Big Sur Camping Unveiled: Where to Stay, What to Do

KIRK CREEK CAMPGROUND

Kirk Creek Campground is the gem of Big Sur Camping and boasts stunning ocean vistas and a seaside sanctuary atop a cliff. This peaceful retreat features 33 campsites, a secluded beach for aquatic activities, and captivating hiking paths through verdant forests and the occasional whale and her calf resting in the cove or California Condor flying above.

PLASKETT CREEK CAMPGROUND

Plaskett Creek Campground, a camper’s paradise, is nestled among majestic Monterey pine and cypress trees in the Los Padres National Forest. This picturesque, park-like campground is renowned for its large grassy sites, flush toilets, and family-friendly atmosphere. Just a short walk from Sand Dollar Beach, one of central California’s largest and most popular beaches, visitors can easily access the Willet hiking trail for outdoor adventures. Plaskett Creek is the ultimate destination for campers, surfers, spearfishers, and anyone seeking a super-relaxing getaway.

LIMEKILN CAMPGROUND

Limekiln State Park Campground, a legendary Big Sur coastline coastal gem, offers 29 picturesque campsites set amongst magnificent redwood trees along Limekiln Creek. The campground is divided into two distinct areas, with the Redwood loop (sites 13-29) nestled in a shaded grove along the creek and the Ocean loop (sites 1-12) featuring beach access and stunning ocean views. Two main hiking trails offer serene redwood forest exploration and awe- inspiring cliffside ocean vistas.

BOTTCHER’S GAP CAMPGROUND

Ventana Wilderness is an unparalleled spectacle of nature’s beauty, and a visit to Bottcher’s Gap Campground will allow you to capture this essence in a profound, intimate setting. Offering an array of twelve rustic, first-come-first-serve campsites, it is an absolute gem in the wilderness and is an unmissable chapter in your Big Sur camping story.

An abundance of day hikes awaits from the camp, including the renowned 4-mile trek to Devil’s Peak. The Skinner Ridge Trailhead, a hiker’s paradise, is conveniently located at the campground, boasting exquisite views throughout the trail.

PONDEROSA CAMPGROUND

Immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur at the Ponderosa Campground. Nestled under a diverse canopy of Ponderosa, Pine, Oak, Madrone, and Sycamore trees, this haven provides 21 family- friendly campsites. The campground welcomes tent and RV camping (up to 35 feet). Located by the Seasonal Nacimiento River, Ponderosa Campground extends an invitation to indulge in various aquatic activities – Fishing, swimming, or the simple pleasure of relaxing in the water.

Half of the campsites operate on a first-come-first-serve basis, while the rest are reservable, offering flexibility to your planning. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your fishing gear, and visit Ponderosa Campground – an emblem of untouched beauty and unending recreation.

MEMORIAL PARK CAMPGROUND

Discover the untamed beauty of Memorial Park Campground, a rustic sanctuary nestled amongst oak and pine trees in the Santa Lucia Mountains. This peaceful retreat boasts eight campsites and an array of trailheads, all within walking distance, offering many adventures from hiking and biking to horseback riding.

Dive into the refreshing swimming holes of the nearby Arroyo Seco River, a hidden gem amongst the stunning rock formations.

This quiet yet lively campground is a haven for explorers, boulderers, and nature lovers, promising a memorable experience.

WHITE OAKS CAMPGROUND

Experience tranquility and breathtaking beauty at White Oaks Campground. Nestled just off Tassajara Road, this free, first-come-first-served camping haven presents seven well-shaded sites in a tight loop amidst a grove of towering trees.

The campground, perched high on a mountain, offers stunning views of rolling hills under a protective ceiling of majestic pine trees and shady oaks. The starlit nights here are second to none, offering an unrivaled stargazing experience.

Big Sur is a wildly popular destination, so make sure to reserve campsites months in advance with the famous sites, and if you are planning on the first come, first serve spots, make sure to arrive early to secure one.

Big Sur offers unique experiences throughout the year, making it a destination worth visiting in any season. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during each time:

Summer: This is the busiest and warmest period in Big Sur, though it’s worth noting that it’s rarely “HOT” here—temperatures are very coastal and rarely exceed 80 degrees. You can expect exceptional beach weather, but plan well in advance as the area will be crowded. Additionally, if you’re visiting during June and July, you can catch a glimpse of the majestic Blue Whales in Monterey Bay.

Fall: Big Sur becomes less crowded with pleasant temperatures from August to October. It’s a comfortable atmosphere, and don’t miss the famous Big Sur Jade Festival if you’re there from October 8-10.

Winter: During this season, lodging prices drop and campsites become more available as tourism is at its lowest. However, it’s important to be cautious of potential road closures due to roadwork and landslides, which can be triggered by the weather. In terms of climate, winter can offer clear skies if it’s not raining.

Spring: As the weather improves and Spring Break approaches, the coast gets busier again. Enjoy the beautiful wildflowers during the super bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. Regardless of the season, Big Sur offers diverse experiences and adventures that will keep you returning for more.

It was here in Big Sur that I first learned to say ‘amen.’

~ Henry Miller