For those who want to get away from civilization for a weekend, but still want the comforts of home, consider renting a cabin for your San Simeon camping trip. Cabin camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the city. Each cabin offers quick access to one or more of San Simeon's most popular destinations.
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
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.
$150 - $154 / night
Take your RV experience to the next level when you stay at Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, formerly known as Cava Robles RV Resort. The inspiring wine country setting offers more than just stunning views. Discover a resort designed by nature and immerse yourself in our beautiful natural setting, whether you arrive by RV or stay in one of our villas and cottages.
Built for relaxation, our resort is the perfect destination for vacations and RV camping on the Central California coast. Located in the gorgeous Paso Robles wine region - 30 minutes from the Pacific Coast - our resort boasts incredible amenities including two pools, a spa, fire pits, a wellness center, trails, and dog parks. You'll find something for everything at Sun Outdoors Paso Robles.
$119 - $219 / night
At Lake Nacimiento, there are seven unique campgrounds to choose from. Whether you plan on truly “roughing it” or want to bring along your fully outfitted RV, you will find a campground that pleasantly accommodates your vacation. EAGLES RIDGE This is the fifth campground from the entry gate, turn right off the main road and continue to the campground. Many people consider this the very best overflow campground you could ask for. Others make it their first choice. Many of the spaces are walk in and have fantastic views of the lake and resort. There are chemical toilets, trash service and fresh water provided. All the spaces are first come first serve and many require a significant change of elevation to access. If you are looking to get away from it all and don’t mind a drive or hike to the nearest showers, Eagles Ridge might just be the place for you. OAK KNOLL *Reservations Only This very peaceful campground is the first campground after Entry Gate on the right with 40 Full Hook-up single sites. Most sites have picnic tables, barbecues, and fire rings. The campground has flush toilets and free showers conveniently located a short walk from all the sites. Boat trailer spaces are provided on a first come first served basis. Overflow parking is provided in the Day Use lot located near the General Store.If you are looking for peace and quiet it can usually be found at Oak Knoll. Reservations for Oak Knoll campgrounds can be made by calling: (805) 237-4924 opt. 1 PINE KNOLL *Reservations Only If you are seeking water access and close proximity to the store, marina and restaurant Pine Knoll is probably where you want to be. Many campers choose this over any other location and tell us it is their favorite getaway in California. With over 90 campsites, two flush restrooms and free showers this is where it is at. When camping in Pine Knoll you can leave your car at your camp and walk to the pool, shoreline and seasonal movie theatre. Water is provided close to most spaces. The flat areas have lots of shade and are the closest to the lake. The upper campsites have sweeping views and can take advantage of the cool evening breezes. Pine Knoll is by reservation only and fills quickly on the busy weekends. QUAILS ROOST *Reservations Only First campground through Entry Gate on your left as you enter. This campground provides campers with a choice of 60 single regular sites. Most sites have some shade and back up on open space. There are convenient flush restrooms and free showers located in the center of the campground, an easy walk to all the sites. Water is located throughout the campground and most sites have fire rings and barbeques. Picnic tables are provided on most spaces. This campground is not recommended for large RVs and vehicles with trailers due to the narrow roads. Quails Roost is a reservation campground. If you are looking for a place to take the family and friends, try out Quails Roost for an experience you wont forget. ROCKY CANYON This canyon based campground is the second campground on the right after Entry Gate. No Large RVs or large vehicles towing boats allowed to enter this campground due to the narrow roads and parking areas. For use by tent camping groups only. This is a first come, first serve campground with 14 sites ranging from single vehicles up to seven vehicle group sites. Sites have picnic tables and barbeques, some have fire rings. The campground has flush toilets and free showers conveniently located in the campground. Built on the ridge above the lake, Rocky Canyon affords many of the sites magnificent views and access to the evening breezes. Shade is provided in many of these campsites by a mix of pine and oak trees. Bring your friends and family and enjoy one of these mini group sites. First come, first serve. SANDY POINT *Reservations Only Fourth campground after Entry Gate, turn right twice. Sandy Point has 12 single and group sites. Reservation and site assignment by Office prior to use required in this very popular campground. Advance reservations are highly recommended but limited space may be available on a first serve basis, check at the entry gate before going to Sandy Point. No hook-ups, water is available close to many of the spaces. Flush toilets and free showers are located centrally in the campground. Narrow roads, use caution, not suggested for vehicles towing boats and trailers. Sandy Point boasts a large day use area available for registered Sandy Point campers and that famous sandy beach at the campground is named for. If you want the very best camping experience that Nacimiento has to offer, most people agree that is found at Sandy Point. For Reservations please call 805-237-4924 opt 1
