Best Tent Camping near Jolon, CA
Looking for the best Jolon tent camping? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Jolon, including sites, reviews, and tips. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Jolon campsites are perfect for tent campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Jolon, California (10)
1. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
61 Reviews•182 Photos•1232 SavesBig Sur, CaliforniaPfeiffer 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. Lake San Antonio - North Shore
5 Reviews•10 Photos•49 SavesBradley, California- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Cabins
3. Ventana Campground
23 Reviews•93 Photos•575 SavesBig Sur, California- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$85 - $105 / night
4. Nacimiento Campground
4 Reviews•16 Photos•316 SavesLucia, CaliforniaTemporarily 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
5. Alder Creek Camp
3 Reviews•9 Photos•70 SavesFort Hunter Liggett, CaliforniaLarge 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
6. Military Park Fort Hunter Liggett Primitive Campground
1 Review•10 Photos•9 SavesJolon, California- Reservable
- Tents
7. A Place to Stay in Big Sur
1 Review•4 Photos•77 SavesLucia, CaliforniaRead 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
8. Andrew Molera State Park Campground
7 Reviews•13 Photos•104 SavesBig Sur, CaliforniaThere 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
9. Carmel River Backcountry Camp
1 Review•12 Photos•119 SavesCarmel Valley Village, California- Fires
- Tents
10. Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP Environmental Campsite
Be the first to review!•23 SavesBig Sur, CaliforniaTwo 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.
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 - $38 / night
Recent Tent Reviews near Jolon, California
639 Reviews of 10 Jolon Campgrounds
- AAbe
Scout
Morro Strand State Beach Campground
Windy Beach Camping
Back in February, before my foot injuries hobbled me, we spent two nights here. We chose to camp in the tent camping area, away from RVs and their generators and lights.
The location was great.....right next to the beach, with our car conveniently parked next to our tent campsite.
We hadn't been tent camping for a long time before that, so we were surprised that we were one of the very few people in the tent camping area that actually camped in tents. The rest of the people in the area just camped in the campervans, small camper trucks, or disconnected towable campers.
We could hear the wind all night in our tent, but during the day, the weather was perfect....cool and sunny.
Restrooms were nearby and clean. There were no showers, but we were told that we could (if we wanted) use the ones in another nearby State Park.
Rangers were friendly.
Overall, a very nice experience.
- D
Dan M.
Guide
Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
Get there early
Great for tent camping and hiking. RV sites have 30 amp hookups. No water or sewer hookups. Dump station was available. RV sites are all gravel and fairly flat. Paying after the store closed at 6pm was an ordeal. Could never make it happen. We tried to log in for 3$ to pay online but it failed and we were never able to connect. Tent sites were secluded, many under shade trees, and well dispersed. Bathrooms were few and far between. Mostly vault toilets. There is a pool that families will enjoy. There is a small store. Walks and hikes are what is available. For a National Park it underwhelmed.
Christopher S.Guide
Big Sur Campground & Cabins
Very nice wooded camp ground
Enjoyed my two night stay camping in a tent. Touring Big Sur and surrounding areas.
Chanel C.
LegendMorro Strand State Beach Campground
Super small sites
[ PROS ]
- The campground is super close to the beach! You can just walk over the tiny dunes and the waves are right there.
- Nothing like falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves. So soothing and will knock you right out!
- The beach itself is very calm and not very crowded/busy.
- Driving distance to stores, restaurants, markets, and The Embarcadero (for a day trip)
- Stunning view of Morro Rock
[ CONS]
-
This campground is basically like one giant parking lot which mostly caters to RVS and trailers.
-
Not ideal for tent camping. There is very little space to pitch a tent, don't even think about 2 tents.
-
Sites are very, very close together with very little privacy. I could hear my neighbor's whole conversations even with the sound of the surf.
-
It was super windy here at night. We were camping in our tent trailer and our entire tent was rattling for hours. The tent next to us packed up in the middle of the night and left.
-
No shade at this campground so it's pretty awful when it's sunny. I wouldn't suggest bringing a canopy because it gets super windy here.
Overall, this campground was very disappointing. Especially for the price! The only redeeming quality is the beach. It was super hard to get a reservation and is normally completely booked.
- KKelli H.
Traveler
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
Love this campground. The campsites are private and fairly large. Beautiful redwood tress are everywhere and a river runs through the park. There are numerous hikes, one to a beautiful waterfall. The lodge is wonderful, and the food at the restuarant is delicious
Tent camping
- AAmber D.Traveler
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
Beautiful, memorable, cool
This campground is one of our all-time favorites. Tent sites are far enough from the RV sites that they are quiet and peaceful. The river is lovely and cool. It's a super popular campground and yet the tent sites are situated such that it feels more spacious than crowded.
David M.Scout
San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
Nice
Nice bathrooms, ocean sounds, not that level for tent camping at c7 .
