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Big Sur, CA

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Riverside Campground & Cabins

3.9 (209 reviews)
Open • Open 24 hours

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Cabin 2

My family and I just got home from staying here in Cabin 2. We had a really good time and this campground is nice but there are things to point out. 1) The price of this cabin was 300$ a night with a 2 night minimum. Which is definitely expensive but it is Big Sur so your paying for the location. 2) This campground doesn't have much to do onsite within walking distance. Everything is driving distance away, nothing is walking distance. 3) The inside of the cabin was really nice. Nice heater, nice bathroom and shower. The hot water never ran out. 4) I highly recommend bringing enough wood for you to last the whole time. A bundle of wood (6 pieces) here is 14$. Also, they sold us wet wood so it didn't light easy and needed a bunch of fire starter to get it to light. 5) Send emails for questions, they never answered my phone calls prior to the stay. Other than minor things, this place is well kept up and it's a nice place to camp. The tent sites are right on the river which is a beautiful spot to camp. The campground was empty because it's December but that made it more peaceful. I would camp here again but I would try tent camping by the river.

Sara C.

Stunning campsite in Big Sur on the Big Sur river. Cabins were quaint and well equipped with a fire pit, picnic table, heater inside, etc. , All you need for a cozy glamping weekend. Loved the campsite amenities including the camp store, swimming hole, and basketball courts. Bathrooms were probably as good as they could be but not much hot water in the shared bathrooms. Overall a wonderful experience which I highly recommend.

View front river bank to our site.
Sharon R.

We visited this campground 21 years ago and came back the week after Christmas. We were able to get a site directly on the water in front of the camp store. So peaceful, beautiful and serene! The new owners are super friendly and helpful and available whenever we needed them. We were in our 19' Sprinter van camper and we parked across our camp site so our awning went out towards the water and fire pit. Owner offered us a free amp converter (we were going to purchase one), but she allowed us to use theirs while we stayed. They will freshly brew complimentary coffee upon request! Showers/toilets were clean and worked great! We will be back the next time we're in No. Cal!!

View from Site #6
Heather M.

We love this place. We have a 16' trailer, and our friends brought their 29' trailer. We were upgraded to sites right on the river, which was lovely. It's small and homey. No sewer hookups, but there are showers and bathrooms that are just fine (shower is coin operated, 3 minutes for 25 cents). It's the staff that really make this place awesome. Pam is a hoot and makes you feel like you're family. We got the vibe that this is a place you come back to and are welcomed as friends, and we really hope to do that. It's a refreshing change from the big RV resorts with lots of concrete. Don't worry about the bridge situation- if the river is splashing over it to where it's dangerous, staff wouldn't book your stay.

Pretty little camp crumb predators lol
Judy L.

Drove by here twice in the last few years , waiting for an opportunity to book a stay as they book up fast. We would have taken an RV spot, a cabin or anything available because of how great we thought it would be BUT looks are deceiving. When one tent availability opened up for a site, didn't matter where at this point, we booked a night and thank goodness we didn't go for 2 or 3 nights. At check in, as some stated, the female camp host made that initial experience odd. The way she spoke to my husband seemed very dismissive but before this became unpleasant after a 5 hour drive, I decided to speak with the host and she was pleasant so maybe she just had an off moment. Done and time to drive to our site. An immediately, weed was in the air and we "lucked" out by being able to get a strong whiff of it every hour or so. Yes, it's legal in CA but not really the "fresh air" we were chasing. It was busier than what we are used to. Having the freedom of boondocking or finding campgrounds with plenty of space apart is what we are used to. These spots, however , were close to one another (as most campgrounds are) but it became a bit loud when different sites played music, were drinking and it felt more of a block party of which we could all see and hear everyone so we decided to get our very "old" feeling selves to bed early. Made breakfast and couldnt help but over hear an angry husband arguing with his wife and threatening to slap a B cause he don't care where he's at, while the wife argued back that she would slap him harder and don't give a....OMG this was just NOT my idea of a nature getaway at all. Lol We were so happy to leave the very next morning and thankful we never booked a longer stay here as we had initially imagined would be a "dream". If you're planning a group trip, a stream where the kids can play (shallow river more of a stream) and a place that has more smoke from weed than fire pits, then by all means. ..come here during summer haha! This may be the spot you're looking for. To be fair, every freaking dog we saw was on their best behavior (even the ones who were off leash and unsupervised) and because I enjoyed seeing dogs is why I gave this place 3 stars instead of one. I can only account for one night/day stay here so I can't knock it down because I'm sure some travelers had a better experience. Too bad, we're Definitely not one of them. Good luck and happy Camping !

