Big Sur Camping Adventure

Big Sur is considered one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in the world.  So it’s no wonder that camping in Big Sur is so sought after!  Whether Spring or Fall, raining or glorious sunshine, Big Sur seems to be filled with camper vans, backpackers, and families out for the day.

So, to avoid the crowds, this travel guide will give you lots of tips for when to go, where to actually find spots to camp, the best trails and scenic overlooks along the way!

 

Where is Big Sur

 

Located along the Central California Coast, Big Sur is about 5-6 hours north of Los Angeles and about 3 hours south of San Francisco.  This largely undeveloped stretch of California is home to breathtaking views of rugged rocky coastline, small sandy coves, and some of the most perfect sunsets.  There’s almost no cell service throughout your drive, so it’s the perfect road trip to unplug and enjoy the scenery!

 

 

Is Big Sur a State Park or National Park?

 

Although it seems like the entire stretch of Big Sur from Carmel to San Simeon should be designated a national park, Big Sur actually is comprised of both state and federal lands, as well as private ownership.

And while most of the interior of Big Sur is Los Padres National Forest, there is also Ventana Wilderness, Silver Peak Wilderness, and Fort Hunter Liggett.

 

What to expect in Big Sur

When to Visit:

The best times to visit Big Sur to avoid the crowds are during the winter months, between October to April.  Do you want to travel in the summer instead?  Expect full campgrounds all summer long and slow-going traffic.  And the same goes for holiday weekends.

As Big Sur is right on the coast, it never gets too cold.  Highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s are fairly common throughout the winter.  So if you don’t mind chilly nights around the campfire, or a bit of rain, opt for the fall or winter months in Big Sur.  Another bonus is that the rain will clear out the skies, so it’s better for stargazing than the summer months where you can often have foggy evenings.

 

What you will see/hear/experience:

• Coyotes, rattlesnakes, deer, bobcats, mountain lions, black bears, and the California Condor!
• Sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and elephant seals
• Cool (to very cold!) ocean breezes- bring lots of layers!
• Instagrammable ocean views around every bend!

 

Things you may not find while camping in Big Sur:

• Freshwater (just a few campgrounds will have access to drinking water)
• Cell service
• Wifi (there are a few hotels, lodges, and restaurants in Big Sur where you can access wifi (read on for our favorite spots!)
• Flush toilets
• Electricity hook-ups (rare find at most campgrounds)
• Dogs on trails

 

Ready to get going on your Big Sur camping trip?  Download our Road Trip Packing Checklist!  But, for those of you that want more information about where to camp and what else there is to see, let’s dive in.

 

 

Driving to Big Sur

 

Your journey through Big Sur will begin shortly after leaving the seaside town of Carmel to the north, or San Simeon at its southern border.

If you are flying in, the most popular towns you’ll travel from are either Monterey or San Jose on the north end, or San Luis Obispo down south.  You’ll definitely need a car as there are no public buses or trains that travel this part of California’s Highway One. There is a public bus that departs from Monterey-Salinas, but it will only take you as far as Nepenthe Restaurant.

There are a few other roads that come into Big Sur from the eastside.  These roads however are truly less traveled:

• Nacimiento-Fergusson Road– still closed as of October 2021 due to storm damage and rock slides
• Plaskett Ridge Road
• Willow Creek Road

 

Driving While in Big Sur

 

You can drive through Big Sur with your Class A Motorhome, RV, camper van, trailer, bicycle, or motorcycle.  However, be prepared for very winding roads, steep drop-offs, and often foggy conditions. Driving a very large vehicle like an RV will be slow-going, and not for the faint of heart!  Expect 2 hours to travel on California Highway 1 from San Simeon to Carmel without stops.  But, trust us, you will want to stop often to take in the views or hop in for a swim!

Interested in renting a camper van for your trip?  We use Outdoorsy.com for our camper van rentals.  In fact, if you’re considering trying out the #vanlife, here’s a $50 credit to get you started!

 

 

Big Sur Camping, Lodging, and Entrance Fees

 

Good news, there are no entrance fees to visit Big Sur!  There are campground fees, and these vary depending on which campground you’ll be staying at.  In addition, there are also day-use sites where entrance fees are $10 per vehicle.  However, if you have a California State Parks Pass, or a National Forest Adventure Pass, take ’em with you on your trip to avoid the fees!

