Best Tent Camping near Soledad, CA

State parks and wilderness areas west of Soledad, California provide diverse tent camping options along the Big Sur coastline. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground offers tent-only sites nestled among redwood trees with walk-in access and year-round availability. Ventana Campground provides a tent-only experience with sites situated along a creek running through the property. For backcountry tent camping, Carmel River Backcountry Camp in the Ventana Wilderness offers primitive sites accessible only by hiking trails. Andrew Molera State Park Campground features walk-in tent sites in an open field setting with beach access, operating from April through October. Military Park Fort Hunter Liggett Primitive Campground, located about 25 miles southwest of Soledad, provides basic tent camping with fewer amenities.

Most tent campsites in the region feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to vault or flush toilets. Surface conditions vary from flat, leaf-covered forest floors at Pfeiffer Big Sur to open grassy areas at Andrew Molera. Backcountry sites require water filtration equipment as potable water is unavailable. Seasonal considerations affect site availability, with some areas prone to closure during winter storms or fire season. Reservations are essential for established campgrounds, particularly during summer months when demand peaks. Walk-in tent sites typically require carrying gear short distances from parking areas, while backcountry camping involves longer hikes with full pack weight.

According to reviews, tent campers at Ventana Campground appreciate the "tent only" designation that creates a quieter atmosphere without RVs. One camper noted that "all sites are under beautiful big Redwood trees" at Ventana, though proximity between sites can limit privacy. At Andrew Molera, visitors report that "tent sites are in a nice open field" with good star-viewing opportunities but limited shade. Pfeiffer Big Sur receives consistent praise for its tent areas, with a reviewer stating that "tent sites are far enough from the RV sites that they are quiet and peaceful." Nacimiento Campground, though small with only 9-10 sites, offers an alternative when coastal sites are full, with "sites set right next to the river which drowns out any road noise."

Best Tent Sites Near Soledad, California (11)

    1. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Big Sur, CA
    28 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
    18 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
    30 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
    30 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
    43 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. A Place to Stay in Big Sur

    1 Review
    Lucia, CA
    33 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! "

    7. Lake San Antonio - North Shore

    5 Reviews
    Bradley, CA
    44 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."

    8. Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP Environmental Campsite

    Be the first to review!
    Big Sur, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 667-1112

    $30 - $38 / night

    10. Alder Creek Camp

    3 Reviews
    Fort Hunter Liggett, CA
    39 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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Tent Camping Reviews near Soledad, CA

702 Reviews of 11 Soledad Campgrounds



Guide to Soledad

Nestled near Soledad, California, tent camping offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of the region. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to pitch their tents.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

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

Local attractions to enhance your camping experience

  • Visit the stunning coastline and iconic views at Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP Environmental Campsite, perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Big Sur.
  • Take a scenic drive along Highway 1 to reach Ventana Campground, where you can enjoy the lush redwood forests and nearby hiking trails.
  • Experience the charm of Alder Creek Camp, a hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, ideal for nature lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Soledad, 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 Soledad, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Soledad, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.