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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground

Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground, near Big Sur, California, offers a unique camping experience with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding valleys. This location is perfect for those seeking a more rugged adventure, as it features no designated sites and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Visitors often rave about the incredible scenery, with one camper describing their pullout as “blissful,” nestled between apple trees and overlooking the ocean. While the area is free to use, it’s important to note that amenities are minimal—there’s no drinking water, toilets, or trash disposal, so come prepared to pack out what you bring in.

The access road can be narrow and steep, making it a bit of a challenge, but those with 4x4 vehicles will find it manageable. Some campers have mentioned that weekends can get crowded, so arriving early is key to snagging a good spot. As one reviewer pointed out, “If you can get there before everyone else, it’s a cool spot.”

For those who enjoy off-roading, this area is a great place to test your skills while soaking in the stunning views. Just remember to respect the land and keep it clean for future visitors. Whether you're looking for a quick overnight stay or a longer escape into nature, Plasket Ridge offers a raw and beautiful setting that’s hard to beat.

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Location

Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.9162353474854 N
121.43517436860338 W

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Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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5 Reviews

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
  • (9) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are fires allowed at Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Plasket Ridge Dispersed Campground does not have wifi.