Best Tent Camping near Big Sur, CA
Looking for tent camping near Big Sur? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Big Sur. You're sure to find the perfect tent campsite for your California camping adventure.
Best Tent Sites Near Big Sur, CA (10)
1. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
Big Sur, California61 Reviews•182 Photos•1199 SavesPfeiffer Big Sur Campground features 189 RV and tent sites are situated on or near the Big Sur River. There is a Campfire Center that offers evening programs on the weekends during peak season.
Each campsite includes a parking area for at least one car, a fire pit with half-grill and picnic table. No hookups are provided at any site. Fresh water, hot showers and toilets are a short walk.
All incoming campers must check in at the entrance kiosk. Camper vehicles must display vehicle tag (proof of reservation) in the windshield. Vehicle tags are also valid for day use entrance into other area state parks.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$75 / night
2. Ventana Campground
Big Sur, California23 Reviews•93 Photos•568 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$85 - $105 / night
3. Andrew Molera State Park Campground
Big Sur, California7 Reviews•13 Photos•95 SavesThere is no access to the campgrounds, beach trail, or any trails on the South side of the Big Sur River due to storm and flood damage.
Andrew Molera Trail Camp is a hike-in campground. Campers park in the day use parking lot and hike about 1/4 mile to the campground. Trail Camp contains 22 standard tent sites and two (2) hike-and-bike campsites. The campground is situated in a meadow near the Big Sur River. Each site has a fire pit, picnic table and food storage container. Trail Camp offers potable water and restrooms with flush toilets. There are no showers.
Standard campsites are available for reservation. Reservations fill up six months in advance.
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
$50 / night
5. Nacimiento Campground
Lucia, California4 Reviews•16 Photos•313 SavesTemporarily closed. Small campground with 9 campsites located among oak trees. Located near a running creek. Recreational Vehicles no longer than 25 feet.
- Pets
- Tents
- Group
- Tent Cabin
- Glamping
- Picnic Table
6. A Place to Stay in Big Sur
Lucia, California1 Review•4 Photos•72 SavesRead ENTIRE LISTING DESCRIPTION before requesting to book.
CURRENTLY - Because of major road repair - this land is ONLY ACCESSIBLE FROM THE SOUTH - THROUGH CAMBRIA - in San luis Obispo County. Highway 1 is completely impassable to the north in between Limekiln and Lucia. The only way to exit is also to return south.
-ONLY booking within 2 weeks or less - NOT accepting reservations more than 14 days out. Arrive Before Dark to find your site.
Find a place to set up your own tent, pads and bedding near the creek or on the hill. Most sites require walking away from your car. There are some flat spots to sleep in a vehicle.
A homestead at the bottom of a canyon where the creek meets the ocean. It is off-the-grid with no Wi-Fi, cell service or electricity.
A great place for families and children to experience nature. A Young child and baby live here, as well as three dogs, a cat and chickens/ducks. Dogs are welcome off-leash, unless they attack chickens/ducks, cats or other dogs. Please bury/cover dog poop.
This is a remote area with beautiful beaches, creeks and hiking trails throughout. Some areas can be very dangerous with steep cliffs and loose rocks. Be aware that things like spiders, snakes, raccoons, mice, poison oak, etc.. exist in natural areas like this.
Structures on the land are very rustic, A small communal guest kitchen is available with a two-burner stove and sink. Fresh water is available for drinking. There is a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers.
In the Fall of 2020 a huge fire burned the entire canyon followed a few months later by a massive flood that brought down gigantic redwood trees and boulders smashing through everything in it's path including the main living quarters and farm animals. The rains of 23’ also had a significant impact. The land is in the process of restoration and many areas are being worked on.
Alcohol is discouraged. It is not intended as a place to party or get drunk. A casual drink is okay. No stereos or electronic music devices. Acoustic instruments are fine. Fires can be made in designated pits near the creek only. Please do not bring excessive waste into the forest and Pack it Out. There are garbage and recycling cans if necessary.
