Dispersed camping near Lucia offers rugged coastal access at elevations ranging from sea level to over 3,000 feet along forest roads. Summer temperatures average 65-75°F with cool overnight lows in the 50s, while winter brings significant rainfall and occasional road closures. Cellular reception is virtually non-existent throughout the area, requiring advance planning for navigation and communication.
What to do
Hike the Vicente Flat trail: Located directly across from Kirk Creek Campground, this moderately challenging trail offers panoramic ocean views. "Beautiful ocean views, right off the highway, probably one of my favorite campsites ever. However you have to plan ahead to make a reservation. It's a great starting point for a backpacking trip. I did the following: Day 1: Hike up the Vicente Flat trail from the trailhead on Hwy 1. Hike up to Vicente Flat Camp. Day 2: make the long round trip dayhike to Cone Peak. Day 3: hike back to the trailhead," shares Kathleen L.
Explore coastal tide pools: A 5-minute walk from Plaskett Creek Campground takes you to Sand Dollar Beach with its rocky tide pools. "Beach is fantastic for surfers and beach-goers alike. Bit of a hike down to the beach but worth it. You can also hike the fire road behind the camp group for brilliant views," notes Martin S., who visits annually with a group.
Cool off in river swimming holes: During hot summer months, several creek access points provide natural swimming spots. "We camped up the hill in the Redwood Forrest. There's a great hike up to see the Limekilns with a beautiful waterfall. There's also beach camping and we watched a beautiful sunset," writes Paula S. about her experience at Limekiln State Park Campground.
What campers like
Dark night skies: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "It calms the soul in a way that only those who have been can understand...this place is PURE MAGIC! 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," explains Jessica about Kirk Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse coastal and forest wildlife throughout the year. "In the winter months you apparently can watch whales migrating just off the coast. The vault toilet was very clean and well maintained, and each site had a picnic table and fire ring with grill," reports Annie C. from her visit to Kirk Creek.
Private, secluded sites: Julia Pfeiffer Burns Environmental Camping offers some of the most private options along the coast. "Unbelievable ocean views and crashing waves at the bottom of this cliff-side site nestled among the massive pines above a waterfall. Words just don't describe this experience. It was nearly impossible to get reservations. Seems the days get bought up immediately upon availability," notes Lyle F.
What you should know
Advance planning required: Most established dog friendly campgrounds near Lucia book up months in advance. "BOOKING - The great sites book out VERY quickly. If you want to score you'll need to plan: 1) Use the website, not the call center. 2) 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," advises Jessica about Kirk Creek Campground.
Limited amenities: Even at established sites, services are minimal. "No running water; bring plenty for washing, drinking, etc. We use a 50 gallon container & find its perfect for a 8-9 day trip with 2 solar showers, lots of hand & dish washing, and dog water refills. We do freeze bottled water & keep it in the cooler for drinking," continues Jessica from her Kirk Creek experience.
Road conditions for dispersed sites: Will Creek Road access requires careful driving and appropriate vehicles. "Definitely a sketchy road. We drove 7 miles in in the middle of the night and had a blast. It gets really steep and sandy, I was in an HRV and made it. Though my car is super scratched up now," warns Emily H.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with creek access: Children particularly enjoy the water features at several campgrounds. "We had a wonderful stay at Plaskett Creek Campground. Lisa and William, the hosts, are absolutely lovely and welcoming. The toilets are very clean, although there are no showers on site. The campground is well-maintained, there's a fire pit at each site, and the surrounding nature is breathtaking," shares Olga N.
Bring entertainment for foggy days: Coastal fog can persist for days, especially during summer mornings. "This campground is great if you're looking for a social camping experience. Big open spaces for kids to run around, and campsites that are fairly close together... Conducive for groups, but not ideal if you're looking for a quiet getaway," notes Elizabeth R. about her Plaskett Creek experience.
Plan for bathroom needs: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Lucia have minimal facilities. "Sites are close together. Showers and toilets are individual, but stayed dirty. Toilet paper became a premium as the day turned to night. No soap at all, but there was hot water," reports Pam W. from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most campgrounds in the area can only accommodate smaller RVs and trailers. "The sites are pretty small, and most are on uneven ground which makes rv camping difficult. It's a dry site so no plug ins or running water anywhere but you can not beat the views! Access to a rocky beach and across the highway a backpackers trail!" advises Jade H. from Kirk Creek Campground.
Prepare for no hookups: Even RV-friendly sites typically lack water and electric connections. "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," cautions Mike M. about Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Campground accessibility varies seasonally: Winter storms frequently cause road closures along Highway 1. "Many sites all nestled with the trees and foliage creating a private feel. Many things to see and do along Hwy 1 here in Big Sur," continues Mike M., highlighting the natural privacy despite the limited infrastructure.
