The best camping near Big Sur, California.

Pitch your tent under the majestic redwood trees in a Big Sur old-growth forest. Sleep beside a meandering stream under a canopy of stars. Pull up a cliff-side picnic table on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, and soak up the salt air and breathtaking views.

Perfectly positioned on Highway 1 (a.k.a. Pacific Coast Highway) between Monterey and San Simeon, Big Sur epitomizes the rugged California coastline. And camping options abound. Plan ahead if you’re hoping for tent or RV camping at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The large, very popular campground with a 60-foot waterfall hike typically books six months in advance.

There's no car or RV camping at Andrew Molera State Park. This Big Sur campground offers hike-in only sites well worth the short trek. About 56 miles south of Carmel, Limekiln State Park boasts two excellent day-use hiking trails. We vote for the one that winds you along the Pacific Ocean cliffs.

Speaking of cliffs, if bluff-side camping calls, head to Kirk Creek Campground. Perched high above the crashing surf, your spacious site provides a picnic table, fire ring, and pedestal barbeque.

Plentiful privately owned Big Sur campgrounds and rustic cottages dot the land. Pretty much anywhere you stay lets you swim in the Big Sur River, hit the hiking trails and catch a blazing sunset. The camping’s typically great year-round, so ditch the summer crowds by visiting in spring or fall.