There are over a dozen campgrounds, cabins, lodges, and resort-style hotels in Big Sur to choose from.  But, these all book up very early, and there is no roadside camping allowed on Highway 1.  So, make a reservation, or take your chances on a last-minute cancellation or first-come, first-serve site available.

 

Independently Run Campgrounds in Big Sur

 

These lodges and campgrounds in Big Sur are independently run and booked through their respective websites.  Most have a general store, restaurant, freshwater, showers, firewood, campsites and/or cabins, and wifi:

 

• Big Sur Campgrounds and Cabins
• Big Sur Lodge
• Riverside Campground & Cabin
• Treebones Resort– Posh yurts with comfy beds, a few campsites, a main dining area, bar, and incredible views! NO dogs allowed.
• Fernwood Resort– Campground, cabins, and hotel.
• Ventana Campground (owned by the Hyatt, tent camping only, no RVs)
• Santa Lucia Chapel and Campground (allows non-profit organizations, church groups, and families of All Saints Church)
• Ragged Point Inn

 

 

California Federal and State Park Campgrounds in Big Sur

 

All of the California State campgrounds listed below can be booked online through ReserveCalifornia.com.  Sites book up fast, especially in Pfieffer Big Sur and Andrew Molera State Park!  Why?  These campgrounds are at the north end of Big Sur, easily reached from Monterey.  Both are more inland from the coast, so you’ll be nestled in under giant redwood trees!

• Andrew Molera State Park
• Pfieffer Big Sur State Park, not to be confused with Jula Pfieffer Burns State Park, which has day use only.
• Limekiln State Park

 

Most of the Big Sur campgrounds below are on U.S. Forest Service or federal lands and are available for booking on Recreation.gov.  A few of the campsites at both Plaskett Creek and Kirk Creek campgrounds have first-come, first-serve sites.  So, if you did not make a reservation, you might get lucky if you turn up at check-in around 2pm.

• Kirk Creek Campground
• Plaskett Creek Campground- across from Sand Dollar Beach!
• Ponderosa Campground– Located far from California highway 1, deep in the Big Sur wilderness.  Access is off Nacimiento-Fergusson Road which is currently closed to thru traffic.
• Nacimiento Campground– Just before Ponderosa Campground is Nacimiento.  This is a first-come, first-serve only campground.  Just like Ponderosa, access is via Nacimiento-Fergusson Road, which is currently closed to thru traffic.

 

Hike-in Only Campgrounds

 

The following Big Sur campgrounds are hike-in only.  So, no vehicles can access these sites.  These are designed more for backpackers that are thru-hiking Big Sur.  There are often no toilets, potable water, or picnic tables at these Big Sur campsites.

• Saddle Rock and South Gardens Campground
• Sykes Hot Springs Campground
• Timber Top
• Ventana Creek
• Barlow Flat
• Redwood

 

Dispersed Camping in Big Sur

 

Having an off-road vehicle, or something with 4 wheel drive will give you access to some of the most incredible dispersed camping areas throughout Big Sur.  However, these dispersed campsites are often reached through a rough drive up winding dirt roads.  And due to forest fires and storms, those accessible via Nacimiento-Fergusson Road may be closed if coming from California Highway 1.

But if the roads are open, the reward is a campsite view like none other.  Above the clouds and with a stunning view of the Big Sur wilderness!  Here are some of the most popular dispersed camping areas in Big Sur:

 

• Prewitt Ridge Road– Possibly one of the best-dispersed camping areas in all of Big Sur!
• South Coast Ridge Road
• Plaskett Ridge Road

 

Camping with dogs can be challenging when they are not allowed on the trails.  If you plan to do a lot of hiking, they will be happier if left at home or at doggy daycare.

 

Camping in Big Sur with Pets

Yes, dogs are allowed in Big Sur!  However, they must remain on a leash, and cannot be left unattended in vehicles or at your campsite.  Dogs are also not allowed on any trails in Big Sur.  Why?  Mainly to preserve the wildlife.

But, Sand Dollar Beach is one of the few beaches that allow dogs.  There’s a day-use parking lot or a quick hike from Plaskett Creek Campground will take you there!

