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Big Sur · California

Van Camping in Big Sur

The most famous stretch of coast in California — and one of the trickiest to sleep on. Legal campgrounds fill months out, but Los Padres dispersed spots in the hills above the highway still offer free nights with ocean views.

3 verified spots · 1 free · van-tested notes on every one
Satellite view of Plaskett Creek Campground — Big Sur
Plaskett Creek Campground — Big Sur
$35/night · National Forest · 265 mi from LA
One of the most scenic campgrounds in California. Bluff above the Pacific. Book as far in advance as possible.
Satellite view of Los Padres NF — Big Sur Dispersed
Los Padres NF — Big Sur Dispersed
Free · Dispersed Camping · 250 mi from LA
Free alternative to Big Sur state parks. Use USFS MVUM map to find legal dispersed roads. Ventana Wilderness n…
Satellite view of Andrew Molera State Park — Walk-in Camp
Andrew Molera State Park — Walk-in Camp
$25/night · State Park · 300 mi from LA
Walk-in camp only (0.25 mile). No reservations — first come, first served. One of the best values on the Big S…

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