Big Sur, a legendary stretch of the California coastline, is a symphony of untamed beauty where the Santa Lucia Mountains dramatically meet the vast Pacific Ocean. This iconic destination, famed for its towering redwood forests, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking vistas, represents the ultimate camping paradise. It’s a place to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the raw, awe-inspiring power of nature. Big Sur beckons adventurers seeking an escape into the heart of the Golden State’s most captivating landscapes.
Before embarking on your Big Sur camping adventure, it’s crucial to understand the regulations and limitations. Camping options range from well-maintained state parks to privately-owned campgrounds, and even glamping experiences for those seeking a touch of luxury. However, be aware that roadside camping along Highway 1 is strictly prohibited and actively enforced. The same restriction applies to Nacimiento-Ferguson Road, once a popular spot for free camping.
Given the immense popularity of Big Sur as a camping destination, meticulous planning is essential. Reservations for campsites, especially during peak seasons, often book up months in advance. It’s highly recommended to begin your search and secure reservations as early as six months prior to your desired travel dates. Even if your preferred campground doesn’t offer reservations, it’s wise to have a backup plan in place to avoid disappointment.
Let’s explore eleven of the best campgrounds that Big Sur has to offer:
1. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
Nestled within the heart of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, this campground is a highly sought-after destination for campers seeking the quintessential Big Sur experience. Despite offering 189 RV and tent sites, reservations are virtually mandatory and often fill up six months in advance, regardless of the time of year.
The campground’s popularity stems from its prime location, offering a harmonious blend of stunning mountain views, convenient proximity to the beach, and easy access to a network of hiking trails. Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air, spending the day exploring the rugged coastline, and returning to your campsite for a relaxing evening under the stars.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground provides essential amenities, including hot showers (token-operated), potable water, and restrooms. While a dump station with potable water is available, RVers should note that hookups are not provided. Reservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia or by calling toll-free at 1-800-444-7275. When the campground is fully booked, en route camping may be available for vehicles equipped with an onboard flush toilet.
2. Andrew Molera State Park
For those seeking a more rustic and secluded camping experience, Andrew Molera State Park offers a primitive, hike-in campground known as Trail Camp. Situated in an open meadow near the Big Sur River, the campground is approximately a quarter-mile from the parking lot, requiring a short but manageable hike to reach your campsite.
Trail Camp features 22 standard tent sites and two hike-and-bike sites. While showers are not available, the campground provides toilets and drinking water. Each campsite accommodates a maximum of four people. Reservations can be made from 48 hours to six months in advance through ReserveCalifornia or by calling 1-800-444-7275. Standard campsites are priced at $30 per night. Andrew Molera State Park is the perfect destination for campers who appreciate solitude and a more intimate connection with nature.
3. Big Sur Campground & Cabins
Big Sur Campground & Cabins is a popular choice for families and those seeking a more comfortable camping experience. As a privately-owned campground located next to the Big Sur River, it offers a range of amenities and accommodations.
In addition to campsites and RV sites with hookups, Big Sur Campground & Cabins provides clean bathrooms with hot water showers, laundry facilities, river tubing rentals, and a convenient store selling snacks, coffee, firewood, and ice. For those seeking a cozier retreat, the campground offers cabins with fireplaces and kitchens. A large playground located in the center of the property makes this campground particularly appealing to families with children.
4. Fernwood Resort
Fernwood Resort caters to a variety of camping preferences, offering a diverse range of accommodations. Guests can choose from classic tent camping, forest cabins, tent cabins, motel rooms, or the unique "Adventure Tent," which offers a glamping-style experience. RV hookups are also available.
Fernwood Resort boasts a lively restaurant and tavern, popular gathering spots for local residents. A general store on-site stocks essential camping supplies and provisions. Reservations can be made online, but group bookings require a phone call to Fernwood directly at 831-667-2422. Fernwood offers something for everyone, whether you prefer a traditional camping experience or a more luxurious getaway.
5. Kirk Creek Campground
Kirk Creek Campground offers unparalleled beachside camping with breathtaking ocean views from each of its 40 tent and RV campsites. Located within Los Padres National Forest, the campsites are perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean at an elevation of approximately 100 feet.
