Beach Camping Near San Ardo, California, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2026

San Ardo puts you within striking distance of over 250 beach camping spots—think dunes, creek bends, and ocean breezes. You’ll find options from $40 a night, with the average camp running $45. Campfires are allowed at most sites, pets are welcome, and toilets are on hand. Top picks like Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths (472 reviews), dabudage Big Sur (459 reviews), and Frog Hollow Homestead (257 reviews) fill up fast for good reason. Bring your swimsuit and binoculars—swimming, wildlife-watching, and hiking are all on the menu. Sand gets everywhere, but that’s half the fun. If you’re after a beach camp with just the basics, you’ll find it here.

92% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near San Ardo

San Ardo puts you within striking distance of over 250 beach camping spots—think dunes, creek bends, and ocean breezes. You’ll find options from $40 a night, with the average camp running $45. Campfires are allowed at most sites, pets are welcome, and toilets are on hand. Top picks like Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths (472 reviews), dabudage Big Sur (459 reviews), and Frog Hollow Homestead (257 reviews) fill up fast for good reason. Bring your swimsuit and binoculars—swimming, wildlife-watching, and hiking are all on the menu. Sand gets everywhere, but that’s half the fun. If you’re after a beach camp with just the basics, you’ll find it here.

92% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near San Ardo

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%

(725)

33mi from San Ardo · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging

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. Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

87%

(742)

31mi from San Ardo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

We can accommodate tent campers or car campers. Each campsite fits 4-6 people. The price is $40/per person. Kids under 12 are free. Most campsites are accessible by car and all campsites are accessible by foot. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a traditional check in procedure. Campsites are first come first serve. Expect a "self-check in process" most of the time. However, there are sometimes people working onsite that you may run into, that are happy to help and lead you in the right direction. You choose your own campsite so plan to arrive early. You can park and walk around. There is signage that says "CAMP" with Arrows. BYO water. We have sulfur spring water. Great for your skin, not good to drink! There's a couple outhouses on the property. One in the main camp zone, one at the far north end of the lower Redwood campsite. You can also bring a shovel and take a walk if you're in the more remote campsites. We have a dumpster outside the gate for your garbage. IMPORTANT INFO Please don't mind our farm junk/tools as you enterGate 1! We are slowly working on clean up and relocation of materials from the entry road and away from view. Before you arrive, have knowledge of poison oak because it is a native plant. The main photos in the listing are taken from Hipcamp Scouts back in 2018 and they are featuring our Original campsite. This is located past the mineral baths. It's the furthest one to reach, and accessible by foot. I will update photos to depict all the campsites, but please share your photos with us on Instagram and tag @charanspringsfarm to help future campers get a view of what the sites look like with a tent set up! SULFUR MINERAL BATHS Include in your experience the use of our sulfur mineral baths. It's $10 per person. PLEASE BOOK THIS AS AN EXTRA AT CHECKOUT. The mineral baths are 2 funky vintage clawfoot tubs that are pictured in the actual listing.The photos show an accurate description of the Mineral Baths. They are not located in the main camp zone. Please call ahead to book your time slot and get directions to the mineral baths. PLEASE DO NOT BOOK IF: You are looking for "Glamping," (Glamour Camping). It's primitive camping on a private property with bonuses like the garden, rustic baths, and beautiful nature. This property has been a working farm for decades, which has struggled with hard times. If farm yards/junk piles make you uncomfortable or give you a creepy feeling, don't book because our boneyard is adjacent to the entry road and it can't be ignored. Thank you for reading this whole description and we hope you have a good experience.

3. Frog Hollow Homestead

95%

(376)

