The best ranch campgrounds in Big Sur

Looking for a ranch-style camping experience in Big Sur, California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 53 options available, you'll find the perfect accommodation for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking to sleep under the stars or enjoy the comforts of glamping, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like DABUDAGE (367 reviews), Star Route (134 reviews), and Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping (34 reviews). Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like cooking equipment, pet-friendly spaces, and clean toilets. And if you're into surfing, boating, or snow sports, you'll be in paradise. Prices range from $45 to an average of $199 per night, so you can find an option that fits your budget. Start planning your unforgettable camping trip today!

88% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Sur

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%

(725)

9 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA

DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.

2. Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping

98%

(176)

38 sites · Lodging · Carmel Valley, CA

The Camp was started in 1925 by Mrs. Douglas as a girls camp to teach young girls the beautiful wonders of the outdoors including horseback riding, swimming, archery, and camping. She felt that boys had plenty of opportunity to explore Mother Nature but at the time, girls had no such camp to attend. This 115 acre, beautiful, rolling hills ranch has been a camp ever since and now offers camping for the young and old, girls and boys, families and singles…. You name it… a camp for everyone. Located on 115 acres historic boys and girls summer camp complete with pool, tennis, and hiking in Carmel Valley, CA. Re-connect to nature and nostalgia! There is plenty to do at the Camp as well as surrounding areas. 2.5 miles from Carmel Village known for its many wine tasting rooms, restaurants and galleries. 14.5 miles inland from Carmel by-the-sea and Carmel Beach. Perfect locations for day excursion to Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur. Individual Glamping sessions are available on select dates. Breakfast included in the stay. Length of stay may be required. We highly recommend you stay for more than one day as it is difficult to take part in all activities when at the camp for only one day. Imagine! your own private off the grid cabin where you can enjoy tent camping without the hassle of setting up a tent. Numerous activities for you to take advantage of or simple step outside your cabin and wonder on our 115 acres and connect to nature. Welcome to The Camp. CABINS Solstice and Sunrise cabins recently re-built cabins have one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) and are located near a shared communal bathhouses. Sunset village cabins have access to a bathhouse with designated full baths with private shower and bathroom for each cabin. Each cabin has power and one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) Like tent camping without the hassle of having to set up a tent. You bring your sleeping bag, bedding and towels. Or we can provide you with a bedding/towel pack for an extra cost. POWER All cabins and bathhouses have power Wi-Fi Free wi-fi in central camp not at cabins. FOOD and DRINK 2024 Glamping Includes breakfast. Lunch and Dinner optional at an additional cost. ACTIVITIES Self guided activities include: Pool, pool deck, basketball half court, tennis courts, yard games, hiking trails and many areas to connect to nature. Guided activities: Hosted campfire nightly, Yoga, Archery and Tie Dye sessions available on Saturday. (holiday weekends additional sessions available) FIRE No individual fires. We do offer hosted campfires nightly. DOG Two dogs are welcome per cabin $50 per dog. MUSIC No speakers, amplification or radios. Acoustic instruments are allowed. RESERVATIONS Glamping weekends may require multiple night stays. Check-in is between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. We will send you an email prior to arrival with additional information. Please note Hipcamp site assignments do not correspond to the actual cabin you will be assigned. Our Camp cabin names and assignments are a little different. If you are reserving multiple cabins please let us know so we can try and assign you near each other. Parking is a short walk away from the Cabins. The Camp is private property and for registered guests only. Gate is closed 9PM-7PM. Campers are free to come and go as these please between 7AM-PM, but all Campers must be back onsite before 9PM. WHAT TO BRING: Sleeping Bag or bedding or rent linen pack Towels and Toiletries Flashlight Water Bottle

Looking for a ranch-style camping experience in Big Sur, California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 53 options available, you'll find the perfect accommodation for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking to sleep under the stars or enjoy the comforts of glamping, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like DABUDAGE (367 reviews), Star Route (134 reviews), and Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping (34 reviews). Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like cooking equipment, pet-friendly spaces, and clean toilets. And if you're into surfing, boating, or snow sports, you'll be in paradise. Prices range from $45 to an average of $199 per night, so you can find an option that fits your budget. Start planning your unforgettable camping trip today!

