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Los Padres/Plaskett Creek
Overview
Plaskett Creek Campground offers a serene escape nestled within the Los Padres National Forest along the iconic Big Sur coast. Unlike some of the more rugged or cramped roadside turnouts found along Highway 1, this park provides a beautiful, manicured setting with lush, grassy areas and towering Monterey pines. It is a family-friendly destination that serves as a tranquil basecamp for exploring the dramatic cliffs and coastal wonders of Central California. The park is well-regarded for its peaceful environment and its ability to provide a deep connection with nature without the noise of the city.
Location & Surroundings
Situated on the landward side of Highway 1, the park is perfectly positioned directly across from Sand Dollar Beach, which is the largest continuous stretch of sand in the Big Sur region. The surroundings are defined by rolling emerald hills and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean just a short walk away. The refreshing coastal breeze and the rhythmic sound of the distant surf create a relaxing atmosphere that is difficult to find elsewhere, making it a premier stop for those traveling the Pacific Coast Highway through the heart of the Monterey coastline.
Amenities & Park Features
As a National Forest site, the amenities focus on providing the essentials for a high-quality rustic experience. You will find that the sites are wide and well-spaced, comfortably accommodating small to mid-sized RVs and travel trailers. Each site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and fire ring, offering the perfect setup for evening meals under a dense canopy of stars. Key park features include:
- Flush toilets and accessible sinks
- Potable water spigots located throughout the loops
- Spacious, level sites with Monterey pine shade
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless adventures just minutes from their campsite. A short trail leads to the stunning Sand Dollar Beach, which is a local favorite for surfing, fishing, and beachcombing. Just south of the park lies Jade Cove, a world-famous location for collectors searching for Pacific jade along the shoreline. For those who enjoy hiking, the nearby trails offer challenging climbs into the mountains, rewarding visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the Santa Lucia range and the crashing waves of the Pacific below.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for self-contained RV travelers who prioritize immersion in natural beauty over the commercial luxuries of a private resort. It appeals deeply to families looking for a safe, open space and photographers eager to capture the iconic Big Sur light. If you appreciate the simplicity of traditional camping and want to wake up surrounded by the scent of salt air and pine needles, Plaskett Creek is an essential California coastal experience for your next road trip.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Connie Katsikaris
I wasn't a happy camper here at Plaskett Creek Campground. This place was not cheap to stay here. This campground didn't have showers or a decent normal bathroom (guessing they don't want to have to clean them) to use either. So where is our money going to? Sure isn't to give the guests clean working bathrooms or showers to use. FYI there were nasty porta potty's. Yuk!! Plus, too many huge rocks/boulders there that got in the way to maneuver a truck pulling a travel trailer into our spot. Not staying here again.
Greg Dekker
I’d vote this a 5 (and a shout out to the hosts who are helpful) but I’m baffled at why the constructed toilets are not in use! Instead we get porta-potties which were full almost to overflowing! yuck! I can guess why the durably constructed toilets are not in use but will withhold opinion on that… for now. The location and condition of the campground is in reasonably good condition for a busy campground. We were unnerved by a very friendly skunk who visited us nightly with little fear!
Bharath Reddi
Plaskett Creek Campground is a true coastal camping gem, and our recent trip there in July was a fantastic experience. We stayed at Campsite 041, was spacious and clean, easily accommodating two 4-person tents and a massive 8-plus-person tent. Its proximity to the restrooms was a major plus, making middle-of-the-night trips much more convenient and well-maintained with flush toilets, a definite "luxury" in the camping world. Each site is also well-equipped for cooking, featuring a dedicated BBQ grill and a fire pit with a grill cover, which made preparing our meals over the fire a breeze. The campground is very dog-friendly. The coastal environment is a huge part of the appeal, and we experienced fog passing through parts of the night, paired with the campfire. Another major highlight is the close walk to the beach, where the views are truly spectacular and worth the short trek. One thing, look out for your food, we were sitting by the fire pit when some very clever raccoon friends attempted to swipe some of our food. While the rule is a two-car limit per site, we asked about a third car and the hosts were accommodative - told that as long as all vehicles fit within the site, it's fine. If not, there's ample overflow parking by the entrance. The firewood available onsite is a bit pricier than what you'd buy at a store, it's a lifesaver if you run out.
Karen Sharley
William and Lisa were the best! Very attentive, Very kind, and helpful souls. I also always saw them maintaining the grounds well and staying on top of bathroom cleanliness and trash. Campground is pretty and peaceful, short walk to several overlooks and a beautiful beach. Would definitely recommend.
Ryan Swinehart
Camp hosts (Lisa and William) were amazingly accommodating, friendly, and extremely helpful. The were always out and about working and keeping everything cared for and everyone happy. Hard workers those two. Bathrooms were incredibly clean. No matter the time of day, they smelled good and floors and toilets were super clean. Campground was also very clean, no litter and well kept. I've camped there several times and this was by far the best simply due to the hosts.