Top Tent Camping near San Lucas, CA
Looking for the best San Lucas tent camping? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your California tent camping excursion.
Best Tent Sites Near San Lucas, CA (11)
1. Williams Hill Recreation Area
23 Reviews•54 Photos•226 SavesAccessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
2. Will Creek Road Dispersed
12 Reviews•36 Photos•1213 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
3. Lake San Antonio - North Shore
5 Reviews•10 Photos•43 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- RVs
- Tents
- Equestrian
4. Ventana Campground
23 Reviews•93 Photos•558 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$85 - $105 / night
5. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
13 Reviews•70 Photos•645 SavesJulia Pfeiffer Burns State Park camping is available at two Environmental Campsites, 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. Reservations are required and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at Reserve California. You may also call toll free 1-800-444-7275. The Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is named after Julia Pfeiffer Burns, a well respected pioneer woman in the Big Sur country. The park stretches from the Big Sur coastline into nearby 3,000-foot ridges. It features redwood, tan oak, madrone, chaparral, and an 80-foot waterfall that drops from granite cliffs into the ocean from the Overlook Trail. A panoramic view of the ocean and miles of rugged coastline is available from the higher elevations along the trails east of Highway 1. No dogs are permitted in the campground or on park trails unless it is a licensed and working service dog.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Dispersed
6. Nacimiento Campground
4 Reviews•16 Photos•310 SavesTemporarily 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
8. Alder Creek Camp
3 Reviews•9 Photos•66 SavesLarge 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
9. Andrew Molera State Park Trail Camp
7 Reviews•13 Photos•93 Saves- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
10. Carmel River Backcountry Camp
1 Review•12 Photos•117 Saves- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In San Lucas
540 Reviews of 11 San Lucas Campgrounds
Amy M.
Traveler
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Amazing
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.
- SSusie B.Traveler
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
The Off Season Love Affair in Big Sur
I 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.
- SSusie B.Traveler
Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
The Pinnacles are Other-Worldly - this is your launchpad
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.
Brittanie F.
Scout
Big Sur Campground & Cabins
Staff are awful
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.
- Julia H.Traveler
Upper Sweetwater Laguna Mountain Campground
Great
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.
Jack J.Traveler
Lake San Antonio - North Shore
Weekend Trip
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.
- BBoberto R.Traveler
Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
Don’t go after June
Campground is fine. Very hot and very dry after June. No camp fires after June bear gulch caves are also closed after June. Seen a ton of wildlife and over all wasn’t very crowded. Great for star gazing.
- ddavidTraveler
Mercey Hot Springs
Amazing Place
I Van Camped at Mercey Hot Springs for 5 days. When I arrived the nights were hot so I decided to take an AC Cabin #10 where I could park right next to the cabin and slept comfortably. I moved to a RV camp site #5 when the temps at night were a more comfortable mid 60s. I love that the hot tubs are available all night long. It allows for long soaks while star gazing. The therapeutic water is magical some of the best I have found. As soon as you enter the pool or hot tubs you feel the smooth water on your skin. The hot tubs are all oversized privet bath tubs that you fill with mineral water of your desired temperature. This is a completely off the grid resorts that has good energy and tranquil atmosphere. It is very clean with clean bath rooms and showers. When I was there in June 2024 they did not have the restaurant open yet but one looks like it is in the near future. They do have snacks, cold drinks, coffee, ice cream and Ice in the front office for purchase. I took the short hike up the hill to see the solar array, while up there I discovered a most amazing triple Labyrinth circle walk that was very mindful experience. I have never seen such a neat labyrinth as this. Truly an amazing stay, I will be back.
Tammy P.Traveler
Kirk Creek Campground
Most beautiful view
small hill top campground with amazing sunrise and sunset view. There is a small trail to go down the beach right next to camp site #22 Avoid sites that close to the restroom as it can get very smelly. Site #7,8,9 are the best with open space for ocean views. Can get very windy at night (depending on on season) so secure down your tent tightly
Eva C.Scout
Road's End, Bradley Lockwood
Beautiful and peaceful
The sites are clean and the views are lovely. We loved the fire pits and the string lights hanging from the trees. Very nice atmosphere.
Hannah F.Traveler
Laguna Mountain Campground
Great location
Got there around noontime on the Friday of Memorial Day and grabbed the last designated lot. Really awesome area. Beautiful sunset over the mountains. Hiked Laguna Mountain and the Falls. Highly recommended. Toilet was also nice.
Jaime G.
Guide
Hollister Hills SVRA
Molina Ghost Run 2024
This year MG run was held in Hollister Hills due to Clear Creek being closed. My registration came with free camp spot in the Upper Ranch. For an organized trail run I would give it a 5 star as it was very respectful and actually not loud at all including day light hours.
