Julia Pfeiffer Burns Environmental Camping — Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Highway 1 is/has been closed for a few weeks, unbeknownst to us as we made path going to LA from San Jose via the 1.

We stopped at Pfieffer state park which was a dream, you’re underneath the redwood trees amongst the river runs with the stars above you 🌲

They have a general store, restaurant & cafe for all your needs.

Breakfast/brunch at the ripplewood resort is a must

The only difficulty here is obtaining reservations- be patient and vigilant. A couple of folks wandered into our site looking for a different view of Mc Way falls, but we were otherwise alone. In the event you are unable to reserve, check nearby parks. The view is stunning, the sounds are stunning, the smells are stunning, and the poison oak and crowds are somewhat easily avoided. Also recommended advance reservations at Esalen hot springs, and a night at Deetjens Big Sur Inn.

This was such a beautiful campsite! The entire area was huge, plenty of gorgeous hikes in and around the camps. Dogs had to be on leash the entire time and on paved areas only, and are not allowed on any stage park trails in the area, making it difficult to really explore if you have your doggos. There is abundant poison oak! But you are warned upon entering it’s in the area, and being aware of its presence made it pretty easy to avoid even with it surrounding most of our camp. The bathrooms and facilities are all very clean and supplied, showers are ran by token system purchased at lodge. Again, amazing campsite and even better surrounding views in Big Sur. Can’t wait to return

Unbelievable ocean views and crashing waves at the bottom of this cliff-side site nestled among the massive pines above a waterfall. Words just don't describe this experience. It was nearly impossible to get reservations. Seems the days get bought up immediately upon availability.

We were able to get a site without any problems during the weekend. The site was large and there were TONS of sites and loops. The redwoods gave tons of cover and space to set up hammocks. 

You can walk over and see McWay Falls on the path. You are also within walking distance to the beach as well. This site is one of the largest in the park so it is usually pretty packed but we happened to go when there were rockslides on the 1 so it was easy to find a spot. 

There were full bathrooms and trash receptacles all around the park. There are raccoons and small critters in the area so keep your food stored properly. It is also a large campground with lots of traffic so make sure that your belongings are stored and not laying around.

Beautiful place. Felt safe and comfortable. Bathrooms are clean. There is a small store to purchase basics

Moderate hike to an amazing place! Just be careful not to soak to long or you'll have blisters on the way out

This is another favorite of my Big Sur stops. If you're with a big group, this campground has lots of tent sites and plenty of room to host multiple campers. I think each site has a limit of 3 tents (that could be wrong, but I remember the number being lower), but even coming up in the middle of Spring Break we didn't struggle too hard to get a campsite.

The campsite is close to some trails and is across from the iconic Big Sur waterfall. If you get the chance to camp here, I highly suggest walking across the street to check out the waterfall. There's a lso a nearby trail right at the head of the campground. The trail weaves up into the mountains and has a beautiful view of the ocean from higher up. There's still a lot of fire damage along the trail, but it's cool to see how the forest has re grown since.

I don't know what it is, but this place just has the most insane light during the sunrise.

Camping off the PCH has panoramic views of Big Sur’s rocky coastline. Site 1 is directly above the falls, you can't actually see them, but it's a short 5-minute hike to get a look at them.) You will be mesmerized by the majestic mountains, beautiful blue ocean and the redwoods. The sites are booked 6-8 months in advance. The best part is being so secluded and Sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking, at night it is a Navy color dark with bright stars over the ocean. Tons of hiking trails, animal life and waterfalls. Spotty to No cell on the PCH service, so download a map for offline use or bring one. This is my by far favorite places.

Right in the middle of Big Sur, Besides the need for new bathrooms and showers as most CA state parks. They could also through down some gravel to help with the mud at some sites. However beautiful park with great hikes....Happy New Year!

Be sure to pack in what you need, the stores along the route 1 are expensive. Plan ahead and you can enjoy everything this location has to offer. Don't drive on holidays or weekends if you can avoid it, in or out, since the traffic is incredibly thick during these times.

Conveniently located along route 1 south of Big Sur, this campground is tucked into a redwood forest. It was quiet, and I wish we'd had more time to explore the park's recreation opportunities.