Big Sur Camping: Your Complete Guide

Dreaming of camping in Big Sur? Whether you picture yourself under towering redwoods or beside the tranquil Big Sur River, this guide has you covered. We'll explore Big Sur camping options for both tent and RV campers, share essential tips for planning your perfect getaway, and highlight must-do activities along the coast and river.

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Plan Your Big Sur Camping Trip

All the way from the crest of the Santa Lucia Mountains to its chapter in the Pacific Ocean, Big Sur is an outdoor person’s dream. Big Sur camping is very popular as the national park houses as much as 7 million visitors each year.

There are campsites all along the park frontage. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Riverside Campground, and Fernwood Campground are all less than one mile north of the Big Sur Creek Bridge, as are many others.

Key Takeaways

• Reserve your Big Sur campsite early: Campsites, especially popular ones, fill up quickly. Book through ReserveCalifornia or explore alternative platforms like Hipcamp for unique options.
• Choose the right camping style for you: Big Sur offers everything from basic tent sites to luxury glamping. Consider your needs and preferences when selecting your perfect spot.
• Prepare for Big Sur's remote beauty: Download offline maps and pack a reliable portable charger to stay connected and powered up. Be aware of potential hazards like poison oak and plan accordingly.

Why Big Sur is a Camper's Paradise

Big Sur’s 90 miles of breathtaking coastline makes it an ideal camping destination. Picture yourself waking up among towering redwoods, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, Big Sur offers a variety of campgrounds to suit your style. Just remember, these scenic spots are popular and fill up quickly, so planning ahead is key. Check out Toad&Co’s guide for some Big Sur camping inspiration.

Big Sur Camping: Know Before You Go

Before you pack your bags and head for the highway, here are a few essential things to keep in mind for a smooth and enjoyable Big Sur camping experience.

Reservations and Fees

Given Big Sur's popularity, reserving your campsite in advance is crucial, especially if you're planning your trip during peak season. You can book your spot up to six months ahead through ReserveCalifornia or by calling 1-800-444-7275. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a favorite among visitors, offers standard campsites for $50/night and prime riverfront sites for $60/night. Check the California State Parks website for the most up-to-date fee information.

Campground Rules and Regulations

Familiarizing yourself with the campground rules will help ensure a pleasant stay for everyone. Most campsites accommodate a maximum of six people and two vehicles, including trailers. Remember, everything must fit within your designated parking space. Quiet hours are typically from 10 pm to 6 am, allowing for peaceful nights under the stars. Generators are permitted between 10 am and 8 pm, while amplified music is prohibited to maintain the tranquility of the natural surroundings. For detailed information, visit the California State Parks website.

Cell Service and Connectivity

While Big Sur's remote beauty is part of its charm, it also means cell service can be spotty. Before you head off the grid, download offline maps and any essential information. Hipcamp offers helpful tips for staying connected while camping in Big Sur.

Packing Essentials: Power Up Your Trip with KEUTEK

Don't let a dead battery ruin your Big Sur adventure. A reliable portable charger is a must-have for keeping your devices powered up. KEUTEK's Portable Solar Power Bank offers a lithium polymer battery with PD fast charging, providing up to eight days of power on a single charge. It's 50% faster than standard portable chargers, ensuring you can quickly recharge your devices and get back to enjoying the stunning scenery.

Quick Tips for Big Sur Camping

Because Big Sur is home to all kinds of wildlife (notably ticks and poison oak), wear long pants and long sleeves when hiking; keep pets on a leash in campgrounds and picnic areas.

You should aim to get camping reservations early because campsites are limited – especially at popular campsites such as Riverside Campground.

Best Big Sur Campgrounds

Big Sur accommodates a wide range of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and even luxury tent cabins with hot showers.

Wake up to hear the roar of the Big Sur River at Riverside Campground, or poke your head through the canvas roof of a tent to look up into a redwood grove. The latter of which you might do at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where the facilities can be as luxurious as any five-star resort; or you can opt for no facilities at all, leaving you to find your connection with nature in a more basic way.