TO BE ACCEPTED - please write “My party and I have read and understand the description” at the top of your booking request followed by a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from.
Because there is no Wi-Fi on the land - the internet may only be checked once daily - unless we are in town. Responses will come from Gene or Elle. It is advisable to check the weather before booking, especially in the winter - as there may be unsafe road conditions.
- Pets
- Reservable
- Tents
- Cabins
- Yurts
- Glamping
$30 - $60 / night
7. Alder Creek Camp
Fort Hunter Liggett, California3 Reviews•9 Photos•70 SavesLarge oak-shaded camp on the banks of Alder Creek. Contact the Monterey Ranger District for more information on this campground at 831-385-5434 X 0.
- Tents
- Alcohol
8. Manresa State Beach Campground
Freedom, California7 Reviews•24 Photos•283 SavesManresa State Beach Camping is tents only, no RVs, mid-May through September. Parking for over 60 walk-in tent sites at Manresa Uplands is in a separate lot near the campground. Pets must not be left unattended in campsites. One vehicle is included in camping fees.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
$35 / night
9. Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP Environmental Campsite
Be the first to review!Big Sur, California•22 SavesTwo Environmental Campsites are located on the west side of Highway 1 south of McWay Cove. Both sites are hike-in only and no vehicle access is permitted. These sites are extremely popular year round and usually fill up six months in advance. Reservations are required and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at https://www.reservecalifornia.com/CaliforniaWebHome/. You may also call toll free 1-800-444-7275.
No dogs are permitted in the campground or on park trails.
PLEASE NOTE: Camping in the two designated sites is the only camping permitted in the park. Camping or sleeping inside a vehicle in the parking lot or on the highway is not allowed.
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
$30 - $38 / night
Recent Tent Reviews in Big Sur
562 Reviews of 10 Big Sur Campgrounds
- S
Susan C.
Guide
San Lorenzo Park
Easy, Convenient & Pretty
What a find! Mostly level, mostly gravel and grass, mostly pull through sites. Water, and 30 amp and 12 V available. Not sure about 50 amp. Good cell service, bathrooms, showers and a dump station round out the on-site conveniences. Firings and picnic tables with a choice of well-shaded or solar-friendly sites. A nice walking path, circles the campground and is well used in the mornings and evenings by locals running or walking dogs and babies. The first half of the park has a rustic agriculture, museum, and lots of old farm equipment on display. There are also spaces to rent for parties and events with their own parking area separate from the campground. King City has grocery, gas, some restaurants and some shops just outside of the park.
Wendy S.Guide
Laguna Seca Recreation Area
Perfect for our needs!
We were just traveling through since part of 1 is closed. Found this spot for $51 and it was great. It is hilly, which made it cool to walk around for views. The water is not potable, but bathrooms were very clean and the staff were so kind. There was not a race, but there were some cars running the track the next morning. Which was pretty cool!
Amy M.
Traveler
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
Amazing
Camped with family over Memorial Day weekend. Park was busy , but amazing. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. Our camp neighbors were awesome. Bathroom and showers clean. We camp here at least twice a year. Can’t wait to come back.
- Amy M.Traveler
Sunset State Beach Campground
Close to beach
My husband and I love to stay here because of the nice walk to the beach. Restrooms and shower are dated , but clean.
- KKorey Y.Guide
Salinas-Monterey KOA
Parking lot with a pool
Pretty basic place. Level, noisy highway. Very friendly staff clean. I enjoy more of the outdoors so not really my cup of tea. Very narrow spaces.
- Elizabeth S.Traveler
Sunset State Beach Campground
Quiet nice views
Campground is quiet except those who run their generators all day and play the radio loud. It is spread out. (But still close, you do see your neighbors.) The camp ground is between fields and the ocean. Site 25 has amazing views but also can be breezy. Or windy. Old but clean bathrooms with coin showers. Water close to sites.
