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    Big Sur, CA

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    Plaskett Creek Campground

    4.0 (98 reviews)
    Open • Open 24 hours

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    Big Sur
    Grace C.

    First solo tent camping with my dog. Punky, the host was very nice. Nice spacious campground. Mine was 29. Spent 3 days there. Walk across the road into sand dollar beach. Dog friendly. Awesome waves. Family friendly campground no shower but the bathrooms were super clean. Water spigot through out each campsite pretty has one weather was amazing. August 2023. Will def come back to this campsite.

    Site 38
    Dennis S.

    This was my second year camping here. I have camped at Site 33 and 38. Site 33 is by far the best as it offers the best privacy. Mike the camp host is phenomenal and made the entire experience camping here great. If you have any questions on where to hike or want any information on all things local, he has you covered. All in all it's been pleasant experiences both times. The photos are of site 38.

    Alvaro R.

    Host and location was amazing, and very accommodating! Originally planned on going to prewitt ridge but the off-road trail was closed. Michael gladly was able to help us with an open lot to be able to camp for the weekend! Camp ground is very beautiful and next to if not the most amazing beach view that is sand dollar beach only a short walk away!

    Tell me if I'm wrong.
    Johnny M.

    This review is focused on , not the Campground, but the host that ruined our first impression of the site. We researched the availability on line the nite before we drove the 3hrs on the Harley-Davidson to make sure that we would have a site to spend the 4th of July. There were multiple sites available so we packed the bike and rode like the wind. We arrived about 12:40 pm to find a sign on the host camper that said they were "OFF DUTY" and do not knock on her door! So, we found the site that was clearly available by the expired reservation tag on the site marker post and set up our tent and unloaded the bike . 20 minutes later, here comes the "host" and proceeds to tell us to remove the tent and get the motorcycle off the site! I asked if we could go ahead and pay for the site a bit early, but she repeated her very unfriendly words and said we could be in the camp until 2pm. Her rudeness was seemingly out of place because we were very nice , but we packed everything again and rode along the Coast Highway for about 45 minutes and started our return ride to get back at 2pm. We arrived about 1:58 pm and she said again, "You cannot wait here!" I said where can we wait then? Her response..."anywhere but here". So I drove around the small circle drive to return to the check-in site at 2 pm and I had left the wife off of the bike so she could be in line for check-in. There were 3 sites available , and my wife was second in line, but this rude 'hostest' purposely skipped over us, and gave the sites to the #1, #3, and #4 persons in line! When my wife asked why she would not give her a site, the hoser said we was not here in time!! What a crock of shit she is! UN effing believable how she so openly discriminated against us as Asian and/or Motorcycle riders! This person should not be in this position. She is a RACIST! We left her with some very descriptive first ammendment expressions about her pedigree, and rode to the Hearst Castle area . We encountered a Host at the site there and He was not only nice but very kind as well. Just what you would expect from a qualified Host in America. We told him of our experience with the idiot up north and he recommended we write to her Manager. We plan on doing just that. Now, with that I must say that the Campground is beautiful and spacious, not counting the huge pot holes in all of the roads around the site. I can only imagine how nice it must be to camp there. I'll try again after the New Host is employed.

    though it's a first come first serve basis, we got the last hiker/biker campsite for the busy holiday weekend which i am extremely grateful for. the host's were very helpful and kind. wood bundles are up right now for $15 so i would definitely recommend bringing your own. no working sinks but a clean bathroom (with no light, so bring your lanterns!) across the 1 from the campground is beautiful bluffs to overlook the pacific. overall an amazing trip and can't wait to camp there again.