While a rocky beach lies below the campground, a short 5-mile drive will take you to the expansive sands of Sand Dollar Beach. Keep in mind that showers, water, and utility hookups are not provided at Kirk Creek Campground, and the nearest dump station is 40 miles away. Accessible pit toilets are available.
While two campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s highly recommended to reserve one of the other 38 sites through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Reservations must be made at least three days prior to your arrival. Kirk Creek Campground is the ideal destination for campers who crave stunning ocean views and direct access to the beach.
6. Limekiln State Park Campground
Situated on the southern edge of Big Sur, Limekiln State Park offers 29 campsites for tent camping and RVing. Restrooms and showers are available for campers’ convenience.
Many campsites at Limekiln State Park boast stunning ocean views, while others are nestled amongst a grove of towering redwood trees and a year-round creek. A 1.4-mile trail leads to a picturesque waterfall, offering a moderate hiking experience. Like most state parks, reservations can be made six months in advance and tend to sell out quickly. Secure your campsite through ReserveCalifornia to ensure your spot at this popular destination.
7. Plaskett Creek Campground
Plaskett Creek Campground, located within Los Padres National Forest, is a short five-minute walk from Sand Dollar Beach. This U.S. Forest Service campground features over 40 family sites suitable for tent and RV camping in a park-like setting. Flush toilets and sinks are available throughout the campground.
Due to water shortages in California, Plaskett Creek Campground currently lacks running water. Campers are advised to bring their own hand sanitizer, bottled water, and wipes. Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov. Plaskett Creek Campground provides a convenient and comfortable camping experience near one of Big Sur’s most beautiful beaches.
8. Riverside Campground and Cabins
This privately-owned campground spans 16 acres and is situated next to the Big Sur River, just 22 miles south of Carmel-By-The-Sea. Riverside Campground and Cabins offers 11 cabins, 22 tent sites, and 12 RV sites. Water hook-ups and 20-amp electricity are provided at each RV site.
Facilities include restrooms, hot showers, laundry, and a camp store stocked with groceries and camping supplies. As Riverside Campground and Cabins does not have sewer hookups or a dump station, RVers should ensure their tanks are emptied prior to arrival.
9. Treebones Resort
For a luxurious glamping experience, Treebones Resort is the ultimate destination. The resort offers six yurts, each featuring a king-sized bed, sink vanity with running water, sitting area, linen, and a redwood deck with Adirondack chairs for optimal ocean viewing.
For an even more opulent experience, book one of the two off-grid Autonomous Tent Collection units. Powered by solar panels, these "tents" boast 600 square feet of indoor space with bamboo flooring, eco-sensitive lighting, soft leather chairs, and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower and vanity. The resort also offers ocean-view, walk-in campsites where you can pitch your tent or rent one of their huts.
All overnight guests have access to the resort’s spa, yoga classes, restrooms and showers, and complimentary breakfast at the Lodge Restaurant. Treebones Resort is strictly for campers aged 13 and up, and most yurts are limited to two guests per night.
10. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, located just south of the center of Big Sur on the coastal side, is reserved for campers seeking a truly secluded getaway. The park has only two campsites, both of which are available by reservation only. Reservations are essential due to the limited availability.
Both campsites are hike-in only, requiring campers to carry all their equipment on foot. Be sure to fill up on water before arriving, as the nearest running water is located across Highway 1, near the park’s restrooms. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to escape into the wilderness and experience the solitude of Big Sur.
11. Ventana Campground
Nestled within a 40-acre redwood canyon, Ventana Campground is a tent-only campground located 30 miles south of Carmel. Each campsite features a picnic table and fire ring, and water faucets are conveniently located throughout the grounds. Guests also have access to showers (for a fee) and a camp store selling ice, firewood, and other essentials.
For those seeking a glamping experience, Ventana also operates a glampsite nearby, offering modern bathhouses, Wi-Fi, and power outlets with USB ports. Ventana Campground provides a peaceful and immersive camping experience surrounded by the majestic redwoods of Big Sur.
