camping Overview & Facilities
Everything you need to know about overnight camping at Hungry Valley: campgrounds, facilities, amenities, fees, and what to expect when you stay
Hungry Valley SVRA offers approximately 150-200 campsites spread across 9 individual campgrounds and one large group facility, all operating on a first-come, first-served basis at just $10 per night. Following the June 2024 Post Fire, camping facilities reopened in September 2024 with temporary restrictions limiting availability to the first 50 campsites per day. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of all camping options, facilities, amenities, and essential information for planning your overnight stay at Hungry Valley.
Post Fire Update
Camping Status (September 2024)
Camping resumed September 2024 after the June 2024 Post Fire. Current restriction: First 50 campsites per day only on a first-come, first-served basis. Payment and registration handled at north entrance kiosk in Gorman. Check official updates for the latest status. For full details on the fire's impact and recovery timeline, see our Post Fire Recovery & Current Status chapter.
Camping Basics & Fees
How Camping Works at Hungry Valley
Hungry Valley operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis for individual campsites—there are no advance reservations for standard camping (with the exception of Honey Valley Group Camp). Here's what you need to know:
- Cost: $10 per night per campsite
- Hours: Camping available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Check-in: Register and pay at north entrance kiosk in Gorman
- Capacity: Currently limited to first 50 campsites per day (post-fire restriction)
- Day Use Fee: $5 per vehicle (separate from camping fee)
- Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Pro Tip: Arrive Early on Weekends
With the current 50-campsite daily limit, weekends and holidays can fill up quickly. Plan to arrive by early afternoon on Fridays or Saturday mornings to secure a spot. Weekdays typically have better availability.
Registration & Payment Process
All camping registration and payment is handled at the North Entrance Kiosk in Gorman when you enter the park:
- Arrive at North Entrance: Enter via 5301 Ralphs Ranch Road (formerly Peace Valley Road), Gorman, CA 93243
- Stop at Kiosk: Park staff will process your payment and issue camping permit
- Choose Your Site: Staff will direct you to available campground areas
- Find Your Spot: Select any available site within open campgrounds
- Display Permit: Keep your paid camping receipt visible at your campsite
Note: The south entrance remains closed following the Post Fire. All park access is through the north entrance only.
Individual Campgrounds (9 Open)
Following the Post Fire recovery, 9 semi-developed campgrounds are currently open for day use and overnight camping. All campgrounds are located along Gold Hill Road and Hungry Valley Road throughout the park's western sections.
For trail access from each campground, see our Open Trails & Riding Areas Guide.Currently Open Campgrounds
Open for Camping (as of September 2024)
- Edison Campground
- Sterling Campground (Sterling Canyon)
- Cottonwood Campground
- Circle Campground
- Upper Scrub Campground (Upper Scrub Oaks)
- Lower Scrub Campground (Lower Scrub Oaks)
- Smith Forks Campground (Special: Has flush toilets & sinks!) For detailed reviews, photos, and GPS coordinates of each campground, see our Featured Campgrounds Deep Dive.
- ATV Campground
- Aliklik Campground (Near 4WD Practice Area)
Standard Campsite Features
Each of the 150+ individual campsites includes the following amenities:
Sun protection structure
Outdoor dining area
Contained fire pit
Refuse disposal
Additionally, each campground provides:
- Vault Restrooms (one per campground) - Standard pit toilets
- Parking Areas - Space for RVs, trailers, trucks, and vehicles
- Trail Access - Direct access to riding areas and trails
Smith Forks Campground - The Best Facilities
Smith Forks is the only campground with flush toilets and sinks, making it the most comfortable option for families and those who prefer more developed facilities. It's also located near the mini motocross track and ATV practice track. This campground tends to fill up first on busy weekends.
Campground Locations
The 9 open campgrounds are distributed throughout the western section of the park, which encompasses over 2,000 acres of Open Use/Camping Zone. All campgrounds are accessible via Gold Hill Road and Hungry Valley Road, the main park roads that connect all camping areas.
For detailed locations of each individual campground and nearby trail access points, see Chapter 9: Featured Campgrounds Deep Dive, which includes specific GPS coordinates, photos, and reviews of each campground.
Honey Valley Group Camp (Reservable)
Honey Valley Group Camp is the park's premier group facility, offering the only reservable camping option at Hungry Valley SVRA. Located in the heart of the park with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, it's ideal for large gatherings, events, and organized rides.
Group Camp Features
Central Group Area Includes:
- Amphitheater - Complete with seating, stage, and campfire ring
- Large Ranch-Style BBQ Pit - For group cooking
- Food Preparation Tables - Multiple prep stations
- Smaller BBQ Pits - Additional cooking options
- Large Group Shade Ramada - Central gathering area
- Picnic Tables - Multiple seating areas
- Restroom Facilities - Accessible facilities
In addition to the central area, smaller group camping areas surround the perimeter of the facility, each with their own picnic tables, shade ramadas, and fire rings. The facility offers ample space for overnight camping, RVs, trailers, and tents.
