Big Sur is just one of the most effective areas to check out in California, and also it has lots of impressive coastlines and also treking routes. You’ll additionally discover redwood trees galore, so if you intend to rise near to the highest trees worldwide, after that Big Sur is a must-visit area. Big Sur is loaded with nature and also is an excellent location for a vacation invested outdoors.
We’ve developed you should certainly check out Big Sur, yet what concerning going outdoor camping in Big Sur? What do you require to understand, and also where should you remain? Whether you like glamping, remaining in an RV, or hike-in outdoor camping, Big Sur State Park has a great deal of choices. This Big Sur outdoor camping overview will certainly cover all the most effective camping areas, in addition to some added crucial information. Ready? Let’s start.
Best Camping in Big Sur
Big Sur has several resorts and also areas to remain from deluxe resorts to store lodgings, yet it additionally has lots of camping areas to pick from. We failure the most effective Big Sur camping site to fit every requirement.
1. Ventana Campground
Ventana Campground is just one of one of the most attractive camping areas in Big Sur and also we extremely suggest remaining below. We enjoyed checking out the Big Sur coastline from Ventana as it provided very easy accessibility to most of the leading destinations. The camping site is positioned on 40 acres of redwood grove and also is quickly obtainable off of the Cabrillo Highway. And the primary draw? Ventana Campground has unbelievable glamping centers. If you elegant a glamping experience, Ventana’s camping tent cabins are just one of the most effective areas to remain in Big Sur. The lodging is safari-style and also an enchanting means to invest an evening under the redwoods. See examines on TripExpert
Ventana Campground has several facilities, consisting of 2 bathhouses, warm showers, barbecue tables, a fire ring, and also distance (strolling range) to coffee shops, dining establishments, and also present stores. Guests have very easy accessibility to Big Sur and also its neighborhood. Ventana Campground additionally has some extra high end centers, such as pool, physical fitness workshops, and also eating locations. You might additionally such as: The Complete Guide to Visiting Redwood National Park
Big Sur Campgrounds: Hike-In Campsites
If you desire a tent-only camping site, hike-in campgrounds are a wonderful choice. These websites additionally use camping tent outdoor camping that comes after simply a brief stroll, unlike backcountry outdoor camping which needs lengthy walks to get to each website. Hike-in campgrounds are an amazing concession.
Hike-in campgrounds have many advantages. You’ll be extra private, have even more wild animals discoveries, and also typically spectacular sights of the Big Sur Coast. This area is committed totally to hike-in outdoor camping chances. We’ll cover the leading 3 hike-in campgrounds, excellent for outdoor camping around Big Sur State Park.
2. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is in fact an area as opposed to a camping area. It lies 12 miles southern of Big Sur State Park. The park is renowned for its seaside surroundings, with granite high cliffs and also significant sea sights, and also woodlands of redwood trees that expand right to the high cliff sides. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is genuinely a view to lay eyes on and also a superb base where to discover the coastline.
The park includes 2 hike-in ecological campgrounds on the west side of Highway 1. Saddle Rock and also South Gardens Environmental Campgrounds are simply a brief stroll from the Cabrillo Highway. Don’t stress over being marathon-fit, yet be prepared to lug whatever you bring, as there is no vehicle accessibility to either website.
The campgrounds include fire rings, a barbecue table, and also washrooms. You will certainly require to bring your very own water and also fire wood; come by at a water terminal or stores in advance. Speaking of stores, due to the fact that there are restricted neighborhood stores, it is best to prepare a buying journey in the past going into Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
So, why keep below? In short, the great surroundings and also area. From Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park’s camping areas, you can detect moving grey whales, trek spectacular routes like Ewoldsen Trail, and also have a look at falls like Mcway Falls (extra on that particular later). You’ll have a main area to discover the most effective of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and also be close sufficient to experience all that Big Sur supplies. Read: The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary
3. Vicente Flat Camp
Vincente Flat Camp is a little bit extra separated and also situated at the joint of the Stone Ridge and also Vincente Flat Trails. It is about 5 miles from Vicente Trailhead, so enable around 2 hrs to get to the camping site and also pack as necessary considering that you’ll need to lug all your equipment. The camping site is embeded in a climatic woodland canyon. It is just a brief stroll from the scenic views of the Californian shoreline.