    Campsite 6 is the first site after entering the campground, on the left of the one-way road, next to the DO NOT ENTER gate

    AVOID CAMPSITE 6 IF TENT CAMPING! Our camping experience at campsite 6 is nothing but disappointing! Campsite 6 is the first site as you arrive in the campground, on the left side of the one-way road. My husband and I arrived on 6/22/2021 for one night stay. We noticed around early evening, maybe around 7pm, a loud gas generator noise started from the facility next to campsite 6, behind a DO NOT ENTER gate. The facility appeared to be the Los Padres National Forest staff admin or sleeping quarters. After observing an amazing sunset near the campsite entrance, we came back to our campsite 6 and the noise was still on. Around 9pm as two staff members driving a logo bearing pick up truck in their green uniform T-Shirts were exiting from behind the DO NOT ENTER gate, we caught them to inquire about the noise. One person answered my question that the generator was powering the entire campground and another said the generator should wind down soon. Neither was true. The campground has NO ELECTRICY that requires a generator, and the gas generator DID NOT STOP until around 7am the next morning. Ask me how I know: I did not end up sleeping the whole night because of the noise is so annoying and loud. Even when the generator was off, the sound of a fan, like vacuum machine noise remained on for more than an hour. One of the two guys had told us to talk to the camp host to switch us to another site. We went over to the camp host, only to see a OFF DUTY sign, plus the campground was full. We walked around towards the center common area of the campground, the noise could still be heard there, which we had contemplated of moving our tent over and decided it was useless. The campground has a generator policy of 10am to 6pm for campers, unfortunately the policy does not seem to apply for the national forest staff. The generator did go off at 10pm for a few minutes, only to come back on throughout the night. The Campground's location is quite nice, walkable to reach the beach, but the noise issue made our camping experience really awful. What the management should have done is to put out a public notice on the reservation website: for campsite 6, 7, 8, recommend RV or camper van instead of tent camping due to facility gas generator noise. We had wanted to stay for 2 or 3 nights, but were only able to get one night reservation. In hindsight, it was a blessing that we only got one night stay.

    Site 12 - large and next to the bathroom and Camp Host. Site 32 would be a better choice if privacy is important.
    Sally O.

    Camped here in a trailer for 3 nights with a friend and it was great! The Camp Host (Rhonda) is friendly and helpful and even gave us some free firewood. There were no reserved spots available online but they showed about 11 walk-up sites. We called first and were told we could get there at 8am to get a spot so we took a chance and drove over, arriving about 9:15. We found out the office gave us a bit of misinformation. The walk-up works like this... at 10am a sign-up sheet goes out, first come first serve. At noon the Host assigns sites and you can get in at 2pm. We did get a site and it was perfect. A quick five (ish) minute walk gets you to Sand Dollar Beach, which was beautiful. The campground itself has some very nice campsites that are shaded and very large. The bathrooms have toilets that flush (a big yay!) and there is water, however for RV's/trailers you will need to fill your tank elsewhere, they don't allow you to fill. The closest town (I use the term loosely) is Gorda, which is 5 miles south of the campground. It has a general store, restaurant and a gas station - however, gas was $6.69/gallon - fill up elsewhere! Also, a few miles (about 7) farther south is Ragged Point Inn & Restaurant. They have live music on the weekends till about 3 or 4pm. It was a great place to have a drink and sit outside listening to some great local talent. The views were stupendous as well.

    Panorama of Sand Dollar on a gloomy morning
    Tawna R.

    Please don't go here, because we would hate to have everyone ruin our little gem of a campground! Plaskett is my favorite primitive campground in Big Sur, especially for families and dogs. The sites are mostly grassy, some are flat and some have pretty bad slopes, but nonetheless they are diverse. Some are flanked by poison oak, some are private, some are dirt, some are grass, some have beautiful cypress trees to shade you, some are in the middle of a grassy expanse, some are more communal and you're always going to experience large groups and families. The bathrooms are very simple (out-house like) but clean, there is running water, but be sparing with your use, we Californians are in a severe extended drought. The newest host Beverly is a wonderful and charismatic woman, many blessings to her! Sand Dollar beach across the street is a great surf spot, and the expansive and breathtaking sandy coastline is a wonderful place to soak up the occasional sunshine, let your pups run free, get your toes wet, and take in the natural awe that is Big Sur. it is an easy walk down a slope and a few flights of stairs, but it's flanked by poison oak, so beware! No lifeguard on duty, big waves, and cold water will likely deter you from anything more than a dip, but don't be afraid to soak those achy camper bones. Please remember to buy your firewood from Plaskett (or if camping elsewhere, buy from your campsite host), this helps fund the beautiful place you have been so lucky to experience. Do not take rocks or shells, do not burn stumps you find or take anything from your Mother Earth, which she does not "gift you." Stellar Jays often shed beautiful blue feathers for you, and wild turkey feathers can be found on many of the nearby hiking trails. I have found deer bones and other awesome earthly treasures, but be sure not to take in excess or disrupt the natural state. Be respectful and do not litter, pack your trash and DO NOT BURN IT!