88% (1.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Sur

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%

(725)

9 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA

DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.

2. Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping

98%

(176)

38 sites · Lodging · Carmel Valley, CA

The Camp was started in 1925 by Mrs. Douglas as a girls camp to teach young girls the beautiful wonders of the outdoors including horseback riding, swimming, archery, and camping. She felt that boys had plenty of opportunity to explore Mother Nature but at the time, girls had no such camp to attend. This 115 acre, beautiful, rolling hills ranch has been a camp ever since and now offers camping for the young and old, girls and boys, families and singles…. You name it… a camp for everyone. Located on 115 acres historic boys and girls summer camp complete with pool, tennis, and hiking in Carmel Valley, CA. Re-connect to nature and nostalgia! There is plenty to do at the Camp as well as surrounding areas. 2.5 miles from Carmel Village known for its many wine tasting rooms, restaurants and galleries. 14.5 miles inland from Carmel by-the-sea and Carmel Beach. Perfect locations for day excursion to Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur. Individual Glamping sessions are available on select dates. Breakfast included in the stay. Length of stay may be required. We highly recommend you stay for more than one day as it is difficult to take part in all activities when at the camp for only one day. Imagine! your own private off the grid cabin where you can enjoy tent camping without the hassle of setting up a tent. Numerous activities for you to take advantage of or simple step outside your cabin and wonder on our 115 acres and connect to nature. Welcome to The Camp. CABINS Solstice and Sunrise cabins recently re-built cabins have one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) and are located near a shared communal bathhouses. Sunset village cabins have access to a bathhouse with designated full baths with private shower and bathroom for each cabin. Each cabin has power and one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) Like tent camping without the hassle of having to set up a tent. You bring your sleeping bag, bedding and towels. Or we can provide you with a bedding/towel pack for an extra cost. POWER All cabins and bathhouses have power Wi-Fi Free wi-fi in central camp not at cabins. FOOD and DRINK 2024 Glamping Includes breakfast. Lunch and Dinner optional at an additional cost. ACTIVITIES Self guided activities include: Pool, pool deck, basketball half court, tennis courts, yard games, hiking trails and many areas to connect to nature. Guided activities: Hosted campfire nightly, Yoga, Archery and Tie Dye sessions available on Saturday. (holiday weekends additional sessions available) FIRE No individual fires. We do offer hosted campfires nightly. DOG Two dogs are welcome per cabin $50 per dog. MUSIC No speakers, amplification or radios. Acoustic instruments are allowed. RESERVATIONS Glamping weekends may require multiple night stays. Check-in is between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. We will send you an email prior to arrival with additional information. Please note Hipcamp site assignments do not correspond to the actual cabin you will be assigned. Our Camp cabin names and assignments are a little different. If you are reserving multiple cabins please let us know so we can try and assign you near each other. Parking is a short walk away from the Cabins. The Camp is private property and for registered guests only. Gate is closed 9PM-7PM. Campers are free to come and go as these please between 7AM-PM, but all Campers must be back onsite before 9PM. WHAT TO BRING: Sleeping Bag or bedding or rent linen pack Towels and Toiletries Flashlight Water Bottle

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

B

Bo

September 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

My partner and I loved the redwood gazebo at Gene’s camp site. The view from the site is gorgeous. Gene is responsive and friendly. I would love to go back when possible - also highly recommend it to anyone looking for a calm and therapeutic experience.