 

Where to Eat in Big Sur

 

If you tire of cooking at your campsite in Big Sur, there are several restaurants and cafes nearby to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a view!  Keep in mind, some of these restaurants may be seasonal, so call a few days in advance to make a reservation, or be prepared to wait.

• Big Sur Bakery & Restaurant (831) 667-0520
• Big Sur Roadhouse at Glen Oaks (831) 667-2264
• Treebones Resort Wild Coast Restaurant + Sushi Bar  (805) 927-2390 (reservations needed)
• Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn (831) 667-2377
• Nepenthe & Cafe Kevah at Nepenthe (831) 667-2345
• Village Pub (831) 667-2355
• River Inn (831) 667-2700
• Ripplewood Cafe (831) 667-2242
• Ventana’s Cielo (831) 667-2331
• Post Ranch Inn (831) 667-2200

 

 

What to Pack for Camping in Big Sur

 

Depending on the season, you may not have access to as many restaurants or cafes inside Big Sur.  So, be prepared to bring enough food, water, and firewood for the length of your stay.  Remember, 1 gallon of water per person, per day.  And bring extra for the pups.  Also, don’t forget marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers to make s’mores over the campfire!

We always pack lots of layers, a beanie, a puffy jacket, gloves.  Even in the summer months.  Download the camping items we pack from our Road Trip blog!  We’ve thought of everything from pillows to propane.  Headlamps to hair ties.  Solar chargers to spatulas!

But, if you’re already on the road, you can stock up at the north end in Carmel or at the south end in San Simeon.  Both towns have grocery stores, gas stations, and anything else you might have forgotten.  Keep in mind, once you leave either town, you may not have service at all in Big Sur.  So, make sure to make all phone calls or send emails before you depart!

 

10 Things To Do on your Big Sur Camping Trip:

 

1. Hiking & trail running in Big Sur

Down the All Trails app for the best hiking trails in Big Sur.  With little to no service in the park, it can be hard to find a trail without maps to guide you.  The Ragged Point Inn also has a great list of popular hiking trails in the area!

 

2. Swim or surf at Big Sur

Surfing in Big Sur is best at Sand Dollar Beach and San Carpoforo Creek Beach.  At both beaches, you’ll find the long stretches of sandy beachfront with little to no rocks.  Sand Dollar Beach has a day-use parking lot available for $10 with a bathroom and picnic tables.  San Carpoforo Creek Beach has some pullouts near the beach trail so there are no parking fees. 

However, Big Sur is not suited for those learning to surf or beginner surfers.  For swimming, try the same beaches, but keep in mind, there are strong currents, rocky shorelines, big surf, and cold temps.  You may only be in for a quick session!

 

3. Mountain biking in Big Sur

Download MTB Project, All Trails, or the Trailforks App for the top mountain biking routes.  However, there are not many trails suitable for mountain biking within Big Sur.  And, out of the trails you can bike on, there are often very steep climbs!

 

4. Check out the Art Galleries

Big Sur boasts a large artist community!

 

5. Visit Bixby Bridge

Park on either side of the Bixby Bridge and admire the gorgeous architecture of this concrete structure, built in 1932.  The Bixby Bridge spans the steep canyon walls almost 260 feet above the Bixby Creek.  Imagine the engineering accomplishment to create this masterpiece, and 5 years before the road even connected Carmel and San Simeon!

 

6. Take in the view of McWay Falls at Julia Pfieffer Burns State Park

There is a day-use parking lot at Julia Pfieffer Burns State Park, and from here it’s a short walk to McWay Falls.  However, you will not be able to get down to the beach here, so it’s just a quick stop to take in the view.

 

7. Tour Piedras Blancas Lighthouse and visit the Piedras Blanca Elephant Seal Rookery

At the southern end of Big Sur, you’ll spot the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse.  As you continue south, you’ll find a creek that California Highway 1 crosses, and here’s where you’ll typically be able to spot the first group of elephant seals.  Head further south for the larger parking areas and the main site of the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery!

 

8. Visit Hearst Castle and Hearst San Simeon State Park

At the southern end of Big Sur, you can walk along the shoreline at Hearst San Simeon State Park or head up the hill to Heart Castle where you will learn more about William Randolph Hearst and the legacy he left behind.