$45 - $55 / night
Located just ten miles east of Arroyo Grande, California, Lopez Lake Recreation Area is one of the top choices for camping and leisure trips. With 22 miles of shoreline and summer lake temperatures around 70°F, there is something for everyone; camping, fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking and equestrian trails, mountain biking, zip-lining, birdwatching and so much more. The warm climate of the Central Coast makes Lopez Lake the ideal, year-round recreational destination. Once covered by the sea, the surrounding hills of Lopez Lake are rich with relics of ancient days and studded with oak trees. Over 175 species of flowering plants, and more than 150 species of birds have been identified within the park. The naturally beautiful canyons were once hunting and fishing grounds for the Chumash Indians. Later, homesteaders and ranchers inhabited the area and harvested grain crops for Mission San Luis Obispo. Lopez Lake was then created in 1969 to provide domestic water for the Five Cities area of the Central Coast.
Lopez Lake with its 22 miles of shoreline is the ideal year-round recreational destination for everyone. There are 377 campsites to choose from. Many overlook the lake, and others are nestled among picturesque oaks. There are primitive, electrical, full hook-up, and group campsites available. Hot shower facilities are at several campgrounds. Camping reservations can be made up to one year in advance.
$60 - $70 / night
$73 - $234 / night
$225 / night
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
Traveler
This is our second time at this location, first in dry camping, second time in the Jupe tents. As much as I was begging for this stay to be worth the $470 for two nights, it definitely wasn’t. The concept is great but really faulty when executed. 1) they disclose when booking that power to the tents may or may not work. The truth? The solar panels don’t charge whatsoever if there is fog/cloud cover in the mornings. Was told this directly by management. Soooo…. Considering this is a bay site, right on the ocean…. We didn’t have power once. Morning fog happens every single day. (Even though it was completely sunny from 12pm-5pm) this was frustrating, and we would’ve packed accordingly given knowledge that we would’ve been powerless all weekend. The blankets they provide don’t keep you warm either, so if you stay on a night below 50 without an electrical blanket or backups, prepare to freeze. During our stay we were also told that there was only one overnight maintenance man, on a Friday, during Labor Day weekend. That poor man didn’t get a break once all evening and definitely deserves a raise and to be treated better by his employers. He’s the only reason this review deserves a star. For such a beautiful location, this company is really fumbling. Disappointing.
Ranger
We had reservations for 2 nights on an Augugst Friday / Saturday at Lopez Lake in a full-hook-up site in Bandtail (Site 38). The reviews of this place were great, and the photos were beautiful. We arrived to find a HUGE park (yes, I should have noted how many campsites there are). Check-in involved parking our van and standing in line like Disneyland. The park employees were nice though. There were big signs all around "NO FIRES" (more on this later) and I was also told at check in that there were no fires. We found our site easily enough, only to realize how closely packed the sites were in Bandtail. Some nice folks to our right had three sites - 11 kids and 21 people between them. The kids rode their bikes all over, and even onto our site (while also running around our van chasing a chipmunk). We had our daughter's dog, so tried sitting outside in the shade, only to find that in addition to the heat (it was mid 80s), there were biting flies. :( Poor puppy got bit or stung more than once. So we went in our van and turned on the AC (it could run on low with the 20A service there). Then, after dark, a dad and his young son arrive on our other side and had to back in their boat in the dark. We got out of our rig and helped them (twice) with our portable lights and guidance. In the morning, they spoke in very loud voices and we were right next door. We did take one of the trails in the heat, but they are not at all well maintained - basically trampled grass that could easily hold a snake. While the area is pretty, it is just way too crowded for our taste. Oh, and the bathrooms were dimily lit, had a couple of non-functioning toilets, and were dirty. We were ready to get out of there and will not be back. Lastly, though the fire danger was marked as extremely high and "NO FIRES" signs at check-in, along with verbal warnings of no fires, I saw two campsites had open fires in the fire pits. This blatant lack of regard for rules and safety didn't sit well with me. And no one was enforcing the fire ban. Sad.
