The best camping in Tule Elk State Natural Reserve, CA

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Discover the serene Tule Elk State Natural Reserve and its wildlife.  

The best camping near Tule Elk State Natural Reserve, CA

No matching sites in the park — explore these options nearby.
Cuyama Badlands

1. Cuyama Badlands

99%
(4440)
30mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cuyama, CA
If you've ever wondered what it might be like to camp on the moon, this is it. Completely removed from civilization and surrounded by a barren nature that is alive with the subtle presence of the universe. Seasonally, Spring wildflowers burst across the landscape. Cave paintings of Chumash Indians at Painted Rock remind us of those who lived before us. **Read on for more details.** This is our home but we love to share our life in the outback. We believe it will give you a better appreciation of life's simpler side. That being said, and to maintain the balance here at home, we'd appreciate if you keep your dogs in your car until you get to your site. Our offerings include fresh air and sunshine, amazing night sky, endless views, and plenty of space and privacy to enjoy your moments in nature. You'll find our amenities and activities puposefully sparse here. Upon booking, there are about 5 miles of dirt road on the property that you are welcome to explore on foot or by bicycle. Rustic is the theme here. There is no shower, no wifi, and no electricity available, but you will enjoy your own private spigot and the cellular service is acceptable. For any sites located south of Ballinger Wash, your vehicle length is limited to 22' and no more than 4' overhang from the rear axle, so you don't get stuck in the crossing and block access for others. Towing services are 1-3 hours away. Our Songdog Camps are sparsely scattered atop a 200 foot mesa that looks west over a valley offering stunning desert sunsets and amazing stargazing. These UPPER SITES are NOT OHV friendly, but any of our canyon bottom sites are a great base for your riding adventures up in Ballinger Canyon OHV. We'll be happy to recommend a site for you. **Forest Service law enforcement is actively ticketing unplated OHV on Ballinger Canyon Road. Be sure to know and abide by the laws.** Our friendly cancellation policies vary between 24 hours for simple campsites and 72 hours for our Glamp sites and Group sites. Be sure to check the Google for distance to Cuyama Valley, and your dates for availability and site descriptions. Upon booking, you can look forward to an information packed email to help you make the very best of your trip! We look forward to seeing you!
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from 
$40
 / night
Wake up early to catch the sunrise--lots of blankets are available to you.