- MMartha G.Traveler
San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
Popular park
Close to the beach within walking distance. Showers and restrooms not chemis . No hookups last time I was there both RV & tent camping .
- MMonica H.Scout
Big Sur Campground & Cabins
All around great campground
My husband and doggos have been to big sur three times now. It is our favorite spot to go. Good size lots, we have only been tent camping. Right near a river which is so much fun! Tubing there is great. Lots of other kids and dogs around.
- mmarcus K.Traveler
Big Sur Campground & Cabins
Amazing trees
Set amidst some amazing redwoods adjacent to a bubbling creek. Clean and well maintained facilities. Has cabins, rv sites, and tent sites. Many trails nearby along with some great restaurants. There is no wifi and no verizon cell service.
Kristine B.GuideMorro Strand State Beach Campground
Beautiful Location but Busy
The location was pretty sweet right by the beach. I tent camped while my family members RVd. My site was large with a fire pit but they were slightly crammed in and had no fire pit. Did notice that some had the pits so be careful if choosing which site. Overall a nice visit.
- Neil C.Scout
Ventana Campground
Decent site but expensive
Paid 80 bucks for a tent site that was really small and close to other people. This campsite is packed to the gills. Plenty of kids screaming off in the distance. Not ideal but it’s in a highly sought after area, so it is what it is.
Chris J.ScoutBig Sur Campground & Cabins
Overpriced and Underwhelming
New ownership, who reportedly paid $28 mill for the campground, immediately doubled their prices to $225 per night for a standard tent site. No site improvements, just a 100% price increase. They are hopeful people will just pay because it’s Big Sur, after all. Don’t support this business model.
- MMeredith H.Traveler
Morro Bay State Park Campground
Covid perfection
We looked for a beach not overly populated but clean and easy to camp. Lovely hookups if you need them and tent sites beach side are mostly protected from the winds. Cooler time of year but we knew that coming in. Would love to visit again in warmer months!
- AAshley Z.Scout
Fernwood Campground & Resort
Magical Wooded Adventure with the Redwoods
Fernwood is a unique campground because it has tent sites, RV spaces, canvas tents, cabins, a motel and even a restaurant. It’s situated on the river in Big Sur, and is surrounded by the majestic Redwood trees. If you don’t feel like cooking head up to the restaurant for a delicious meal. There’s also a small market to pick up necessities and ice.
- CClark B.Traveler
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
Embraced by Redwoods
Not sure if there is a bad tent camping site in this State park. All the site are in and around Redwoods – a perfect getaway for an individual, a couple, or the family. Sites close to bathrooms, include a firepit and table, plenty of room. Perfect for kids to explore – trees, streams, fields. Several excellent hikes in the immediate area – for all skill levels.
Anna R.
Ranger
Andrew Molera State Park Campground
Fills up quick
This is a great stop along highway 1 with trails to the ocean. The tent sites are in a nice open field so you see the other campers but most are quiet and respectful. it is possible to share a campsite with others if it's full and you are willing to make friends.
- Bridget M.Traveler
Kirk Creek Campground
Best views
We stayed at Kirk Creek this weekend in one of the walk up tent sites. although we could not park by the spot, we arrived that day with no reservation and we’re happy to park across the street with how beautiful how surroundings were! From what I could tell, every site had a wonderful view of the ocean with how the campground is situated on the bluff. I will most definitely stay here again!
Kimberly K.TravelerFernwood Campground & Resort
My Second Choice Campground In Big Sur
This is my second choice campground right in Big Sur. Not because I really like it, I've been there when it was too crowded, but because it has similar qualities to my favorite campground across the road -Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
In the summer the campground is thick with families and RVs/trailers, and tent campers. But off season the place mellows out and there is room to move. The campground is on either side of the Big Sur River, RVs and trailers on one side, tent campers on the other.
Amenities are there, but the free showers on the tent camping side of the campground are better than the pay for showers on the RV side. Every time I've had a meal at the restaurant there has been a different menu and style. Maybe they change chefs every season, but it's not a far drive down to Deetjen's for breakfast if one is up for a treat. The Fernwood General Store has a good selection of food items, wood for the fire, and a few camp supplies.
My most recent stay here was in July 2019, on my sister's vacation with her RV. We had spot number 9 which was smack dab in the middle of everything which was not my preference, but my sister loved it. When I have a choice, I tent camp or vanlife in Big Sur between September and April.
I would give it between 3 and 4 stars, depending on season and how much you like to be around other people.
Care B.LegendSan Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
Lots of shade
This is in a beautiful area, and a gorgeous site but I’ll tell you why I gave it a 3 Pro: friendly staff, lots of shade & some grass at what seemed like all sites, close to small food and many things to do, availability, They let my small van stay at tent only camping, firewood $10 on site, flushable clean bathrooms
Cons: upkeep of foliage was good but walking through whole campsite saw trash and full fire pits at every site. I stayed at two sites and preferred the tent camping first come serve area as it has less vehicle traffic. C36 felt so busy.