You’ll discover a freshwater stream (pack a water filter) and also a fire pit at the camping site. However, don’t anticipate any kind of various other substantial centers. Vicente Flat Camp is perfect for those that intend to ‘rough it’ a little, and also it is an enjoyable area to check your wild restrictions.
So, why remain in Vicente Flat Camp? The experience. If you desire the adventure of a somewhat longer hike-in experience, the camping site is an amazing location to remain and also among the most effective walk-in campgrounds. You won’t discover washrooms and even a barbecue table or unload terminal. But it is the excellent camping site to direct your inner Bear Grylls.
3. Andrew Molera Trail Camp
Andrew Molera State Park is a far more primitive state park situated simply north of Big Sur State Park. It is renowned for its remote and also varied treking and also coastline accessibility. If you desire a base simply beyond Big Sur, Andrew Molera Trail Camp is an amazing selection. Campers simply park in the parking area and afterwards trek around 0.25 miles to get to the camping site. It is a hassle-free hike-in camping site and also not as exhausting as getting to Vincente Flat.
The camp has fire pits, a food locker, barbecue tables, water, and also washrooms. You’ll need to do without a shower, yet the camping site’s facilities come in handy for a couple of evenings. The camping site has simply 22 typical camping tent websites and also 2 hike-and-bike websites (24 camping tent websites in total amount), so see to it to publication ahead of time.
Andrew Molera Trail Camp is great if you intend to remain out of the ordinary and also experience a less-developed component of the area. At the exact same time, the camping site additionally supplies a few of the most effective centers – a win-win if you ask us. You can discover close-by destinations like Highbridge Falls and also Cooper Cabin or drive simply 10 mins later on. The selection is your own.
Big Sur Campgrounds: Car Camping and also Glamping
Not so crazy about hike-in campgrounds? Perhaps you desire an area with camping tent and also motor home websites. Recreational vehicle outdoor camping is a preferred means to discover the United States wild, and also Big Sur has several great places where you can bring up for the evening. Recreational vehicle and also camping tent outdoor camping both have their advantages.
Of program, you might desire even more deluxe than a fundamental camping tent or motor home outdoor camping. In that situation, maintain your eyes peeled off for the glamping camping areas in this area. Some of these glamping websites also feature a jacuzzi or 2.
This area will certainly cover the most effective Big Sur camping areas for motor home outdoor camping and also glamping. Let’s dive right in. You might additionally such as: Top 10 Best Places to Camp in California
4. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park South Camp
This Big Sur camping site is just one of the most effective on this checklist. It lies within the borders of Big Sur State Park – perfect if you desire a main area. South Camp is a huge, sizable camping site with over a hundred camping tent websites. It is quickly accessed off Pfeiffer Big Sur Road and also has lots of facilities. Yet, it is additionally extremely preferred with wild animals, and also also deer roam onto the website. It doesn’t obtain better for motor home and also camping tent outdoor camping.
You can consume morning meal at a barbecue table after your early morning shower, loosening up with an early morning coffee made from the camping site’s supply of water. South Camp is Big Sur outdoor camping facilitated – what’s not to like? Big Sur State Park South Camp is the most effective choice for any individual desiring a main area inside the park and also lots of centers and also facilities for a very easy outdoor camping experience. Read: 24 Of The Best Beaches in California
5. Prewitt Ridge Campground
Prewitt Ridge is just one of one of the most spectacular campgrounds around Big Sur. Set high upon a ridge, you’ll go to rest and also awaken ignoring among the most effective sights in the park. Prewitt Ridge has unbelievable sights of Los Padres National Forest and also the Pacific Ocean. For ocean-view camping tent campgrounds and also motor home outdoor camping, look no more.
Getting there is very easy, and also you simply drive to the website on Prewitt Road. The track is a little harsh in areas, so a 4WD is a good idea. Just take your time though, and also you’ll be great. In regards to facilities, be prepared to harsh it. Prewitt Ridge has no washrooms, showers, water, or unload terminal, so bring whatever you require.
The highlight concerning Prewitt Ridge Campground is, without a doubt, the sights. It is a little additional from the facility of Big Sur (enable around a hr and also twenty mins because of gusty roadways). Still, if you are preparing a journey, it is well worth basing on your own at Prewitt Ridge for an evening.