    Upon turing into to Plaskett Creek

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    Ask the Community - Plaskett Creek Campground

    Can anyone give me info on the first come first served days? When should one arrive on days that are "FF"?

    First come first served sites are tricky as they fill up relatively quickly during the weekends and our busy season. We recommend getting there when the campsite opens at 7 am or at checkout time which is 12 pm. You do not need your whole group to… 

    Are there cabins here? I saw one review saying there are a few, but wondering now if they commented…

    Did not see any on my last trip. Maybe at the group camp sites... but that is $150 per night

    Is it possible to obtain a campsite as a walk-in? Trying to figure out what my odds are to find a site mid-week for one night during off season.?

    it is.... you got to get there and meet up with the Camp Host. Folks that already have camp sites that want to move to a better one have First Call... Walk-ins get what ever is left.

    Do they still offer any first come first serve RV sites?

    What time should we show up for the walk up sites?

    I was just there and people were showing up at 10am, but the host wasn't doling out sites til 2pm (which is vheck-out time). By 2pm on a Wednesday during spring break, there was a line of 4 cars waiting for sites.

    View All 12 Questions

    Review Highlights - Plaskett Creek Campground

    “The grounds are across from Sand Dollar Beach which was beautiful, mostly empty of people and my dog loved it.”

    Mentioned in 25 reviews

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    Kirk Creek Campground

    Kirk Creek Campground

    4.3(195 reviews)
    5.2 mi

    This is a terrible campground don't go here. Just kidding this is actually my favorite but I don't…read morewant it to get popular. It's perched in between a sheer cliffside and PCH along a gorgeous stretch of Big Sur. There are absolutely zero amenities. A few clean vault toilets, perhaps a camp host, no water, zero reception, and a gang of racoons eager to pilfer your wares. The surrounding areas have limited stores and are extremely expensive - think $9/gallon for gas pre Hormuz. In return for self-sufficiency, you will be treated to iridescent sunsets, a deep understanding of Kerouacs journey, and the sort of tranquility that pre cursors deep introspection.

    Site 29! Had a great stay here. Stayed April 7th and 8th. First day and night were clear and we…read morewere able to see so many stars at night. As far as the campsite it self, i was a little scared that it would be too sloped, but it wasnt bad at all. We used a tent and set it up on the left side and kept the table/bench in the middle. We still had awesome views of the water. Everything was so green it looked like it was a filtered photograph. You could see the vault bathroom from our site but we couldn't smell it. The smell was very prominent though around the area where the host was staying. Bring a bucket, diapers (to soak up the pee), and thick plastic bags if you dont want to use their vault bathrooms. We didnt encounter any raccoons personally, but did see their prints all over our cooler (locked) and table in the mornings. We saw a groundhog and it spent an hour digging up a hole. Firewood was $15 a bundle. we have verizon for our cell service and had no signal at all. It actually went out about 20 miles before arriving to the campground. We were able to use the satellite option on our phones to send out a couple of text messages. Wish we lived closer cause the drive from Orange County was long. Enjoy the photos

    Photos
    Kirk Creek Campground - Bubbles site 29

    Bubbles site 29

    Kirk Creek Campground - Fam photo from site 29

    Fam photo from site 29

    Kirk Creek Campground - Site 29 views

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    Site 29 views

    Limekiln State Park - Best campsite at LimeKiln

    Limekiln State Park

    4.4(145 reviews)
    6.9 mi

    This place is terrible, stay away (so I will have less issues trying to book for next time)…read more Joking aside, this place is gorgeous. On the RV side they have two bathrooms and a shower, and it's a short walk to the ocean where a natural stream creates a lagoon on the sand before pouring out into the ocean. I would come here every year if I could get a spot!

