Best Tent Camping near Fort Hunter Liggett, CA

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Fort Hunter Liggett? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Fort Hunter Liggett, California's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Fort Hunter Liggett, CA (10)

    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    1. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    61 Reviews
    182 Photos
    1185 Saves
    Big Sur, California

    Pfeiffer 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

    $50 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground

    2. Ventana Campground

    23 Reviews
    93 Photos
    564 Saves
    Big Sur, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $85 - $105 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
    Camper-submitted photo from Nacimiento Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nacimiento Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nacimiento Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nacimiento Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nacimiento Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nacimiento Campground

    4. Nacimiento Campground

    4 Reviews
    16 Photos
    311 Saves
    Lucia, California

    Temporarily 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
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Creek Camp

    5. Alder Creek Camp

    3 Reviews
    9 Photos
    70 Saves
    Fort Hunter Liggett, California

    Large 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
    Camper-submitted photo from A Place to Stay in Big Sur
    Camper-submitted photo from A Place to Stay in Big Sur
    Camper-submitted photo from A Place to Stay in Big Sur
    Camper-submitted photo from A Place to Stay in Big Sur

    6. A Place to Stay in Big Sur

    1 Review
    4 Photos
    69 Saves
    Lucia, California

    Read 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

    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Fort Hunter Liggett Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Fort Hunter Liggett Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Fort Hunter Liggett Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Fort Hunter Liggett Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Fort Hunter Liggett Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Military Park Fort Hunter Liggett Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Campground

    8. Andrew Molera State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    13 Photos
    93 Saves
    Big Sur, California

    There 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

    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    • No image available

      10. Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP Environmental Campsite

      Be the first to review!
      21 Saves
      Big Sur, California

      Two 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 Fort Hunter Liggett

    613 Reviews of 10 Fort Hunter Liggett Campgrounds


    • Wendy S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Seca Recreation Area
      Nov. 18, 2024

      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.
      Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
      Oct. 17, 2024

      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.

    • S
      Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
      Aug. 30, 2024

      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.

    • S
      Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
      Aug. 30, 2024

      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.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Sur Campground & Cabins
      Aug. 26, 2024

      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.

    • Julia H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Sweetwater Laguna Mountain Campground
      Aug. 6, 2024

      Upper Sweetwater Laguna Mountain Campground

      Great

      Great spot. takes like a whole hour to get there. you’ll lose reception about half way getting there (at least with Verizon you will). i went early August and there was only one other camper van. very quiet. AMAZING sunset view. one of the best i’ve seen. just wished there was signal , for safety reasons.

    • Michael O.
      Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Mountain Ranch
      Aug. 2, 2024

      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.

    • Jack J.
      Camper-submitted photo from Lake San Antonio - North Shore
      Jul. 11, 2024

      Lake San Antonio - North Shore

      Weekend Trip

      Great camp ground. Launched the boat and anchored it to shore. Literally had the place to ourselves. Fishing was great from shore in morning and dusk. They had clean bathrooms and showers.

    • Tammy P.The Dyrt ADMIN User
      Camper-submitted photo from Kirk Creek Campground
      Jun. 14, 2024

      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

    • NThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Mountain Ranch
      Jun. 9, 2024

      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.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Road's End, Bradley Lockwood
      Jun. 8, 2024

      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.

    • Hannah F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Mountain Campground
      May. 26, 2024

      Laguna Mountain Campground

      Great location

      Got there around noontime on the Friday of Memorial Day and grabbed the last designated lot. Really awesome area. Beautiful sunset over the mountains. Hiked Laguna Mountain and the Falls. Highly recommended. Toilet was also nice.

    • Rupert C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Road's End, Bradley Lockwood
      Apr. 29, 2024

      Road'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

    • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
      Camper-submitted photo from Vinyl Vineyards
      Apr. 9, 2024

      Vinyl Vineyards

      New to the Dyrt!

      Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!

    • Simply S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Locatelli Vineyards & Winery
      Apr. 3, 2024

      Locatelli Vineyards & Winery

      I'm #o Happy to have support in my dreams

      They called me and told me they loved my story and dreams and wanted to help me with the dreams I have with my future Lifebook lifestyle

    • Lady D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Mountain Campground
      Apr. 2, 2024

      Laguna Mountain Campground

      Well Maintained

      Free and well maintained campsite. I only saw 5 marked campsites. There's a small parking lot and bathroom. Some spots are more convenient for travel trailers, others are not

    • James N.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
      Mar. 19, 2024

      Pfeiffer 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.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
      Mar. 19, 2024

      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.

    • Chris  B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
      Feb. 8, 2024

      San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park

      What a delight

      A GREAT find, can't say enough good things about this place.  We stayed in the Washburn campground (up the hill/less expensive/better views/less people, more space, less trees and a clear view of the sky in every campsite (visited in February, we have Starlink and solar). The stars here are incredible at night, all you hear are the waves crashing, and beautiful views in every direction.  The camp host, Shelby, was delightful and very accommodating when we wanted to switch sites.  Lots of bathrooms, very clean, lots of dumpsters and water spigots, all conveniently located.  Rangers regularly drive through and we felt safe and attended to; a sketchy situation had materialized in one of the sites and the Ranger stood in the pouring rain for two hours, ensuring these folks left.  A well run and maintained area. RV water and dump station at bottom of hill. automated, $10.

    • Shaun S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Sur Campground & Cabins
      Jan. 16, 2024

      Big Sur Campground & Cabins

      Great place to camp

      Big Sur Campground and Cabins, while on the pricier side for camping, definitely delivers on cleanliness, service, and quality of experience. Check in is super easy, and the staff were all very friendly and helpful. The welcome package is a nice touch, 2 mugs, a deck of cards, flashlight and bundle of firewood. They also have free ice, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate daily.
      It rained the first day we were there, and campsites stayed pretty well drained. Our site was kind of tucked away in the back of the camp ground, near the showers and playground. The bathroom/showers were cleaned regularly and stocked with shampoo conditioner and shower gel. Playground was well maintained and modern

      Plenty of water spigots throughout the campground, each site has a fire pit. During our stay, over NYE, there was a nice mix of RVs, trailers, suvs with RTTs and tent campers. The campground doesn’t see a lot of sunlight, due to the large trees shading most of the area. If you rely on solar power, you may need to get creative.

    • LThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore
      Jan. 15, 2024

      Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore

      Pretty lake but no potable water

      There is no potable water available, not even a water fountain. People and animals cannot touch the water. You cannot fish or swim in the lake. There is no reduction in price. This may be temporary, but it has been this way for at least a year.



    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Fort Hunter Liggett, CA?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Fort Hunter Liggett, 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 Fort Hunter Liggett, CA?

      TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Fort Hunter Liggett, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.