- SSusie B.Traveler
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
The Off Season Love Affair in Big Sur
I know we all rant here about how, “if you can go outside school holidays, you’re in for a real treat!” The most popular places, like Pfeiffer, can be nuts in the high season, although socially, that can be fun, too.
However, I have had the nicest times in the Winter here, truly. Christmas, Thanksgiving, special moments. The winter sun and sunsets are extraordinary. The Big Sur community, chill and awesome without all the tourist pressure.
Another fun fact… sometimes, when I have come back from a backpacking trip in the area, I will book a day or night, even if I don’t SPEND the whole night, because the showers are SO GOOD. And you know what’s it like to want a decent shower after you’ve been in the muck a few days.
- SSusie B.Traveler
Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
The Pinnacles are Other-Worldly - this is your launchpad
I didn’t enjoy this campground for years — I’d always drive home, to my cooler coastal home. It is WICKED hot in the summer. But one time, I joined my daughter, who did have a summer reservation, and I changed my mind! They have a pool! The kids are thrilled! There are beautiful tucked away campsites in the shade, by a creek. Really enjoyed cooking in the evenings outside and settling in. By day, of course, the trails are wild, like a moonscape. In spring, it’s a wildflower fantasia.
I was selfishly a little sad when Pinnacles became a national monument, instead of a regional secret. But I’m so glad they got the money, they deserve it! Note: I discovered it because my kids were in rock climbing classes in town, and “this” was the field trip. So exciting to see their first climbing and bouldering outside.
Brittanie F.
Scout
Big Sur Campground & Cabins
Staff are awful
Long story short the staff were unhelpful and lied about there being multiple spots open. When we arrived the people in the spot next to us had completely blocked our spot with one of their cars and were using our table. Had to asked a second time to be moved spots and only found out there were available spots when someone without a reservation showed up to registration when I was up there complaining.
- KKorey Y.Guide
Laguna Seca Recreation Area
Hidden jewel
No crowds late August. Great staff and price. Views, trees and TRACK. Some air traffic. Quiet.
Michael O.Traveler
Saddle Mountain Ranch
In between camping and glamping, but somehow neither
So, if you’re looking to be in nature and have a proper camping experience, this ain’t it. If you want a resort style vacation, this isn’t it either… yet somehow it’s a little of both. I wouldn’t recommend tent camping because you’re literally right next to your neighbor camping and isn’t really in the “woods”. Suggest you get a delux tent which includes a bed, fire pit and bbq. That’s why I’ve rated it high because it’s what I needed for one night. Plus the pull and games (corn hill, ping pong) are nice additions. Just know what you’re in for.
Chris N.Guide
Veteran's Memorial Park Campground
Affordable Monterey/Carmel Access
I have family in Monterey, but can't see paying the higher prices for a hotel or home rental when I visit. This location gives you complete access to the beautiful surrounding area at a price that doesn't hurt. Showers, restrooms, tables and fire rings make it really sweet for the family on a light camping adventure. I dry camp a lot, and having the amenities is worth the fees they're asking. Your best bet to get a site is to show up a day or two early, if you can, due to a first come first serve policy for sites. The early bird gets the worm. No reservations can be made.
- BBoberto R.Traveler
Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
Don’t go after June
Campground is fine. Very hot and very dry after June. No camp fires after June bear gulch caves are also closed after June. Seen a ton of wildlife and over all wasn’t very crowded. Great for star gazing.
Laura D.Traveler
Manresa State Beach Campground
Right on beach!
First time visiting, We stayed at site 63 for two nights June 30 and July 1st. Sites are very private and seperated by bushes and trees. The loading zone was a short walk to our site. It was an easy 5-7 minute walk down to the beach. Beach was clean and not crowded. Beautiful sunset views. Only complaints are that the bathrooms were filthy. One of the showers wasn’t working and robbed us of $2. They need to put a quarter change machine for coins for the showers. We had to drive to KOA to get change to shower. We will definitely come back !