    I love camping here. It's been years and coming back recently was as magical as always…read more I've only camped in the ocean sites due to having a VW camper van. The other sites are tent camping only. I must say, the ocean sites are very snug and limited in space. If you're looking for a spacious camping site with privacy, you're not going to get here. And not all of the sites are the same size so if you have a trailer and a truck, you're gonna have to really be choosy at which is a site to book. This is right underneath the underpass so you're going to hear road noise. But to be honest, a lot of the sound was drowned out by the nearby stream and the ocean. It was walking distance to what felt like a private beach. Since the last time I've been here it looks like they made a mini dam with the running stream creating a mini swimming cove with crystal clear water. There are no electrical hook ups but the bathroom has running water and hot showers available. The bathrooms can get freaking disgusting from the day use visitors, but they do clean it every morning. And let's not forget the beautiful drive to get here. Magical.

    Photos
    Limekiln State Park - Facebook.com/DavidPasillasPhoto

    Facebook.com/DavidPasillasPhoto

    Limekiln State Park - Da Pose

    Da Pose

    Limekiln State Park - Another Da Pose

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    Another Da Pose

    Prewitt Ridge - Please be careful with fire

    Prewitt Ridge

    3.3(18 reviews)
    9.6 mi

    I did an overnight motorcycle ride with a buddy, from the SF Bay Area to Prewitt Ridge and WOW! The…read moreride south along Hwy 1 heading there is spectacular, but the views from the ridge are next level! The 5+ miles of silty, rough dirt road heading up to the ridge was a little challenging on street bikes, but we managed just fine. The views from the ridge are breathtaking in every direction, and it was very pleasant to see very little trash laying about. Clearly, this is a campground area that is mainly used by seasoned, "Pack Your Trash" campers, which is awesome. Hope it stays that way. We went in mid Fall during a very brief heat wave, and the small flies were annoying, but they don't bite. We just covered our faces with buffs and slept under netting. That was literally the only drawback. PROS: Awesome Panoramic Views FREE to camp! Many flat camping areas to choose from No Trash lying around Weather is usually comfortable Many trees to find shade under CONS: Some seasons have annoying, small flies. They don't bite though TIPS: If you're heading there from the North and you need provisions, stop at the Big Sur Lodge Store. They have EVERYTHING you may need Dirt road leading up to the ridge is not maintained (much) and may be tough to navigate for novice drivers. If muddy, may need 4WD and off road tires Bring a mosquito net No water access, so you have to bring your own No bathrooms - Bury your #2! *No open campfires allowed during the warm months (but you won't need it for warmth anyway) Jet boils and contained flame are OK PACK YOUR TRASH!

    Wow, wow wow! Amazing spot! We went there during 4th of…read moreJuly this year and I have to say, it was packed! I am glad that we arrived early and found a spot. It is an amazing spot to watch the sunset, however, it is tough to get up there. Once off the paved road its another 20-30 min to get to where all those pictures are taken Whoever said 15 min was either not in a Prius (unlike us) or was speeding quite fast. It's a one-way road with a lot of potholes and curves where you can not see any other car coming around the corner which makes it very hard to drive safely. When we first got there, there were not too many people there but once we got out of the car, bees were flying around, bugging us quite a bit so we went back to find a better spot away from the bees and in the shade. Unfortunately, there is no shade on the top of the ridge. Throughout the mid afternoon we decided to go back to the bees since the other spot was covered in gnats which were 5x more annoying than the bees were. We brought mosquito repellant and a candle, but nothing worked :/ In the end, I was glad we went back to the highest spot right by the cliff/ridge. Directions: 1. Its hard to see but take a sharp right (coming from Los Angeles) onto Nacimiento-Fergusson Road ( over a rain gutter) and just continue going up the hill for about 20-30 min depending on speed and other people coming down the hill. 2. Once you see a sign and a road going downhill TURN RIGHT! We almost missed it since you don't pay attention to your right. It states "Prewitt ridge road" 5. Take it and be cautious of other cars coming your way! I recommend NOT to drive it at night, but it's up to you. 3. There is a little intersection where you have to take a sharp right to get where you want to get, there is no sign, but you can see that the road splits. 4. From there on, you will see multiple spots where you can camp if you want to. Continue going straight and then up to the main spot. You made it. We have seen any variety of cars going up. We were in a Prius and made it :) Tips: There are no bathrooms but plenty of bushes where you can go. There are firepits but I am not sure if they are allowed. You need a permit for a portable stove ( according to signs along the way). Bring games, guitars, food, beer etc to keep you entertained up there. But make sure to take back home what you bring up and don't leave anything up there. Anyways, enjoy!