Perfect For These Events
How to Reserve Honey Valley Group Camp
Unlike individual campsites, Honey Valley Group Camp requires advance reservation:
Online Reservations:
- Visit www.ReserveCalifornia.com
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Search for "Hungry Valley" or "Honey Valley Group Camp"
Phone Reservations:
- Customer Call Center: 800-444-7275
- Available 7 days/week, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM PST
- Closed: New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas
- Best times to call: Midday and midweek (fewer wait times)
Special Event Permits
If your group event requires exclusive use of the facility or involves activities beyond normal park scope, you'll need a Special Event Permit. Apply at least 30 days in advance by calling (661) 753-6356. This applies to races, organized competitions, filming, and large-scale events.
Honey Valley Programs
Honey Valley Group Camp also hosts Hungry Valley SVRA-sponsored interpretive programs, including campfire programs that are free to the public. Check the official park website for upcoming program schedules.
Facilities & Amenities
Hungry Valley offers primitive to semi-developed camping. Understanding what's available—and what's not—is essential for proper trip planning.
What's Available
You'll Find These at Hungry Valley:
- Vault Restrooms - Standard pit toilets at all 9 campgrounds
- Flush Toilets & Sinks - At Smith Forks Campground only
- Shade Ramadas - Sun protection at each campsite
- Picnic Tables - At every campsite
- Fire Rings/BBQ Pits - For cooking and warmth (firewood must be purchased locally)
- Trash Disposal - Refuse containers at all campgrounds
- Parking Areas - Space for RVs, trailers, trucks
- Accessible Facilities - Accessible restrooms and parking throughout park
- Visitor Center - At north entrance with maps and information
What's NOT Available
Not Available
You Won't Find These at Hungry Valley
- NO Water - Neither drinking water nor non-potable water anywhere in the park
- NO Showers - No shower facilities at any campground
- NO RV Hookups - No electrical, water, or sewer connections
- NO Dump Stations - Must use nearby Lebec facilities (see below)
- NO Firewood - Firewood collection prohibited; must purchase locally
- NO WiFi - No internet access
- NO Cell Service - Coverage is intermittent throughout most of the park
- NO Camp Stores - No supplies available inside the park
Nearby Services & Facilities
Dump Stations: Since there are no dump stations at Hungry Valley, RV campers can use these nearby options:
- Lebec Truck Stop - In the town of Lebec (approximately 15 minutes from park)
- I-5 Rest Areas - Northbound and southbound rest areas near Lebec
- Pyramid Lake - Seasonal dump services available
Supplies & Services in Gorman:
- Gas Station - Last fuel stop before entering the park
- Convenience Store - Basic groceries, snacks, drinks
- Liquor Store - Additional supplies
- Firewood - Must purchase locally before entering park
Note: Gorman is a small town with limited services. For major shopping, Valencia (30 miles south) or Bakersfield (60 miles north) offer full grocery stores, outdoor retailers like Cycle Gear, and other amenities.
Accessibility
Hungry Valley SVRA provides accessible facilities:
- Edison Campground - Mostly flat, level, and generally accessible sites
- Lane Ranch Campground - Several accessible sites with accessible picnic tables, fire rings, and trash containers
- Accessible Parking - At District Office, Quail Canyon MX Track, Gorman Entrance Station, and near most restrooms
- Accessible Restrooms - Non-flush (vault) restrooms generally accessible throughout the park
- Visitor Center - Generally accessible, including vault restrooms and adjacent parking
What You Must Bring
Because Hungry Valley has no water, showers, or hookups, you must be completely self-sufficient. Here's what's absolutely essential:
Critical Items (Non-Negotiable)
Must-Have Items
Essential Camping Supplies
- Water - ALL water must be brought in containers. Plan 1-2 gallons per person per day minimum (more in summer)
- Firewood - If you want a fire, buy locally in Gorman. Collection prohibited. No pallets allowed
- Shelter - Tent, RV, or trailer. Ramadas provide minimal shade, not weather protection
- Food & Cooking Equipment - No stores in park. Bring everything you need
- First Aid Kit - Medical help is limited; be prepared
- Toilet Paper - Vault toilets may run out
- Sunscreen & Hat - Intense sun exposure at 3,000-6,000 ft elevation
- Cash - For kiosk if card reader is down
Highly Recommended Items
- Extra Water - Always bring more than you think you need
- Portable Shower/Bath Supplies - Solar shower, wet wipes, or portable shower tent
- Generator (if RV camping) - For electricity since there are no hookups
- Extra Fuel - For both your vehicle and OHV equipment
- Coolers with Ice - Keep food fresh (no refrigeration)
- Warm Layers - Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing even in spring/fall
- Lighting - Headlamps, lanterns (no electricity at campsites)
- Trash Bags - Keep your campsite clean
- Chairs - Additional seating beyond picnic tables
- Additional Shade - Canopy or EZ-up for extra sun protection
Pro Tip: Check Your Water Supply
The single most common mistake campers make at Hungry Valley is not bringing enough water. In summer, temperatures can exceed 90°F and you'll need water for drinking, cooking, washing dishes, hand washing, and possibly cooling off. Bring at least 2-3 gallons per person per day in hot weather—more won't hurt!