River views from the south
Evangelene G.

This is our second time here and we used all of the amenities in our cabin. On this visit: - We stayed in Cabin 11 (pet friendly, but we didn't bring our dog) - Private bathroom with a small shower (the shower head is a little high) - Kitchenette with an induction stove - Small dorm fridge - Sink - Dishes, utensils, coffee maker, tea kettle available - Ask the office for free coffee (Note: The coffee packs make 4 cups of coffee) - Parking in front of the cabin. - Gas grill, patio furniture on deck - Queen sized bed, but if you lay down and look up, there's a small glass ledge so you can see the trees. We lucked out and saw the Persid Meteor showers. Because our cabin is next to the ADA cabin, you have to zig zag your way up to the cabin. The cabin is adjacent to the porta potties, restrooms, laundry and close proximity to the general store. The campground is along the river (bonus). There's access to both campsites next to Riverside - Big Sur Campground and Cabins and Ripplewood. We've walked through both sites. There's a trail along the river that will take you to Ripplewood Resort. There are some narrow spots, but it's the quickest way to get to either Road House Big Sur or Ripplewood Cafe. The woman who checked us in had a bit of an attitude, but both guys that were in the office were very helpful.

Jessica C.

The location could not be more perfect. It was so close to so many parks :) the staff was so helpful and gave wonderful directions/recommendations. We did the cabin and the price was fair for the accommodation.

Walking up the river

I stayed here for only one night, but I wish it was many more. I can't speak for the campsites because I stayed in a cabin. The cabin was fantastic, I loved the feel of it. The ceiling with the adorable fan was my favorite feature. All of the staff were very friendly, hospitable, and welcoming. As a Monterey native, I think this was the best campground I've ever had the pleasure of experiencing in Big Sur. It's pretty small, but quaint and peaceful which is exactly what I needed. I was able to bring my two dogs, which is mostly what this adventure was for. Cabin #1 has its own deck with a gate so they were contained when needed. My senior dog isn't able to walk much, but she was so happy napping on the deck for her last adventure with me. My other dog had a blast in the river for his first time. Thank you Riverside Campground & staff for making this possible with my pets and helping me make my last memories with my furry best friend. I really don't have any complaints. If I had to pick something out, I'd say I wish there was a little more space around the river to relax. I know this is mother natures doing, so it's not a deal breaker for me. I made the mistake of not bringing a chair. Learn from my mistake! Overall, everything was great and I can't wait to return soon!

Nice quiet spot. Went to Big Sur without a reservation and found this site. Excellent customer service, coin operated hot showers, little general store with all the basics and Wi-Fi for texting! Helpful when you have young adults at home lol clean restrooms and sites.

Kathleen S.

I loved my time at Riverside Campground. Pam, Ernest and others there were very helpful and friendly, making me feel like a welcomed guest and friend. The bathrooms are clean and well-stocked. The camp spaces have shade and light and enough space. There is a camp store if one needs things. The river is lovely and peaceful and since everyone rushes off for their hikes or site-seeing it is quiet and almost private during the day. It is a place to just be and enjoy. Yoga at the river's edge is glorious. I stayed on my way up the coast and then on my way down the coast as well because I liked it so much. Thank you!

Amazing breakfast on the Big Sur River @ Riverside Campground.

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Beautiful area and close to all the hikes we wanted to do! The sound of the creek made it magical and a peaceful sleep was long over do.

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Ask the Community - Riverside Campground & Cabins

Does this campground really only book 7-10 days beforehand? I called and they were already all booked for the days I need, which is more than 10 days away?

Everything in Big Sur sells out fast.

What is check out tume?

11am

Is this a good place to bring bicycles?

not per say. For kids? no- area is minimal where to safely bike. For long range biking- maybe, ...but the roads are not safe for biking. Narrow and blind turns and most your traffic is tourists or locals who possible drive faster. You may annoy more… 

Do the cabins have bathrooms?

no. but they do have 2 main bathroom that they maintain well. I think only 1 or 2 cabins have a bathroom inside.

What time can you check in?

3 pm

Is there a size restriction on RV's I have a 30 foot trailer is Riverside open to this?

I believe so, see some bigger class c in the patk

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Review Highlights - Riverside Campground & Cabins

“Pam, Ernest and others there were very helpful and friendly, making me feel like a welcomed guest and friend.”

Mentioned in 32 reviews

Read more highlights

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

4.4(413 reviews)
1.5 mi

Pfeiffer Beach looks and feels magical and is one of our absolute favorite places to come every…read moreyear. It's where the forest meets the sea and the views are breathtaking Between the huge rock formations, purple sand, and the famous keyhole where you can see the ocean through the rock, it's such a beautiful place. There are also tide pools to explore and we've seen tons of starfish, sea urchins, and other little sea creatures. The everyone loves it :) The beach feels so different from your normal California beach it doesn't feel real.. it's so beautiful. It's definitely one of those places pictures don't do justice AT ALL !! If you're passing through Big Sur this is a MUST stop.. Trust me, you won't regret it Just be prepared for the drive down to the beach. The road is VERY narrow, almost one lane in some areas, and you'll have to move to the side to let other cars pass. There are some tight turns too, so just go slow and pay attention, especially with cars coming the opposite direction. It's a little adventure getting down there but completely worth it!

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.

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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

Big Sur Campground and Cabins - Single bed, other room had 2 beds

Big Sur Campground and Cabins

3.5(339 reviews)
0.1 mi

This place is absolutely gorgeous! Being nestled right under the massive redwoods with the Big Sur…read moreRiver running through the grounds makes for an amazing, peaceful getaway. The cabins are super cozy, and the hot showers are a great perk after a long day of exploring. Signal drops completely out here, so make sure you download your offline maps and directions before heading in and Be super careful with your food, trash, and coolers as we had a skunk visit our spot where we were staying but Overall, a fantastic spot to disconnect and soak in nature. Just pack a paper map and lock up your snacks!

I'm only not giving this place 4 stars because of the rude staff we encountered when checking in…read moreand asking questions. The curly haired girl with glasses at the check-in area seemed just frustrated and annoyed by us as we pulled in and tried to get out of the way of others checking in. I guess they tried to tell us to wait but it was busy and I didn't hear and wanted to make sure I wasn't blocking others, so I pulled in and parked a bit. I was immediately turned off by the rudeness and didn't feel welcome as she yelled at me and told me she was trying to get me to stop. She told me to go to my site and get set up and come back and was just incredibly cranky and mean about it. Also, it would have been nice to be warned about the MANY skunks that come out at sunset and run around the campground looking for food. We are in nature after all, but even state parks warn you of current wildlife! They were so tame that I don't think they even sprayed but it def was concerning with two dogs in tow. Otherwise, the campsites are gorgeous and it's very peaceful. The free ice, one bundle of firewood, and mugs were incredibly generous and the river swimming areas are unmatched! Bathrooms were small and crowded but mostly clean and nice they had shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the women's! But, expect a long line in the morning and for bed for the sinks with the next bathroom quite a ways away. I'd definitely stay here again but suggest the staff try to be a little less cranky and more welcoming! Big Sur is magical and the energy of the workers should match that.

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Big Sur Campground and Cabins - Kitchen and dining area

Kitchen and dining area

Big Sur Campground and Cabins - Daily coffee is a must for camping

Daily coffee is a must for camping

Big Sur Campground and Cabins - Bathroom, water pressure on the shower is strong, water gets warm

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Bathroom, water pressure on the shower is strong, water gets warm

Ventana Campground - Outside of glamping tent

Ventana Campground

3.5(217 reviews)
3.3 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...

Came here from Monday- Wednesday at their tent camping site. We stayed at campsite #1. This site…read morewas considered a hike in. To get in was a slight incline, slightly steep but there were stairs, so that made the incline slightly easier. Someone mentioned that it was a 0.5 mile hike-in in another review, and it's far less than 0.5 miles. I wouldn't recommend it to someone who maybe doesn't want to get their steps in because you have to climb up and down to use the restroom/shower, but other than that no complaints about this particular hike-in spot. The description of this campsite states that it'll fit a 1-2 person tent. My partner and I managed to fit a 6 person tent. It was a little big to fit in the spot, but we managed. There was a slight slope towards the edge, so we just slept the other way where it was a little more flat. This spot is super secluded, you have a lot of trees covering you. So if you value a little more privacy, it might be good for you. The closest neighbors were downhill at campsite 2 and 3, but it's a good amount of distance away. That being said it's one of the first campsites upon entering, so in the day time you get a good amount of cars passing by. At night, it's super quiet, you can even hear the creek flowing. I haven't gotten this good of sleep in a while. In the morning around 8/9 you have maintenance and cleaners coming around, cleaning the bathrooms and doing other stuff around the campsite. So if you are not an early riser, there's the noise from that. However, I didn't mind that because that gave me reassurance that they actually clean the bathrooms daily. Ventana campground offers hot showers at $2 for 5 mins. If you taken quick showers, 5 minutes is all you really need. I would recommend taking showers before it's too late or super early. There was a guest across the way from us at 54 yelling at the top of his lungs about how the water was cold and how he wasted money on his shower at 5AM. He then proceeded to break the door and break the hand sanitizer off the wall and throw its across the campsite. I'm sure he woke a lot of people up from his little baby temper tantrum. Not sure if it was because spot 1 was surrounded by trees, but we had a lot of little flys?/gnats? Flying around. They went away once we got the fire going and there was smoke. There were also wasps flying around which made it uncomfortable as my partner is allergic. They only came out when food/meat was out and being cooked. Overall, this was a great experience for a first time camper, like myself. The showers and bathrooms were greatly appreciated. They had an airstream that offered drinks and snacks. There was also jenga and cornhole by the airstream. Again, we came during the weekday. It was not that busy and super quiet. There were a lot of spots open. I'm sure the experience would be different on the weekends, with more spots filled. Some of the campsites are really close together so I'm not sure how busy or loud it could get on the weekends with neighbors close by. I went around to scout other campsites for next time. Overall, I would like to come back again and either book the same spot or try a different spot.

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Ventana Campground - Tomahawk

Tomahawk

Ventana Campground
Ventana Campground - Bathroom with shower.

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Bathroom with shower.

Kirk Creek Campground

Kirk Creek Campground

4.3(195 reviews)
25.7 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.

Kirk Creek Campground offers one of the most breathtaking coastal views you'll find anywhere in…read moreCalifornia. Waking up right on the cliffs above the ocean is incredible and truly makes the trip worth it. There's no cell service, though newer iPhones with satellite messaging can still send and receive texts if needed. Just be prepared: the campground is very rustic. There's no water, no power, and only basic latrines. At $45 per night, it feels a bit steep considering the lack of amenities, but that's the Recreation.gov rate- and the scenery does soften the sting. If you're driving in, know that Nacimiento-Fergusson Road is not recommended for large vehicles, trailers, or anything that struggles with braking downhill. For larger rigs, Highway 1 is definitely the safer and better option. The surrounding area is amazing, with tons of hikes, beaches, and spots to explore. You can even find local jade along the beaches and in riverbeds, which is a fun bonus. The campground hosts are enthusiastic, friendly, and genuinely helpful- one of the highlights of staying here. The only major downside is the raccoon situation. They go absolutely wild at night- climbing on tables, chairs, coolers, even cars and trailers. They will try to open anything they can, so make sure everything is secured or locked up. It would be great to see the park system address this, because they're definitely a persistent (and bold) nuisance. Overall, Kirk Creek is stunning, quiet, and unforgettable- as long as you're ready for a rustic experience and some energetic nighttime visitors.

