The best camping in John Little State Natural Reserve, CA

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Discover the rugged cliffs and conservation history of John Little State Natural Reserve.  

The best camping near John Little State Natural Reserve, CA

No matching sites in the park — explore these options nearby.
view from campsite facing the ocean

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(720)
13mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 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
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from 
$90
 / night
Saddle Mountain Carmel

2. Saddle Mountain Carmel

91%
(558)
30mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carmel, CA
Welcome to Saddle Mountain, RV and Campground! We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life. PLEASE NOTE, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING. We charge $15 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets. On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation* On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, Foosball table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months. We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests. Thank you!
Pets
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$79
 / night
Camping area, aerial view

3. Camp near Pinnacles National Park

98%
(472)
42mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Paicines, CA
Started in 2014 by Tim and Michelle Borland and their three kids, the Bar SZ Ranch is a true family business with a mission to help others “forge their legacy.” Set on 2200-acres in its own valley with iconic California oak trees and golden hills; views of the surrounding mountains and Pinnacles National Park; and painted, sunlit skies guests can't get enough of, this working ranch offers unique, getaway camping and glamping experiences for both new and seasoned campers. The Bar SZ Campground is near Pinnacles National Park but relatively remote from other services, which is part of what makes the area so special. It is a place to unplug, share stories and spend time with your family and friends, and explore the wilderness of California. From the ranch: Pinnacles National Park East entrance 6.6 miles Nearest Groceries and restaurants: Hollister 36 miles north King City 28.5 miles south Tres Pinos 29.2 miles north The nearest amenities (stores, restaurants, gas) are about 30 miles away so please plan ahead and bring the things you will need during your stay. We have great service for AT&T on the ranch. Do you have an even larger group? Message us if you have a larger event or are interested in a whole campsite/ranch rental.
Potable water
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Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
Calla Lilly Cottage

4. Calla Lilly Cottage

23mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 5 sites · Lodging · Carmel, CA
You will surely be charmed as you enter the gates to a lovely private garden and home surrounded by Redwoods. The Calla Lilly is a one bedroom cottage with a sofa bed in the living room and can accommodate up to 4 people. Skylights in the living room and plenty of windows viewing the private garden and view of redwoods surrounding it will bring the sense of majestic nature and a smile to your heart. Stay warm with a wood burning stove and make a great dinner in a fully equipped kitchen or dine at any of our world renowned restaurants in either Carmel or Big Sur. You may want to stay in and relax, read, sit in the garden or go hiking, shopping, galleries, kayaking, horseback riding, or attend the any of the many wonderful events in Big Sur, Carmel, Monterey, Pacific Grove and more. Conveniently located halfway between Carmel & Big Sur you will surely enjoy a gorgeous drive along the spectacular Hwy 1 and then onto a serene and lovely forest road to arrive at this unique "Jewel in the Forest" nestled among the redwoods. We get plenty of sun most of the year even though we're in the forest. Close to amazing local hiking, shopping and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The area hosts many special events all year. Of course you may just want to relax and feel your connection to nature. There is also a lovely area open to all guests called "Carabella's Theatre" where you may enjoy painting, reading, playing music or just enjoying the peace. The entire property is also available for weddings, retreats and other gatherings. This property is owned by local artist Sofanya where you might find her working in her studio or gallery on the property. A small but adequate kitchen w small fridge next or to the side of the living room.
Potable water
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from 
$223
 / night
Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

5. Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

99%
(313)
38mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lockwood, CA
Peaceful and private RV camping under the oaks with picnic table, fire pit and Adirondack chairs. We currently have two sites on our property. They are about 300 feet apart and not easily visible from each other. Property is fully fenced; both sites are next to an open field under the oaks with vineyard, olive orchard and mountain views. This property is 30 miles from Paso Robles and almost perfectly centered between Missions San Antonio and San Miguel. Lakes San Antonio and Nacimiento are close by. Coastal towns of Cayucos and Morro Bay are about an hour scenic drive, passing many wineries along the way. There is space for multiple RVs or additional tents sharing your party's RV restroom facilities. Site one will accommodate sixteen people and multiple vehicles. Site two will accommodate ten people and two vehicles. For larger groups we ask that that you book both sites. We have hosted many family reunions and the feedback has been 100% positive. Please feel free to message us with questions.
Pets
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from 
$39
 / night
40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