L

Lorraine

September 2025

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

The views are stunning and definitely help with emotional regulation and grounding. The more in tuned you are with nature the better your experience will be. The hike up to the Redwood Room was a lot and my first day my legs were SORE! However, there is a water spigot and a pooper close by the room so you don't have to keep climbing up and down for basic needs. The only downfall is food. Because of the raccoons, having food up is a giant no no. However, the nighttime racoon activity did keep my pup up all night, less about me feeling in any sense of danger, but more of something to keep in mind. There was also a cluster of daddy long legs just outside of the room. Knowing they are completely harmless to humans I didn't mind, plus apparently when they cluster, they emit an odor that is supposed to repel predators from coming close so it gave me a sense of safety. Overall, it was a wonderful experience being out there and I hope to return.

Brady

August 2025

3 nights at dabudage Big Sur

I was blown away by the listing, and it met and even exceeded expectations upon arrival. Gene is super cool, and is passionate about his property, and great with communication. The attention to detail he's put into this place is incredible. I was in heaven the three days and nights I spent here. There's no service, and you have a very serene location to unplug here, with easy access to your own beaches and hiking trails. Gene's outdoor kitchen area was great for my cooking needs, and the shower was great too. I stayed in the Redwoods Gazebo up top. It's a hike up, so be prepared, but it's worth it!

e

eyal

August 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Magical place, nothing more to add. Cant wait to come back again !

Adrienne

July 2025

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

This is a unique property and in the most beautiful location right across hwy1. The Cabana is very comfortable, nice comfy bed. No electricity and the hike up to it is a very steep narrow trail. You cannot roll a wagon up it so everything needs to be carried to your Cabana and it's not for anyone who has physical restrictions. But the view from the top is worth it!

A

Alisa

June 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Amazing spot. Pictures definitely don’t do it justice

J

John

June 2025

3 nights at dabudage Big Sur

The property is exactly as described - wonderful, private, on a creek, delightful. Gene and his family are kind and helpful. We slept great, the gazebo was very comfortable for two.

Eva

June 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

What a beautiful place! Stunning location right on the ocean, with sounds of the river (frogs at night!) echoing up the canyon. The Redwood Room sits at a special spot up the hill with a gorgeous view. Everything is rustic yet thoughtfully designed. The description is spot on (ex: BYO bedding, etc), and if you're used to camping, this will be a treat.

M

Maureen

April 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

We loved this place! We only stayed on night along our drive home. Really nice coming from the north even though Hwy 1 north of the property was closed. A beautiful/ kinda scary drive but if you go slow, it’s an experience. Reminded me of the road to Hana! lol! You gotta be into rustic vibes. Epic view, full moon rise. Creek side fire. We are it up! The redwood Gazebo is up a steep hill. We backpacked up with our sleeping bags, pillows and other little essentials. We wish we would have done all our business down low before we hiked up. I’d bring a couple libations and snacks. Chilling up in the perch is epic! We will be back!!

J

Jasmine

April 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

This was our second time camping here and it was just as lovely as the first. All the little animals are adorable. The kitchen is always helpful. The Redwood Room Gazebo was a great site! Worth the short hike up and down.

Christine

February 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

Honestly, never made it there because we left somewhat late and got lost in the dark so found another campsite, but the host was very communicative with quick replies which was much appreciated so I wanted to comment on that. There were road closures that were not listed on google maps, so next time I would definitely leave much earlier to leave plenty of time to get there.

B

Benjamin

January 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

We were in the redwood gazebo; the view from the room is pretty gorgeous and the whole property is in a really pretty spot off highway 1. Animals everywhere and the kitchen/campfire areas are easy to find. Would recommend!

A

Allison

January 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

My best friend and I spent a night at the Redwood and we loved it so much! The view and the property itself was beautiful. Definitely be prepared and bring extra blankets. Gene asked us if we needed extras too! Truly worth going if youre looking to make camping with a twist. We’re definitely gonna be back anytime we visit the area again! Thank you Gene!

A

Ana

December 2024

6 nights at dabudage Big Sur

We loooved the property! Super charming. The bath house was magical. Beautiful spot tucked away right by the water. Gorgeous views. The cats were cute but a bit annoying, aggressively trying to take our food.