Facilities

Club House

Laundry Room

Swimming Pool

Hot Tub

Fitness Center

Game Room

Rec Hall

Pavilion

Exercise Room

Restroom/Shower

Restroom Only

Shower Only

Restaurant

Groceries

RV Supplies

ATM Machine

WiFi

Dog Park

Cocktail Lounge

Dog Washing Station

Pit Toilet

Snack Bar

Play Ground

Sites

Water

20 Amp

30 Amp

50 Amp

Sewer

Cable TV

Services

Escort to Site

Self-Service RV Wash

Metered LP Gas

Firewood

Fishing Supplies

Pet Supplies

Onsite Rentals

Worship Services

Golf Carts

Fishing Guides

Onsite RV Service

Staffed RV Wash

Fishing Licenses

Complimentary Breakfast

Recreational activities in or near the park

Recreational Activities

Archery Range

ATV Riding

Biking

Boating

Body Of Water

Casino

Climbing

Dock

Driving Range

Fishing

Golf

Heated Pool

Hiking

Horseback Riding

Horseshoes

Kayaking

Lawn Bowling

Mini Golf

Paddle Boats

Pickle Ball

Putting Green

Ramp

Sauna

Shuffleboard

Snow Sports

Splash Pad

Swimming

Tennis

Wading Pool

Water Slide

Water Sports

Water Umbrella

Whitewater Rafting

Policies

RV Age Restrictions

Pets Welcome

Pet Restrictions

Pet Restriction on Quantity

Pet Restriction on Breed

Pet Restriction on Size

No Pets

Tent Camping Allowed

Folding Tent Campers Allowed

No Tents

No Overnight Guests

<h2>Overview</h2><p>Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers a quintessential California camping experience nestled along the scenic Big Sur River. Often referred to as a <strong>mini Yosemite</strong>, this park provides a sanctuary under the canopy of ancient coastal redwoods. Unlike the rugged coastal cliffs found nearby, this inland park provides a lush, forested environment that serves as a central hub for exploring the legendary Highway 1 coastline. It is one of the most popular state parks in the region, offering a tranquil retreat from the outside world.</p><h2>Location & Surroundings</h2><p>Located in the heart of the Big Sur valley, the park is surrounded by steep ridges and dramatic landscapes. The <strong>Big Sur River</strong> winds through the campground, offering a cooling soundtrack for campers. Visitors are immersed in a diverse ecosystem featuring <strong>coastal redwoods</strong>, sycamores, and maples. The location provides easy access to the region's famous fog-drenched cliffs while offering a more sheltered, sun-dappled forest floor setting for those staying overnight in their rigs.</p><h2>Amenities & Park Features</h2><p>This is a rustic, dry-camping experience. While there are <strong>no hookups</strong> for water or electricity at the individual sites, the park provides essential facilities to keep your journey comfortable. RVers have access to the following:</p><ul><li>A <strong>sanitary dump station</strong> and fresh water fill-up area.</li><li>Coin-operated showers and clean restroom facilities located throughout the camping loops.</li><li>A well-stocked <strong>camp store</strong> for ice, firewood, and basic supplies.</li></ul><p>The park also features the Big Sur Lodge, which houses a restaurant and a cafe. Maximum RV length is typically restricted to 27 feet, making it best suited for smaller motorhomes and camper vans.</p><h2>Nearby Attractions & Things to Do</h2><p>Adventure awaits just outside your doorstep with miles of hiking trails. The <strong>Valley View Trail</strong> offers stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Big Sur Valley. A short drive away, you can visit the iconic <strong>Pfeiffer Beach</strong>, famous for its purple sand and Keyhole Arch. Nature enthusiasts often travel south to view the breathtaking <strong>McWay Falls</strong>, an 80-foot waterfall that drops directly onto the beach, or explore the historic Point Sur Lighthouse perched on a volcanic rock.</p><h2>Who This Park Is Best For</h2><p>This park is ideal for <strong>self-contained RVers</strong> and van-lifers who value natural beauty over luxury amenities. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sound of a rushing river and waking up under towering trees, this is your destination. It is best for those seeking a <strong>disconnected retreat</strong>, as cell service is extremely limited in the canyon. It serves as a perfect basecamp for hikers and photographers who want to be centrally located near the most iconic landmarks Big Sur has to offer.</p>



Big Sur is a rugged and mountainous section of the Central Coast of California, located between Carmel and San Simeon. It is renowned for its dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and its steep, rocky coastline. The Big Sur region is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, with towering redwood forests, rugged mountains, and pristine beaches. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, whales, and sea otters. Big Sur is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers, and is also home to a number of state parks and other attractions.

