Best Tent Camping near Pinnacles, CA

State parks and wilderness areas near Pinnacles, California provide diverse tent camping options within the scenic coastal mountains. Ventana Campground offers a tent-only camping experience under towering redwoods, with no RVs permitted on the grounds. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground features walk-in tent sites along a stream with shade from redwood trees. For backcountry tent camping, Carmel River Backcountry Camp provides primitive sites accessible only by hiking the Ventana Wilderness trails. Andrew Molera State Park Campground offers walk-in tent sites in an open field setting with trail access to coastal beaches.

Most tent campsites include fire rings and picnic tables, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally. Walk-in tent sites at Andrew Molera require carrying gear from parking areas to campsites, with distances varying from short walks to more strenuous hikes. Nacimiento Campground provides a first-come, first-served option with approximately 10 tent sites situated along a river. Tent pads are typically flat with dirt or forest duff surfaces. Facilities range from flush toilets and coin-operated showers at Pfeiffer Big Sur to primitive conditions at backcountry locations where water filtration is necessary. Bear boxes are available at some locations, particularly important in the Ventana Wilderness where wildlife is active.

Campers noted that Ventana Campground's tent sites vary significantly in size and privacy. According to reviews, "Some sites are very small or have steep elevation changes which could be problematic for larger tents or those with mobility restrictions." At Andrew Molera, one visitor reported that "most sites are very exposed" and recommended "bringing extra shade for summer camping." The walk-in tent sites at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park are described as "close enough to restrooms" with "cabinets for protecting gear/food." Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for exploring nearby hiking trails, with many sites offering access to rivers or streams. During off-peak seasons, tent camping areas become notably quieter and less crowded.

Best Tent Sites Near Pinnacles, California (10)

    1. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Big Sur, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 667-2315

    $50 - $75 / night

    "With a stream running near the hike and bike camping area and tall trees offering a cool shade it is a wonderful reprieve from the outside world.  "

    "Site 100 is located on the last/ end loop of the campground in Weyland Camp. It is on the outer edge farthest from the river."

    2. Carmel River Backcountry Camp

    1 Review
    Carmel Valley Village, CA
    31 miles

    "This is a trail camp in the Ventana Wilderness along the Carmel River Trail.  The trailhead and parking lot is at the Los Padres Dam. "

    3. Andrew Molera State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Big Sur, CA
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 667-2315

    $50 / night

    "Easy walk from the parking area with intermittent views of the river. A few stairs but mostly flat. The river along the camp site was dry due to the time of year."

    "Big Sur is one of my favorite CA stops and this campsite is a perfect place to pitch your tent and enjoy the scenery."

    4. Nacimiento Campground

    5 Reviews
    Lucia, CA
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 242-0619

    "Tucked in the forest along the Nacimiento River is this nice little campground with just a few campsites (9 or 10 sites total)."

    "So beautiful and right next to a creek with fish to play in. The views from the top of the mountain when driving to the ocean are the most beautiful views in the world!"

    5. Manresa State Beach Campground

    9 Reviews
    Freedom, CA
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 761-1795

    $35 / night

    "The drive in was a little confusing. We got most of our turns right the first time around and still spent a while circling trying to tell if we were where we were supposed to be."

    "The shower had hot water and the restrooms were cleaned each morning. I loved that the beach was easily accessible for my morning walk. The many flowers were also lovely to wake up to."

    6. Lake San Antonio - North Shore

    5 Reviews
    Bradley, CA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 472-2311

    "The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer. There is ample space for camping . You’ll need reservations if you want a hookup . Boat ramps are available."

    "The lake is everything. A few years ago it was dried up. Thank you rain! Now it’s back and better than ever."

    7. A Place to Stay in Big Sur

    1 Review
    Lucia, CA
    42 miles
    Website

    $30 - $60 / night

    "If you're trying to find a great spot in Big Sur, you found it, this is a great spot to pitch a tent and enjoy being near the ocean and the redwoods forests! "

    9. Alder Creek Camp

    3 Reviews
    Fort Hunter Liggett, CA
    47 miles
    Website

    "We camped at a primitive spot off the road on the way to the main camp. It was very quiet. Do watch for the cow patties!"

    "Alder Creek campsite is 8 miles offroad from Hwy 1 in the Big Sur area. 4x4 is definitely recommended."

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Showing results 1-10 of 10 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Pinnacles, CA

697 Reviews of 10 Pinnacles Campgrounds



Guide to Pinnacles

Tent camping near Pinnacles, California, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of the region. With a variety of campgrounds available, you can find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and unwind.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At the Carmel River Backcountry Camp, campers can enjoy a serene environment with fires allowed and no permits required, making it a hassle-free experience.
  • The Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground features clean restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.
  • Ventana Campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, along with drinking water and firewood for a cozy camping experience.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $35

Tips for tent camping near Pinnacles

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pinnacles, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pinnacles, CA is Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 66 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Pinnacles, CA?

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