3. Blue Sky Center

94%
(746)
32mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Cuyama, CA
1948- On January 1, 1948 a wildcatter named George Hadley, who had been oil prospecting in the valley for 10 years, made the first oil strike in the Cuyama Valley. Richfield Oil Company soon moved in and extracted nearly 300 million barrels of oil in just a few short years. To accommodate an exploding workforce in the early 1950s, the company built the town of New Cuyama, its infrastructure, public buildings, the Cuyama airstrip (L88) and all the industrial structures that are now home to Blue Sky. Richfield Oil Company, later merging with Atlantic Oil Company forming the Atlantic Richfield Oil Company (ARCO), created high-paying jobs, a safe and prosperous community, and developed schools, churches, and recreational areas for the employee-residents.1973- With dwindling production in the area and new discoveries in Alaska, Atlantic-Richfield Oil Company put the town of New Cuyama and its associated infrastructure up for sale. Word of an entire town for sale made its way to entrepreneur, Russell O’Quinn of the Foundation for Airborne Relief (FAR) and Mildred Dotson, a wealthy widow from Tulsa, Oklahoma. The two worked together to acquire the townsite and adjacent land. O’Quinn, an aviator, inventor, and test pilot, aspired to use the New Cuyama airstrip and facilities as a base for humanitarian relief and a non-profit trade school. Though not fully realized, FAR’s primary vision included utilizing converted military aircraft to airlift food and medical supplies to developing countries and global disaster areas. Dotson had loftier goals. Her plans included an 18-hole fly-in golf course, expansion of the Buckhorn Restaurant and Motel, and a 40- to 50-acre lake for amphibious landing and water sports. 1986- Another visionary, Harry Kislevitz, inventor of the popular design tool Colorforms® and founder of Future City/Villages International, sought to develop the site as a “City of Friendship,” an all-electric village of 5,000 earthen homes. The dwellings were to be designed by Nader Khalili, an Iranian-born architect who specialized in earthen structures, worked with NASA on prototypes for lunar homes and received an award from the United Nations for his work towards the development of low cost, sustainable structures for human shelter in impoverished and disaster prone environments. One 628-sq-ft Khalili prototype remains on the property today ("the Cantina"). Khalili went on to form the California Institute for Earth Art and Architecture, Cal-Earth, in Hesperia, CA.1993- Recognizing the transformative potential of clean, solar power and the attractiveness of a rural destination, entrepreneur Mike Nolan worked to develop the Solar Skypark and Big Sky Guest Ranch with Santa Barbara Architect, Barry Berkus. The Sky Park included plans for sixty-five fly-in residences on one-acre lots powered completely from clean, solar energy. The Big Sky Guest Ranch was intended to function as a clubhouse for Skypark residents complete with an equestrian center, a small subsistence farm, pool and plenty of enriching recreational activities. 2012- At the end of 2011, the Zannon Family Foundation made a long-term investment in acquiring the New Cuyama Airport property with the vision of rehabilitating the site to be a low-cost resource for programs and organizations working to advance sustainable living practices and technologies. Plans began soon after towards developing a framework and organization to develop the space and coordinate with prospective programs and institutions. In 2014 Blue Sky Sustainable Living Center ("Blue Sky Center") received 501(c)(3) not-for-profit status, endeavoring to reclaim this property for the public good. Today, Blue Sky Center provides unduplicated services and technical assistance to support small businesses and entrepreneurs as well as the local food system, with core work focused on community research and advocacy led by Cuyamans. Learn more on our website and consider supporting our community work with your donation or by hosting your next special event here!
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$35
 / night
Bakersfield Farm Animals & Pond

5. Bakersfield Farm Animals & Pond

96%
(307)
24mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA
LOCATION INFO Enjoy a rustic, no-fuss stay on our 20-acre working farm just 15 miles south of Bakersfield, with easy freeway access. Campsites sit along the pond—perfect for catch-and-release fishing, paddle boarding, or kayaking. We have a small area with farm animals (pigs, goats, sheep, peacocks and chickens) for you to enjoy. Most guests are road-tripping, escaping LA, or stopping over en route to Yosemite, Sequoia, or Joshua Tree. Expect a desert climate: hot summers, cold winters. Each site includes a small table, potable water spigot, picnic table, and fire pit (bring your own wood). All sites are BYO tent or car-camping with the exception of our one Glamping Site which includes a queen bed. Some have vehicle height limits (noted in site names), and cannot accommodate pop-ups or truck campers. Amenities include one shared indoor toilet and an outdoor hot/cold shower. You may be greeted by our friendly, working farm dogs. We offer self check-in and you're welcome to arrive anytime after 1PM; checkout is 11AM. Please respect quiet hours after 10PM if arriving late. CAMP RULES No Pets – Our dogs protect the farm and see other animals as threats. You will be asked to leave with no refund if you bring a pet. Quiet Hours: 10 PM–7 AM – No exceptions. If we receive complaints about noise, you’ll be asked to leave immediately. 1 Tent + 1 Car per Site (Site 4 allows 2 tents/2 cars). If you need more tents, you will need to book multiple sites. No tents or canopies on the grass/lawn area. No fireworks or open flames outside of designated fire pits. Propane burners or grills are permitted. Do not feed the farm dogs—no treats or food, ever. At checkout: dispose of trash in the dumpster by Site 5, soak any hot coals, wipe down tables, and put back the kayaks and paddleboards. Shower use: Only farm-provided shampoo and soap are allowed. Fire pits must stay in place. Do not move them.
Potable water
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from 
$42
 / night
Cuyama Oaks Ranch