Free Dispersed Camping

For the adventurous and budget-conscious, Big Sur offers free dispersed camping on public lands. This means you can camp outside of developed campgrounds, giving you a more secluded experience. Several roads, including Nacimiento-Ferguson Road, Plaskett Ridge Road, and Prewitt Ridge Road, provide access to these dispersed camping areas. These areas offer a chance to truly connect with nature, but they also come with greater responsibility. Always check the Los Padres National Forest website for current rules, restrictions, fire bans, and weather updates before you head out. Conditions can change rapidly, and being prepared is essential. And remember, pack out everything you pack in. Leave no trace behind. It's also worth noting that campfires are often restricted in these areas, so plan accordingly. A portable power bank can be a lifesaver for keeping your devices charged in these off-grid locations.

Backcountry Camping Permits and Trails

Big Sur’s backcountry offers a network of trails and over 50 campsites for those seeking a more immersive wilderness experience. If you're planning to hike and camp in the backcountry, you'll need to obtain the necessary permits. A campfire permit is also required if you plan to have a fire. Sykes Hot Springs, a popular destination, is a 10-mile hike from the Ventana Wilderness visitor center and offers both hot springs and campsites. However, be sure to check its availability beforehand, as it may be closed due to trail conditions or other factors. For a shorter trek, consider Cook Spring Camp, a 5-mile hike on the North Coast Trail. This option provides campsites with stunning coastal views, making it a rewarding choice for those looking for a less strenuous hike with beautiful scenery. Don't forget to pack a portable charger to keep your essential devices powered up during your backcountry adventure.

Camping in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

The greatest asset of Big Sur, and arguably its loveliest park, is the 1,000-acre Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a year-round refuge and a mecca for campers with 189 sites available for tents and trailers, rustic cabins for rent, and many programs to take part in.

With its lovely natural amenities and top-notch facilities, it’s no wonder the slots fill up months in advance, even in the shoulder season of winter.

Pfeiffer Big Sur: Tent Cabins & Campsites

Pfeiffer State Park even offers tent cabins and traditional sites for those who want a more secluded camping adventure. The redwood-setting cabins can host up to four guests, but kitchen facilities are not available. However, you can find bathrooms and hot showers within a short distance from your camping grounds or cabin.

Nature-seekers can lodge among the trees at one of the park’s two semi-developed camping sites, with 30 sites each that include fire rings and picnic tables. There’s something for everyone.

Specific Campsite Recommendations within Pfeiffer

For a more secluded camping adventure, check out Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park’s tent cabins. Nestled among the redwoods, these cabins can accommodate up to four guests. While they don't have kitchen facilities, bathrooms and hot showers are conveniently located nearby. If you prefer traditional camping, the park offers two semi-developed campgrounds with 30 sites each, equipped with fire rings and picnic tables.

Alternative Strategies for Securing Campsites

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is incredibly popular, so reservations are essential. Book your campsites well in advance, up to six months prior to your trip, through ReserveCalifornia or by phone at 1-800-444-7275. Given the high demand, consider exploring nearby campgrounds outside the park for more availability if your preferred dates are booked.

Key Amenities at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers top-notch facilities and stunning natural amenities, making it a sought-after destination year-round. From the lush redwood forests to the convenient hot showers and restrooms, the park provides a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. The Big Sur River flows through the park, offering opportunities for swimming, wading, and fishing.

Peak Season Limits at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Due to its popularity, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park implements peak season limits and reservation requirements. To avoid disappointment, plan and secure your reservations well in advance through ReserveCalifornia or by calling 1-800-444-7275. You can book up to six months in advance, which is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Check the park's website for the most up-to-date information on peak season dates and any restrictions.

Things to Do in Pfeiffer Big Sur

Viewing the stars and roasting marshmallows is one thing, but Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is the starting point for multiple hikes through the forests. In addition, there are plenty of on-site activities to take part in.

