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Best Dispersed Camping near Big Sur, CA

52 Reviews

Dispersed camping areas surround Big Sur on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Los Padres National Forest lands, primarily along ridge roads with ocean views. Williams Hill Recreation Area serves as a primary BLM dispersed camping zone approximately 15-20 miles inland from Highway 1. Additional primitive sites exist along Will Creek Road, Plaskett Ridge, and Nacimiento Road where pull-offs accommodate tent camping and smaller vehicles. Cone Peak and Bluff Camp offer hike-in backcountry options for those seeking more remote experiences in the Ventana Wilderness.

The access roads to most dispersed sites require careful navigation, with several routes featuring steep grades, narrow passages, and unpaved surfaces. Williams Hill includes a 7-mile dirt road with switchbacks but remains passable for standard vehicles when dry. Plaskett Ridge and Will Creek Road typically demand high-clearance vehicles, with local reviews noting "it is narrow, steep, unmaintained, and surrounded by cliffs." Fire restrictions apply seasonally throughout the region, with complete bans typically enforced during summer months. According to one visitor, "campfires are NOT permitted outside of established campgrounds during the summer months." No water or waste services exist at any of these locations.

These primitive camping areas provide exceptional coastal views above the marine layer, particularly at higher elevations. "We were above the marine layer and the stars were something else never seen before," noted one Will Creek Road camper. Williams Hill Recreation Area features seven designated sites with covered picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet, making it the most developed of the dispersed options. A recent review described it as having "magnificent views" with a "very clean" bathroom. Weekend congestion can be an issue at more accessible locations, with one Plaskett Ridge camper warning it becomes "too crowded on weekends" with people "practically camping on top of each other." Most sites have a 14-day stay limit, though enforcement is minimal in more remote areas.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Big Sur, California (8)

    1. Timber Top Camp

    1 Review
    Big Sur, CA
    5 miles

    "It’s a ~2.8 mile hike in, but it is worth every step. Almost every hill top has a campsite, there is so many opportunities for stays."

    2. Bluff Camp

    2 Reviews
    Carmel Valley Village, CA
    10 miles
    Website

    "This is a trail camp in the Ventana Wilderness along the Carmel River Trail.  The trailhead and parking lot is at the Los Padres Dam. "

    3. Cone Peak

    1 Review
    Lucia, CA
    21 miles
    Website

    "* 11.1 miles from trail head to the summit

    • 5,600 ft. in elevation gain
    • Took 7.5 hours total (4.5 hours moving time)
    • Limited water on trail. "

    4. Will Creek Road Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    31 miles

    "Dispersed camping all along the trail, despite a sign saying no car camping. It was a 45 min (6 mile) trip up a dirt road but boy was it worth it."

    "I’m surprised I haven’t known about this little gem that is only 2 hours away from me. Above the fog line and beautiful views!!"

    5. Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

    7 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 242-0619

    "I'm a director with the Big Sur Community Association. I enjoyed your informative blog. It's a very dry summer & residents are on edge - just a reminder:

    "Hey campers!"

    "This was a perfect campground for Big Sur, just past the Plaskett Creek campground which is expensive and requires reservations."

    6. Williams Hill Recreation Area

    31 Reviews
    Jolon, CA
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 582-2200

    "Amenities include one vault toilet, sometimes runs out of toilet paper on a busy weekend, picnic tables with shelter and fire pits. No water, no trash, fire bans most the dry months."

    "Sites have covered shelter with metal picnic tables with overhangs for stove and a fire ring. Sites 5 and 7 suitable for larger rigs. Site 5 is pull thru will accommodate 40ft+ rig and pull vehicle."

    7. Nacimiento Road Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Lucia, CA
    25 miles

    8. West Will Creek Road

    Be the first to review!
    Lucia, CA
    31 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Big Sur, CA

27 Photos of 8 Big Sur Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Big Sur, CA

52 Reviews of 8 Big Sur Campgrounds

  • Wandering C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 24, 2023

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Free BLM

    Amenities include one vault toilet, sometimes runs out of toilet paper on a busy weekend, picnic tables with shelter and fire pits. No water, no trash, fire bans most the dry months.