6. Cuyama Oaks Ranch

99%
(769)
36mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · CA
Hello! Our names are Ricky and Nathan. We own and operate an 80 acre ranch that is great for family's, kids, romantic getaways, and LGBTQIA+ safe. We cannot wait to host you and your group! We're excited to share our property with those who appreciate nature and what seclusion in the mountains has to offer. Located deep in the Cuyama Valley, close to wine country, and booming local vineyards (1.25 hrs past Ojai and 45 minutes past Santa Maria) our ranch promises the getaway experience you've been looking for. The Ranch is 80 acres with majestic mountain views and vast canyons for hiking and trail access. During the spring and summer months imagine sitting in your own personal cowboy pooltub looking up at the stars. Smell the sage and wildflowers in the air while you sip wine. Surrounded by the Los Padres Mountains and located deep within the hidden valley of enchantment, this ranch gives the visitor the high-desert glamping/camping experience of their dreams. For the hikers and explorers out there, the ranch offers trails and within 30 min in every direction there are local trails. . There is a designated area for tent camping and for RV's, Trailers, Vans, and tiny homes (no electric yet for RVs). We also offer glamping sites and all inclusive yurts. The ranch is completely private and secluded, off HWY 166. We welcome all animals, big and small. We are farm! We have pigs, goats, ducks, chickens, turkeys and more!
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$68
 / night
Drone shot of Okihi in winter.

7. Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

96%
(26)
28mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Bakersfield, CA
Okihi is a unique sanctuary where habitat restoration meets outdoor adventure. Nestled in a diverse landscape, we focus on healing the land through hands-on conservation while offering a space to connect with nature, camp, and learn. This is not your average campground, so i make sure to look over the rules. They will be enforced to keep a tranquil vibe. Restore and Explore We’re committed to revitalizing native habitats—our land is a living example of ecological renewal. Wander scenic trails, enjoy wildlife, and witness the power of restoration in action. Sustainable Farming and Livestock Our animals play a key role in regeneration. Horses, sheep, goats, turkeys, and chickens help manage invasive weeds and maintain healthy ecosystems. We compost all their manure, turning waste into valuable resources for soil health. Camping and Community Camp under the stars, explore nature, and join us for seasonal events and workshops focused on sustainability, conservation, and community. Whether you're here to camp, hike, or volunteer, Okihi is a place where nature and people come together for a common cause. Okihi is more than a destination—it's a living example of land restoration, sustainable living, and the power of community. Come explore, learn, and make a difference! Okihi is approximately 15 minutes east of Downtown Bakersfield. 20 minutes away from the 99 hwy or 178 hwy. Whichever way you are traveling, we are a great stopover point. Sites are spread around on the east side of the property facing the river for beautiful river views while you sip coffee from your site. There are a multitude of recreation opportunities to enjoy. On site there is hiking, places to practice yoga or meditate, kayaking, paddle boarding. We also have a hammock veranda that is fully shaded and a great place to relax along the river. Miles of biking paths run on the road right by where we are situated and there is a nearby river rafting company if you want the white water experience. Most of our campers are road tripping, getting away from LA, or are looking for a stopover on their way to/from Yosemite, Sequoia, Joshua Tree, etc. We are in a desert climate – cold in the winter and hot in the summer. Portable heaters or fans with misting options are available for rent.
Pets
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from 
$32
 / night
Secluded Carrizo Plains Campsite

