Are you in need of a campground near King City, CA? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are King City campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near King City, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
Pinnacles Campground is located in the unique Pinnacles National Park, 32 miles south of Hollister, California. The park encompasses 26,000 acres of spectacular rock formations and remnants of an extinct 23 million-year old volcano. Hiking and rock climbing are very popular activities in Pinnacles, as is watching for the majestic California condor overhead. Pinnacles National Park is a nesting place for the endangered soaring bird, the largest in North America.
Pinnacles National Park has more than 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Many trails intersect, allowing for a short loop or a longer all-day hike. Popular destinations include Bear Gulch Reservoir, High Peaks and the Balconies area. The Bench Trail provides direct access to the park from the campground. Visitors enjoy exploring Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave, which houses a large colony of Townsend's big-eared bats. Bring a flashlight! Rock climbers flock to Pinnacles for the variety of climbing routes that range from easy top-ropes to the multi-pitch climbs along Machete Ridge.
The campground is situated in a rolling landscape dotted with shady Valley Oak, Blue Oak and Coast Live Oak trees. A gentle, seasonal creek runs through the grounds. Springtime finds Pinnacles bursting with a wide variety of vivid wildflowers that line every trail and fill entire meadows with color. Deer and wild turkeys roam the area, and condors can be viewed from within the campground. The park ranges in elevation from 824 feet along South Chalone Creek to 3,304 feet atop North Chalone Peak.
$43 - $164 / night
Kirk Creek Campground is an oceanside paradise, with each site overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It offers a variety of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. The campground is located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and is close to a variety of scenic trails that lead visitors into the Los Padres National Forest.
There is short walk to a rocky beach from the campground. A five mile ride will take you to Sand Dollar Beach, the largest sandy beach in Big Sur. It's a very popular spot for surfing, fishing, swimming, exploring, sunbathing and more. Fishing permits are required for anyone over age 16. Anglers can expect a catch of yellow perch and other coastal surf fish. The beach is dog-friendly, as long as dogs are leashed and waste is picked up. A variety of trails exist along the beach, which lead to the bluffs that overlook the beach and coves in the area. Additional hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails can be accessed within a short drive of the campground, and offer scenic views of waterfalls, redwood groves and mountain meadows and streams. Directly across the highway from the campground is the Vicente Flats Trailhead, which leads into the Ventana Wilderness.
The campground is located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, at an elevation of about 100 feet. It offers fantastic views of the Big Sur coastline. Campsites are spacious, open and grassy. Each site has a view of the ocean, where sunrises and sunsets are outstanding. Wildlife in the area includes fox, bobcat, deer and raccoon. Mountain lions and bears are occasionally seen, although they have never entered the campground. From November to February each year, whales migrate along the coast and can frequently be viewed from the campground.
The Nacimiento Road, which offers a scenic drive on a paved road to an ocean overlook and picnic area, can be accessed across the road from the campground. The road climbs to the peak, 2,500 feet above sea level. Sand Dollar Beach is located 5 miles South of Kirk Creek. Sand Dollar Beach is the largest Sandy Beach in the Big Sur Area.
$45 - $49 / night
UPDATE ( February 7, 2024 ) - Limekiln State Park is CLOSED until further notice due to storm damages and Highway 1 road conditions. Highway 1 remains a hard closure at Paul's Slide (Hwy. 1 PM 21.7) - meaning the highway is CLOSED to all public and emergency vehicles at that location with NO DETOUR. Crews continue to work 12-hour shifts and seven days a week to repair damages from the landslide. The current estimate from Caltrans for reopening Hwy. 1 at Paul's Slide is late Spring 2024.
The southern closure is located one half mile south of Paul's Slide. There is no parking in the turnaround area. Limekiln State Park remains CLOSED with entry into the park strictly prohibited. It is also illegal to camp in turnouts or anywhere on Highway 1 along the Big Sur coast unless in a designated campsite in a campground open to the public (Monterey County Code 14.18.020(a)). Travelers on Hwy. 1 north of Ragged Point will encounter multiple areas of intermittent traffic control as repairs to damage from winter storms continues at various locations.