    Photos
    Prewitt Ridge - View at sunset.

    View at sunset.

    Prewitt Ridge
    Prewitt Ridge

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    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

    4.4(412 reviews)
    29.1 mi

    One of California's bigger and more popular state parks, rightfully so. Not as touristy as Yosemite…read morebut this is on a bigger scale than most other Cali State Parks. I ventured here once before in my early 20s back in my school boy days and felt it was time to see it again with decades worth of a wiser perspective. And I was rewarded in spades. This park is about 30 miles or so south of Carmel on Highway 1, which in my opinion is one of the most glorious stretch of road to drive. Even though it is only 30 miles or so, it still takes almost an hour to travel from Carmel. The road winds around through many curves and undulations so you simply cannot drive freeway speeds here, nor should you want to. Enjoy the views, roll down the window and take in that coastal air, play your favorite tunes and just soak in the moment. Once at the park there are campsites, as well as cabins and even a full service lodge for those that don't want to rough it at all. You are now in mountainous terrain so lots of trees, a big creek and lots of hiking trails. I did a 3 day camp stay and loved it. They keep the park clean, maintain the restrooms and patrol the grounds frequently. Even though they have almost 200 campsites available, they spread it out nice so not everyone is in the same area. I could sometimes hear my neighbors but they were never in my direct view. That is a big plus for me when rating camp sites. People can also just get a day pass and enjoy the trails and creek without having to stay. My camping pass also got me to see a couple other California State Parks nearby on the same trip, so well worth the price of admission. Very lively with animal life which are unfortunately very used to humans. Squirrels and blue jays will not be shy to investigate what they can scavenge so do not leave any food unattended. Upon setting up camp I had a ziplock bag of trail mix on the picnic bench along with the rest of my gear. While I was setting up the tent with me somewhat close by, a stellar jay swooped in and pecked at the bag. It didn't take it but ripped a good hole in the bag. So just a big fyi to keep your food on guard/lock. The big creek runs through many of the sites. Some parts are mellow whilst other parts the water rushes pretty good. I was about 50 yards from the creek so I couldn't see it but I could hear it rolling through the valley. It was very relaxing to hear the cool water rolling downstream, whether at night or waking up at sunrise. And a myriad of birds will contribute with their morning songs, which makes for the best alarm clock. TRUST A little too big for my preference but still beautiful enough that I can revisit every other year. And just outside the park are the California coastline with Highway 1 carving through it. Some of the most breathtaking views Cali has to offer. Pfeiffer thanks for the reacquaintance and the confirmation that you are still indeed one of California's top gems.

    Great Stop in Big Sur -- Beautiful Trails, Swimming Spots, & Scenic Views!…read moreThe drive along CA-1 to get here is reason enough to visit--absolutely stunning coastal views the entire way! Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park itself has a lot to offer. There are tons of trails to explore, though keep in mind that there isn't a whole lot of signage. The good news is that if you start from a central area, most paths naturally end up bringing you around in a loop at some point, so it's pretty easy to find your way back. A few takeaways from our visit: Water & Swimming: There are plenty of great spots along the rocks to dip in and swim, which is perfect on a warm day. Accommodations: Great setup whether you like roughing it or prefer comfort. Plenty of campsite options, plus the Lodge if you'd rather stay in a room. Pfeiffer Falls Trail: Honestly, this hike was pretty underwhelming. The falls were down to just a trickle when we went, but at least it was a decent walk to log some good steps! Overall, it's a lovely park with plenty to do. Just keep your expectations low for the waterfall if it hasn't rained recently, and enjoy the river, trees, and incredible coastal drive!