- LLeonard H.Traveler
Pinto Lake City Park
Small City Park... Good Option for short and/or Longer Stays
Small city park with RV Parking on grass between lake and baseball fields. Sites almost level; however, might need to use a few blocks. Park was busy with locals using pavilions for birthday and other parties when we visited on a Saturday in June. Adjacent baseball field was busy on Sunday morning with little league game and parking lot was full. Cars were being parked in unused RV spots. Many people were fishing from the shoreline. Many Candian geese (with poop) were in the dock area and alone the shoreline. Some ducks made themselves at home in the shade under our RV. Temperature was considerably cooler versus the very hot temps only a few miles further inland. Nice that each site has electric / water / sewer hook-ups. Two rest rooms (one by lake and one by baseball field) were a little dirty due to heavy use. Unfortunate there are no showers and that you can only walk around perhaps 10% of the lake shoreline. Quiet at night as they lock the park gate... they give you an access card ($25 deposit req'd) if you need to leave and return after gate is locked at night. Called and requested my $25 credit after refund was not automatically received a few days later. Credit was immediately made. A good option especially if parks along the coast are booked and you want reasonably cool temperatures. Would stay again.
Tammy P.Traveler
Kirk Creek Campground
Most beautiful view
small hill top campground with amazing sunrise and sunset view. There is a small trail to go down the beach right next to camp site #22 Avoid sites that close to the restroom as it can get very smelly. Site #7,8,9 are the best with open space for ocean views. Can get very windy at night (depending on on season) so secure down your tent tightly
Jose J.Guide
Monterey Pines RV Park - Military
Beautiful RV Park and golf course
Campground is for active duty, retired military and DoD Civilians. Pretty quiet with the exception of the Monterey Regional Airport next to it and even then it wasn’t very noticeable. The golf course next to it is beautiful so bring your sticks or rent them from the clubhouse. One of the more affordable courses to play in the area. Our site was level left to right but we did have to jack the front of the trailer up higher than usual. Clean restrooms and bath house. FREE LAUNDRY FACILITIES TOO. Definitely want to go back but for a longer stay.
Tippy B.TravelerVeteran's Memorial Park Campground
Perfect access to Big Sur & Pebble Beach
We were driving thru and needed a place to van camp. Found this location from the dyrt app. The camp site is located on park grounds. If you have little ones they’ll have fun on the playground. Parking was easy to pick for us. There’s also hot showers which is only open from 7AM to 9PM. Someone will turn the water access off outside of those time frames. They will also allow showers with no camping option which is $4. Overall for the stay being only $47, having the options of a hot shower, rest rooms and ability to have a fire pit and the convenience of the Big Sur, makes this site worth it.
- NNathan S.Guide
Saddle Mountain Ranch
Review Update
I have spent the last 7 hours listening to a child cry in the space that is 20 feet away from me b
- NNathan S.Guide
Saddle Mountain Ranch
Nice but crowded
First of all this place is beautiful. It is a very well maintained campground. Its set up is very much like a KOA. The sites are very close to each other. There is room enough for your rig but parking is elsewhere and limited. The bathrooms are clean but small. On the men’s side there is one stall and one separate shower. There is another site but I didn’t see it. Overall I suppose if RV camping is your thing it’s ok. I just don’t like being this close to people when I am on vacation. It’s like a hotel room without walls. It was convenient, clean, and close to where I needed to go.
Eva C.Scout
Road's End, Bradley Lockwood
Beautiful and peaceful
The sites are clean and the views are lovely. We loved the fire pits and the string lights hanging from the trees. Very nice atmosphere.
Sonya S.Traveler
Sunset State Beach
Clean and quite
This is a beautiful place, camp site behind woods, this, waving sound won’t bother at night.