Situated on California’s scenic Big Sur Coast, about 55 miles south of Monterey, Limekiln State Park has weathered its fair share of hardships. It began in the late 1800s, when the Rockland Lime and Lumber Co. began stripping the limestone out of the canyon for use as building materials for the burgeoning San Francisco area. At the time, the redwood forest covering these coastal slopes was almost entirely clearcut. Nearly a century later, after recovering, the area was almost clearcut again, but conservation groups intervened. It finally became a state park in 1995. Since then, a portion of the park burned in 2008, then it was threatened with closure in 2012, due to state budget shortfalls. The park was saved once again when the Save the Redwoods League stepped in to assist with funding and maintenance needs.
The small campground in Limekiln State Park offers 29 campsites in two areas along Limekiln Creek. About half are in an open area near the highway, with beach access; the other half are located upslope, under a canopy of shady redwoods. Sites are small and can only accommodate trailers up to 15 feet, and RVs up to 24 feet; each site is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Both upper and lower camp areas have drinking water, restrooms, showers and picnic areas. Firewood gathering is not permitted in the park, and dogs must remain leashed at all times. Visitors should keep in mind that this is a rugged coastal environment, and exercise caution around cliffs and near the ocean; climbing on the cliffs is not permitted. Campsite rates are $35/night.
The main attraction at Limekiln State Park is the old lime kilns that still sit at the base of the hillside, more than a century since their last use. These giant furnaces were used to purify the limestone being mined out of the canyon, before it was shipped north for construction uses. The kilns can be seen via a 0.5-mile trail from the upper camp area. A short side trail on the way to the kilns leads to 100-foot Limekiln Falls. Watch out for poison oak while hiking. The park is also a great place for wildlife watching. Keep your eyes peeled for bobcats, foxes and ringtails on shore, and otters and gray whales in the ocean. More than 200 species of birds are known to inhabit the area, including pelicans, peregrine falcons and California condors.
$35 / night
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.
$75 / night
Plaskett Creek Campground offers a beautiful location just minutes from Sand Dollar Beach, one of the largest and most popular beaches in central California. The campground gives visitors access to a variety of outdoor activities, including water play and exploration of the surrounding hills and forests. The family-friendly campground offers comfortably equipped sites, allowing anyone to enjoy a relaxing stay in the Los Padres National Forest.
A short walk leads to Sand Dollar Beach, a very popular spot for surfing, fishing, swimming, exploring, sunbathing and more. Fishing permits are required for anyone over age 16. Anglers can expect a catch of yellow perch and other coastal surf fish. The beach is dog-friendly, as long as dogs are leashed and waste is picked up. A variety of trails exist along the beach, which lead to the bluffs that overlook the beach and coves in the area. Additional hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails can be accessed within a short drive from the campground, and offer scenic views of waterfalls, redwood groves and mountain meadows and streams.
The campground is located in west-central California, on the east side of Highway 1. Sand Dollar Beach, the largest sandy beach in the Big Sur area, is just south of the campground. The Pacific Ocean borders the campground to the west and the surf can be heard at many campsites. The campground has a park-like setting, under a scattered canopy of mature Monterey pine and cypress trees. Cedar trees provide a fragrant aroma. All sites are grassy. The campground is situated at an elevation of about 200 feet in the Los Padres National Forest. Wildlife in the area includes fox, bobcat, deer and raccoon. Mountain lions and bears are occasionally seen in the area, although they have never entered the campground.
$45 - $204 / night
Arroyo Seco Campground is a semi-rustic, but developed facility in California's westernmost national forest. It offers a great escape from bustling city life, into the mountain air and provides access to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities.