6. Saddle Mountain Ranch, MOTOR HOME, and also Campground
Saddle Mountain Ranch mixes whatever with each other – motor home and also camping tent outdoor camping and also glamping. It is quickly accessed off Carmel Valley Road and also is simply a forty-minute drive north of Big Sur. If you intend to remain close-by Big Sur, Saddle Mountain Ranch is perfectly situated in the tranquil Carmel Valley. You’ll invest your downtime among Monterey pines and also redwoods. See schedule and also even more testimonials on TripExpert
Saddle Mountain Ranch has unbelievable centers, consisting of a big exterior pool. It additionally has actually heated up showers, washrooms, wi-fi, and also a play area. Whether you desire glamping or motor home outdoor camping, it is an amazing deluxe base and also is easily situated near Big Sur. Read extra: Things to do in Carmel by the Sea, California
7. Arroyo Seco
Arroyo Seco is just one of the most effective Big Sur camping areas. Described as ‘semi rustic’, the campground supplies motor home and also camping tent outdoor camping and also is quickly accessed off Arroyo Seco Road. Arroyo Seco lies inland, and also accessibility is a little restricted. Be prepared to drive almost 2 hrs considering that you need to drive right around the park to come back the eastern. It is an unique area though, and also the tranquility of Arroyo Seco will certainly deserve it. The camping site is bordered by lakes, woodlands, and also hills – the excellent dish for a getaway to the open airs.
Each campground in the camping site has its very own fire ring, grill, and also barbecue table. The camping site additionally has available flush commodes, alcohol consumption water, and also showers. Arroyo Seco has walk and also coastline accessibility. It lies right beside Arroyo Seco Trailhead and also The Lakes Beach (a tiny coastline location on the coasts of a freshwater lake). You can fish, swim, trek, and also also go horseback riding when you aren’t checking out Big Sur.
Arroyo Seco is an amazing location to remain in inland Big Sur State Park. You don’t need to lose out on water-side outdoor camping considering that The Lakes are best beside the camping site.
8. Kirk Creek Campground
Kirk Creek Campground is around a fifty-minute drive from Big Sur. It is situated off Cabrillo Highway, simply southern of Lucia. Kirk Creek Campground is a spectacular area with sea sights and also straight coastline accessibility. Kirk Creek Campground must go to the top of your checklist if you desire a camping site for motor home outdoor camping with sea sights.
Kirk Creek Campground has a mix of camping tent and also motor home outdoor camping areas. The camping site has a fire ring, safe commodes, barbeque centers, and also fire wood available. There’s no alcohol consumption water or showers, so maintain that in mind when packaging. The camping site is best for those that intend to be near a coastline and also bordered naturally – it’s not unusual to detect hill lions and also deer simply outside the camping site. See prices and also schedule on TripExpert
10. Riverside Campground and also Cabins
Riverside Campground and also Cabins is just one of the most effective areas for motor home outdoor camping and also glamping. It lies simply southern of Big Sur, off the Cabrillo Highway. The camping site supplies areas, cabins, and also motor home websites with electrical power and also water connections. You can ‘glamp’ stylishly with attractive wood cabins including comfy queen-sized beds and also optional personal decks. Otherwise, park your motor home and also settle among all the camping site facilities.
Riverside Campground and also Cabins has fire pits, barbecue tables, washrooms, warm showers, and also washing centers. As its name recommends, you additionally have accessibility to the river. You can make the most of the camping site’s tube leasings to drift down the river – valuing the surroundings as you go. Right on the waterfront, you additionally have unequaled seasonal angling to delight in.
This camping site is terrific if you intend to be close to the river and also the facility of Big Sur. You aren’t much from the neighborhood environment, stores, and also friendliness locations. However, Riverside Campground and also Cabins still have a remote, relaxed feeling. See prices and also schedule on TripExpert
11. Treebones Resort
Fancy an actually high end and also uncommon glamping experience? Treebones Resort is where to remain. Treebones Resort lies a hr south of Big Sur, near the community of Gorda. The hotel supplies a choice of oceanfront yurts, where you camp in deluxe with spectacular sights over the Pacific Ocean. Guests also obtain a free of charge morning meal and also yoga exercise.
The centers consist of an exterior pool with additional sea sights and also numerous on-site dining establishments. Each yurt includes free wi-fi, and also you can delight in the variety of hotel tasks that Treebones supplies. Treebones is ideal for those that desire the comfiest, most lavish outdoor camping experience readily available. See extra on TripExpert
12. Limekiln Campground
Limekiln State Park is a 45-minute drive south of Big Sur and also is additionally positioned along the Californian coastline. Limekiln Campground is the park’s primary lodging choice and also supplies camping tent and also motor home websites. Limekiln Campground is quickly gotten to off the Cabrillo Highway and also has a big parking lot.
