Description

Take in the beautiful Big Sur coastal views at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. With ample shade provided by Redwood and Sycamore trees, an 80-foot waterfall that flows from granite cliffs into the ocean, and panoramic views of the coastline, this is definitely your spot for amazing Big Sur camping.
Despite the large campground (172 sites), there’s still room to find space for yourself. This campground is diverse with each loop providing a different landscape. If you want to be closest to the river, sites 171-189 are the best. If being shaded under big trees is more your thing, then check out sites 1-21. There are also 2 group sites if you’re with a big crew or maybe a family gathering. Regardless, you can’t really go wrong at Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground.

Campsite area
Tent or RV sites
174 sites
Up to 30 guests per site
Up to 6 vehicles
No wheelchair access
Essentials
Campfires allowed
Toilet available
Pets allowed
Amenities
Potable water available
Showers available
Picnic table available

Activities

Offered near the campground.

Biking

Biking at Pfeiffer Big Sur is an activity best left to expert bikers as the rides are difficult and you’ll have to pay close at...Read more

Fishing

When hit at the right time, Pfeiffer Big Sur can be an awesome place for a little fly fishing west of Higway 1. Give the Califo...Read more

Hiking

They don’t call this place “mini Yosemite” for nothing! Take a hike through the massive oaks, conifers and redwoods or take you...Read more

Paddling

Kayaking close to Pfeiffer Big Sur park can be an exciting escapade for experienced kayakers. With the help of a guide, less ...Read more

Swimming

Visitors can swim at the large beach, but if you want the more “local” experience, go check out The Gorge. It’s located about 0...Read more

Wildlife watching

Between open meadows and redwoods, it is no wonder why there is so much wildlife in Pfeiffer Big Sur. While on the trails, natu...Read more

Terrain

Natural features you'll find at Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground.

Beach
Forest
Hot spring
Swimming hole
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59 Reviews

750
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Drop some Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground knowledge on us.
Hipcamper Joseph
Joseph B.
recommends this listing.
January 28th, 2020

Big Sur has some scenic views along the Vista Points on PCH. About 30 minutes in either direction of the park you'll find iconic locations such as the Big Sur Lighthouse and Bixby Bridge. In the park are dozens of scenic hikes alongside streams and creeks. The campground itself is well maintained and has a lot of amenities, including hot showers.

Fishing is highly regulated in the area. If you do fish, there is little cellular signal in the area. Make sure you call ahead of time to get the rules on any body of water you plan on fishing in.

Hipcamper Verenice
Verenice S.
recommends this listing.
February 11th, 2019

Nights can get chilly, even in the summer. Bring something cozy.

Hipcamper Judy
Judy H.
recommends this listing.
February 6th, 2019

check weather/road condition, especially since the fires and the rains! Beautiful area!

Hipcamper Eugene
Eugene L.
recommends this listing.
January 22nd, 2019

The coastline is rough & protected. McWay Falls is a must. IRS the only beach on California coastline with a huge waterfall that spills on the sandy beach. Try to avoid visiting on weekends or holidays as tourists flock to this spot. There is an easy trail with a comfy bench at end of your walk. You can sit and watch the beautiful sunset. The entire park is photographers paradise.

Hipcamper Caitlin
Caitlin O.
recommends this listing.
January 20th, 2019

Check the trail conditions before you go. Rain/mud slides often close off sections of trails.

Hipcamper Brittney
Brittney R.
recommends this listing.
December 19th, 2018

Beware of poison oak.

Hipcamper Lisa
Lisa M.
recommends this listing.
November 23rd, 2018

Check for road closures before you set out.

Hipcamper Nicole
Nicole L.
recommends this listing.
November 4th, 2018

The hot springs at Esalen are open to the public at 1am but require a reservation. They are absolutely amazing!

Hipcamper Kerisa
Kerisa K.
recommends this listing.
October 19th, 2018

Absolutely beautiful. Try and get a spot along the river, you can hear some road noise from the PCH if camped near the road. Book early! Tends to be booked for months i advance on weekends!

Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
State
California
Country
United States
Phone Number
(831) 667-2315
Directions
View on Google Maps
Official Website
View Website
Coordinates
36.246° N, 121.78° W
Unknown price
Tent Only: 45 Sites
(Up to 8 people per site)
Unknown price
Tent Only - Group: 4 Sites
(Up to 30 people per site)
Unknown price
Tent / RV / Trailer: 125 Sites
(Up to 8 people per site)