Dispersed camping options near Lucia, California sit at elevations between 900-3,000 feet along the rugged central coast. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-60°F, while summer sees 70-90°F days with cool nights. Most dispersed sites along Plaskett Ridge require high-clearance vehicles and offer no facilities, creating a primitive camping experience with minimal light pollution.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 3 miles round trip. The hike to Limekiln State Park Campground's waterfall takes about 45 minutes each way and features both natural beauty and historical structures. "The park features breathtaking views of the Big Sur Coast, the beauty of the redwoods, the rugged coast and the cultural history of limekilns. Waterfall is pretty and runs to the ocean," notes a Limekiln State Park Campground visitor.
Beach exploration: 5-minute walk from campsite. Sand Dollar Beach is directly across from Plaskett Creek Campground and offers some of the best shoreline in the area. "The beach right across the road is stunning — truly one of the most beautiful we've seen. Everything was great, and Starlink worked perfectly for us," reports one camper who appreciated the proximity.
River tubing: Equipment rentals available. The Big Sur River runs through several campgrounds and offers a refreshing activity during hot summer days. "The campground has a river running right thru the middle, our campsite was just 10 ft from the river with tubing available for rent and rope swings into the water!" shares a visitor at Big Sur Campground & Cabins.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Zero light pollution on ridges. The coastal location away from cities creates exceptional stargazing conditions. A visitor at Will Creek Road explains, "We were above the marine layer and the stars were something else never seen before. Highly recommend. No campfires."
River sounds for sleeping: Multiple creek-side sites. Many campers specifically mention the calming effects of nearby water. "It was beautiful! The creek running behind our site made for a relaxing night of sleep," notes a visitor about their experience at Limekiln State Park Campground.
Cell service breaks: Intentional disconnection. The limited connectivity becomes a feature rather than a drawback for many. As one Kirk Creek Campground camper puts it, "You will be quite literally cut off from the world here. You won't find any cell service so turn that phone off when u hit the main road in & enjoy the feeling that comes with uninterrupted connection with nature."
What you should know
Reservation windows: 6 months in advance. Sites fill extremely quickly, especially during summer. A Kirk Creek Campground visitor advises, "Booking windows open 6 months in advance, you'll need to make your reservation then if you have specific dates & can't wing it whenever something is available to book."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans. Wildfire danger means rules change throughout the year. A Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground visitor warns, "NO CAMPFIRES ALLOWED IN SUMMER. Check conditions."
Water planning: Limited sources. Many sites have no potable water available. "You can buy water for $5 a gallon, so be sure to come with plenty of your own water!" notes a Kirk Creek visitor, highlighting the importance of bringing sufficient supplies.
Steep access roads: 4WD recommended. Several dispersed camping areas require capable vehicles. "It is narrow, steep, unmaintained, and surrounded by cliffs. If you happen upon a pull out that is not occupied, does not have a private property sign, and is somewhat flat, then it works as a spot to sleep that feels like you're on the edge of the world," describes a Plasket Ridge camper.
Tips for camping with families
River campgrounds for children: Built-in entertainment. Sites near water provide natural play areas that children enjoy. A Julia Pfeiffer Burns Environmental Camping visitor shares, "This was such a beautiful campsite! The entire area was huge, plenty of gorgeous hikes in and around the camps."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk best. Many campsites offer chances to see local animals. "In the mornings you'll wake to the sounds of the ocean and watch as the fog rolls in, lifting away from the ocean & surrounding hillsides until it seems heaven is kissing the earth," describes a Kirk Creek camper.
Spacing between campsites: Research site maps. Some campgrounds have sites closer together than others. "For the cost I expect more space. Ventana (private campground) didn't have to create such tight spots. You're basically camping with the people along side of you," notes one visitor, contrasting with more spacious options elsewhere.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring blocks. Many campsites in the area sit on uneven terrain. "The sites are pretty small, and most are on uneven ground which makes rv camping difficult," warns a Kirk Creek Campground visitor.
Length restrictions: Maximum 27 feet at most locations. The winding coastal roads and limited turning space make larger rigs problematic. "Do your homework if you have a larger rig, roads are winding and trees can obstruct with larger and smaller sites. Hwy 1 can be challenging but big rigs take it every day, the route to the South has very tight turns," advises a Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground visitor.
Dump station locations: Limited options. Plan your tank management carefully as facilities are scarce. Kirk Creek Campground offers a sanitary dump, but many other locations don't provide this service, requiring advance planning for longer stays.