Facility-smart, the camping site has washrooms and also showers. It is standard yet comfy, and also you are within driving range of look for emergency situation materials. When it involves close-by destinations, your choices are also much better. You can take among the treking routes to Limekiln Falls or Old Limekiln Ruins, nearly straight from the camping site. There’s also coastline accessibility.
Limekiln Campground is an incredible location to remain. It is superb if you intend to be near a coastline, have terrific treking routes, and also not be as well much from Big Sur. Check out: 15 Best Hikes in California – Inspiration to Get Outdoors
13. Ponderosa Campground
Ponderosa Campground is positioned right in the center of the Los Padres National Forest among the hills of Big Sur. It is around a hr and also twenty-minute drive from the facility of Big Sur. It is perfect for those that intend to experience motor home outdoor camping on an extra hilly side of the area.
Ponderosa Campground is gone by the Nacimiento River, offering swimming and also freshwater chances. Drinking water is additionally supplied (if you don’t have a filter), plus a dump terminal, safe commodes, and also a fire ring at each website. Ponderosa Campground has whatever you can require for a brief keep, and also it is the excellent base to roam, bike, or ride around the significant bordering landscape.
14. Fernwood Campground and also Resort
Fernwood Campground and also Resort is the utmost glamping remain in Big Sur. Situated in the heart of Big Sur Valley, you are simply a twenty-minute stroll or two-minute drive right into the facility of Big Sur. Fernwood includes a blend of cabins and also canvas, safari-style ‘tent cabins’, and also ‘adventure cabins’. If you desire a glamping experience, we’d suggest the experience cabins, basically upgrades from typical canvas camping tent cabins. These choices include electrical power, a cozy bed, fresh bed linens, and also home heating – happiness.
Each cabin includes its very own fire ring and also barbecue table. Fernwood Campground and also Resort additionally includes a basic shop and also coffee coffee shop. These are excellent on-site choices for a leisurely early morning as opposed to needing to head right into Big Sur. Fernwood is a hassle-free glamping choice with an excellent area.
15. Plaskett Creek Campground
Plaskett Creek Campground is a gorgeous motor home outdoor camping choice and also is simply a brief stroll from Sand Dollar Beach, the biggest coastline in Big Sur. It is simply a fifty-minute drive from Big Sur and also quickly accessed off the Cabrillo Highway.
The camping site is compared by several to a park, and also it is a large, family-friendly location to remain in Big Sur. The camping site has motor home and also camping tent websites, plus washrooms, barbecue tables, and also a fire ring in each private campground. Plaskett Creek Campground is a superb selection for those desiring terrific centers, great deals of room, and also lodging near Sand Dollar Beach. It has lots of open eco-friendly room and also best beside the sea. Check prices on TripExpert
Big Sur Frequently Asked Questions
Now that we’ve covered the most effective areas for outdoor camping in Big Sur State Park, we have some crucial information for you. If you haven’t been camping in the past, it can really feel a little complicated to prepare. And besides, also if you are a pro-camper, a little bit of destination-specific info is constantly crucial.
This area is whatever you require to find out about outdoor camping in Big Sur State Park.
What to load for a Big Sur camping journey?
You can watch our utmost outdoor camping list below, yet we’ll supply a fast short on what to load for a Big Sur camping journey.
First, if you are camping tent outdoor camping, you’ll require a water resistant three-season camping tent, ground sheet, resting bag, resting floor covering, and also all the tent-related emergency situation equipment feasible (assume added posts and also a camping tent repair service package). You’ll additionally desire a couple of deluxes like fold-up outdoor camping chairs, solar lights, and also a camp table. After all, when you discover a gorgeous sight in Big Sur you intend to have the ability to rest outdoors conveniently to appreciate it.
Don’t neglect your outdoor camping oven and also food preparation devices either. Of program, relying on which campground you select, you won’t require some devices – so examine your camping site centers in advance. 25 Of The Most Useful Camping Tips and also Hacks
Kit-smart, you require a solid set of treking boots (plus an emergency treatment package with moleskin for sores), fast completely dry layers, a raincoat, and also a hat. A filter canteen, flashlight, sun block, and also insect repellent will certainly additionally can be found in useful.