Camping at Kirk Creek Campground

Imagine a morning at Kirk Creek Campground – awakened by the lap of waves on the shoreline and the stretch of the Pacific Ocean to the horizon. Situated on a bluff that borders the Pacific Ocean where the forest hits the sea, Kirk Creek Campground is home to 33 stunning campsites.

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Kirk Creek: Campsite Amenities

Kirk Creek offers a fire ring at each campsite, firewood for sale, onsite bathrooms and showers, and hookups for plumbing and electrical.

Another reason why Kirk Creek Campground is a favorite is its location just off-shore of Sand Dollar Beach, Big Sur’s broadest sandy beach. There’s truly no better place to camp seaside than Kirk Creek.

Poison Oak Warning at Kirk Creek

While camping at Kirk Creek Campground, it's essential to be aware of the natural hazards that come with these beautiful surroundings. Poison oak is prevalent in the area, and contact with this plant can lead to uncomfortable rashes and allergic reactions. To protect yourself, wear long pants and long sleeves when hiking or exploring the campground. Additionally, keeping pets on a leash in campgrounds and picnic areas can help prevent them from encountering poison oak.

As you enjoy the stunning ocean views and the sound of crashing waves, remember to stay aware of your surroundings. Taking these precautions will ensure a safer and more enjoyable camping experience in Big Sur. Don't forget to pack essentials like a portable charger to keep your devices powered up throughout your trip!

Hiking Near Kirk Creek

There's tons of hiking waiting for you at Kirk Creek. Kirk Creek is a base camp for many travelers backpacking into the Ventana Wilderness and the National Forest of Los Padres via a series of foot trails. Perhaps the hardest and most scenic of these hikes is the 10.5mi Kirk Creek to Vicente Flat Trail, which takes you through a combination of forest and to the ocean, up and down a mountain, through shady woods and out into the hot sun, all within 984 meters of elevation change.

Riverside Campground & Cabins: Your Big Sur Retreat

Need some time to reflect? Riverside Campground Cabins is along the Big Sur River, beneath the redwoods. No Wi-Fi and no computers means no interruptions from the outside world. Tent, RV, and cabin sites are up for grabs!

Riverside: Accommodation Options

Riverside Campground & Cabins provides a variety of accommodations, including:

• Rustic tent camping

• RV sites

• Cabins with private fire rings and a picnic table

• Modern motel rooms

• Glamping tents with fresh linens

Whatever your preference, Riverside ensures a comfortable and memorable stay.

Relaxing at Riverside

Riverside Campground offers a variety of activities to join in on. Drive an hour up the coast to Big Sur and traverse the uninhabited, rocky coastline, or stroll down to the Big Sur River and sit in the shade of oak and sycamore trees. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, there are inner tube rentals at Riverside and drift down the river.

Camping at Limekiln State Park

Limekiln State Park, a popular camping destination in Big Sur, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The park is renowned for its towering redwood trees and the scenic Limekiln Falls, which cascade down the hillside. The park itself is relatively small, contributing to its intimate and peaceful atmosphere.

Limekiln: Campsites and Amenities

Limekiln State Park features 33 campsites nestled among the redwoods, providing a tranquil escape. These campsites offer convenient access to hiking trails leading to the stunning waterfalls. While the campsites are more rustic, offering a closer-to-nature experience, the park provides basic amenities such as restrooms and fire pits. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, due to the limited number of campsites.

Ventana Campground: A Private Campground Option

For those seeking a more luxurious camping experience, Ventana Campground presents a compelling alternative. This privately owned campground offers a wider range of amenities and services. Its location along the Big Sur River adds to its appeal, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and simply enjoying the serene riverside setting.

Ventana Campground: Features and Amenities

Ventana Campground distinguishes itself with its focus on luxury camping. The campsites are spacious and well-maintained, offering amenities such as hot showers, a camp store, and a swimming pool. The campground's beautiful natural setting, surrounded by redwoods and along the Big Sur River, makes it a particularly family-friendly option. The presence of a camp store ensures campers have easy access to essential supplies, adding to the convenience and comfort of their stay.

This blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities makes Ventana Campground a desirable choice for a more refined camping experience in Big Sur.