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Pfeiffer Big Sur

Plan your trip to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park in Big Sur, CA. Stay among redwoods with access to the Big Sur River, hiking trails, and a dump station.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park RV Camping, Big Sur, CA

This beach is absolutely stunning. Never seen anything like this purple sand. There is a short walk to the beach.  It is a very windy narrow road to get there.

This was the favorite stop for me and my friends along Big Sur. Hardest part was just driving there.

One of the most Beautiful State parks we have ever been to. Rugged cliffs, crashing ocean waves, Redwood trees and Cypress trees. Take a few days to unwind and walk the trails. Then come back to either the campsite or lodge. Swim and relax before dinner. Have dinner on site or one of the local fine dinning restaurants. Walk to your cabin. Light the fireplace and look at the stars.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is an absolute gem in the heart of California’s coast. Walking through the park feels like stepping into another world — the towering redwoods create a peaceful canopy, and the fresh forest air instantly makes you slow down and breathe deeper. The trails are well-marked and offer something for everyone, from easy riverside strolls to slightly more challenging hikes like the Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View trails.

The highlight for me was standing among the massive redwoods — some so tall you can barely see the tops — and realizing how old and resilient they are. It’s humbling and inspiring at the same time. The waterfall hike adds a beautiful touch of serenity, and if you climb up to the Valley View lookout, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Big Sur Valley all the way to the Pacific.

Whether you’re coming for a short visit or spending the day exploring, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a must-see. It’s the perfect blend of majestic redwoods, peaceful river spots, and accessible trails. Truly a place that leaves you refreshed and grateful for nature’s beauty.

First visit and easily one of my favorite parks! Spent the whole day hiking and wandering, seeing wildlife and seals! So many accessible paths, no extensive hiking experience required. Just be sure to bring water, a light snack, and a friend!

Beautiful park, trees. Saw wildlife skunks, foxes, deer, lots of birds. Kids played with crawfish. Nice river kid friendly nice to float like a lazy river. Gorge was nice too but busier.

Purple sand! What I came for, and it did not disappoint. It is a beautiful stretch of beach, a little rough, with some rock formations. Sunny, windy and chilly in early July. You could def make a day of it, if the weather is nice. This park does require you to pay $15 to get in (America the Beautiful and State Park passes do not work here) The drive and views to get here were amazing!

What an adventure hiking the River/Valley View Trail in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park ~ it was certainly a peaceful and rewarding experience!!!

The trail winds gently (but also steeply) through redwoods and oaks, with filtered sunlight and shade for much of the trail. The bulk of the hike is a climb, with amazing views of a stunning overlook of the Big Sur River Valley… totally worth the effort. But I will emphasise that it takes effort!!

The hike is a mix of forest serenity and panoramic views, plus if you decide to visit Pfeiffer Falls it’s an additional hidden gem. Perfect for an adventure in the Big Sur!

Big Sur State Park is an awesome place to escape into nature! The walking trails are super clean and easy to enjoy, and the whole vibe is so peaceful. Between the fresh air, the sound of the river, and the gorgeous scenery spot to relax and unwind. Whether you're hiking or just soaking it all in, you'll leave feeling refreshed. Definitely recommend checking it out!

Stunning environment, from campground to coast.  River running through the middle of the campground is a great place to put your lawn chair down and cool your feet on a hot day.  Trees abound in the campground, and is a very family friendly place.  (If you're allergic to poison oak, maybe stay elsewhere, because it's everywhere in the campground). The coastline along Big Sur is a bucket-list must see, and Monterey is only an 45 minute drive away, perfect for a day trip.  10/10 recommend this place.

one of my favorite state parks! wasn’t too crowded when I went and wonderful range of scenery. stayed by the creek and played for a bit, well kept and fairly accessible.

Wonderful camping spot! We went there last weekend. Kids were having lots of fun there. Our camp site was close to the river. Morning walk was also perfect. Kids also love the Blue Jay in the forest!

Good people there! We stayed on Xmas eve and the campground hosts did a mini electric light parade with their carts. It was so cute and special!  They have laundry and hot showers, flushing toilets!  You are camping directly in the red woods. So its pretty amazing! I liked site #2. Small but had fallen redwoods with moss on them. Also it's about 10min walk to the lodge if you want a good meal. To add they have vegan options as well. Also near by is the trail head to Pfeiffer Falls! I would say if you are going for rainy season be prepared for closures on hwy 1 and also about only half the sites are available. Flooding and landslides happen in the area quite a bit.

Granted, we were informed that our reservation had been cancelled (would have sucked hard) but they had a different site available so we took it!  Was much better, couldn't see neighbors. Could hear them- that way OK.  Cooked up a storm by campfire.  Been here twice, will do again.  5 stars.

Reviews

Pfeiffer Big Sur

User Reviews