An RV Adventure Through Scenic Big Sur

Central California State Parks

Morro Bay State Park

Start your first day in Big Sur, CA, by enjoying spectacular ocean views during a stay at Morro Bay State Park. This campground offers over 140 campsites. The maximum length for an RV is 35 feet, and electrical hookups are available in some campsites. Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table with water spigots nearby. RV sanitation station and water-fill station are also available.

Recreational activities include camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, surfing, beach exploration, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.

Hidden Kitchen

Looking for eatery recommendations? Head to The Hidden Kitchen! This restaurant is a 100% gluten-free cafe featuring all-organic, sustainably-sourced fare. They specialize in bioregional blue corn waffles, hand-pressed blue corn tacos, and superfood, super delicious smoothies to satisfy a broad range of taste preferences.

There are two locations, with the Cayucos location only 15 minutes from the campground and the Cambria location 29 minutes from the campground.

Montaña De Oro State Park

This landmark is situated about a 20-minute drive from Morro Bay State Park Campground. With over 8000 acres, including seven miles of shoreline, Montaña de Oro State Park is one of the largest state parks in California. Montana de Oro State Park features over 8,000 acres of rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including the 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Wildlife in the park includes black tailed deer and the black oystercatcher.

Naturalists and backpackers often enjoy the park trails. Mountain biking and equestrian trails are also available, and many visitors also enjoy the beach at Spooner's Cove. This park is also home to Islay Creek Campground, which offers 47 campsites and can accommodate RVs up to 27 feet.

Hiking and Camping

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Located three hours’ drive from Montaña De Oro State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park has 1,346 acres of redwood, oak, chaparral, and meadow areas. Hikers can enjoy 8 miles of hiking trails within the park and over 200 miles of trails in the Ventana Wilderness, which borders the park. Overlooks provide views of the Big Sur Valley and the Big Sur River Gorge.

McWay Falls

McWay Falls is located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, several miles south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. This location is unique because, unlike most waterfalls, which are just a drop along the course of a creek or stream, McWay Falls plunges straight down to the beach in McWay Cove. Since it is capable of spilling right into the ocean, McWay Falls can be categorized as a "tidefall," making it a rare attraction.

Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is located in the heart of Big Sur and is one of the region’s most popular beaches. This location is a 22-minute drive from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. During your visit to Pfeiffer Beach, explore Keyhole Arch, a fascinating natural landmark that allows waves and even the last rays of daylight to pass through it, making it a favored spot among photographers. Overnight camping is not permitted.

Along the north end of Pfeiffer Beach, view the unique purple sand, which gets its color from manganese garnet rocks in the cliffs. This area of Pfeifer Beach is also known to have extensive tide pools during low tides.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

Conclude your day back at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground, a popular location with 189 sites situated on or near the Big Sur River. During peak season, this park has a maximum stay limit of seven consecutive nights. Leashed dogs are permitted.

Campground amenities include a Campfire Center that offers evening programs during peak season. Interpretive walks and education programs are offered year-round on weekends. Each campsite includes a parking area for at least one car, a fire pit, and a picnic table. RVers dry camp at this location. Fresh water and hot showers are located throughout the campground.

Nearby Attractions

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

This location is a 40-minute drive from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground and is famous for its beautiful views. Visitors often go sightseeing and enjoy photography, painting, nature study, picnicking, scuba diving, and jogging. Please note that dogs are not permitted at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and this area is for day use only.

The offshore area (part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary) forms one of the richest underwater habitats in the world, popular with divers. Among the 70-foot-high kelp forests, divers can explore a world of vibrant color and an array of animals such as lingcod, rockfish, harbor seals, sea otters, sea stars, and more.

Spa Alila

Treat yourself to a relaxing experience at Spa Alila! Big Sur has long been known as a sacred curative site, and Spa Alila is designed around encouraging the inner peace and connection this region inspires. Immerse yourself in thoughtfully curated offerings that capture the beauty and essence of Big Sur.

Big Sur Taphouse

After a day exploring Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, enjoy a hearty meal at Big Sur Taphouse. This locally owned and operated establishment is a 40 minute drive from Point Lobos, 5 minutes from Spa Alila, and 10 minutes from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground. Enjoy this restaurant’s excellent food, great beverages, sports-focused television, and friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Pismo State Beach

Pismo State Beach

On the final day of your journey through Big Sur, travel to Pismo State Beach (a three-hour drive from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground).

Popular activities in Pismo State Beach include hiking, swimming, surf fishing, and bird watching. Additionally, nearby Ocean Lagoon has a wheelchair-accessible fishing overhang. Visitors are welcome to stop by the Oceano Dunes District Visitor Center to learn about the beach’s free educational programs. 

Also, those who are at Pismo State Beach during the right time of year (November-February) might have the opportunity to observe Western Monarch Butterflies in the Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove.

Two campgrounds (North Beach Campground and Oceano Campground) are available within Pismo State Beach. Both provide conventional amenities such as restrooms, pay-operated hot showers, picnic tables, and a campfire ring. Firewood is available for sale at the Camp Host Campsites or by inquiring with park staff at the kiosk. Motorhomes up to 36 feet can be accommodated, as well as trailers up to 31 feet. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance, but must be made 48 hours before arrival.