Arroyo Seco Campground is a semi-rustic, but developed facility in California's westernmost national forest. It offers a great place for camping near San Jose - into the mountain air and provides access to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Recreation The small non-body contact lake near the group campsites gives campers an edge on mountain fishing and small non-motorized boating. Anglers will find mostly bass and catfish in the lakes, and other species on occasion. A fishing license is required for visitors over 16 years of age. The nearby river offers a small beach where campers and day use visitors may wade and swim. All nearby bodies of water are dependent upon seasonal rain for levels to rise. The Ventana Wilderness, also known as "the gorge," provides ample opportunities for hiking, swimming, backpacking, hunting and horseback riding. No motorized vehicles are allowed (unless prior permission is granted by the Forest Service) beyond the gated road and parking lot. The 15.5-mile Santa Lucia Trail is available for hiking and horseback riding and provides access to the surrounding wilderness and a variety of other trails. Facilities The campground offers sites that are both modern and more primitive, for single and double-family occupancy. Campsites are available for tent or RV camping, however utility hookups are not provided and there is no dump station. Some sites are level and large enough to accommodate most RVs. Roads are paved throughout the campground. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Campsites in the first loop offer accessible flush toilets, coin-operated showers and drinking water. In the more primitive area of the campground, vault toilets are provided, as well as drinking water. Some sites are fully accessible. A group campsite is available for reservations and can accommodate up to 50 people and 10 vehicles. It provides tables and a campfire circle, as well as vault toilets and drinking water. Natural Features The campground offers views of the Ventana Wilderness mountain peaks and one small lake (water levels depend on the season). It is nestled into the hillside, surrounded by abundant shrubbery and large oak trees. It is situated next to the Arroyo Seco River at an elevation of about 1,200 feet. A variety of birds and wildlife make their home in the area. A splash of color greets visitors at the entrance gate, where a variety of plants in bloom. In the spring and fall, the leaves on the trees change to beautiful shades of red, yellow and orange, creating a beautiful scenic landscape. In the springtime, lupines bloom all around. Nearby Attractions The city of Monterey provides a variety of tourism opportunities and is located about 50 miles from the campground. The west side of the Pinnacles National Monument is about 30 miles from the campground. The monument and surrounding area is popular among rock climbers during the spring and fall. ADA Access: N

Arroyo Seco

## Overview

Ponderosa Campground offers visitors a beautiful location to relax and enjoy nature. It runs along the Nacimiento River, which provides a variety of recreational opportunities. Swimming, fishing and wading are all enjoyed by visitors, as well as hiking and backpacking on any of the surrounding mountain trails.

## Recreation

The Nacimiento River provides opportunities for trout fishing and wading, as well as swimming in any of the swimming holes along its course. A variety of hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking trails can be accessed within a short drive from the campground. The trails offer scenic views of waterfalls, massive redwood groves, meadows and mountain streams. 

## Facilities

The campground offers single-family sites for tent and RV camping. Utility hookups are not available and the parking surfaces are paved. A maximum of two vehicles is allowed for each site. Additional vehicles are not allowed in the campground.   
  
Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Trash collection bins are available throughout the campground.

## Natural Features

The campground is situated next to the river and has a scattered canopy of ponderosa pine, oak, madrone and sycamore trees, which provide ample shade in most campsites. It is located in the Los Padres National Forest in the mountains of Big Sur at an elevation of 1,500 feet. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area. 

## Nearby Attractions

Mission San Antonio is a short drive east of the campground. Located in the Fort Hunter Liggett Military Base, the mission is one of the oldest in California. A museum, original aqueducts and a Native American cemetery are found here.   
  
The San Antonio Reservoir Recreation Area is located about 32 miles southwest of the campground. Boating, fishing, swimming and guided tours are available.

Ponderosa Campground

Situated on California’s scenic Big Sur Coast, about 55 miles south of Monterey, Limekiln State Park has weathered its fair share of hardships. It began in the late 1800s, when the Rockland Lime and Lumber Co. began stripping the limestone out of the canyon for use as building materials for the burgeoning San Francisco area. At the time, the redwood forest covering these coastal slopes was almost entirely clearcut. Nearly a century later, after recovering, the area was almost clearcut again, but conservation groups intervened. It finally became a state park in 1995. Since then, a portion of the park burned in 2008, then it was threatened with closure in 2012, due to state budget shortfalls. The park was saved once again when the Save the Redwoods League stepped in to assist with funding and maintenance needs. 