The small non-body contact lake near the group campsites gives campers an edge on mountain fishing and small non-motorized boating. Anglers will find mostly bass and catfish in the lakes, and other species on occasion. A fishing license is required for visitors over 16 years of age. The nearby river offers a small beach where campers and day use visitors may wade and swim. All nearby bodies of water are dependent upon seasonal rain for levels to rise. The Ventana Wilderness, also known as "the gorge," provides ample opportunities for hiking, swimming, backpacking, hunting and horseback riding. No motorized vehicles are allowed (unless prior permission is granted by the Forest Service) beyond the gated road and parking lot. The 15.5-mile Santa Lucia Trail is available for hiking and horseback riding and provides access to the surrounding wilderness and a variety of other trails.
The campground offers views of the Ventana Wilderness mountain peaks and one small lake (water levels depend on the season). It is nestled into the hillside, surrounded by abundant shrubbery and large oak trees. It is situated next to the Arroyo Seco River at an elevation of about 1,200 feet. A variety of birds and wildlife make their home in the area. A splash of color greets visitors at the entrance gate, where a variety of plants in bloom. In the spring and fall, the leaves on the trees change to beautiful shades of red, yellow and orange, creating a beautiful scenic landscape. In the springtime, lupines bloom all around.
The city of Monterey provides a variety of tourism opportunities and is located about 50 miles from the campground. The west side of the Pinnacles National Monument is about 30 miles from the campground. The monument and surrounding area is popular among rock climbers during the spring and fall.
$34 - $154 / night
The San Simeon Creek Campground offers 115 campsites for tent camping or recreational vehicles. The maximum length for an RV is 35 feet. Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table. There are currently flush toilets and shower facilities in place. Chemical toilets are available. A dump station and pay phone are available. Firewood is for sale from the campground host. Recreational activities include camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, surfing, beachcombing, bird watching and whale watching. The Junior Ranger Program is a regularly scheduled interpretive program for children. Interpretive walks of the San Simeon Trail may also be available.
$35 / night
Campgrounds:
There are campgrounds at Laguna Mountain and Upper Sweetwater. Each campground features several campsites which are equipped with level RV pads, fire rings, shade structures, picnic benches, vault toilets, and a kiosk providing an interpretive panel, a map, and information about the area. Although no reservations or fees are required, there is a 14 day camping limit within any 28-day period. There is no electricity, running water, or trash collection at the campsites. Please utilize good camping ethics, and remember to pack out your garbage when you leave.
Dispersed Camping:
Dispersed camping is also available, although there is no camping within 200 yards of any wildlife watering improvement. You must park within 15 feet (roughly one vehicle length) of any roadway when camping or leaving a vehicle unattended to minimize habitat and vegetation impacts. Please remember to bring a shovel with you for both personal sanitation and fire prevention purposes.
Scout
Nice campground, not very big. Beautiful views of Salinas Valley and San Juan Bautista. Great star gazing too!
Traveler
We stayed in the upper San Simeon creek campground area - site C25. It had the best view of the ocean but was surrounded by power lines and looked down on camp hosts site/buildings. I felt like it was a little bit of a fishbowl with no privacy and we stared at the RVs in front of us. Which all RV/trailer sites are mostly parallel parking. We drove through the bottom site and it provided much more privacy due to trees and seemed to be more level as well. No view, but you get that “true camping” in the Forrest feeling. The walking trails were fun and the beach was close enough. There are camp kitties that will visit you if you are lucky enough (I think they belong to the host).
Guide
There are two campsites (both RV accessible) about 300' apart, you can barely see the other. We stayed in January and since the other site was unoccupied we had the whole hilltop to ourselves.
Our two dogs really enjoyed chasing after ground squirrels and significantly improved their digging skills. Since the property is fenced in (except for three vehicle accesses) we could let our dogs off leash.