    Photos
    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - Family Camping September 12-14, 2025

    Family Camping September 12-14, 2025

    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - Family Camping September 12-14, 2025

    Family Camping September 12-14, 2025

    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - Family Camping September 12-14, 2025  THE JOY LUCK CLUB

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    Family Camping September 12-14, 2025 THE JOY LUCK CLUB

    San Simeon State Park & Campground - Hearst beach

    San Simeon State Park & Campground

    3.6(162 reviews)
    29.2 mi

    I've stayed here a couple times when I'm in the area. The campground is well taken care of…read more Bathrooms are cleaned daily and the cleaning people do a great job. The Rangers in the kiosk and law enforcement are professional and helpful with answers to questions we had about the area. The $10 extra car fee is per night. When you reserve the site 1 car is included. Cars after that are $10 each night. 2 cars allowed at a site. 1 extra car in over flow is allowed. They also free parking on the road. It is clear on the kiosk and online reservations. 10 days stay/30 day max and they do track your stays. No WiFi in park. They have free WiFi if an emergency at kiosk and you're able to check your email or look online there. Be prepared for no internet or cell service within the park. Campfire wood is sold at camphost. They are super friendly and helpful. We appreciate the water & dump station. All dry camping. No electric available. Generator hours is 10am to 8pm. At night you can hear the ocean from Washburn. No dogs allowed on the beach, but there are places nearby. Ask for a list. We saw whales, dolphins, turrens, an owl and the zebras.

    Nice as far as it had friendly host, regularly cleaned bathrooms, and shower availability. But be…read morecareful about getting campsites closer to the water - it gets windy during the day and can be a little miserable. The upper campground - Washburn is further from the water but with nice views of the mountains. In between is nice too, just avoid the high hundreds numbers - 131. 132,133 for wind. Beach access was cool. Lots of green rocks and driftwood for kids to build with. They also had an amphitheater and we saw a ranger talk on great white sharks. Also a nice home base to go your Hearst castle or do wine tasting. Cambria and Harmony are cute nearby towns to see.

    Photos
    San Simeon State Park & Campground - April 18, 2025 - Washburn Day Use Area picnic tables are next to Highway 1.

    April 18, 2025 - Washburn Day Use Area picnic tables are next to Highway 1.

    San Simeon State Park & Campground
    San Simeon State Park & Campground

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    Riverside Campground & Cabins - RV Camp site #33 view facing the entrance

    Riverside Campground & Cabins

    3.9(209 reviews)
    30.6 mi

    We had a peaceful stay and really appreciated being surrounded by nature. Our cabin was spacious…read moreand could comfortably fit 4 to 5 people. We could see the river from our window and hear the water at night, which was soothing. When I booked online, I specifically chose the cabin with a kitchenette, private bathroom, and fireplace. The bathroom was nice and clean, but I was a little disappointed that there was only a mini fridge. I was expecting at least a microwave and coffee maker. The bedding looked clean, but it felt a little dated and didn't smell as fresh as I would have expected. Overall, we loved the peaceful surroundings, the river, and relaxing by the fireplace in the evenings. With a few small updates and clearer amenity details, it would be an even better stay.

    We booked a cabin recently, received confirmation, and showed up after hours. The campground is…read morenice enough and in a great location, but when we showed up at 9 pm our name was posted on a white board telling us where to go. Our assigned cabin was not made up. No sheets blankets or pillows on the bed, musty/dank smell, refrigerator was on the patio for some strange reason, there was a space heater left running in the kitchen sink, random box of dishes in the corner, and we had zero clue what to do. There was nobody to help us, reception was spotty so we couldn't make a call, and ultimately we left. Clearly this cabin should not have been rented. We drove 45 minutes to a hotel and had to pay $600/night because there were no other options nearby. Worst of all, after emailing the manager about what happened and nicely requesting a refund, we got no response. No apology, no acknowledgment, no refund, nothing. We had to contact the credit card company to reverse the charge. Not good. Not well run. Stay away.

