Can you camp in Big Sur without a reservation?
If you end up without a camping reservation in Big Sur…
Your best bet is the San Simeon Creek Campground to the south, which has 115 campsites. This one is located near Hearst Castle where you can book a tour.
Can you camp wherever you want in Big Sur?
The Los Padres National Forest is home to Big Sur and there are lots of places on the side of the road that you are allowed to camp for free. Big Sur campgrounds can fill up months in advance, so car camping on public BLM land (Bureau of Land Management) is a great back-up or last-minute trick.
Are there bears in Big Sur?
Black bears are relative newcomers to the Big Sur area, and while still rare, are spotted occasionally. They are believed to be colonizing the area as a result of being pushed out of southern California. Many of the same common sense rules apply to bears that apply to mountain lions.
Are campfires allowed at Pfeiffer Big Sur?
Campfires are allowed only in the provided metal fire rings within the State Parks’ campgrounds. Firewood is available at the Pfeiffer Big Sur entrance kiosk for $12/bundle.
Can you sleep in your car in Big Sur?
Hwy 1 through Big Sur is a remote area, so the highway patrol can only monitor the road so much – its not like they can just pass by various sections on their way to somewhere else. So, yes, it is possible to sleep in your car and not get caught.
Why is it so hard to find campsites in California?
Why is it so hard to get a reservation? California State Parks says that at times, it can’t keep up with demand. “We have approximately 13,000 campsites available and each year, on average, more than 6.5 million visitors camp in our popular state parks.” The COVID-19 pandemic has boosted demand even higher.
Are there mosquitos in Big Sur?
Mosquitos and other bugs are all over Big Sur. The best bug sprays are high in picaridin, DEET, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Is there mountain lions in Big Sur?
Cougars, or mountain lions, exist in Big Sur but are rarely spotted. They are elusive and quiet. Although strong and powerful, rarely are they considered a threat to people.
Are Grizzly bears in Big Sur?
Though officially extinct in California, sightings of grizzly bears in Big Sur (real or imaginary) continued for another half century.
Why is it illegal to sleep in your car in California?
When Parked at a Public Rest Stop. According to the California Department of Transportation, it is legal to have your car parked for up to eight hours in a 24-hour period in a rest area. However, it is illegal to “camp or pitch a tent.” If you are merely taking a nap under eight hours long, it is most likely legal.
Where can I camp in California without reservations?
No reservation needed at these California campsites
- Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur. Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur has beach access and a river.
- Sunset Canyon in King’s Canyon National Park.
- Chula Vista Campground in Santa Barbara.
- Topanga State Park.
What time do campsites become available on reserve California?
A: California State Parks moved from a block or on-sale day reservation period to a rolling window. The public can reserve the highly sought-after campsites and lodging six months in advance from the current date. Camping and lodging inventory will become available each day for a period of six months in advance.
Are there tarantulas at Big Sur?
There are a bunch of bugs in Big Sur, so make sure you’re prepared with bug spray. The mosquitos will love you almost as much as they love the wilderness, and don’t be surprised when you see everything from spiders and bees to scorpions and tarantulas.
Are there ticks at Big Sur?
Ticks along the California coast have been a fact of life for decades — whether wandering down the trails of beaches north of Santa Cruz or much further south. Garrapata State Park in Big Sur was established in 1985, and garrapata is Spanish for tick.
What should you do if you encounter a mountain lion?
Protect Yourself from Mountain Lions
- Stay calm. Hold your ground and back away slowly.
- Do not approach a lion. Never approach a mountain lion, especially one that is feeding or with kittens.
- Do not run from a lion. Running may stimulate a mountain lion’s instinct to chase.
- Do not crouch down or bend over.
Do you need bear canister for Big Sur?
In the backcountry, bear canisters are not required (we hung our food) and there are pit latrines at each of the campsites (luxury!). Resources: Stop by the Big Sur Station to ask the staff about current conditions. The Forest Service website for the Pine Creek Trail also includes lots of good information.
Can you sleep in Walmart parking lots in California?
1. Walmart. You may have already heard that it is completely legal to park and sleep overnight in your vehicle at all Walmart parking lots. This has been true in all of our experiences.
Do you have to crack a window when sleeping in your car?
You do not need to crack the window of your vehicle while sleeping. Not only is air continually circulating, but there is also generally enough air inside the car to sustain someone for a long time.
Where is BLM dispersed camping?
The easiest and most efficient way to find BLM campgrounds across the country is at Recreation.gov, which allows you to search for outdoor activities on public lands, including the national parks, national forests, and army corps of engineer projects.
Why is it so hard to reserve a campsite in California?
How do I get a spot on reserve CA?
A: You can make reservations online or by calling our Customer Contact Center. Below are the details: Online: www.ReserveCalifornia.com. Phone: (800) 444-PARK (7275).
Do you need bear canisters in Big Sur?
In the backcountry, bear canisters are not required (we hung our food) and there are pit latrines at each of the campsites (luxury!). Resources: Stop by the Big Sur Station to ask the staff about current conditions.
Is pepper spray effective on mountain lions?
It’s a wonderful defense against mountain lions (also known as cougars, pumas, or panthers). They, like all cats, have extremely sensitive noses and don’t like having them abused. So, they’ll respond swiftly to a dose of pepper spray, meaning they’ll almost always beat a hasty retreat.
Will a mountain lion chase you?
According to the National Park Service, mountain lions are most often found in areas with lots of prey and places to find cover. On the rare occasion they do attack, they usually target small children. Running may indicate to the mountain lion that it needs to chase you.
Can bears smell unopened drinks?
Bears have an insatiable appetite and an amazing sense of smell, and they consider anything with a scent to be “food.” This can include canned goods, bottles, drinks, soaps, cosmetics, toiletries, trash, ice chests, sunscreen, bug repellant, fuel, items used for preparing or eating meals, etc.