- Morgan D.Guide
Morro Bay State Park Campground
Awesome spot!
Super clean and great location, but docked a star because of the price. After fees when booking, it comes out to about $42.00 a night.
Showers and bathrooms are spread out nicely. We tent camped and the noise wasnt bad at all. Though there was some mystery animal howling/screeching through out the night haha. Super close to the water. Kayak rentals an restaurant down by the dock and a great place to load kayaks into the water! Will definitely be back. Just make sure you book in advance! Fills up fast.
- AApril N.Guide
Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
Great park & campground
Great park with trails that vary from flat oak meadows with wildflowers to strenuous mountain hikes to canyon creeks & caves. Parking inside the park fills up early (by 8am) so get there early or you’ll have to start your hike from the big lot at the visitor center and add a few miles.
The campground is good. We tent camped. Bathrooms are kept clean & stocked with TP & soap. Water taps are frequent. Some sites are small & exposed; others are big, shady & private. Many on loop C are good. The camp store is very well stocked.
- SShawn H.Traveler
San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park
Slamming Doors
Tent site C74 didn’t have much of a level setup site and was right across from the bathroom. We heard slamming doors all night. This particular site was practically on-top of the adjacent site. Good things is the proximity to the bathroom if you don’t mind the slamming doors. It was also close to the trashcans. We came in late and left early so we didn’t experience much of the park but it appeared well maintained and well traveled. Campsite was full so reservations are probably needed.
Kathy M.GuidePfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
Perfect Family Camping
This was a fantastic campground for a family. Hikes within short walking distance and within bike or short car ride to general store and lodge. Coin showers and bathrooms were very clean. There is a laundry site (this was open) and second general store on premesis however it was not open for the season yet. Camp hosts were very nice and knowledgeable about area. Wood bundles were delivered directly to site. Tent site came with picnic table and large fire pit with grate. This made for an amazing first experience at Big Sur. Highly recommend.
- Olivia A.Guide
Arroyo Seco
Beautiful and quiet
Went to tent camp at site #14 (close to the bathrooms and showers) last week. I booked online in advance and arrived a little before check in. Checked in and found the camp hosts to be so helpful and nice. They also have ice, water, firewood and other items available for purchase. Stayed for about 3 nights with perfect 80 degree weather every day. Went on a hike and found the most captivating view. When it hit about 6pm the mosquitoes came out so just make sure you’re equipped. Would love to come back. Also, went to visit Big Sur which is only a 2 hour drive, well worth the visit.
Stan S.TravelerBig Sur Campground & Cabins
Saviors
This place rocked and saved our honeymoon when no one else would. Unfortunately during peak Covid, everything was fcfs or absolute expensive or closed, and we were losing daylight heading up the coast. Made it just before dusk and we were able to get a tent camping spot for about 70 a night which was not a problem, cuz a roadside parking ticket was waaay higher. Quaint accomodations, free coffee in the morning, mess shop sells fresh food stuffs and wood for fire at a reasonable price too. Highly recommend if you're stopping through for a night or two while exploring the surrounding area. They clean the facilities like 4 times a day or more and sanitize it too.
- Brian L.Traveler
Morro Bay State Park Campground
Beautiful campgrounds
Amazing campground that has both primitive tent sites, as well as RV with full hookups. Running water, dishwashing station, hot showers, and flushing toilets. The facilities were clean, and the campgrounds are next to a golf course, and a quick drive away from the beach, Morro Rock, and downtown. Each site has a little outside “pantry” cabinet to stash your dry goods, and there is a fire ring for the must do campfire and s’mores. Wood is sold on site. This is definitely one of my favorite spots I have been to, and although far from where I live, it was well worth the trip. I would definitely go back!
Guide to Jolon
Tent camping near Jolon, California, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- Lake San Antonio - North Shore provides drinking water, picnic tables, and clean showers, making it a comfortable choice for families.
- Nacimiento Campground features picnic tables and toilets, nestled along a serene creek, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground offers well-maintained restrooms and a general store, ensuring convenience during your stay.
Some prices for tent camping range from $20 to $40
- A Place to Stay in Big Sur has affordable rates for tent sites, making it a great option for budget-conscious campers.
- Ventana Campground offers a range of pricing, with amenities like showers and firewood available for an additional fee.
- Carmel River Backcountry Camp is a free option for those looking to experience backcountry camping without the cost.
Tips for tent camping near Jolon
- At Alder Creek Camp, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to off-road access, ensuring a more adventurous camping experience.
- When visiting Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP Environmental Campsite, be prepared to hike in, as this site offers a more secluded and natural setting.
- For a family-friendly atmosphere, Military Park Fort Hunter Liggett Primitive Campground provides a quiet environment with spacious sites, perfect for enjoying quality time together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Jolon, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Jolon, 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 Jolon, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Jolon, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring