The large Gopher snake is most frequently encountered. This non-poisonous species is rarely aggressive. King snakes are also non-poisonous and not considered aggressive. Two other non-poisonous snakes sometimes found in the area include the Garter snake and Pink Racer. Rattlesnakes are occasionally encountered by campers and visitors in the Monument.
Rattlers are shy creatures that normally avoid human contact.
They are most likely to act in an aggressive manner only when provoked, cornered, or if they feel threatened in some way. Area snakes serve a useful purpose in the ecological chain by helping to keep the rodent population in check All snakes are protected in Pinnacles Campground and the adjacent Pinnacles National Monument. Live oak, Valley oak and Blue oak trees in the Campground and Monument are just one of the many natural wonders the area has to offer. Many of the huge trees in the campground have been estimated at over 300 years old. These trees not only add natural beauty to the surroundings, but also provide a much needed source of food for the area wildlife.