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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

Pfeiffer Beach - Outhouses

Pfeiffer Beach

4.5(345 reviews)
2.0 mi

Pfeiffer Beach looks and feels magical and is one of our absolute favorite places to come every…read moreyear. It's where the forest meets the sea and the views are breathtaking Between the huge rock formations, purple sand, and the famous keyhole where you can see the ocean through the rock, it's such a beautiful place. There are also tide pools to explore and we've seen tons of starfish, sea urchins, and other little sea creatures. The everyone loves it :) The beach feels so different from your normal California beach it doesn't feel real.. it's so beautiful. It's definitely one of those places pictures don't do justice AT ALL !! If you're passing through Big Sur this is a MUST stop.. Trust me, you won't regret it Just be prepared for the drive down to the beach. The road is VERY narrow, almost one lane in some areas, and you'll have to move to the side to let other cars pass. There are some tight turns too, so just go slow and pay attention, especially with cars coming the opposite direction. It's a little adventure getting down there but completely worth it! Note: restrooms are not the best .. take wipes/toilet paper, sanitizer

The most famous beach with purple sand, Pfeiffer Beach is located in BIg Sur, requiring a 2 mile…read moredrive down a one-lane road to reach. It also costs $15 to park here. Our family thought it was worth it. Pfeiffer Beach was our eighth and longest stop during our southbound journey on the Cabrillo highway through Big Sur. Access is through Sycamore Canyon Road (one lane) which is extremely easy to miss from the highway. It is a one lane road but has many areas where one can turn off to let oncoming cars pass, though I can imagine when it gets busy how much more difficult it would become. We had left Carmel early in the morning, so it was about 07:48 when we reached the bottom. As we drove down, my wife noticed a lone, empty chair about halfway down. Later we realized that that is where a ranger would sit to tell cars to go back up, once the limited parking lot near the beach got full. The car entrance had yet to be manned, so we paid per vehicle fee via cash in an envelope deposited in a fee drop box. The tear off stub is then displayed on your dash. Later when we were leaving, there were employees manning the area, accepting payment, with credit cards being accepted. The parking is administered by a private company so our America the Beautiful National Park pass did not work here. We were the 2nd car in the lot. There are angled handicap spots, motorcycle parking, and bathrooms (outhouse style) in the parking area. There is definitely more beach space than there are parking spots, so if you are able to get to the beach, one can easily find a secluded spot. Though as the no refund sign warned, there is high winds and blowing sand on the beach so not the best place for a warm, sunny beach day. There are streaks of purple sand along the beach (learned that the purple is caused by garnet powder that washes down from surrounding areas). It made the white sand look like it had dirt spots. I did have time to walk to both ends of the beach, and discovered that at the north end, there are pockets of sand further away from the ocean where the garnet sand is a lot more prevalent. The beach is named after the pioneer, Michael Pfeiffer. Many other places in the area (Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park) are named after his descendants. The beach is for day use only, and is open from sunrise to sunset. What's interesting about this is how many reviews are on Yelp for this beach, even though there was no cell service when we went. It clearly shows a lot of Yelpers are coming to this beach, and taking the effort to write about it once they get back to an area that has internet. But there are no reviews for any of the vista points in the surrounding areas. Maybe they aren't being approved by Yelp to be searchable?

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Pfeiffer Beach - Velella velella

Velella velella

Pfeiffer Beach
Pfeiffer Beach

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Limekiln State Park - Best campsite at LimeKiln

Limekiln State Park

4.4(146 reviews)
23.9 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

Sykes Hot Springs - Hot Spring

Sykes Hot Springs

5.0(1 review)
0.3 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

Riverside Campground & Cabins - campgrounds - Updated October 2026

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