 The small campground in Limekiln State Park offers 29 campsites in two areas along Limekiln Creek. About half are in an open area near the highway, with beach access; the other half are located upslope, under a canopy of shady redwoods. Sites are small and can only accommodate trailers up to 15 feet, and RVs up to 24 feet; each site is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Both upper and lower camp areas have drinking water, restrooms, showers and picnic areas. Firewood gathering is not permitted in the park, and dogs must remain leashed at all times. Visitors should keep in mind that this is a rugged coastal environment, and exercise caution around cliffs and near the ocean; climbing on the cliffs is not permitted. Campsite rates are $35/night.

 The main attraction at Limekiln State Park is the old lime kilns that still sit at the base of the hillside, more than a century since their last use. These giant furnaces were used to purify the limestone being mined out of the canyon, before it was shipped north for construction uses. The kilns can be seen via a 0.5-mile trail from the upper camp area. A short side trail on the way to the kilns leads to 100-foot Limekiln Falls. Watch out for poison oak while hiking. The park is also a great place for wildlife watching. Keep your eyes peeled for bobcats, foxes and ringtails on shore, and otters and gray whales in the ocean. More than 200 species of birds are known to inhabit the area, including pelicans, peregrine falcons and California condors.



Limekiln State Park

Los Padres National Forest Arroyo Seco Campground

Arroyo Seco Campground is a semi-rustic, but developed facility in California's westernmost national forest. It offers a great escape from bustling city life, into the mountain air and provides access to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. There is one group site at this campground and it is available by reservation only for $125.00 per night. This site can accommodate up to 50 people maximum. A total of 10 vehicles are included with the group rate; additional vehicles will cost $10.00 per vehicle. Tents only in group site.

Arroyo Seco Group Campground

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. Recreation 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. Facilities The campground offers single-family sites for tent and RV camping. Utility hookups are not available and parking surfaces within the campground are gravel and grass. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Vault toilets are provided throughout the campground. Natural Features 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. Nearby Attractions 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. ADA Access: N

Kirk Creek Campground

Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground features 189 RV and tent sites are situated on or near the Big Sur River. There is a Campfire Center that offers evening programs on the weekends during peak season.

 Each campsite includes a parking area for at least one car, a fire pit with half-grill and picnic table. No hookups are provided at any site. Fresh water, hot showers and toilets are a short walk.

 All incoming campers must check in at the entrance kiosk. Camper vehicles must display vehicle tag (proof of reservation) in the windshield. Vehicle tags are also valid for day use entrance into other area state parks.



Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

San Lorenzo Park

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Looking for a group campsite in California? The Dyrt can help you find the best group campgrounds for your next trip. These scenic and easy to access California group campgrounds are perfect for any adventurer.

California

The Best Group Camping in California

Traveling with a large group? We can help you find the best group sites near Sycamore Flat. Finding a place to group camp in California has never been easier, thanks to The Dyrt. Search nearby group campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Sycamore Flat

The Best Group Camping Near Sycamore Flat, California

**Monterey Bay RV campground** and preserve is nestled in rolling hills about 14 miles south of Hollister, California. The climate is tempered by the ocean, which is only 50 miles to the west, and wildlife is abundant throughout the area. **San Benito RV Resort** 's modern facilities ensure convenience and comfort. The on-site live entertainment and planned activities keep things interesting. When it's time to explore the area, there are many natural attractions and activities around **San Benito RV Resort** , such as the Pinnacles National Monument, fresh and salt-water fishing, and golf courses. Visit the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium during your time at Thousand Trails' **Monterey Bay RV campground**. It's an experience that won't be forgotten! See wildlife & natural attractions from a Monterey Bay RV campground Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at San Benito RV & Camping Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

San Benito RV & Camping Resort

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. Recreation 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. Facilities The campground offers single-family sites, as well as three group campsites, for tent and RV camping. Group sites can accommodate up to 40 people and 10 vehicles. Extra vehicles will be charged an additional fee. Utility hookups are not available. Individual campsites are each equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Flush toilets, sinks and drinking water are provided throughout the campground. An accessible flush toilet is located near Site 10. Group sites are equipped with several tables, grills and campfire circles. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided in the group area. Natural Features 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. ADA Access: N

Plaskett Creek Campground - Los Padres National Forest

Los Angeles is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Los Angeles is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Los Angeles

The Best Camping Near Los Angeles, California

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near San Diego. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near San Diego, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

San Diego

The Best Camping in San Diego | California Campgrounds

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, San Jose, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. San Jose is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near San Jose, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

San Jose

The Best Camping Near San Jose, California

The hub city of California’s Bay Area wins in waterfront beauty and access to Yosemite National Park for camping and hiking. While the city is a major tourist draw, water sports lovers will appreciate the abundance of opportunities.