9. Secluded Carrizo Plains Campsite

94%
(62)
28mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 1 site · RV · Mc Kittrick, CA
Looking for a place to get away from the stresses of the city and enjoy some peace and tranquility? Look no further than the Heritage Campsite. For the past four years, this has been our go-to spot for camping and creating great memories with our family and pets. Located just a few miles from the Carrizo Plain National Monument and Soda Lake, this 2.5-acre lot is one of California's best-kept secrets. With only a few hours' drive from Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo, it offers visitors a rare opportunity to be alone with nature and experience the beauty of the outdoors. Learn more about this land: The Heritage Campsite is RV, travel trailer, and van-friendly, and generators are allowed at your discretion. And with no other visitors on the property, you'll have the entire lot to yourself. One of the most amazing things about this campsite is the clear and beautiful night sky. With no city lights to interfere, you'll be able to see the stars like never before. And if you're lucky, you may even hear the coyotes howling in the distance. During the spring, the valley comes alive with lush, colorful flowers that blanket the mountains in blue, green, purple, and yellow. It's a sight that you'll never forget and a reminder of the beauty of nature. So why wait? Book your stay at the Heritage Campsite today and experience the magic of this hidden gem. It's like going back in time to the pioneering days or the native American passage travels. It's the perfect place to relax, unwind, and create new memories that will last a lifetime. Also, please note due to the high temperatures this summer and the increased risk of fire caused by dry, easily flammable grass, we kindly ask that you restrict all open flames and fire-related activities during this period.
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$15
 / night
Sunset in the valley

10. Cuyama Valley View

100%
(16)
26mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 2 sites · RVs · Maricopa, CA
Learn more about this land: View of the Cuyama Valley and Coastal Mountains. Rising terrain in the foothills of the Los Padres National Forest with native Juniper, grassland, dry creek beds and canyons. Great for hiking, mountain biking, star gazing and bird watching! Panoramic views and privacy are key features. There is convenient access and it is a fenced/gated property. Summer breeze prevails, winter can expect low to freezing temperatures and occasional snow in winter months.  Behind the campsite to the east are some farm buildings/storage, owners home is visible to the south half a mile away, manager lives on the property. The campsite is accessible with vehicle and trailer or RV with pull through/turnaround access. RV camping is preferable due to weather and/or wildlife, please message first to determine if it is a good fit for your visit. Campsite has a concrete slab, campfire bowl, non-potable water access, no restroom. If you prefer, there is always the option of camping somewhere else on the property, as there is a total of 740 acres.
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$38
 / night
Carrizo National

12. Carrizo National

91%
(68)
31mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mc Kittrick, CA
Enjoy the wonders of Carrizo National Park. Home to the largest Soda Lake with 360 degree views and the super bloom that attracts thousands of people every Spring. Reconnect with nature and escape the noise and pollution of the city. The majestic hills frame a perfect view of the sky so you can experience sunsets, sunrises, full moons, eclipses and starry nights like never before. You may see local wildlife such as mountain lions and elk in the surrounding hills, rabbits and tarantulas in the fields or even hear foxes and coyotes howling in the distance. Driving Instructions: Head toward the middle of 7 Mile Road until you see a Green outhouse building on the south side. Coordinates: 35°17'04.6"N 119°54'13.7"W  Don't forget to walk on the soda lake! It's a short drive just south of the property. There is cell service on the property for most carriers.  Please be extra cautious with your campfires. Your Feedback is appreciated and is used to improve future experiences for guests. Thank you!
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$34
 / night
Hudson Ranch Historical Resort and Campground

13. Hudson Ranch Historical Resort and Campground

100%
(4)
31mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 56 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Maricopa, CA
Our expansive 80-acre property, located in the mountains of north Ventura County near Highway 166 and just a 90-minute drive from Los Angeles, is the perfect setting for a unique glamping, RV, and camping experience. At Hudson Ranch, we cater to a variety of preferences with a full spectrum of outdoor experiences and amenities. We have miles of trails leading from the property, including direct access to Ballinger Canyon OHV Park. Ideal for families, pet lovers, and groups of all sizes, our property features an array of accommodations: Cabins, private rooms, furnished glamping tents, domes/yurts (coming soon), standard campsites, hammock camping, and RV sites. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, we have the perfect spot for your getaway. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the landscape and exclusive access to both the Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge and the Los Padres National Forest, where you'll be walking amongst the footsteps of the ancient Chumash Native American peoples who lived here for over 13,000 years. We are committed to environmental sustainability; Hudson Ranch is fully sustainable and runs on 100% solar power with battery packs. Adventure, explore, or simply unwind – Hudson Ranch is your gateway to a vacation you will cherish forever.
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$25
 / night
Deer Ravine Lodgings

