I have seen insane traffic pile-ups, congestion, and masses of humanity just outside some of the popular state parks. After the Big Sur mudslides in 2017 that forced road closures further south on Highway 1, camping was made illegal along Nacimiento-Ferguson Road. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Since camping on Highway 1 is illegal (and camping on certain Forest Service roads is too), state park campgrounds offer up a stress-free alternative to free guerrilla camping. After parking my truck at the visitors center and hiking 10 miles to the Sykes Hot Springs in the Ventana Wilderness, I found myself pitching my tent next to the Big Sur River with nobody in sight. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Here are some of my favorite hotels in Big Sur: There you have it, friends. Kirk Creek is certainly one of the best places to camp in Big Sur. To see Big Sur through the best local guides, contact Ventana’s reception desk to reserve a hike with Big Sur Guides and Hiking. Sweeping views of the Big Sur valley. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. With oceanfront views and plenty of hiking trails nearby, Kirk Creek is a Big Sur camping favorite of mine, and one of the best spots if you want to camp on a Big Sur cliffside. The hike itself is only 5 miles (one way) and should take no more than three hours to complete. Please check the USDA site for current trail conditions before visiting: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/lpnf/alerts-notices. None of the sites have electricity, but you don’t need that anyway, right? LOST AND FOUND: 831-667-1112 SPECIAL EVENTS, SCHOOL GROUPS: BigSurEvents@parks.ca.gov 831-667-0507 FILM PERMITS (MOTION and STILL): BigSurFilm@parks.ca.gov 831-667-0507 CELL PHONES: Cell phone service is extremely limited in Big Sur. We’ve hiked Big Sur many times, but wanted history and knowledge of the area, plants and trees. Note: Be aware that there is TONS of poison oak in the area. This route, however, is one of the best road trips in California. Go early in order to snag the best spots. I hope you found the information in this guide helpful! Open 9:00 am - 4:00 p.m. 831-667-2315. This trip offers all of the splendor of Big Sur without the crowds or regulations. There are only two goddamn campsites! If you do somehow manage a reservation, hopefully, you will get to see some whales, dolphins, or other amazing sea creatures! With zero facilities on offer, it is not a surprise that campers here have made a mess of things. If you’re RV camping, I don’t recommend trying to park here. For more ideas on the essentials for outdoor adventures, check out our jumbo-sized roundup of the best gear to take backpacking. If you do camp I think it best to depart the campsite at first light. Big Sur camping doesn’t get any better than this! Legends relate that at one time the unique notch at the mountain’s top was roofed over by a rock bridge. Pssssst! Plus, you can be certain that no police or ranger will hassle (or fine) you for camping. The Nacimiento-Ferguson Road was the classic free Big Sur camping spot. Likewise, the opposite could be true. #3 of 22 Outdoor Activities in Big Sur. Almost without exception, if it is free Big Sur campsites you seek, then you are going to have to get off Highway 1. Always use caution when crossing streams, and simply don’t risk it if you are in doubt. In the peak of the summer in years past, the Nacimiento-Ferguson Road was absolutely loaded with cars and people. Creek crossings found on the hike can be difficult if the water flow happens to be particularly fierce. Security Belt with Hidden Pocket: I never hit the road without my security belt. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be. Any time of the year you could find people camping along this road. Note: Users have reported that due to wildfire damage, portions of this trail are not being maintained and may not be accessible for all users. Note: Users have reported Coast Road may be private property. Artists, hippies, surfers, hikers, beach bums, burnouts, and every shade of tourist ventures to this land… that land is called Big Sur. So, if you park and walk into the bush more than 300 feet, in theory, this is allowed. This might be unnecessary, but you never know. Try to get a campsite along the Big Sur River in the far back reaches of the campground. You’ll need to hike for couple hundred meters to reach the campsites, so be prepared to make the short trek (> 7 minutes). Don’t let that put you off! As of 5/2020 the road to this route has essentially fallen off the mountain, with no repair in sight for the foreseeable future. To be specific, it is technically considered free camping in Big Sur when the camping takes place next to Highway 1, which isn’t really tolerated anymore. A group of my friends met up for Rob's birthday for a scenic backpacking trip on the California Coast. Please note: Wilderness travel in the Big Sur backcountry during the summer months can be extremely dangerous and even life threatening. 2.Travel Water Bottle: Always travel with a water bottle – it’ll save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. On every adventure, there are five things I never go traveling without: 1. Some of the trails at Andrew Molera have mountain bike access. There are a series of excellent hiking trails, brilliant ocean views, and wildlife viewing opportunities. 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