 

9. Walk the purple sands of Pfieffer Beach

Drive down Sycamore Canyon Road, just south of Big Sur Station, to reach Pfieffer Beach.  The road is unsigned and is not an option for RVs or trailers as it’s quite narrow and winding.  At the parking lot, you’ll have a short walk to the beach.  Here you’ll spot Keyhole Arch and be able to walk on the unique purple sands.  The purple sand is created by the manganese garnet rocks in the cliffs!

 

10. Read & relax

Read and relax amongst the giant coastal redwoods- some of which are over 500 years old!  In fact, just adjacent to parking lot #4 in Pfieffer Big Sur State Park is the Colonial Tree, one of the largest redwoods in the park at 31 feet in diameter!

 

You can find lots of information on trails, beaches, waterfalls, and art galleries in one of the many Big Sur guidebooks.  We love the Falcon Guides: Explore Big Sur Country Guidebook!

 

 

Cell Service and Wifi in Big Sur

 

If you can be off-the-grid for a day or two, but still need to check email or make a call while visiting Big Sur, it can be done.  At either Andrew Molera or Pfieffer Big Sur State Parks you might get 1-2 bars of cell service.  However, once deep into your drive, you will have a little less luck.  But, here’s a few other spots where we’ve been able to make calls and send emails while camping in Big Sur:

• Nepenthe- lots of outdoor benches to spread out and be on your phone or computer, instead of at the dining table.
• Big Sur Bakery
• Big Sur Deli
• San Carpoforo Creek Beach in Hearst San Simeon State Park- closest to the small town of San Simeon

 

However, if you need to be on a video call or download something more than 5MB, do it before you get into Big Sur, or after visiting the area.  In addition, to keep from roaming and draining your battery, we often keep our cell phones in airplane mode most of the day.  Then, we turn our phones off at night, using our solar chargers to power them back up during the day!

 

Your Big Sur Adventure Awaits!

 

We always enjoy any opportunity to explore new places, but Big Sur is one of those places we road trip through at least once a year.  Don’t forget to download our Road Trip Packing Checklist if it’s been a while since your last road trip.

 

Want more travel tips?  Read our blogs:

• Baja Mexico Travel Guide: Valle de Guadalupe, Rosarito and Tijuana
• Biking Catalina: Mountain Biking and Gravel Riding in Paradise
• Lodging and Camping in Grand Teton National Park

 

Keep up on our latest adventures by subscribing with your email below, or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Until next time, happy traveling!

– Meredith McConvill

Planning a road trip to Joshua Tree National Park?

 

Joshua Tree’s high desert wonderland of rocks will offer you a chance to escape from the everyday. This Joshua Tree travel guide will give you lots of tips for spending time in nature and off-the-grid! 

Where is Joshua Tree National Park

 

Located in Southern California. Joshua Tree National Park is about 2.5 hours east of LA and about an hour north of Palm Springs.  At 4,200ft, the park is home to coyotes, bighorn sheep, black-tailed jackrabbits, and of course the infamous Joshua tree.  In addition to the wildlife, J Tree, as it’s commonly called, is the perfect little road trip destination to get off the beaten path with family or friends!

 

What is a Joshua Tree?

 

As a member of the Yucca family, the Joshua tree’s spikey stature can only be found in the Mojave Desert ecosystem.  Where is that?  Well, the Mojave desert covers parts of California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona.  In addition, the Joshua trees can only be seen between 2,000 to 6,000ft of elevation.  Although the Mojave desert is vast, you’ll only notice the trees begin to appear as you climb above 2,000 feet.

Joshua trees also bloom in Springtime, along with millions of other wildflowers in the park. Therefore, Joshua Tree National Park is a very popular destination for Spring Break travelers.

Lastly, Joshua trees provide shelter for lizards, birds, and other animals to escape the sun-baked terrain, so they play an important role in the park’s ecosystem.

 

What to expect at Joshua Tree National Park 

What you will not find:

• Running water
• Cell service (unless you read on to learn about our secret spots!)
• Wifi
• Flush toilets
• Shade
• Power
• Dogs on trails
• Mountain biking 

What you will see/hear/experience:

• Coyotes
• Rattlesnakes
• Rock climbers
• Stars
• Cool desert nights
• Instagrammable scenes around every corner!

