Guide to RV Camping in Big Sur

Have you been California dreamin’? 

Are you stuck thinking about blue skies, clear waters, and golden sands?

Grab your swimsuit and bring the sunscreen—it’s time for an RV trip to the sunshine state!

Destination: Big Sur.

Big Sur, California, is a stretch of beautiful winding coastline between San Simeon and Carmel, California. Each year the area brings in an estimated 5.8 million visitors from all over the world.

It’s no wonder why. If you love the outdoors, Big Sur is the spot for you. 

So, if you’re looking for things to do, top tips, or places to stay in this world-renown vacation destination, follow along on this guide to RV camping in Big Sur.

Thing To Do In Big Sur

Breathtaking scenery is the norm when you visit the rugged coast of Big Sur, California. From pristine, windswept beaches to surreal ancient redwood forests, Big Sur has it all. 

That’s true when it comes to the activities, too. Scuba diving, fishing, horseback riding, Big Sur lives up to its name as an outdoor lover’s paradise. Trust us—you’ll never get bored on an RV camping trip to Big Sur.

There are so many amazing things to do that it’s hard to keep track. You could: 

• Take a day hike through secluded beaches and pristine meadows at Andrew Molera State Park.

• Soak in the sun on the beach after hiking the McWay Falls Trail.

• Try scuba diving off the coast of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

• Take a trip out to Point Sur Lighthouse—one of California’s historic landmarks. 

• Try ocean fishing from the beach, or by chartering a boat for some off-shore fun.

• Take this chance to try surfing off Sand Dollar Beach.

• Check out Big Sur’s famous Bixby Bridge, featured in movies, commercials, and TV shows since the late ‘60s. 

• Hike through redwood forests and blooming spring flowers in Garrapata State Park.

Big Sur RV Camping Top Tips

Still, having a couple of Big Sur RV camping tips before you head out can help make your journey even better. From dealing with unpredictable weather to finding those special spots for relaxation, here are some Big Sur RV camping tips to start you off right.

• Bring a tow vehicle with 4X4 capabilities, if you can. Big Sur has some amazing spots you can only get to with some offroad help.

• Big Sur’s active atmosphere sometimes needs a relaxing counterpart. If all the hiking has you beat, why not try a natural spa day at the Esalen Hot Springs or the Hot Springs at the Tassajara Zen Center.

• Beware of poison oak when hiking, and don’t forget the sunscreen and bug spray if you’re planning on visiting during summer.

• The beach views may be Big Sur’s main attraction, but don’t forget the beautiful hikes through the redwoods at Limekiln State Park. 

• The tourist season stretches from April to October, but Big Sur is gorgeous year-round, so don’t be afraid to visit in the off-season and skip the crowds.

• Be aware of dangerous wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, ticks, rattlesnakes, and more.

Big Sur’s Top RV Parks and Campgrounds

Just remember your Big Sur RV campground reservations for whatever sight you choose. Big Sur can draw in the crowds during the summer, and you don’t want to miss out.

Here are some of the best RV parks near Big Sur to keep in mind:

Fernwood Campground and Resort

Amenities: At the end of the Big Sur River, bordering Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, you’ll find Fernwood Campground and Resort. If you’re not looking to rough it, this is the spot for you. 

There’s plenty of electrical hookups, picnic tables, fire pits, and more.  Plus, a nearby bar & grill with free wi-fi and a cafe on-site for you coffee lovers out there. 

Capacity: Fernwood has dozens of camp and RV sites plus a dump station for RVs, as well as shower and bathroom facilities.

More information: Fernwood Campground and Resort

Big Sur Campground and Cabins

Amenities: A little further up Big Sur River, nestled in an ancient redwood forest, lies Big Sur Campground and Cabins. The campground is the perfect spot for families. 

From volleyball and basketball courts to a playground, camp store, and laundry facilities, Big Sur has all your family's RV camping needs covered. They even have a quiet time from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m., too, so you don’t have to worry about getting rest with all the kids around.  

Capacity: With dozens of campsites and RV pull-throughs, you shouldn’t have trouble securing a spot at Big Sur as long as you make a reservation.

More information: Big Sur Campground and Cabins

Kirk Creek Campground

Amenities:  Kirk Creek Campground is one of the most beautiful spots in Big Sur. Looking over the Pacific Ocean, with the Los Padres National Forest behind it, Kirk Creek has some of the most amazing views around.

There aren’t many amenities at Kirk Creek. Other than bathrooms, fire pits, and picnic tables, it’s pretty rustic. Still, with so many beautiful trails around, amazing views, and endless beach fun available, Kirk Creek is one of the top spots on this list if you can secure a spot.

Capacity: Kirk Creek is smaller than other campgrounds on this list, with just 34 campsites in total.  

More information: Kirk Creek Campground

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

Amenities: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park was named after Julia Pfieffer Burns. A daughter of one of the original European settlers of the area, Julia Burns was a true pioneer woman. One of the few land-owning women of her day, she owned the area that is now Pfeiffer Big Sur.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is another one that surrounds Big Sur River. It can get busy, so don’t forget to make online reservations with Reserve California. 

Capacity: Pfeiffer Big Sur boasts 189 sites for both RVs and campers and all the amenities RV campers could need, including electrical hookups and dump stations.

More information: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

Limekiln State Park Campgrounds

Amenities: Limekiln State Park is over 700 acres of serene old-growth forest. The campground within the park is the smallest campground on this list, and it’s a little different from the rest. 

Instead of being set near the beach or river, Limekiln is set amongst the redwoods near beautiful waterfalls and tree-covered trails. The park is located two miles south of Lucia and offers a rustic, calm camping experience for anyone looking to escape it all.

Capacity: Limekiln State Park campgrounds only offer 33 campsites, which means you’ll need to make a reservation. 

More information: Limekiln State Park Campgrounds

RV Rental Big Sur

When it comes to renting an RV, it pays to go with experience and quality. That’s why Cruise America is the first choice for most RV renters. 

Cruise is the most trusted name in RVs.  All their RVs come fully equipped with air conditioning, a shower, a toilet, a microwave, a refrigerator, and even a generator just in case.

So if you’re looking to rent an RV, give Cruise America a call and start your dream RV camping trip today!