DISCOVER THE ADVENTURE
BIG SUR OCEANVIEW CAMPGROUNDS

If you like camping, I know you'll like camping along the ocean - whether it's on a beach, or high on a bluff overlooking the sea. And it certainly doesn't get any better than the views from Big Sur's oceanview campgrounds!

Big Sur Cliff and Surf; © Kevin Connors

Why camp at Kirk Creek campground?

• Whale watching from November to February as the Gray Whales migrate south to Baja
• Spectacular coastal views
• A trail to the beach
• The Vicente Flats trailhead, which leads into the Ventana Wilderness

Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP only has two campsites - both are environmental campsites, and both are tent camping only.

They're about one mile from the parking lot so it's a hike in, but once you arrive you'll find yourself atop a forested bluff overlooking McWay Falls - the only U.S. waterfall that drops directly into the ocean (when the tide is high) - beyond that: the Pacific Ocean!

These are very popular sites and must be reserved in advance.

The draw:

• No crowds
• Incredible views
• Partington Cove and McWay Falls
• Pfeiffer Beach is nearby
• If you're an experienced diver, see about getting a permit to dive the Julia Pfeiffer Burns Underwater Area

Limekiln State Park; © Igor Karon

Limekiln State Park is one of the more interesting sites along the Big Sur coastline because of the cultural history of its limekilns.

In 1887 the Rockland Lime and Lumber Company was extracting lime from the area, processing it in four large lime kilns, and loading it on ships for transport, to be used in the making of concrete. The ruins of the kilns are still around.

You'll find breathtaking views at Limekiln of both the Redwood forests, and the rugged Northern California coastline. It's normally open all year and reservations are recommended, although there are five campsites available for first-come, first served.

There are 33 developed campsites, 28 of which are reservable, set into the Redwood forest. Facilities include restrooms and showers. Vehicle size is limited to 24 feet (thus RV access is limited).

Special Note: Redwood campground is currently closed for resource protection, but it's expected to open March 21st, 2011.

What's the draw at this Big Sur oceanview campground?

• Fewer people
• Beautiful setting amongst the Redwoods, and extraordinary views of the California coastline
• The history of the limekiln industry - you can still see what's left of the kilns along the West Fork of Limekiln Creek
• Pay witness to Coastal Redwoods (fog-loving trees) living nearly side-by-side with yucca (drought-tolerant suculants)

A Treebones Yurt
(CC) Thomas Frederick Martinez

Treebones Resort is the truly unique Big Sur oceanview campgrounds experience!

Positioned on a bluff overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean, there's not a bad view in the place.

In addition to the views and the yurts, there are campsites, a restaurant, and something new - a "human nest" created by Jayson Fann.

Treebones is open all year and reservations are necessary.

You'll find 16 beautiful yurts with fabric walls and roof wrapped around a wood lattice frame, all furnished and cozy; 5 campsites; a heated swimming pool and spa, a store, and a central Guest Services building for showers and laundry.

Why stay at Treebones?

• Bragging rights: "Oh, didn't I mention? We stayed in a yurt." (Spoken in a very casual tone, of course.)
• Spectacular views of the Pacific, especially sitting on the deck of your yurt with a cocktail in hand - they call them "Sundowners" in Africa - while, appropriately, the sun drops into the sea
• The warm & friendly ambience created by the owners and staff

Looking for a Big Sur camping experience other than oceanview campgrounds? Look no further...

Please continue your exploration of what Northern California has to offer by using the Nav Bar at the left, by using the links at the bottom of the page, or by using the customized search box below to find the specific topic that interests you.

Like what you're finding here at DiscoverNorthernCalifornia.com? Then please share with your Social Network (see the buttons below).

For more pictures of Northern California and other great stuff, check out my facebook page, www.DiscoverNorthernCalifornia.com. Become a fan, write on my Wall, contribute to the Discussion Board, post a Review -- join in the fun!

New! Comments