From a dispersed camp/ camp experience I am giving this a 4 star thats because I knew I was not camping here for a camp experience but an off-road experience with many other off-road enthusiast.
Rupert C.ScoutRoad's End, Bradley Lockwood
All you could ask for
Quiet, serene and green and beautiful. i really don’t know what else you could ask for in a remote campsite. It is a 10 for the view and the setting. I will so be back….and often Rupert
New D.GuideHollister Hills SVRA
Revisiting after 25 yrs! So glad we did!
The moon , stars, and timing of life could not have lived up better for us and our decision to revisit after a not-so great experience 25 yrs ago!
When my hubby told us, we were going to Hollister for our annual off-roading trip with our grandkids, I immediately became apprehensive and worried of other inconsiderate and dangerous riders, infestation of bugs and ticks (more than I have ever witnessed in my life during my past visit years ago), among garbage and other things.
All the worry was for nothing! This trip could not have been more peaceful, magical, and all the campers were very respectful of others space, quiet and children present.
It was just the right crowd, amount of dispersed visitors, and super clean!!!!
What I liked most was - the presence of caring and kind park rangers! Making sure safety was a priority, but knowing we were there to have fun as well! Thank you!!!
I’m 54, an outdoor enthusiast, and pay a lot of attention to my environment. It was unreal that there was no annoying bugs to be seen anywhere, although I’m sure they were present in. Forest - just not out being annoying. Could be the presence of so many kinds of birds as well. I’ve never seen so much beauty flying around in one place and comfortable with dropping in and saying hello to our grandkids! Made for picture perfect postcards incase any of you visitors love bird watching.
The trails were so well maintained and tracks groomed for safety . I have zero complaints and will definitely be returning!
I everyone of us had an awesome time!
Jake C.
Legend
Vinyl Vineyards
New to the Dyrt!
Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!
Lady D.TravelerLaguna Mountain Campground
BLM
Nice Campsites. Only 5 sites. Bathrooms. Free. First come first serve
Simply S.Traveler
Locatelli Vineyards & Winery
I'm #o Happy to have support in my dreams
They called me and told me they loved my story and dreams and wanted to help me with the dreams I have with my future Lifebook lifestyle
- Lady D.Traveler
Laguna Mountain Campground
Well Maintained
Free and well maintained campsite. I only saw 5 marked campsites. There's a small parking lot and bathroom. Some spots are more convenient for travel trailers, others are not
James N.
RangerPfeiffer Big Sur State Park
It's Big Sur...
I first stayed in this campground in 1975 while on break from collage. 49 years later it is still just a beautiful as I remember, even though they were recovering from some very heavy rains, most all of the campsites were open.
Great location to base out of when exploring the central coast. If you are coming from the south be sure to check that Highway 1 (PCH) is open, otherwise you will have to backtrack inland.
Friendly staff, general store, lots of things to do.
- James N.Ranger
Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
Beautiful, and secluded spot
They have had some flood damage, so repairs are going on. Beautiful spot, great trails, showers, general store. Didn't get to see any condors. I'll stay here again. AT&T was acceptable coverage.
Only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because of the maintenance going on, once that is complete it's a 5 Star.
Robert G.GuidePinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
Fun Drive, Far Out
Just driving here was worth the visit, but get out on the trails to really appreciate the diversity.
dakota B.TravelerPinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
Great views
Bathrooms were a bit of a distance apart. Great views. Very dark at night which is great for star gazing. Good distance from any other stores and the camp store closes promptly at 5.
Chris B.Scout
San Simeon Creek Campground
What a delight
A GREAT find, can't say enough good things about this place. We stayed in the Washburn campground (up the hill/less expensive/better views/less people, more space, less trees and a clear view of the sky in every campsite (visited in February, we have Starlink and solar). The stars here are incredible at night, all you hear are the waves crashing, and beautiful views in every direction. The camp host, Shelby, was delightful and very accommodating when we wanted to switch sites. Lots of bathrooms, very clean, lots of dumpsters and water spigots, all conveniently located. Rangers regularly drive through and we felt safe and attended to; a sketchy situation had materialized in one of the sites and the Ranger stood in the pouring rain for two hours, ensuring these folks left. A well run and maintained area. RV water and dump station at bottom of hill. automated, $10.
- LLinda S.Guide
Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore
Pretty lake but no potable water
There is no potable water available, not even a water fountain. People and animals cannot touch the water. You cannot fish or swim in the lake. There is no reduction in price. This may be temporary, but it has been this way for at least a year.
