Can I camp anywhere in Big Sur?

The Los Padres National Forest is home to Big Sur and there are lots of places on the side of the road that you are allowed to camp for free. Big Sur campgrounds can fill up months in advance, so car camping on public BLM land (Bureau of Land Management) is a great back-up or last-minute trick.

Can you sleep in your car in Big Sur?

Hwy 1 through Big Sur is a remote area, so the highway patrol can only monitor the road so much – its not like they can just pass by various sections on their way to somewhere else. So, yes, it is possible to sleep in your car and not get caught. If you are caught, at the very least you will be told to move along.

Where can I camp in Big Sur without a reservation?

If you end up without a camping reservation in Big Sur… Your best bet is the San Simeon Creek Campground to the south, which has 115 campsites. This one is located near Hearst Castle where you can book a tour.

Are campfires allowed in Big Sur right now?

Campfires are allowed only in the provided metal fire rings within the State Parks’ campgrounds. Firewood is available at the Pfeiffer Big Sur entrance kiosk for $12/bundle.

Does Big Sur have dispersed camping?

Dispersed camping in Big Sur is somewhat limited. Your only options are in Los Padres National Forest, east of Highway 1, roughly between Gorda and Lucia.

Can you camp on the side of Highway 1?

Six Miles of Coastline Two campgrounds are within the park on either side of Highway 1, and the campsites are open to tents and RVs. More than 100 sites range from open and spacious to shady and secluded, and each one includes a picnic table, campfire ring and access to restrooms and drinking water.

Can you car camp on Highway 1?

You can also do this trip with a regular car, a tent, and other car camping supplies. You’ll enjoy campfires (or do without if there are restrictions), glittering starry nights, and morning walks by the sand dunes.

Are there bears in Big Sur campground?

Black bears are relative newcomers to the Big Sur area, and while still rare, are spotted occasionally. They are believed to be colonizing the area as a result of being pushed out of southern California.

How do you camp at Big Sur?

Pfeiffer Big Sur is an extremely popular campground. Reservations fill up six months in advance, even in the winter. Online reservations are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at ReserveCalifornia. You may also call toll free 1-800-444-7275.

Can you Boondock on Highway 1?

Finally! After over a month of working our way up the California coast from Cambria on Highway 1, the Pacific Coast Highway, we’ve hit a stretch where you can honest to goodness boondock – camp right on the side of the highway overlooking the ocean.

Are there cougars in Big Sur?

Cougars, or mountain lions, exist in Big Sur but are rarely spotted. They are elusive and quiet. Although strong and powerful, rarely are they considered a threat to people. If you do spot a mountain lion, follow the guidelines below.

What is Big Sur camping?

Camping in Big Sur means setting up your tent on ocean cliffs and in redwood groves, next to babbling brooks and lazy rivers, and underneath bright stars and wheeling galaxies.

Where can I pitch my tent in Big Sur?

Ponderosa Campground is a bit of an off-the-beaten path place to pitch your tent in Big Sur. Ponderosa’s location about 14 miles from the coast makes it an excellent place for stargazing, so plan to take advantage of any clear nights.

How do I get to Big Sur National Park?

A panoramic view of the ocean and miles of rugged coastline is available from the higher elevations along the trails east of Highway 1. The park is 37 miles south of Carmel on Highway One; 12 miles south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.Restrooms and telephone available to the public. Online reservations available on the website.

What are the rules for camping in Big Sur?

No amplified music. Noise from radios and other devices must not be audible beyond your immediate campsite, regardless of the time of day or night 189 RV and tent sites are situated on or near the Big Sur River. There is a Campfire Center that offers evening programs on the weekends during peak season.