14. Deer Ravine Lodgings

100%
(15)
42mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 3 sites · Lodging · Keene, CA
We opened up our private mountain property during COVID 2020 so people could safely get into nature and enjoy the fresh air, peace and quiet, and wildlife.  We live on an 11-acre ranch in the beautiful and quiet community.  This is not a property for loud or raucous parties.  Only registered guests are allowed.  Pets on leashes are welcome upon prior approval only.  Absolutely no fires allowed May-December due to extreme fire danger.  No running water and no WiFi.   Learn more about this land:Enjoy a luxurious outdoor camping experience in a 16'x20' White Duck canvas tent on a large deck. There is a separate, private bathroom/shower building. Relax and sleep like a baby in a hand-hewn log king-sized bed and queen sized sofa sleeper and opulent linens. The Glamp tent and deck include a private deck, propane BBQ grill, sink with running well water, a refrigerator, Keurig, microwave, and TV with DVD's (no WiFi). July and August are hot in the tent between 2pm-6pm. The evenings are cooling down. We have two fans and an evaporative cooler and an electric heater. ABSOLUTELY NO FIRES MAY-DECEMBER DUE TO EXTREME FIRE DANGER. This is a "Leave No Trace" space and a "Shoeless Tent." Leashed pets are allowed with prior approval by hosts. For your convenience, we have a crate and dog bed available. A 7-person bullfrog spa is available upon request and availability. An outdoor solar shower (may be cold depending on weather and time of day) is available to rinse off prior to using the Spa. No unregistered guests are allowed on the property. We will be there to greet you and describe our property and amenities. We are available to answer your questions or assist you as needed.
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$180
 / night
Steel ring fire pit, large picnic table, hammock spot under the large piñon pines.

15. Gem of the Bend (Horses welcome)

100%
(16)
42mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 1 site · RV · Frazier Park, CA
The Chumash called the peak of Mount Piños the center of the universe, or center of the world depending on the translation. This campground is at the southeast base of this mountain. The San Andreas fault is just about 8 miles away, and many other faults meet nearby. The mountains here are full of geological signs of the Forces that ripped away Santa Barbara from the North American plate as it was flipped upside down. This is the entrance to the Enchanted Forest. Learn more about this land: Lockwood Valley is so close to Los Angeles and other urban areas, but feels 1000 miles away. Our neighborhood is a gem within Lockwood Valley. The community has less than 20 residences so it is very rural, but neighborly. There are horses nearby, you will hear some roosters in the distance, and if you are lucky, you may hear the African lions or wolves from the next canyon over where there is a (fully contained) wildlife sanctuary called Steve Martins Working Wildlife (not the funny guy). Great secluded spot for a fully contained RV. Easy entrance from a good dirt road. The actual property of the site is 1/8 of an acre and is surrounded by forest and fields. A picnic table is nestled in a grove of trees next to a steel fire pit ring. Bring your hammock to relax under big shady piñon pines. The site is about 200 yards from the entrance to the Los Padres National Forest with great hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, hunting, etc. There is currently no privacy barrier between the campsite and the dirt road, but the traffic is extremely minimal. There are two 12’x24’ horse corrals on the property. This area is ideal for horseback trail riding and the campsite location makes for the perfect base camp. This is a superb stargazing spot, far from the city lights. Many amateur astronomers come to this area for the dark skies. At a mile high, nights can be very cold, and in the winter it is possible to get up to a couple feet of snow. Weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow can make the roads and campsite impassable at times so cancellations are possible in this case (this happens a lot less than we would like, of course, because we need the precipitation!).
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$56
 / night
Tehachapi Winery

17. Tehachapi Winery

100%
(6)
45mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 9 sites · RVs · Tehachapi, CA
Welcome to Tehachapi Winery! We are a commercial winery with an industrial vibe, nestled amidst the serene valleys and oak-studded rolling hills of Tehachapi, California. Our winery embodies the essence of artisanal winemaking in the region. We are committed to quality, organic and regenerative growing practices with a focus on sustainability. Join us for an overnight RV stay at our facility and take pleasure in a wine-tasting experience that invites you to savor the flavors of the wine country while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Please note: January-March, sometimes into April, is our "Wet/Snow Season" - during these months our property can often become muddy and challenging to navigate, especially for heavier vehicles. Please check weather conditions or call the winery directly to avoid any stay inconveniences.
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$36
 / night
10 Star Ranch