41mi from San Ardo · 4 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Frog Hollow. Feel free to hike up to the bench, past the deck, on the hill or over to the chairs and table nest to the field where the sheep and donkey are at the other side of the creek. Keep an eye out in the mornings, you may see a family or two of wild turkeys or deer cruising the property. Kick back, relax and enjoy the tranquility of the seasonal running stream and property. Situated on 12 acres, our property is a great spot where you can unplug, unwind and simply check out from your daily chaos. Sit back and enjoy the songs of the evening crickets and frogs. We are located on Hwy 41, a 10 minute drive to the coast, the famous Morro Rock, and 20 minutes from both San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles where you will find shopping, fine restaurants and plenty of local wineries in the area. We are lucky to have over 300 award winning wineries in our area so if you like wine, this is a great place to tour and taste! Frog Hollow is perfectly located for the weekend break or a leisurely mid-week holiday. Come visit us and check out our lovely land and quaint comfy living. Sabyl, our Border Collie, is around and may head down to greet you at some point during your stay. Our free standing casita is cozy and nestled in a natural serene creekside setting. The loft has a spacious queen size bed for your sleeping pleasure with adjustable reading lights on either side of the bed. The living area offers a fold down couch for another adult or 2 kids. There is a kitchenette with a toaster oven, electric tea kettle and coffee maker. There is a charcoal Weber bbq grill and a propane gas 2 burner stove. We provided a propane fire pit during the fire ban, bring propane and charcoal etc. There is a well lit bathroom with hot shower and flushable toilet 50 yards away. Please use that shower for the casita. We have a moderate climb hiking trail down the road, Cerro Alto, that offers beautiful views of our coastline. Simply sit back and watch the the wild turkeys and deer roaming freely on our land, or head out to taste some of San Luis Obispo County award winning wines. Pack in and pack out your trash please.

4. Los Padres National Forest

95%

(452)

762 sites · Mission Canyon, California

From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Limekiln State Park

99%

(108)

28 sites · Pine Canyon, California

A perfect intro to Big Sur, Limekiln serves up peaceful walks, crashing surf, and scenic camping "from the Redwoods to the Sea."

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near San Ardo

60%

(5)

Ponderosa Campground

26mi from San Ardo · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

If you don't make it to the top, there are lots of rad pull-offs on the way up to grab a spot. C'mon, look at that view!

91%

(27)

Nacimiento Camp Campground

28mi from San Ardo · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(4)

Alder Creek Campground

29mi from San Ardo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Memorial Campground

32mi from San Ardo · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(59)

Plaskett Creek Campground

32mi from San Ardo · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

97%

(136)

Kirk Creek Campground

33mi from San Ardo · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Escondido Campground

34mi from San Ardo · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

One of the Redwood sites in the morning light.

99%

(108)

Limekiln Campground

34mi from San Ardo · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Limekiln State Park

96%

(35)

Arroyo Seco Campground

35mi from San Ardo · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

White Oaks Campground

41mi from San Ardo · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(4)

China Camp Campground

42mi from San Ardo · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

79%

(7)

Cerro Alto Campground

42mi from San Ardo · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jerry

2 weeks ago

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

The vib here off the people who make it happen is very much my thing. We have a lot of common ground. The camp is very close to town but when I am here the city seems very far away. The hot springs have some good health benefits from the high mineral content that not like other places. If I want to eat at a restaurant or shop it’s only 20 minutes away. So I’m going to try and be a regular visitor for the near future. No stress at all but lots of community energy.

R

RAJASHREE

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

I loved camping at Gene's land , highly recommend it. Great host and beautiful location close to the beach.

K

Katherine

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

I LOVED this site! My biggest regret about this camp was that I didn't get to stay longer! Sophia, Rob, Mike, and the whole crew were super welcoming - they took the time to show me around and made sure my campsite was good to go. Highly recommend snagging the redwood site if you can AND DEF get a mineral bath! I'd gone for a solid hike earlier in the day and it was so delightful to soak in some hot mineral water (my skin was so smooth) as well as some incredible star-gazing. This felt like a time machine back to 1970s California (wooden bridges with lights, outdoor flush toilets?! no outhouses here) in the BEST way possible. I can't wait to go back. Bonus points to Curty for the canine welcome - what a sweetie.

C

Cole

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

I had a great experience at the campground. It is a bit primitive so BYO food and water. With that expectation clearly set, it was a perfect experience. I wish I could’ve spent more time there.