Very clean and friendly staffs
Jaime G.Guide
Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area — Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Molina Ghost Run 2024
This year MG run was held in Hollister Hills due to Clear Creek being closed. My registration came with free camp spot in the Upper Ranch. For an organized trail run I would give it a 5 star as it was very respectful and actually not loud at all including day light hours.
From a dispersed camp/ camp experience I am giving this a 4 star thats because I knew I was not camping here for a camp experience but an off-road experience with many other off-road enthusiast.
Rupert C.ScoutRoad's End, Bradley Lockwood
All you could ask for
Quiet, serene and green and beautiful. i really don’t know what else you could ask for in a remote campsite. It is a 10 for the view and the setting. I will so be back….and often Rupert
New D.GuideHollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area — Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Revisiting after 25 yrs! So glad we did!
The moon , stars, and timing of life could not have lived up better for us and our decision to revisit after a not-so great experience 25 yrs ago!
When my hubby told us, we were going to Hollister for our annual off-roading trip with our grandkids, I immediately became apprehensive and worried of other inconsiderate and dangerous riders, infestation of bugs and ticks (more than I have ever witnessed in my life during my past visit years ago), among garbage and other things.
All the worry was for nothing! This trip could not have been more peaceful, magical, and all the campers were very respectful of others space, quiet and children present.
It was just the right crowd, amount of dispersed visitors, and super clean!!!!
What I liked most was - the presence of caring and kind park rangers! Making sure safety was a priority, but knowing we were there to have fun as well! Thank you!!!
I’m 54, an outdoor enthusiast, and pay a lot of attention to my environment. It was unreal that there was no annoying bugs to be seen anywhere, although I’m sure they were present in. Forest - just not out being annoying. Could be the presence of so many kinds of birds as well. I’ve never seen so much beauty flying around in one place and comfortable with dropping in and saying hello to our grandkids! Made for picture perfect postcards incase any of you visitors love bird watching.
The trails were so well maintained and tracks groomed for safety . I have zero complaints and will definitely be returning!
I everyone of us had an awesome time!
James N.
RangerPfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
It's Big Sur...
I first stayed in this campground in 1975 while on break from collage. 49 years later it is still just a beautiful as I remember, even though they were recovering from some very heavy rains, most all of the campsites were open.
Great location to base out of when exploring the central coast. If you are coming from the south be sure to check that Highway 1 (PCH) is open, otherwise you will have to backtrack inland.
Friendly staff, general store, lots of things to do.
- James N.Ranger
Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
Beautiful, and secluded spot
They have had some flood damage, so repairs are going on. Beautiful spot, great trails, showers, general store. Didn't get to see any condors. I'll stay here again. AT&T was acceptable coverage.
Only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because of the maintenance going on, once that is complete it's a 5 Star.
Guide to Big Sur
Tent camping near Big Sur, California, offers a unique blend of stunning coastal views and lush forested landscapes, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.
Tent campers should check out Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
- This campground features accessible riverfront sites, allowing campers to enjoy the soothing sounds of nature just steps from their tents at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground.
- With clean facilities and friendly staff, it's a popular choice for families looking to camp in a vibrant community atmosphere.
- The park is known for its hiking trails, providing ample opportunities for exploration right from your campsite.
Tips for tent camping near Big Sur
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially if camping at Andrew Molera State Park Campground, where summer sites can be quite exposed to the sun.
- Arrive early to secure a spot, as campgrounds like Nacimiento Campground can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
- Bring extra shade options for your tent, particularly if you choose a site near the river, as the sun can be intense during the day.
Unique local attractions for tent campers
- Explore the breathtaking views along the coast from Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP Environmental Campsite, where you can enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
- Experience the tranquility of the redwoods at Ventana Campground, where the serene environment is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
- Discover the hidden gems of the Ventana Wilderness at the Carmel River Backcountry Camp, where you can immerse yourself in a more rugged camping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Big Sur, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Big Sur, CA is Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 61 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Big Sur, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Big Sur, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.