18. 10 Star Ranch

13mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · Taft, CA
A semi-rural area with the California aqueduct in the backyard. The city of Taft is about 8 miles west of this little oasis in the desert of Kern County. We are just 20 miles, or 24 minutes from the busy I-5 Freeway. Come unwind and enjoy the quiet nature or host a party. The sky is the limit! Bathroom facilities available with 1 shower. 35°07'21"N 119°22'31"W Activities close to 10 Star Ranch: .001 Miles. California Aqueduct fishing out your back door. 29 Miles. Wind Wolves Preserve, 16019 CA-166, Bakersfield, CA 93311 https://wildlandsconservancy.org/preserves/windwolves 4 Miles. Moto X Racetracks. Honolulu Rd, Taft, CA 93268 https://www.taftracing.com/ 6 Miles. West Kern Oil Museum. 1168 Wood Street,Taft, California 93268 https://www.westkernoilmuseum.org/ 16 Miles. Buena Vista Golf Course. Mifflin Ln, Taft, CA 93268 https://www.golfbv.com/ 21 Miles. Buena Vista Lake. 13601 Ironbark Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93311 https://www.kerncounty.com/government/parks 22 Miles. Kern County Gun Club. 12450 Shotgun Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93311 http://www.kerncountygunclub.com/ 18 Miles. Skydive San Joaquin Valley Inc. 12112 Copus Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93313 http://skydivesanjoaquinvalley.com/
Pets
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$16
 / night
Sleepy Meadow Ranch

19. Sleepy Meadow Ranch

93%
(20)
41mi from Tule Elk State Natural Reserve · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Frazier Park, CA
The ranch been here for many years ( We uncovered a buried Horse wagon from the late 1800's at the back end of the property) . There was originally a very small cabin, but since it was upgraded by the previous owner around 1961 by adding a small kitchen and indoor restroom instead of the "outhouse" . My wife purchased the property about 3 years ago and we been doing intensive cleaning and upgrading of the Rustic property so we can share it with our guests !        Learn more about this land:Ranch setting on the high desert with over 15 pine trees for shadow areas.Great paved area with chairs and tables for eating, reading, or just contemplating nature! Plenty of room for RV's or tents! Water and electrical power available.Come and hear the wolves howl in the evening! ( Wolf reserve nearby).Great site for solitude, and relaxation or for bringing your toys and go play in the near areas! Great place for church groups or musicians that want to come in and play! (Also one small cabin available for couples!
Pets
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$70
 / night

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The best camping in Tule Elk State Natural Reserve, CA guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure at Tule Elk State Natural Reserve, where the majestic tule elk roam amid a backdrop of California's grasslands and foothills. Witness nature's splendor from the viewing platform, explore interpretive exhibits, or join a guided Auto Safari tour. While camping facilities are not available, the park offers a rich day-use experience with picnic areas and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.

When to go

The best time to visit Tule Elk State Natural Reserve is during late summer through early autumn, when the tule elk are most active. Spring and fall also offer comfortable weather for wildlife spotting. Summer can bring extreme heat, and winter may be cold and foggy, so plan your visit accordingly for the best experience.

Know before you go

  • Check road conditions before your visit, as detours may affect access to the reserve.
  • Park hours are from 8am to sunset, ensuring you have ample daylight for your explorations.
  • While dogs are welcome in the day-use area on a leash no longer than 6 feet, they are not permitted on Auto Safari tours.
  • Accessible features include parking, the visitor center, the elk viewing platform, and the picnic area, catering to all visitors.
  • Remember to bring binoculars for an enhanced wildlife viewing experience, especially when the tule reeds are tall.
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