Most significantly, remember your outdoor camping bookings and also any kind of needed passes. It is important to study what records you require in advance and also bring a paper variation in situation your phone passes away.
What there is to do in Big Sur
So, as soon as you’ve selected an extraordinary camping site and also some treking routes, what else exists to do in Big Sur? The response to this is a great deal. Don’t be misleaded by the state park’s fairly tiny dimension. These are the most effective points to do in Big Sur – excellent enhancements to your outdoor camping travel plan. Read our complete overview: The Ultimate Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary and also The Best Viewpoints
New Camaldoli Hermitage
The New Camaldoli Hermitage is a Camaldolese Benedictine abbey set down on a hilly perspective ignoring the sea. If you delight in spiritual destinations, going to the abbey is just one of the most effective points to do in Big Sur.
Hike Pfeiffer Falls Trail
Pfeiffer Falls Trail is the most effective brief walk to see redwood trees up close. The course is much less than 2 miles return and also behaves and also level – making it a very easy walk, ideal for all sorts of pedestrians. The biggest redwood is called the Colonial Tree. Keep your eyes peeled off for it.
See Bixby Bridge
Bixby Bridge is a renowned area along Highway 101, and also the significant canyon going across stands 85 meters high. Bixby Bridge is a remarkable building destination and also produces a striking picture. We assume the most effective sight is from Castle Rock Viewpoint, yet we’ll allow you choose.
Drive the Big Sur Coast on Highway 101
The Big Sur coastline is attractive. That’s obvious. Highway 101 is just one of one of the most preferred United States trip and also runs around 1,500 miles from San Diego to the Olympic National Park in Washington. If you elegant a journey while going to Big Sur, you can drive the stretch of the seaside freeway from San Francisco to Big Sur. This is well incorporated with taking a trip to Big Sur anyhow considering that the park is ideal accessed by flying right into San Francisco and also renting out a cars and truck.
Swim at The Gorge
The Big Sur River has lots of swimming areas, yet none are as renowned as the Big Sur River Gorge. The Gorge is recognized for its crystal-clear waters and also tranquil water problems. Be advised, the water can be freezing, so you may desire a wetsuit if you check out in wintertime.
Visit Sand Dollar Beach
Sand Dollar Beach is just one of the biggest coastlines in Big Sur. It obtains its name from sand bucks – little sea urchins with a unique covering- their endoskeleton. The covering is left when the urchin passes away, and also lots of people gather them as keepsakes. Apart from the truth you can discover coverings, Sand Dollar Beach is wonderfully attractive. A Sand Dollar Beach day ought to get on every person’s travel plan.
Go hill cycling
For experience sporting activities fans, hill cycling in Big Sur is just one of one of the most amazing points to do in the location. Bring your very own bike, arrange bike leasings, or publication an arranged hill cycling trip. You’ll be dealing with tough routes – prompted by the continual pledge of spectacular sights and also fresh adrenaline.
Go horseback riding
Going horseback riding is an amazing means to value the outdoors. We suggest taking place a route flight to experience Big Sur and also its surrounding locations. Pebble Beach Equestrian Center is a preferred choice and also supplies an unique barbecue and also coastline flight.
Visit Point Sur State Historic Park
Point Sur State Historic Park is a little would-be-island linked to the landmass by a slim sandbar. It is house to Point Sur Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1889 and also continued to be useful up until 1974. You can check out the historic structure, taking unique moonlight scenic tours if you are fortunate.
Visit McWay Falls
McWay Falls is a 24-meter falls situated in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The falls is just one of one of the most significant all-natural destinations near Big Sur State Park. During high trend, the water drops right right into the sea. You simply take a brief, mile-long return walk along the high cliffs to a breathtaking point of view to get to the falls.
To Conclude
Hopefully, you really feel great and also ready after reviewing this Big Sur outdoor camping overview. Big Sur State Park is a gorgeous location to camp; it’s full of all-natural appeal and also spectacular sights of the Pacific Ocean and also indigenous plants. Your days will certainly be loaded with walking, redwood and also sea surroundings, and also great deals of enjoyable exterior tasks. You are mosting likely to have an amazing time.
Got a couple of even more inquiries? Check out our write-up on the utmost outdoor camping ideas. You can also prepare a huge California trip – there are lots of superb outdoor camping areas in California.
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