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    Riverside Campground & Cabins - Site #6 plus my dorky husband and cute dog

    Site #6 plus my dorky husband and cute dog

    Riverside Campground & Cabins - Fire pits have bbq grates

    Fire pits have bbq grates

    Riverside Campground & Cabins - View from cabin 2 fire pit area

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    View from cabin 2 fire pit area

    Sykes Hot Springs - Hot Spring

    Sykes Hot Springs

    5.0(1 review)
    30.4 mi

    At the end of Summer, my friend suggested a backpacking trip to Skyes Hot Springs - 20 miles out…read moreand back with 5380 ft elevation gain. (more challenging than Bright Angel Trail to bottom of Grand Canyon) Arrived at Big Sur Station at 9am. Paid $20 overnight parking fees, used toilet, snapped group photo then began hiking at 9:30. Half hour lunch break at 11:45 Terrace Creek Camp, and finally arrived to Skyes Camp by 3pm. In route to camp, we crossed 7 creeks each way. I was a bit anxious of slipping cuz I had less confidence than I used to. I think it would have been easier and more fun if I had power thr them with momentum. No mosquitoes sightings in mid Nov. Lots of poison oaks along the trail but not overgrown; I wore shorts with no problem, just clouds of dust from our own stompings. Our friend impaled a bunch of splinters from a burr plant. I visited many of our camp neighbors in search of a tweezer; fortunately, the last of the spikes expelled itself in the hot spring waters. Hiking downriver in search of the hot springs was not easy. When located at 5pm, the large tub was occupied, we tested all of the other 3 smaller tubs then settled in at the one on the river level, it was a tight squeeze for 4 people but we sardined to fit. Our inlet source was a water fall from the tub above which some of us used as a shower over our heads. It was a relaxing time with beautiful surroundings and good company. The water was lukewarm with lots of earthy debris, so it does not compare to the numerous fancy Onsens I have visited in Japan. But things are more valuable when it is earned by hard work - the miles, inclines, sun, sweat, dust, creek crossings, obstacles, and heavy pack; great feelings of accomplishment, and endorphins too. It was wise of us to leave the springs at 6pm since sunsets at 6:30. Due to the heavy forest, we were not able to sight the supermoon nor the comet in the night sky. Sleeping with the ripple sounds of the Big Sur River close by was soothing. Our return trip started at 9:30 and ended at the parking lot by 1pm, 4.5 hours was very fast pace. We were eager to celebrate our trip with a lunch in a sit down restaurant, Big Sur Roadhouse. Another great adventure with friends. Treasure memories.

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    Sykes Hot Springs - Creek crossing

    Creek crossing

    Sykes Hot Springs - Camp

    Camp

    Sykes Hot Springs - Big Sur River

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    Big Sur River

    Ventana Campground - Outside of glamping tent

    Ventana Campground

    3.5(217 reviews)
    27.3 mi

    We stayed at campsite 57 right next to a n active stream with a small waterfall...it was a great…read moreway to sleep at night listening to the stream and the call of a great-horned owl. True , after looking around, that many of the campsites are very close together but its still a pretty canyon with a few old growth redwoods. Our site though had only one neighbor and they were a reasonable distance away. The bathrooms are fantastic. Also, on iur first night we didn't feel like cooking and the Airstream Kiosk served an excellent crispy-cheesy pepperoni pizza...made to order(skip the Ceaser). We were very happy with our campsite-you just have to be selective...this was the third choice after my initial booking the other campsites didn't look as good...

    I'll start with the area it's iconic forest with babbling brook is breath taking. We stayed at 52As…read moreI would not recommend. Very Small not much room for our little tent. close to the entranc. You hear all the employee cars racing in and out at early and late hours. The camp sites ( most ) are literally touching yours. The worst part we are paying almost $100 a night for tent camping & you need to pay for tokens to shower. Are you kidding me. $2 for 5 minutes. At least give us the tokens with our entry. Also they do not rake the sites so there are big piles of needles, leaves etc. So for a highly expensive camp site the maintenance is not close to state run camp grounds. The bathrooms and showers are clean. The airstream trailer with food and drinks is a nice touch but crazy prices. 4 ox drink $17-$30 come on. 10" pizza $27 I get location convenient and make a profit but that's to much. I suggest if booking make sure to choose a spot way in the back by the clamping sites.

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    Ventana Campground - Tomahawk

    Tomahawk

    Ventana Campground
    Ventana Campground - Bathroom with shower.

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    Bathroom with shower.

    Plaskett Creek Campground - campgrounds - Updated October 2026

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