 

So if you’re already convinced JTree is where you want to go, download our Road Trip Packing Checklist!  However, for those of you that want more information about the park, let’s dive more into our Joshua Tree travel guide!

 

 

 

Driving to Joshua Tree National Park

 Park Entrances

 

If you are flying in, the most popular towns to fly then drive to Joshua Tree from would be San Diego, Palm Springs, or Los Angeles. When driving from these spots to the park, the most common entrances are often through the north or west side.  You will enter through the town of either Joshua Tree – the West Entrance, or 29 Palms – the North Entrance to the park.  However, there are a few other roads that come into the park.   These less visited entrances include:

• Cottonwood- At the south end of the park near Cottonwood Campground and Visitor Center
• Black Rock- At the west side of the park, where you’ll find both a campground and visitor center
• Indian Cove- Located on the north side of the park and home to the Indian Cove Campground

 

Driving in Joshua Tree

 

It’s good to note that all the main roads in the park are paved.  Therefore can you drive in with your Class A Motorhome, RV, camper van, trailer, bicycle, or motorcycle and enjoy all the park has to offer.  That being said, there are a few dirt roads within Joshua Tree National Park.  You’ll find these inside a few of the campgrounds, and near some of the major trail entrances.

Looking to rent a camper van for your trip?  We love Outdoorsy.com. In fact, if you’re considering renting one for your trip, here’s a $50 credit to get you started!

Pro tip: if you’re interested in rock climbing, you’ll want to drive into the park at the West or North Entrance to be closer to the popular climbing areas like Hidden Valley, Quail Springs, Boy Scout Trailhead, and Sheep Pass.

 

 

Joshua Tree National Park Camping and Entrance Fees

 

Before we dive into camping and entrance fees, we highly recommend picking up a National Parks Annual Pass.  Read more about how an Annual Pass makes a great gift for adventurous family and friends.  Just be sure to hint that you want to come with them!

 

Joshua Tree Fees:

• Car, RV, or camper van entrance fee: $30, good for 7 days and can be purchased in advance
• Camping fee: $20/night (Just $10 if you have an Annual Pass!  Read more about making Joshua Tree camping reservations below.)
• Individual on foot or by bike: $15
• Annual Pass: $80 and good for ANY National Park or National Monument for 1 year from the date of purchase. You can also buy an annual pass for just Joshua Tree National Park for $55.  However, if you’re travelers like us, it’s worth it to get the $80 pass.

 

One last reason we buy an Annual Parks Pass every year?  They are a great way to give back to the public lands we love!

Camping in Joshua Tree National Park

 

First Come, First Serve Campgrounds

 

Most of the camping in Joshua Tree National Park used to be first-come, first-serve.  Examples of our favorites?

• Hidden Valley
• Sheep’s Pass

However, both of these campgrounds are extremely popular with rock climbers. Therefore, this means that during the high season (Spring and Fall), you’ll have to drive in during the week to secure a spot.  Or, be prepared to drive circles around the campground in the mornings to see if anyone is packing up. 

Often we’ll walk the campground with our dog Lucy and give a friendly good morning wave, then check-in to see if people are leaving.  It’s much less offensive than yelling out your car window!

Pro tip: Join the Park Rangers for Climber’s Coffee every Saturday and Sunday from 8-10am at the Hidden Valley Campground.  This is also a great way to find out if there may be spots opening up that morning, or later in the week.

 

 

How to Make Camping Reservations in Joshua Tree

 

There are now more opportunities to reserve a campsite in Joshua Tree through Recreation.gov.  The most popular campgrounds where you can reserve a spot in advance are:

• Ryan Mountain
• Jumbo Rocks
• Cottonwood
• Indian Cove

 

What to Expect While Camping in Joshua Tree

 

As we mentioned earlier, camping in Joshua Tree National Park is fairly primitive.  You can expect 1-2 parking spots, and an easy walk-in, with campsites 20-30 feet from your car.  In addition, they’ll be a picnic table and fire ring.  Some sites often have a tall BBQ grill, or at least a grill grate to fold over your campfire.

