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Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

7 ReviewsAdd Review

Within Los Padres National Forest, Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground provides free camping along a challenging mountain road above the Big Sur coast. The US Forest Service manages this dispersed camping area where visitors create their own sites along pullouts and clearings accessible by both driving and walking.

The access road demands attention from drivers, as multiple reviewers describe it as narrow, steep, and unmaintained with cliff-side exposure. Ken K. notes that "4x4 vehicle needed" and calls it "a great location for pro-overlanders and for testing 4x4 off-road driving skills." Some sites offer ocean views on one side and valley views on the other. Campers report finding spots with tree cover for wind protection, though small bugs can be active during daylight hours.

Summer fire restrictions prohibit campfires outside established campgrounds, a critical safety measure reviewers emphasize. The road provides access to both hiking and biking trails within the national forest. Cell service reaches most areas, and pets accompany visitors to this alcohol-permitted camping zone.

Campers arriving by late afternoon typically find available pullouts, though weekend crowds can fill preferred spots with ocean overlooks. The area serves as an alternative when nearby Plaskett Creek Campground reaches capacity, offering experienced drivers a chance to camp above the dramatic Big Sur coastline.

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Map & DirectionsPlasket Ridge Dispersed Campground is located in California near Lucia

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

35.9162353474854 N
121.43517436860338 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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Reviews7 Camper Reviews - Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

43%
29%
15%
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4.0

out of 5

7 Reviews

Campers regularly cited stunning ocean views and uncrowded conditions as major draws. Access requires 4WD vehicles on steep, narrow roads. Fire restrictions apply during summer months.

Reviewed Jun. 10, 2026

Stunning!

The road to get there is tricky! Dusty and bumpy, definitely need a 4 wheel drive, but once you make it the view is breathtaking! Usually available spots, just find somewhere flat enough. 👍

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Aug. 4, 2025

Plaskett & Prewitt Ridges

Hi- My name is Tom Collins. I'm a director with the Big Sur Community Association. I enjoyed your informative blog. It's a very dry summer & residents are on edge - just a reminder:

"Hey campers!🌲👋 If you're planning to visit the Big Sur Coast this summer, just a heads up: campfires are NOT permitted outside of established campgrounds during the summer months🚫🔥. This is crucial to prevent forest fires, which we've struggled with in the past. We love having you here and want to keep Big Sur beautiful for everyone😊. Thanks for helping us protect this amazing place!" 

Thank you, Tom Collins

 CABS

Reviewed Dec. 4, 2022

Only when desperate

Every campsite within an hour range of Big Sur was full, and it was getting dark so we opted for this road. It is the only road where dispersed camping is allowed but beware: it is narrow, steep, unmaintained, and surrounded by cliffs. If you happen upon a pull out that is not occupied, does not have a private property sign, and is somewhat flat, then it works as a spot to sleep that feels like you’re on the edge of the world.

Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground by Kristen , December 4, 2022
Reviewed Jul. 28, 2022

Too crowded on weekends

Practically camping on top of each other. Going up or down that road is only for 4x4 and keep an eye out for crazy drivers. One lane road in many spots. NO CAMPFIRES ALLOWED IN SUMMER. Check conditions.

SiteN/A
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 21, 2022

Great Spot

We stayed one night and were able to find spots with tree covers in case of wind. Lots of small bugs coming at us during sunlight but they went away after sundown.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed May. 19, 2022

Incredible views, and Free!

This was a perfect campground for Big Sur, just past the Plaskett Creek campground which is expensive and requires reservations. I drove up the road for about 20 minutes and found a perfect pullout overlooking the ocean between two apple trees, blissful to say the least. I showed up around 5 pm and there were still a lot of sites open.

Month of VisitMay
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Reviewed May. 3, 2022

A great Big Sur dispersed campground on a ridge with ocean view

Amazing location to wake up in the morning. View of the pacific ocean on one side and valley on the other. 4x4 vehicle needed. Fairly safe, clean, and not crowded. A great location for pro-overlanders and for testing 4x4 off-road driving skills.

SiteDispersed Camping Site
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground by Ken K., May 3, 2022
  • Review photo of Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground by Ken K., May 3, 2022
  • Review photo of Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground by Ken K., May 3, 2022
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Showing results 1-7 of 7 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access the dispersed camping areas on Plaskett Ridge Road?

To access Plaskett Ridge dispersed camping areas, take Plaskett Ridge Road which is located near Big Sur. The road is approximately a 20-minute drive up from the main highway. There are various pullouts along the ridge that serve as camping spots, with some offering spectacular ocean views. Many campers find spots between trees or in areas with natural coverage. It's advisable to arrive before dark to safely navigate the road and find an available spot. The road can be challenging, so prepare accordingly and be aware that spots fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Is a 4WD vehicle required to drive Plaskett Ridge Road?

Yes, a 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended for Plaskett Ridge Road. The road is narrow, steep, unmaintained, and has sections that are only one lane wide with cliff exposure. The terrain presents challenges that test off-road driving skills, making it unsuitable for standard passenger vehicles. Conditions can worsen after weather events, so having a vehicle with appropriate clearance and 4WD capability is essential for safely navigating this rugged access road.

What is the difference between Plaskett Ridge and Plaskett Creek Campground?

Plaskett Ridge offers free dispersed camping with minimal amenities and requires navigating a challenging unpaved road, while Plaskett Creek Campground is a developed fee-based campground that requires reservations. Plaskett Creek is accessible via the main highway with established sites and facilities. The ridge provides more remote, primitive camping experiences with stunning ocean views but demands self-sufficiency. If you're seeking convenience and amenities, choose Plaskett Creek; for adventure and solitude with dramatic vistas, Plaskett Ridge is your option.

What are the rules for dispersed camping on Plaskett Ridge near Big Sur?

Dispersed camping on Plaskett Ridge follows standard Forest Service regulations. Importantly, campfires are prohibited during summer months due to extreme fire danger in the Big Sur area. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash. Sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations or facilities. Camping is only permitted in established pullouts—not creating new sites. Stay limits typically apply but aren't posted. The area can become crowded during peak seasons with limited space, so arrive early to secure a spot. Always check current fire restrictions and conditions before your trip, as rules may change based on seasonal fire danger levels.

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