The best waterfall camping in Big Sur

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Big Sur’s waterfall camping scene packs in over 250 options, each tuned for travelers who want to wake up to the sound of rushing water. You’ll find campsites tucked above hidden creeks, set near dramatic coastal drops, and shaded by redwoods that drip with mist. Expect average nightly rates around $100, with spots dipping as low as $60. Campfires are allowed, and most sites offer toilets and showers—essentials after a day spent swimming, fishing, or watching wildlife dart through the undergrowth. Standouts include dabudage Big Sur (459 reviews), Grey Oaks (191 reviews), and Grey Oaks 2 (22 reviews)—all local favorites for their easy waterfall access and reliable setups. Bring sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure; Big Sur’s trails can be steep and slick, but the payoff is real: cold pools, constant birdsong, and a rare kind of quiet you won’t get anywhere else.

98% (768)

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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night

Big Sur’s waterfall camping scene packs in over 250 options, each tuned for travelers who want to wake up to the sound of rushing water. You’ll find campsites tucked above hidden creeks, set near dramatic coastal drops, and shaded by redwoods that drip with mist. Expect average nightly rates around $100, with spots dipping as low as $60. Campfires are allowed, and most sites offer toilets and showers—essentials after a day spent swimming, fishing, or watching wildlife dart through the undergrowth. Standouts include dabudage Big Sur (459 reviews), Grey Oaks (191 reviews), and Grey Oaks 2 (22 reviews)—all local favorites for their easy waterfall access and reliable setups. Bring sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure; Big Sur’s trails can be steep and slick, but the payoff is real: cold pools, constant birdsong, and a rare kind of quiet you won’t get anywhere else.

98% (768)

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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night

Public campgrounds in and near Big Sur

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field