  • Robin L.
    Oct. 24, 2021

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Listen to the Quiet

    7 sites suitable for tents, vans, rv's, tt. Sites have covered shelter with metal picnic tables with overhangs for stove and a fire ring. Sites 5 and 7 suitable for larger rigs. Site 5 is pull thru will accommodate 40ft+ rig and pull vehicle. Site 7 is back-in site pull vehicle parks on one side of shelter, 40'+ capable. These sites are dry camping with vault toilet. Offers views of Coastal Range on west Salinas Valley on right. Eastern road from San Ardo/PCH unpaved, washboard on lower end, no steep grades. Turn onto W1 is close for larger rigs as well as turn into campground. Directly opposite of campground entrance is extra large flat dispersed site capable of any length. Road up is narrow must yield to downhill traffic. No electric hookups gens allowed but be mindful of neighbors.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Free established BLM campground

    We stayed here for 3 nights in the summer, arriving on a Sunday, and it was great. I was worried about the heat, but it really wasn’t too bad, even on the hot days (low 90s) it cools down in the evening and didn’t get hot until early afternoon. Just be sure to get one of the shady spots! We set up in site #1 when we first arrived because it was private and had nice views, but it was way too much direct sun. We moved to #4 and it was much better- shady and even better views. 

    There were other people here when we stayed here but everyone was very quiet and respectful, and we didn’t hear any shooting like other reviews have mentioned— this may be due to the ban on shooting (and camp fires) at this time because of fire danger, but I was still impressed and surprised that people respected the ban. There is one pit toilet that we didn’t check out, but man you can smell it if you camp in one of the sites near to it. 

    We saw one volunteer/employee come and clean things up while we were here. We were pleasantly surprised that the trash wasn’t too bad here. No trash service so please pack out your waste. Cell service is good up at the campground, though you do lose it in parts on the drive up. We made it up in our 26ft class c no problem, though the road is narrow at times and we were glad we didn’t come across any oncoming traffic. Sites are relatively flat/ fixable with levels. Two of the sites are huge/ pull throughs so would be good for bigger rigs or big groups. If you get up here and all the sites are taken, there are several spots outside of the campground where you can disperse camp. 

    This is an OHV area but we didn’t see any while we were here. We hiked along the OHV trails and there was nothing- but I could see it getting busy on the weekends. 

    There's a 14 day stay limit. No water provided up here.

    My only complaint was the BEES! They were everywhere and aggressive, and all in our face, but didn’t sting us. One of the campers said that this was unusual though. Really nice campground, amazing that it’s free! Thanks BLM!

  • Kristen The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 4, 2022

    Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

    Only when desperate

    Every campsite within an hour range of Big Sur was full, and it was getting dark so we opted for this road. It is the only road where dispersed camping is allowed but beware: it is narrow, steep, unmaintained, and surrounded by cliffs. If you happen upon a pull out that is not occupied, does not have a private property sign, and is somewhat flat, then it works as a spot to sleep that feels like you’re on the edge of the world.

  • J
    Jun. 9, 2021

    Will Creek Road Dispersed

    Unbelievable Spot

    My wife and I found this spot on our Honeymoon. Dispersed camping all along the trail, despite a sign saying no car camping. It was a 45 min (6 mile) trip up a dirt road but boy was it worth it. The trail continued toward a campsite, but we found a spot that we couldn’t pass up (see pics). We were above the marine layer and the stars were something else never seen before. Highly recommend. No campfires.

  • B
    Jun. 2, 2021

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Hard to believe that it is free

    We towed our 30' travel trailer up to this dispersed campground that is located along a ridge line on the west side of the 101.  When we went, of the (7) formal sites that are up there, only 3 of them were taken and that was off and on.   We didn't need 4x4 getting up there or even a high clearance vehicle.  Our transmission did start heating up as the road was filled with washboard and it was steep and we had to go pretty slow.  However, any car will be able to make it up there.  The road was safe and relatively wide, but it drops off and you wouldn't stop until you got to the bottom.....  If the (7) spots are taken, there are at least 2 large areas before and after the camp ground that you can camp. 

    The view is fantastic, there is a really nice pit toilet, but I don't remember seeing any water hoses.

    Each of the (7) sites had a concrete pad with a covered picnic table and a BBQ pit!  Please pick up your trash if you go.  There was some beer cans and other garbage left behind by some mental midgets.

  • Amanda S.
    Jan. 1, 2021

    Williams Hill Recreation Area

    Amazing Views

    •7 designated campsites with covered structure, picnic table and fire pit •A few additional overflow areas to park and camp •Pit toilet - BYO toilet paper •No trash receptacles •Great Verizon reception / Decent Sprint reception •Drive thru campsites (~2) for larger rigs •Beautiful views, clean and quiet •Plenty of fire roads to walk/hike/bike •Rough, washboard roads leading into camp •Popular area for shooting •Highly trafficked campsite - most campers only stayed 1 night •Pictures are taken late December •Daytime temps - 60’s •Nighttime temps - low 40’s •Free!