Camping Rules & Fire Restrictions
General Camping Rules
- Camping in Designated Areas Only - You must camp in established campgrounds or designated camping zones
- Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM - Keep noise levels down
- Sound Limits: 96 dB maximum for all OHVs (applies during day use riding too)
- Display Paid Receipt: Keep camping receipt visible at your campsite
- Pack Out Trash: Use provided bins and keep campsite clean
- Respect Other Campers: Maintain distance between campsites
- No Removing Equipment: Trash containers, picnic tables, etc. may not be moved
Fire Rules & Firewood Restrictions
Strictly Enforced
Fire Restrictions
- NO Open Ground Fires - Fires allowed ONLY in provided fire rings
- NO Firewood Collection - Gathering firewood in the park is prohibited
- Must Buy Firewood Locally - Purchase in Gorman before entering park
- "Burn it where you buy it" - Prevents spread of invasive species and pests
- NO Pallet Burning - Pallets are not allowed as firewood (treated wood, nails)
- Seasonal Fire Restrictions - Additional restrictions may apply during high fire danger. Always ask at entrance kiosk
- Extinguish Completely - Ensure fire is completely out before leaving or sleeping
The June 2024 Post Fire burned over 10,000 acres of Hungry Valley, highlighting why fire safety is taken so seriously. Park staff will enforce these rules strictly to protect the recovering landscape.
Additional Park Rules
- Pets: Allowed but must be on leash and under control. Pick up after pets
- Alcohol: Allowed at campsites (not while operating OHVs)
- Weapons/Firearms: Subject to California State Parks regulations
- Generator Use: Must respect quiet hours (shut off 10PM-6AM)
- Waste Disposal: No dumping gray water or sewage outside designated areas
For complete park rules and regulations, see Chapter 2: Entrance, Rules & Requirements or visit the California State Parks Rules & Regulations page.
Nearby Camping Alternatives
If Hungry Valley campgrounds are full (remember, only 50 sites available per day currently), or if you prefer more developed facilities, several alternatives exist nearby:
Fort Tejon State Historic Park
Distance: Approximately 5 miles north of Hungry Valley entrance
- Type: Group camping only (25-50 people)
- Amenities: Drinking water, portable toilets, picnic tables, BBQ grills, fire pits
- Reservations: Required - Call 800-444-7275
- Cost: Varies by group size
- Good for: Large groups who want water access nearby
Los Padres National Forest Campgrounds
Distance: Various locations, generally 20-40 miles from Hungry Valley
- Type: Developed Forest Service campgrounds
- Amenities: Varies by campground - many have water, toilets, picnic tables
- Reservations: Available at Recreation.gov
- Good for: Those who want more developed facilities and don't mind a short drive to Hungry Valley
- Note: Operated by concessionaire - different fee structure
Angeles National Forest Campgrounds
Distance: Various locations south of Hungry Valley
- Type: Developed Forest Service campgrounds
- Amenities: Water, restrooms, picnic areas at most sites
- Reservations: Available at Recreation.gov
- Good for: Families wanting developed camping near the area
Private RV Parks (Gorman/Lebec Area)
Several private RV parks and campgrounds operate in the Gorman and Lebec area, typically offering:
- Full hookups - Water, sewer, electricity
- Showers and restrooms
- Dump stations
- WiFi (some locations)
- Higher costs - Typically $30-60/night vs. $10 at Hungry Valley
Search for "RV parks near Gorman CA" for current options and pricing. Keep in mind these will be 15-30 minutes from the park entrance, so factor in drive time.
Key Takeaways
Essential Information
- First-Come, First-Served: No reservations for individual sites. Currently limited to first 50 campsites daily (post-fire restriction). Arrive early on weekends!
- Affordable Camping: Only $10 per night at any of 9 open campgrounds. Payment at north entrance kiosk in Gorman.
- Primitive Facilities: Each campsite has shade ramada, picnic table, fire ring, and trash bins. Vault restrooms at all campgrounds. Smith Forks has flush toilets!
- NO Water, Showers, or Hookups: Bring ALL water (1-2+ gallons per person per day). No RV hookups. Completely self-sufficient camping required.
- Buy Firewood Locally: Open fires only in fire rings. Must purchase firewood in Gorman before entering. No collection, no pallets, seasonal restrictions apply.
- Honey Valley Group Camp: Reservable through ReserveCalifornia.com for large groups and events. Features amphitheater, ranch BBQ pit, and group facilities.
- Smart Planning Required: Located in desert environment at 3,000-6,000 ft elevation. Bring extra water, sun protection, warm layers for nighttime, and be prepared for temperature extremes.
- Dump Stations Nearby: No dump stations in park. Use Lebec truck stop, I-5 rest areas, or seasonal Pyramid Lake facilities for RV waste disposal.
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