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.
GuideLarge sites with plenty of room for tents and all the other camping necessities. This site backs up into the hills and there are black bears that roam the area so be sure to prepare for that. The lake is full and lots of areas to fish.
Traveler
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
Scout
Only one small shallow hot spring pool, usually crowded at peak hours. At the pool there is outdoor showers, lap pool, indoor bathrooms, changing rooms.
Camping area is small and it’s basically a dirt parking lot. Loud road noise all night and day from the freeway. Lots of pincher bugs infested my gear. Not peaceful. Better to just visit for a soak, they have cheaper rates for a morning or evening visit.
Legend
It is a nice place, little noise from kids and a bit expensive.
Traveler
Stayed here in a cabin for 2 yrs because of work in area. Quiet, clean and away from the city. Love this place.
ScoutMy wife and I were meeting another couple there,got to check in and they told us that the other couple had not checked yet and sent us to our site and our friends had already setup camp.
Evening #1 had a site across from us playing loud music from ther golf cart, got throw the night. Day 2 found that there is so many golf carts ruining around with loud music and kids driving, a little much. That day we had to call the front about the music with no results, we had to talk with them ourselves and then of course we are the bad guys.we were gone most of the next day exploring SLO and down the coast, can’t beat the area, but we got back same thing with no help from the security or the front desk.
Second time I have been there and the restaurant was closed again, spy broken in the gym area,no cable the last night and codes changed on rest room very early on check out day.It’s going to be a while before I go back again! Don’t for get to watch out for the golf carts!!
Legend
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!
Traveler
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
Guide
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.
GuideI’m so glad I came across this on the maps. It was a bit of a splurge ($105/night), but when I pulled in and saw that view - it was totally worth it. I even added an extra night at the end of my week, bc I just didn’t want to leave. Sites are spaced decently, but still 10-ish feet apart. Propane fire pits at each site. Clean bathrooms and lovely, huge private shower rooms. Laundry onsite is cashless - Apple Pay. The views, I can not say enough. Sunrise in the morning is epic and watching to cotton candy sky show every night while listening to the seals bark from the ocean. I loved every second of it. Such a treat.
LegendThis small hot springs resort has a unique charm about it. With not a lot of acreage, they maximize the space for sure. The main attraction is the warm pool, 25 yards with swimming lanes, and the hot pool which can accommodate 30 people. We found this rustic resort a good place to spend the night and get in a quick soak, but not exactly someplace we’d like to spend a weekend.
The RV lot is a large parking lot with spaces allocated on the outside of the gravel road. The tent camping section was a narrow patch of grass, with sites slotted in together along a tight corner of the property. Get to know your neighbors, because you’ll be close! Our little camper and truck rig was just small enough to fit into one of the grass camping sites at 32 feet combined, but it was a tight fit. We were easily able to run on solar instead of paying for an electrical site.
There's a picnic table and fire ring at each site, but the sites are so small, you are practically on top of your neighbors with zero privacy. There are pit toilets in the campground as well as flush toilets and showers available near the bath house. They also offer cabins for rent.
The town of Avila Beach has restaurants and a few convenience stores, but the larger grocery stores are available in nearby Pismo Beach. Morro Bay is definitely worth a visit as well!
TravelerIf you’re okay with being about 5 feet away from neighboring campsites, this is a beautiful stay. Clean Bathrooms/Showers, beautiful views, and a short walk away from the beach. Although- it’s unfortunate you cannot request specific campsites.