H

Hayley

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

We had an incredible few days on Gene’s land. A few highlights include a lovely outdoor kitchen, easy creek access and a nice grassy area for our tent.

s

shelby

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

My boyfriend, small dog and I stayed for a night. We wanted something inexpensive where we could drive right up to the site, had someone on site because we had never been to the area and were getting in after sunset, and was in a wooded rural surrounding. The hosts were extremely friendly and hospitable. One of them met us at the entrance & took us around the property to explain the different site options (we were the only ones there! There were 8 different sites - all fairly close to each other, but I could tell that if multiple were full - you’d still have your own private space.) They brought us firewood and helped us set up our fire! I saw some negative reviews about the junk yard … which I’m confused about?! I thought it was super cool. It’s not anywhere near where you actually camp… it’s right when you pull onto the land and then you drive probably half a mile into the woods. It was cool to see all the stuff they have collected. From airstreams, to big CATS, cars, etc. Yea, can look a little eerie at first, but it’s apart of the experience. good place to stop and camp for a night when you are in between your trip. It’s super close to the town of Cambria - which has a ton of little restaurants, bars, etc. tons of farm animals surrounding. One of the guys who lives on site there, Rob, has starlink at his house and allows you to connect to it! Thanks Guys, you made us feel very safe. 👍

T

Tyler

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

Was a great trip! Everyone was very nice and welcoming when we arrived. Site was great and highly recommended the mineral bath

A

Alyssa

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

My partner and I stayed here for a couple of days mid-week, and it was divine. We hiked up the creek and took a little dip, visited the old mines, soaked in the mineral baths, and enjoyed the serene nature. The people who live on the property are also incredibly friendly and helpful. Such good energy! We will definitely be coming back!

p

pablo

October 2025

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

Camping here was great. Hosts were nice and friendly and they offered us some food from their farm. Wonderful people. Great environment. A surface reflection of how the camping world should be.

G

Gary

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

Great location on North Hwy 1/Big Sur with a running creek 'soundtrack' in a great location especially when finding availability at the big (State or Nationals) Parks are sold out.

M

Matthew

September 2025

Tent

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Easy to find, epic views, and very close to the beach.

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.

Our campsite was the first on when you walk up the trail by the trash cans. We loved this spot because it’s shady all day, close to a fire pits, and not many people going by. And, we had these trees perfect for a hammock!

K

Kelly

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

Great location along the creek with easy access to beach! Quirky, unique spot that offers several campsites tucked along the creek and hillside. It’s first come, first serve, so recommend getting there early to scope out the best spot and get a parking spot. Kitchen and water available around property, although we brought our own stuff so didn’t use it. Fire pits are around but not at each site. Overall, we enjoyed our time and would come back! Couple things to note: - LOTS of dogs off leash, which is awesome, but if you don’t enjoy dogs or are looking for a pristine campground, this may not be your spot. - It’s unclear where to go when you arrive. We just walked up toward a group of structures and a woman who lives there came out and briefly explained we could basically just find any spot. There was no check-in so I’m not even sure how they account for people being there. Definitely follow their instruction to be there before dark as you’ll struggle to find where to go. - Some spots are up the hillside so if you have a lot of stuff, just be prepared for some exercise! - Very kid-friendly and it seems several kids live there. That said, they are out and about being kiddos throughout the day and into the evening so you’ll hear them! - Lots of raccoons! Make sure all your food is secure and trash put away before bed! Have fun!!

K

Kate

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

The reviews don’t lie — this land is magical, and we’re very grateful to have had the chance to experience it. Perks were the coolest cat ever living her best life and inspiring us to do the same, the hot shower, the short walk to the ocean, and the winding creek. Thanks to Gene and fam for sharing their space!

B

Bruce

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

Lovely people and a lovely place. Hope to return and camp again soon!

R

Romina

September 2025

Tent

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

I loved staying here. Camping with the best views, connected to Nature and away from technology. And just a walk away from the ocean Gene and family are great. I really enjoyed my stay

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.

C

Catherine

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

Staying here was so peaceful, private, and quiet. We stayed by the creek in the redwoods and enjoyed every bit of the nature sounds.

Peyton

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

This is everything I hope for in a camp site - pure nature and the lands beauty. I'm so grateful to have been able to spend a couple days on this gorgeous piece of property. Amazing sunsets, basically a private beach, river running along the sites. Can't wait to come back, such a gem of a spot.

Matthew

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

Great location. So much to explore in southern Big Sur before the closure. Recommend bookmarking and downloading your points of interest and hikes beforehand as you will not have reception. I used All Trails. You can “walk” to the ocean either across the street up the way you drove in, or even better, via a small dirt trail under the bridge which leads as awesome, just wear good water shoes. I stayed at the very first site by the “saw mill”, super private, creek and ocean sounds, fantastic nights sleep. Some of the other sites closer to the communal areas were much smaller, better for 2 person tents.