Glamping at Treebones Resort

Whether you prefer to rough it or are looking to find your wilderness bare with the resort’s springs, Treebones Resort is a good place to start. Perched upon a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Treebones offers glamping in its village of yurts. There are:

• Queen-sized beds

• Bathrooms on-site

• Panoramic views of the ocean

Those seeking a luxury upgrade can visit the resort’s Autonomous Tents, which are solar-powered, in-ground heated, and feature ensuite bathrooms.

Why Choose Treebones Resort?

The luxury yurts that form the basis of the resort list ‘yoga in the outdoor amphitheater each morning,’ ‘whale watching in season,’ and a series of wellness workshops and activities throughout the year.’ Treebones Resort isn’t simply in the luxury business; it’s in the business of providing a soothing, rejuvenating experience, a succession of luxuries that restores the soul.

Fernwood Resort: A Big Sur Getaway

Fernwood Resort offers a variety of camping and lodging options, including:

• Tent camping

• RV Camping

• Glamping tents

• Cabins

• Motel rooms

Fernwood caters to every camper’s taste and preference.

It also includes more rustic cabins overlooking the forest and meadows below, next to the Big Sur River. Regardless if you’re into roughing it or plush accommodations, Fernwood Resort is a perfect place to camp out while visiting Big Sur.

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Fernwood Resort Amenities

Fernwood Resort provides two bathhouses, laundry facilities, and a dishwashing station. The General Store stocks a wide range of supplies, from food and drinks to camping basics such as tents and sleeping bags. If you have forgotten anything or just need something last minute, the General Store has got you covered so that your camping trip will be stress-free.

Fernwood's Unique Albino Redwood

A unique feature of Fernwood Resort is a rare albino redwood tree located near the check-in kiosk. These ghostly white trees lack chlorophyll, preventing them from producing their own food. They survive by grafting their roots onto a parent redwood, sharing its nutrients. Witnessing this unusual natural phenomenon adds a special touch to your Big Sur camping experience at Fernwood.

Camping at Plaskett Creek Campground

For those who prefer camping in a more private area, another good choice is Plaskett Creek Campground. Features include:

• 44 tent and RV sites

• Picnic tables

• Parking

• Access to toilets and water

Surrounded by breathtaking views of Big Sur and distant waterfalls, the campground offers nature-loving hikers the ideal opportunity to reconnect with the land and cultivate a deeper experience of peace in the wilderness. Plaskett Creek Campground has only 37 single sites and is a quieter, less crowded camping experience where you can:

• Fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Big Sur

• Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings

• Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life

• Relax and unwind in a peaceful environment

Plaskett Creek: First-Come, First-Served Camping

At Plaskett Creek Campground, they recognize that trips aren’t always planned months in advance. That’s why they keep some sites available for those who come first – first-come, first-served. Check-in by 3:00 pm, and check-out is by 12:00 noon.

Exploring Around Plaskett Creek

The campground at Plaskett Creek is an experience, sure, but it is also about accessing the calm of the campground along with nearby sites for exploration. The closest attraction to the campsite is access to the beach via a short walk. Sand Dollar Beach and the Willet hiking trail are options for beach access, and either could fill up a full day. (You can sunbathe, picnic, or explore the tide pools at Sand Dollar Beach or hike the Willet trail to experience a wide range of landscapes and views.)

You can drive south to San Simeon, home of grand Hearst Castle, a favorite of cultural history buffs. There is plenty to keep Big Sur visitors busy, and Plaskett Creek Campground is often their headquarters.

Finding and Booking Campsites: Tips and Resources

Finding the perfect campsite in Big Sur can feel like searching for a hidden waterfall—challenging but rewarding. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, snagging a reservation requires planning and a bit of luck. Here's how to improve your odds:

Hipcamp: Discover Diverse Camping Options

Beyond traditional campgrounds, Hipcamp opens up a world of possibilities. This platform showcases a wide variety of Big Sur campsites, including those in state and national parks, plus private options on farms, vineyards, and nature preserves. Imagine waking up to the sunrise over a vineyard or enjoying a farm-to-table breakfast after a night under the stars. Hipcamp offers unique experiences you won't find anywhere else.