Scout
“Luxury RV Sites” not so much I’m not sure why they claim luxury.
It’s just cement pads on top of each other so no one has any privacy from their neighbors. Definitely not worth the$1600 a month to stay here. You would think for$1600 there would be more and better options offered.
It is a very clean campground, I will give them that. It says it includes a picnic table at the back in sites and we were there for 3 months and never saw 1 picnic table.
We are dog friendly people, we did not travel with our dogs, the campground is full of dogs which is great, our daughter loved it. Except there was constant barking from all over the campground. My neighbors dogs barked multiple times a day and multiple times at night, constantly waking us all up in the middle of the night and my daughter during her nap midday.
They do not enforce their own quiet hour rule. Like I said dogs were constantly barking, people playing loud music, loud diesel pickups and playing loud music driving throughout the campground.
They offer a great pool area, one bigger pool but it’s always in the shade because of the big solar panels they built. And one smaller pool in full sun which is nice. But it doesn’t matter because the water is so cold there’s no way we would ever try to take our toddlers swimming in those pools. There’s also a large jacuzzi in the shade.
It is a family friendly campground unless you have kids that nap during the day. It is very noisy. Not to mention it is located right along the freeway so you’re constantly hearing the roaring vehicle and truck sounds from that.
They had some tiny homes lining the outside of the campground that they were removing, I’m assuming to make more room for RVs. Which is great Monday-Friday. Then they were removing them Saturday and Sunday as well. Sunday is my husbands only day off and the only full day we get to spend together as a family. And we got to spend our beautiful Sunday sitting outside with our toddler playing and grilling, while listening to the banging and hammering and the loud trucks taking out the tiny homes on a SUNDAY.
They do have an awesome building by the pool that offers use of a play/game room, kitchen, grills, and dining room. Which is great but it’s constantly filled with people who are not staying in the campground on the weekends, so the people that are staying there and paying for the amenities can’t use it on the weekends.
Like I said, definitely not worth the$1600 monthly fees for long term living. If you’re here for just a night or two might not be that big of a deal. When we first got here we were told it would be$1400 monthly payments and not even a month in we get a call that they are raising the rates to$1600. Quite a joke of a“RV Resort”.
GuideIn addition to natural mineral springs and heated pool, Facilities have water, toilets, showers, electricity for stealth travelers. Picnic tables outside.
LegendAfter 3 weeks of assorted RV and state Parks, it was nice to spend 2 days here before returning home. Our 6th stay here and it always pleasant. Check in is always easy and friendly. Always clean. The pools and areas are also well maintained. I know we will be back.
TravelerWhat a beautiful campground. This campground actually got our journey started and now we are camping and enjoying all that is out there!
ScoutNew camper great experience beautiful place friendly staff great prices
Legend
Jake from the Dyrt here! 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! Check them out and share some pics of your stay!
TravelerGood and quiet campground for one night. Staff was really friendly. One night was a little over $50.
GuideDid not know you could see such beauty in a campsite. Absolutely heavenly views, staff was great, A+ experience
GuideCalled to see if they had spots and they did. Super helpful staff to help get us a spot. The lake level is at 100% and is amazing to see. With all the rain some of the sights still have water running through them.
ScoutVery popular but everyone stayed home! Hilly area, lots of trails, lots of rain…
Guide
Highway 1 is/has been closed for a few weeks, unbeknownst to us as we made path going to LA from San Jose via the 1.
We stopped at Pfieffer state park which was a dream, you’re underneath the redwood trees amongst the river runs with the stars above you 🌲
They have a general store, restaurant & cafe for all your needs.
Breakfast/brunch at the ripplewood resort is a must
Experience the charm of cabin camping near San Simeon, California, where you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the comforts of home. With a variety of campgrounds offering unique amenities and activities, there's something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular cabin campsite near San Simeon, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near San Simeon, CA is Kirk Creek Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 42 reviews.
What is the best site to find cabin camping near San Simeon, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 24 cabin camping locations near San Simeon, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