Our stay was perfect for an uber-quiet and private respite, great for reading, chilling and relishing the quiet. The hilltop is 180 degree surrounded by olive trees and vines with the owners residences on the other sides of the fences. We felt super safe in spite of our seclusion.
Each site has 30amp electrical and water (no dump station available). There also is a shared 50amp EV charger near site #1.
The full moon was beautiful and the last night was fantastic for star gazing (tons of stars, milky way, etc.) before the moon came up.
A lovely place to stay, we'll be back!
Ranger
Essentially deserted. Just us and one other camper. Very quiet from other campers, but can hear gentle highway 101 traffic in distance. Amazing farm machinery museum display. Restrooms are fine even have showers. No privacy between sites. Paved sites are on 35 foot spacing. Grass spots are a bit further apart. Might try something around site 80ish. If all sites were occupied this would be very crowded. Then again, it is a convenient stop between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Guide
Primitive campground ocean beach 1/2 mile walk, wave sounds all day, scenic view, sites spaced out OK, some trees but bright and airy. Nice go to site for chilling but weekends and summers can be busy. Water spickets in campground, dump station below on another campground.
Scout
Dirt road to get there but safe, clean place. Stunning view
Guide
This is a resort style park with all the amenities. We used both pools and spas daily even in December. Sites are gravel with concrete pads. All have fireplaces and seemed appropriately level. We stayed for 14 days, but would have saved a BUNCH if we could have stayed for longer and gotten the monthly rate (they call it "Park and play"). The area is surrounded by natural grassy areas with some trails. The park was busy and a bit loud over the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend, but otherwise not busy and very quiet. The check in was quick and smooth. The pleasant and helpful staff is available 24/7 in the welcome center.
Scout
Attempted to camp on 12/01/2024 and the road was closed. Beautiful views on the way, but unfortunately the gate was locked :(
GuideWhat 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.
Traveler
First, knowing nothing about this area of CA I looked for a spot to set up for a few to dry out, we'd just dropped out of Shasta Mt b4 heavy winter storms. Arrived late afternoon to set up. Problem is the ground is covered, literally, with all the casings, glass, human trash everywhere 😮💨 🙏 please, always pack out a bit more than you've created in an area. These pics are the cleanest spot I could find. 😪
Guide
As folks who live in their van and travel, this is probably one of the fancier places we’ve stayed. Since part of 1 is closed, we had to detour. This is a true RV park that many live in for long periods. Thus, the bathrooms and showers were so nice and clean. It is expensive, at $80, but it’s what we had to do and found it to be super nice. It was a quick stay, as we headed to Pinnacles NP West for some hiking. Only 30 minutes away.
Guide
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!
ScoutThe nature minder people closed this down and Panoche hills down due to environmental concerns regarding the decrease in population of a lizard.
Traveler
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.
Guide
Very well kept and clean. Shower area is very nice. Need a key code to go anywhere. Great amenities. Beautiful pool. An outdoor bar, but only open certain months. Nice group camping area. Green grass areas. Mini concrete pads though not perfectly level? Close to lots of wineries and a water park but not really safe to walk or bike to. Probably one of the most beautiful hot tub areas I've ever seen in an RV park
Guide
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.
LegendWe 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!
Scout
If you aren’t sleeping in a camper or in your car, don’t waste your time. It’s a parking lot. Didn’t clearly specify
ScoutIt was spooky but comfortable, good places for renting, fishing,and nature.
TravelerI 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.
Traveler
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.
Scout
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.
GuideNo crowds late August. Great staff and price. Views, trees and TRACK. Some air traffic. Quiet.
Traveler
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.
Traveler
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.
GuideMid July - road was closed
Traveler
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.
Camping near King City, California, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
Camping near King City, California, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near King City, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, King City, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 83 campgrounds and RV parks near King City, CA and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near King City, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near King City, CA is Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park with a 4-star rating from 84 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near King City, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near King City, CA.
What parks are near King City, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near King City, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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