Campgrounds will also have single-stall compost toilets, trash, and recycling containers throughout the campground.  Keep in mind, there is no running water in the park. In addition, some campgrounds will also have a camp host, guided tours and talks, and extra/overflow parking spots for vehicles that do not fit at your campsite.

 

Camping with Pets

Good news, dogs are allowed in Josuha Tree!  However, they must remain on a leash, and cannot be left unattended at your campsite.  Dogs are also not allowed on trails.  Why?  Mainly to preserve the park’s wildlife.  Read more about Joshua Tree National Park’s travel guide and rules for bringing your pup camping.

 

What to Pack for Camping in Joshua Tree National Park

 

Since you won’t have access to any restaurants or cafes inside the park, be prepared to bring enough food, water, and firewood for the length of your stay.  Remember, 1 gallon of water per person, per day.  And bring extra for the pups.  Also, don’t forget marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers to make s’mores over the campfire!

Need a quick packing list for all the other non-food items you might need?  Download ours from our Road Trip blog!  We’ve thought of everything from pillows to propane.  Headlamps to hair ties.  Solar chargers to spatulas!

But, if you’ve already left town, there are several places to stock up on supplies in Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, and Twentynine Palms.  There’s even a Walmart!  Forgot some climbing gear or a guidebook at home?  No problem.  Nomad Ventures is just outside the Park’s West Entrance and will have everything you need.

 

Best Places to Eat and Drink near Joshua Tree

 

If you’d rather make your own meals for breakfast and lunch, but then head out for a proper dinner, or margaritas to cool off after a long day of climbing, we’ve got you covered!  From the Rib Company to Dickey’s Barbeque Pit.  Sam’s Indian Food & Pizza.  The Joshua Tree Saloon.  And, of course, every trip is worth the drive out to Pappy & Harriet’s!  Why?  The owner often books musicians that you’d normally see on stage at Coachella!  Read more on Joshua Tree’s best watering holes.

 

Things To Do in Joshua Tree National Park:

• Hiking- best hikes are near the Real Hidden Valley, Lost Horse Trail, Ryan Mountain, and Jumbo Rocks. Pro tip: You can easily get turned around and off trail as the formations begin to look the same. Use All Trails, but also bring a printed map or screenshots of a topo map so you can find your way!
• Trail running
• Rock climbing- mainly trad climbing with very little sport climbing in the park
• Bouldering
• Read & relax!

 

I could write a whole separate blog on why Joshua Tree is one of my top 3 spots for rock climbing in Southern California…and maybe I will.  But for now, you’ll find everything you need in one of the many rock climbing guidebooks.  Falcon Guides are our fav travel guides!

Mountain Project is also helpful as a travel guide for climbing in the park, just make sure you download both the area and the photos.  With no service in the park, it can be hard to find the route you’re looking for without a photo to guide you.

 

 

Cell Service and Wifi in Joshua Tree

 

If you like living and working remotely, but still need to check that email or make a call while visiting Joshua Tree, it can be done.  Typically heading for higher ground might get you 1-2 bars of cell service.  But, here’s a few other spots where we’ve been able to make calls and send emails while camping in Joshua Tree National Park:

• Boy Scout Trailhead entrance near Quail Springs Road
• Sheep Pass parking lot
• Key’s View

However, if you need to be on a video call or download something more than 5MB, head outside the park.  Even just by making the descent back into Joshua Tree or Twentynine Palms, you’ll come back into cell service before you even leave the park.

In addition, to keep from roaming and draining your battery, we often keep our cell phones in airplane mode most of the day.  Then, we turn our phones off at night, using our solar chargers to power them back up during the day!

 

 

Adventure Awaits in the Desert!

 

We enjoy any opportunity to explore new places, but Joshua Tree National Park is one we go back to several times each year.  Just pulling out our climbing packs gets me excited!  Don’t forget to download our Road Trip Packing Checklist if it’s been a while since your last road trip.

Want more travel tips?  Read our blogs:

• Backpacking in the Wind River Range in Wyoming
• Road tripping through Utah’s National Parks
• Driving California’s 395 to Bishop, Mammoth Lakes, and Yosemite National Park

 

Keep up on our latest adventures by subscribing with your email below, or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Until next time, happy traveling!

– Meredith McConvill