Cancellation Monitoring Tools

Don't give up if your desired campground is fully booked. Cancellations happen, and you can be ready to snag a spot when they do. Websites like CampNab, Campsite Assist, and Campsite Text can alert you to cancellations in state parks, giving you a second chance to secure your ideal site. These tools monitor reservation systems and notify you via email or text when a site matching your criteria becomes available. This can be a lifesaver, especially if you're flexible with your travel dates.

Andrew Molera State Park: A Meadow Oasis

Andrew Molera State Park offers a more rustic experience, with 24 first-come, first-served campsites nestled in a meadow, about a ⅓-mile hike from the parking area. The walk-in access adds a touch of seclusion, and the meadow setting is perfect for stargazing. Basic amenities include bathrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits.

Andrew Molera: Campsites and Considerations

While Andrew Molera's first-come, first-served system offers flexibility, it also means arriving early, especially during peak season. Be prepared for potential crowds and competition for campsites. If you're set on Andrew Molera, have a backup plan. Securing campsites in Big Sur's popular state parks often requires advance reservations, similar to Yosemite.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: Ocean Views and Waterfalls

If ocean views and the sound of a private waterfall sound like paradise, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park might be for you. This park offers only two primitive campsites, making them highly sought after. These sites provide an intimate connection with nature, but they book up very quickly.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns: Campsites and Amenities

Given the popularity of Julia Pfeiffer Burns, booking well in advance is essential. Reserve campsites online at ReserveCalifornia or by phone (1-800-444-7275) up to six months in advance. Check the website for details on amenities and any restrictions. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is also very popular and uses the same reservation system.

Your Big Sur Camping Adventure Awaits

From the quiet of Riverside Campground Campground Cabins to the glamping of Treebones Resort, to the solitude of Plaskett Creek Campground to the crowds of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, there’s a camping experience in Big Sur for every camper, the first-timer, and the seasoned veteran, the nature-lover and the adrenaline junkie. There’s a campsite in Big Sur for you. Go camping. Get your pack. Put on your boots. Get to Big Sur and camp.

Hammock Camping in Big Sur

Hammock camping offers a unique way to experience Big Sur's beauty, but finding the perfect spot takes planning. Much like Yosemite, Big Sur’s popular state parks, such as Pfeiffer Big Sur and Andrew Molera, require reservations well in advance, especially for June trips. Snagging a spot might feel like winning the lottery, so plan ahead!

Think about tree availability, too. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park has tent cabins and traditional campsites among the redwoods, offering decent hammock-hanging options. However, Andrew Molera’s campground is more open, potentially limiting hammock spots. Private campgrounds or dispersed backcountry sites often have denser tree coverage if hammocking is your priority.

Be mindful of park regulations. Hanging hammocks directly from trees is sometimes prohibited in California state parks due to liability issues. A free-standing hammock offers a practical solution and keeps you on the right side of park rules. If you prefer a quieter experience, check out Plaskett Creek Campground. With only 37 single sites, it offers a more secluded escape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed at Big Sur Campgrounds?

Most of the Big Sur campgrounds allow dogs, at least on a leash, which is good for their safety, yours, and the wildlife.

Do I Need Camping Reservations for Big Sur?

We highly advise making advance reservations for camping in Big Sur during peak season (summer). Reservations are not necessary.

Big Sur Camping: What Kind of Accommodations are There?

If you plan to stay in a tent, RV, yurt (glamping), or cabin, Big Sur campgrounds will have it.

What Can I Do While Camping in Big Sur?

You can walk in the woods and on the coast, swim in the river or at the beach, go beachcombing, see the animals, and so on. The campgrounds have fire pits and picnic tables.

Where Can I Camp in Big Sur?

No, you're allowed to camp at any other place than at the campgrounds in order to preserve the wildlife and the environment of Big Sur.

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