- Ryan C.Scout
Franklin Hot Springs
Great Camping Option / Pleasant Hot Springs
I ended up stopping here to camp in between a trip from Joshua Tree to Big Sur and I couldn't be happier that I did. The people managing the property are super welcoming and nice. And having the opportunity to relax in the hot springs in between stretches of driving was really pleasant. I'd definitely recommend this place for anyone looking to camp in the Paso Robles area.
Lee D.LegendSan Simeon Creek Campground
Easy beach access
General: Two campgrounds: San Simeon Creek, close to Highway One and the beach and Washburn Primitive, located about a mile inland. We stayed in San Simeon Creek, so the bulk of this review focuses on that one.
Site Quality: Sites are spaced a decent amount apart, some with foliage providing privacy. The camper pads are level, paved, and designated as either 25 - or 35-foot campsites. Site 102 was a 25-foot site but IMO that is a stretch as our 18-foot campervan fit but not with much extra room. Surprisingly enough, we saw some rather large rigs in some of the spaces. No hookups. Depending on where your site is located, you will hear road noise from the highway. The tent section is closest to the highway.
Bath/Shower House: What we’ve come to expect from California state parks: single units, most with a toilet and sink but one with just a toilet. Although they had toilet seat covers, there was NO soap or trash receptables in any of the units. Two outside sinks. Token-operated showers that looked decent but did not use. In the Washburn Primitive campground, there are only vault toilets but the one I looked at appeared clean.
Activities: There is a horseshoe pit, but it looks like it has not been used in a long time. Also an amphitheater but do not know if there are currently programs as we were there during the week in the “off-season”. There are two trails that lead to the beach: one from the campsites and the other via a wooden boardwalk, a short walk from the campground. There is zero cell service in the San Simeon Creek campground, but I got two bars of Verizon in the Washburn campground.
I waffled back and forth between three and four stars; the sites were fairly well maintained, and the beach access (and proximity to Hearst Castle) is likely the reason most people stay, but it annoyed me that there was no soap or garbage receptacles in the bathrooms (in an eternal Covid world, there should be soap in all bathrooms!) but we had a quiet and pleasant stay during the week in early November.
Jake R.TravelerBig Sur Campground & Cabins
One of the coolest campgrounds
One of the coolest campgrounds! You can go down and walk by the river float the river with the complimentary tubes and relax by a fire right next to the massive trees
Guide to San Lucas
Camping near San Lucas, California, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a secluded getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.
What to do:
- Hiking: The trails around Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park are wild and beautiful. One reviewer mentioned, "By day, of course, the trails are wild, like a moonscape."
- Wildlife Watching: Many campers have spotted wildlife while staying at San Simeon Creek Campground — Hearst San Simeon State Park. One camper noted, "Seen a ton of wildlife and overall wasn’t very crowded."
- Star Gazing: The dark skies at Kirk Creek Campground make it a great spot for star gazing. A visitor shared, "The stars here are incredible at night, all you hear are the waves crashing."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Kirk Creek Campground. One review states, "There is a small trail to go down the beach right next to camp site #22."
- Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms at San Simeon Creek Campground. A camper remarked, "Lots of bathrooms, very clean, lots of dumpsters and water spigots, all conveniently located."
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Pinnacles Campground is noted for its family-friendly vibe. One parent said, "The kids are thrilled! There are beautiful tucked away campsites in the shade, by a creek."
What you should know:
- Heat in Summer: If you're camping at Pinnacles Campground, be prepared for the heat. One reviewer cautioned, "It is WICKED hot in the summer."
- Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Kirk Creek Campground have few amenities. A visitor noted, "There are pit toilets and trash cans, but basically no other amenities. Not even drinking water."
- Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots like San Simeon Creek Campground can fill up quickly. One camper advised, "Get there EARLY if you do want to find a parking spot."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Shady Spots: Look for campsites with shade, especially at Pinnacles Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "Really enjoyed cooking in the evenings outside and settling in."
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned for kids. One parent shared, "They have a pool! The kids are thrilled!"
- Bring Snacks and Drinks: Since some campgrounds have limited access to stores, it's wise to pack extra snacks. A camper at San Simeon Creek Campground noted, "The camp store closes promptly at 5."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Plaskett Creek Campground mentioned, "The sites were fairly well maintained, and the beach access is likely the reason most people stay."
- Be Ready for Rough Roads: Some campgrounds have bumpy access roads. One RVer said, "The road is rough getting here but doable."
- No Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Kirk Creek Campground, don’t offer electric hookups. A visitor warned, "Make sure you have what you need."
Camping near San Lucas, California, has something for everyone, from breathtaking views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for the heat and limited amenities in some areas!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near San Lucas, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near San Lucas, CA is Williams Hill Recreation Area with a 4.3-star rating from 23 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near San Lucas, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near San Lucas, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.