There aren’t any major campgrounds in San Francisco itself, as you may expect, though Half Moon Bay State Beach is just south of the city, near San Mateo, CA. If you’re traveling north up the coast, you’ll find the Point Reyes National Seashore to your liking. There is only one campground with 14 sites, however. There are no RV or car-accessible spots, and all campsites are tent-only and walk-in. If you’re looking for the best camping near San Francisco, Point Reyes is probably still your most convenient option.

San Francisco

San Francisco, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near San Francisco, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping in San Francisco | CA Camping

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Fresno, CA has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Fresno, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Fresno

The Best Camping Near Fresno, CA | California Campgrounds

Where the American and Sacramento Rivers meet is some of the best camping in California. Near Sacramento, CA, campers can experience life during the 1840s Gold Rush and tour the museums before heading to their campsites for the night. RVers will find plenty of campgrounds where they can pull in and find the amenities they need. Stay close to the city and its attractions or closer to the coast. On the water you can spend the day fishing, boating, and swimming. Your camping adventures in the area can include horseback riding along the trails or a visit to a local farm complete with a family-friendly petting zoo.

Sacramento

The Best Camping Near Sacramento | CA Camping

Long Beach is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Long Beach, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Long Beach camping trip.

Long Beach

The Best Camping Near Long Beach, California

Looking for the best campgrounds near Oakland, CA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Oakland

The Best Camping Near Oakland, California

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Bakersfield, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Bakersfield is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Bakersfield

The Best Bakersfield Camping | California Campgrounds

Looking for the best campgrounds near Anaheim, CA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Anaheim and user-submitted reviews.

Anaheim

The Best Camping Near Anaheim, California

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Inyo National Forest. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Inyo National Forest campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Inyo National Forest

The Best Camping Near Inyo National Forest, California

Tahoe National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Tahoe National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Tahoe National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Tahoe National Forest

The Best Camping Near Tahoe National Forest, California

Six Rivers National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Six Rivers National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Six Rivers National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Six Rivers National Forest

The Best Camping Near Six Rivers National Forest, California

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Eldorado National Forest, CA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Eldorado National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Eldorado National Forest

The Best Camping Near Eldorado National Forest, California

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Los Padres National Forest, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Los Padres National Forest camping trip.

Los Padres National Forest

The Best Camping Near Los Padres National Forest, California

Join the fun near Lassen National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Lassen National Forest. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Lassen National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Lassen National Forest

The Best Camping Near Lassen National Forest, California

Join the fun near Stanislaus National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Stanislaus National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Stanislaus National Forest

The Best Camping Near Stanislaus National Forest, California

Are you in need of a campground near Angeles National Forest, CA? Angeles National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Angeles National Forest

The Best Camping Near Angeles National Forest, California

San Bernardino National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. San Bernardino National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near San Bernardino National Forest, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

San Bernardino National Forest

The Best Camping Near San Bernardino National Forest, California

Modoc National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Modoc National Forest, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping in Sycamore Flat, California

Top Sycamore Flat Campgrounds

Arroyo Seco

Los Padres National Forest Arroyo Seco Campground

Arroyo Seco Group Campground

Kirk Creek Campground

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Ponderosa Campground

Limekiln State Park

San Lorenzo Park

San Benito RV & Camping Resort

Plaskett Creek Campground - Los Padres National Forest

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Browse Sycamore Flat Hike-In

Kirk Creek Campground

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

San Lorenzo Park

Browse Sycamore Flat Boat-In

Arroyo Seco

Ponderosa Campground

Limekiln State Park

Browse Sycamore Flat Walk-In

Kirk Creek Campground

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Limekiln State Park

Browse Sycamore Flat Drive-In

Arroyo Seco

Los Padres National Forest Arroyo Seco Campground

Arroyo Seco Group Campground

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