I visit Big Sur, to spend time in nature, either surfing, hiking or camping. There are several campgrounds on the coast, including Pfeiffer State Park, Kirk Creek, and Plaskett Creek to name a few. These campgrounds provide a close experience to the coast, are developed with pit toilets and running water. The problem is that in summer, the high travel season thru Big Sur, the camp grounds are filled well in advance, and thus requires planning which can kill the spontaneity of loading up the car, heading north and expecting to find a place to camp for the night.
However, if you are into back country adventures, and do not mind primitive camping, there are several campgrounds found deep in Los Padres National Forest, that are available on a first come first serve basis.
These campgrounds are less accessible National forest campgrounds nestled along remote dirt roads at higher elevations in Big Sur. As one would guess, the tip of the Big Sur mountains offer even more picturesque panoramas of the coast, compared to being along Highway 1. During my visit to the Central Coast this summer, I planned to do at least one day of back country driving and camping high on top of Big Sur. I monitored the weather channel for a day forecasted to be sunny, and on a short notice I loaded up the Land Cruiser with camping gear, food, and my surfboard of course, in case I would find some waves at Sand Dollar Beach (that was not to be during this trip.)
After doing some research on the internet, I focused on Prewitt Ridge campground as my destination, and after analyzing the maps and other data, I decided to make the drive up the mountain via the Willow Creek road, road 23SO1 (aka Los Burros Road.) Driving to the campground thru this route, guaranteed me more back roads driving vs. approaching the campground from Nacimiento-Ferguson Road. Los Burros Road, will intersect South Coast Ridge Road, which is the road that will take you to Prewitt Ridge Campground.
If you decide to make this trip, I highly recommend having a detailed map of the area. A GPS would also come in handy here, as there are many side dirt roads through out that can make navigating the area a bit confusing. You do not want to go down one such road and finding out that it is closed at a private property gate for example.
Also, while 4 wheel drive is not necessary, do be aware that the roads are narrow, and require paying close attention most of the way. Some parts that wind through the mountain forest are lined with brush and oak trees, and redwoods so thick, creating canopies that you can loose your satellite reception many times. Keep an eye for the seldom vehicle you are likely to see, especially when driving around curves. Not to alarm you, but driving off the road in some places you may as well have your will in order, as such a fall would likely result in an early life departure.
Along South Coast Ridge Road, there are a number of marked and mostly unmarked camping sites. At an elevation 3300 feet, Prewitt Ridge gives you about 180 degrees of unparalleled Pacific views, minus the crowds. I ended up sharing the campground with just one couple, whose tent set up was far from mine.
I was blown away with the beauty of the place, but did find the local bugs (flies and hornets) quite annoying during my stay, The only negative experience of a truly great day. Big Sur is God’s country and exploring the back roads high on top of the mountains, provides one with yet another alternative to enjoy its wild beauty.
For more pics cut and paste the following link into a new screen.
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v228/bohemianjsr/53%20Big%20Sur%2009/?albumview=slideshow