6. 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

97%
(1114)
50mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · Paicines, CA
35 miles to Pinnacles, and only 6 miles to Panoche Valley, a globally important migratory bird routes! Dark Skies at night for galaxy cruising and plenty of oak trees for cool shade. Warm sunny days and cool nights. Amazing and invigorating fall weather! Bring warm clothes and throws to wrap in while sitting by a roaring fire under dark skies streaming planets and galaxies. For daytime, dress in layers. In the oak studded world of the Diablo Mountain Range, the ocean influence sends gentle breezes winding their way through the oaks, offering days of dappled sunshine and nights crisp and cool. Use this as a home base and spend days at Pinnacles, Monterey, Carmel, the Central Valley, and so on or...you can rest and relax the world away, this is a place to regain your balance. Come with your cares leave clear and regenerated. A place to sing and dance, to talk late into the night as the night sky brims over with stars, and the campfire slowly dies. Perfect for group gatherings, and can accommodate your large party as easily and comfortably as we accommodate families, singles, and couples. What we provide is: outdoor hot shower, flush toilet, clean clear water from faucets, and at your campsite, a fire pit and grill to cook on, picnic table with benches, and the blue oak savanna. Firewood for $15/bundle, fire starters -first two free in the winter then $0.50/each. Our firewood is sustainably harvested from downed trees and branches. We sell it for a neighbor. No healthy live trees are harmed in order to produce firewood. No native trees are felled in order to plant fast growing hardwood for fire or anything else! Pitch your tent or park your camper amid the ancient Blue Oaks of California. Warm yourself by your campfire as you drink in the dark skies. Shake the dust off your work worn spirit. Let the celebration begin. Dance to the music in your heart sing along with the songs of the ancients. Regenerate. Breathe and hear yourself breathe. A safe place in the shade of the blue oaks. It's time to take time. Time to play and enjoy with friends and family. A place to bask in opulent starlight and absorb the sounds of darkness. Brought to you by wildfarmers/spif, an IRS designated 501c3 public charity.
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from 
$60
 / night
Smith Ranch

8. Smith Ranch

100%
(113)
43mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bradley, CA
Settled by Thomas James Lynch in the mid to late 1800's, the Lynch Ranch originally ran sheep along Tierra Redonda Mountain. It transitioned into a cattle ranch in the early 1900's when Archie Smith married into the Lynch family.  The Smith family continues to raise cattle on the ranch and enjoys all that the Smith Ranch has to offer. Learn more about this land:Spend a night on a working cattle ranch with history dating back to the late 1800's. Once the original Lynch Ranch, the Smith Ranch offers a primative, dry camp with easy access down a dirt road and plenty of privacy. Tucked back in the Oak trees, you'll have views of Tierra Redonda mountain and the Coast range. (Cow camp is just over the hill from Hearst Castle but takes an hour and a half to drive to the coast and San Simeon.) The ranch also offers some of the best star gazing this side of the Sierras!
Pets
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from 
$50
 / night
Walking to the cabins

9. Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping

98%
(176)
23mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 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
Pets
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$149
 / night
Not a great photo of the entry garden

11. Elkhorn Ranch

96%
(339)
48mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · CA
Five minutes from the beach, Elkhorn Ranch is home to goats, sheep, wild chickens followed by their baby chicks, and a couple of cows, dogs, and sheep. In addition to the animals there is a greenhouse and an acre of pumpkins, corn, and beans. A small fruit orchard borders the chicken coop. Anybody who enjoys small farm life and activity will find this place enchanting. Norris and Roberta are incredible hosts and inclusive to any guests that want to participate in farm life. Close to restaurants and the cute harbor town of Moss Landing, 30 minutes from Carmel and Santa Cruz, Elkhorn Ranch can be a place to relax or a gateway to explore Big Sur and all the amazing hidden gems of the Central California Coast. After your stay here if you would like to continue your exploration of the coast, we have a partner who does surfing tours between Santa Cruz and San Francisco. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566796147238 Thanks and hope to see you soon!
Pets
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from 
$80
 / night
Heavenly Views

12. Heavenly Views

100%
(5)
28mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · Lockwood, CA
Rural Southern Monterey County hilltop with 360° views of the surrounding valley. To the west is an unobstructed view of the Los Padres National forest, sunsets over the coast ridge from Junipero Serra peak to the north and Rocky Butte to the south. To the east is Williams Hill BLM area, with clear views of the sunrise. To the southeast is Lake San Antonio. Nacimiento Lake is a beautiful 45 minute drive to the south. Although the dirt access road can be a little dusty and bumpy for a sports car, in the 35 years I've been here it has always been accessible for a 2 wheel drive vehicle. The property is at the end of the road. No traffic, no noise, only views of the surrounding area. If you are interested in night skies, the milky way is a constant. After winter rains, everything is green and wild flowers are abundant. Stay and enjoy the vistas or travel relatively short distances for hiking in the Los Padres forest, drive CA HWY 1, visit Paso Robles wineries, boat or fish at Lake San Antonio or Lake Nacimiento. Nearby Williams Hill BLM area for hunting, shooting or ATV riding. For hunters and fisherman, Ft Hunter Liggett is to the immediate west. Occasional weekend's be entertained by military training and occasional aircraft, helicopters and planes. It is so quiet that you can hear vehicles passing several miles away on Jolon Rd in the valley below. Visitors travel to Morro bay, Avila beach to the south or Big Sur and Monterey Bay to the north. Motorcycle enthusiasts can enjoy 100's of miles of uncrowded country roads. Host is an avid motorcyclist and will provide enough helpful guidance for all levels of riding. Corbin saddle in Hollister is a great destination for lunch and a custom made seat by appointment. Getaway to the central coast of California and leave the city behind. San Francisco is a bit over 2 hours to the north and LA about 4 hours to the south. Owner has intimate knowledge of way to many destinations.
Pets
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from 
$100
 / night
The Little Poppy Cabin! 🌸