  • Manny R.
    Nov. 27, 2020

    Will Creek Road Dispersed

    No go

    National forest is closed Gated off There is a sign there that states no car camping

  • Colleen W.
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

    Plaskett & Prewitt Ridges

    Hi- My name is Tom Collins. I'm a director with the Big Sur Community Association. I enjoyed your informative blog. It's a very dry summer & residents are on edge - just a reminder:

    "Hey campers!🌲👋 If you're planning to visit the Big Sur Coast this summer, just a heads up: campfires are NOT permitted outside of established campgrounds during the summer months🚫🔥. This is crucial to prevent forest fires, which we've struggled with in the past. We love having you here and want to keep Big Sur beautiful for everyone😊. Thanks for helping us protect this amazing place!" 

    Thank you, Tom Collins

     CABS

Guide to Big Sur

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Big Sur, California, where nature's tranquility meets breathtaking landscapes. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Stunning Views at Cone Peak for Dispersed Campers

  • The hike to Cone Peak is challenging but rewards you with some of the most spectacular views in the region, especially at sunset.
  • With no water supply available, it's essential to pack in your own and be prepared for a backcountry experience.
  • The area is known for its limited cell service, making it a perfect spot to disconnect and enjoy nature.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Big Sur, California

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground, which can fill up quickly on weekends.
  • Be mindful of the environment; pack out all trash and waste to keep these beautiful areas pristine for future visitors.
  • Check local regulations regarding campfires, as some areas may have restrictions during certain seasons due to fire danger.

Hiking Adventures While Free Camping Near Big Sur

  • The Bluff Camp along the Carmel River Trail offers a unique hiking experience with frequent river crossings, making it an adventurous choice for backpackers.
  • For those seeking a more rugged experience, the trails around Nacimiento Road Camp provide access to stunning vistas and secluded spots.
  • Always carry a map and be prepared for changing trail conditions, especially in backcountry areas where paths may become impassable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What roads and areas are best for boondocking in Big Sur?

For boondocking in Big Sur, Plasket Ridge Road offers multiple dispersed sites but requires careful navigation as it's narrow, steep, unmaintained, and bordered by cliffs. Four-wheel drive is highly recommended. Timber Top Camp is accessible via challenging roads but rewards with isolation. West Will Creek Road is another option, located about 6 miles up a dirt road. For those with larger rigs, Williams Hill has specific sites (5 and 7) that can accommodate RVs up to 40+ feet, with site 5 being a pull-through option. Always check road conditions before attempting these routes, especially during or after wet weather.

Is free camping allowed in Big Sur and where can I find it?

Free camping is available in Big Sur but only in specific designated areas. Bluff Camp is a hike-in trail camp in the Ventana Wilderness along the Carmel River Trail, offering a true wilderness experience at no cost. For vehicle-accessible free camping, Nacimiento Road Camp provides dispersed options. Be aware that all free camping in Big Sur requires proper preparation - bring your own water, pack out all trash, and understand there are no services. Most areas require a free California Campfire Permit for any cooking, even with stoves. Always check current forest closures before heading out, as access can change seasonally or during fire restrictions.

Where is BLM land for dispersed camping in Big Sur?

The main BLM land for dispersed camping near Big Sur is at Williams Hill Recreation Area, located along a ridge west of Highway 101. This area features 7 designated sites with covered structures and fire pits, plus additional overflow areas. While not directly in Big Sur, it's the closest BLM option to access the region. For true Big Sur dispersed camping, Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground is located in Los Padres National Forest. Always check current forest restrictions before planning your trip, as conditions and regulations change seasonally.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Big Sur?

Dispersed camping in Big Sur is strictly regulated. Campfires are typically banned during dry months, especially summer, to prevent wildfires. At Will Creek Road Dispersed, there have been reports of signs stating no car camping despite dispersed sites being available along the trail. Pack out all trash as most areas have no receptacles. Camping is limited to designated dispersed areas only - random camping is prohibited throughout most of Big Sur. Most locations require a California Campfire Permit even for stoves. Always check current fire restrictions, as violations carry heavy penalties. Stay on established sites to minimize environmental impact, and prepare for no services (water, electricity, or waste facilities).

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