13. The Little Poppy Cabin! 🌸

23mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · Carmel, CA
Accessible from Carmel. READ FULL DETAILS OF LISTING BEFORE BOOKING Centrally located between Carmel and the Heart of Big Sur. On a paved road with quick and easy access to Hwy 1. Adorable little cabin in the redwoods, with upstairs lofted sleeping area (double bed), sleeps 2 people. Kitchen, stove, mini fridge and private bath. Stairs are very steep to loft, with open railing upstairs. Please review pic's before booking. Adults only. The larger main cabin on property, is rented separately. Our cabin is in the Santa Lucia mountains and immersed in nature. Please be aware that wildlife is apart of the rugged Big Sur Coast and mountains. Wildlife encounters are something that is not out of the ordinary. From raccoons, skunks, deer, mountain lions, bats, mice, spiders snakes and all types of birds. We have exceeded measures of to keep occurrances to a minimum and have monthly pest control services. BUT can't guarantee you will not be met with wildlife. ANY ENCOUNTERS DURING YOUR STAY, WILL NOT BE ISSUED A REFUND. If you do not feel comfortable with the paragraph, then please do not book our cabins. Recommendations in Big Sur is Ventana Inn, Post Ranch or something in Carmel or Monterey. 1 Dog allowed, pre-approved by owner and $70fee. No aggressive breeds. Under 50 lbs. Must be leashed, picked up after, not allowed on furniture or left alone. Not allowed in the lofted sleeping area, due to step stairs, open railings. Not safe for animals! If you have a hairy dog, please keep the hair swept and under control. It is not fair for our cleaners to do de-fur the cabin. We allow dogs as a wonderful courtesy and don't want it abused. There is NO cell reception in our area, due to the mountain range. You loose reception once you leave Carmel and head south, or leave Big Sur and travel north to the property. WIFI is available but can be intermittent due to rural location. Text and wifi available, no cell reception, once logged into our internet. INTERNET IS NOT GUARANTEED DURING YOUR STAY. At the beginning of our road, it has a "road closed sign". You CAN get to our cabin. Our road is residential and a dead end. So there is not need to go past our cabin. All hiking and site seeing is along Hwy 1.
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$259
 / night
Cabin Chic A&B C-sites

14. Cabin Chic A&B C-sites

44mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 3 sites · Lodging · Hollister, CA
Cabin Chic A, B & C Sites — Hollister, California Hosted by Alesia · 3 private sites · 40 acres Nestled on a peaceful 40-acre ranch near Hollister, Cabin Chic A, B & C Sites offer a blend of comfort and countryside charm just under an hour from Pinnacles National Park. Guests can choose from two stylish 400 sq ft cabins or a dry camping site, each offering space, privacy, and beautiful views. Each cabin features a queen bedroom, a bunk room, and an open living area that extends onto a spacious deck. Modern comforts include flush toilets, hot showers, a full kitchen, and Starlink internet. The property is pet-friendly and fully fenced for safety and peace of mind. Enjoy scenic views of olive groves, vineyards, and a pond while spotting longhorns, horses, ducks, and local wildlife. The open night skies make for incredible stargazing. Located just 25 minutes from Pinnacles National Park, the property is also close to Hollister Hills for off-roading, local vineyards, and charming small-town dining. Perfect for families or small groups, this serene getaway combines rustic tranquility with cabin comfort — an ideal retreat for nature lovers and weekend adventurers.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$456
 / night

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The best camping in John Little State Natural Reserve, CA guide

Overview

About

John Little State Natural Reserve is a testament to the beauty of the Big Sur coast, offering visitors a glimpse into California's natural splendor. While the reserve does not provide public access or camping opportunities, its historical significance and scenic value are unparalleled. The area preserves the legacy of conservationist Elizabeth K. Livermore and offers a serene backdrop for those driving along the iconic State Highway 1.

When to go

The best time to visit the area around John Little State Natural Reserve is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the coastal views are most clear. Summer can be foggy, and winter may bring rain and road closures.

Know before you go

  • John Little State Natural Reserve is not open for public access, preserving its untouched natural beauty.
  • For safety, always check road conditions along State Highway 1 before planning your drive in the area.
  • Accessibility is limited due to the reserve's status, but the scenic drive offers ample views of the rugged coastline.
  • While visiting the Big Sur region, respect private property and protected lands, including this reserve.
  • Neighboring attractions include the Big Creek State Marine Reserve and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
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