Nacimiento Campground
3.5921 reviewsNacimiento Campground, Los Padres National Forest
Nacimiento Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee is $30 per site per night, payable via fee tube or host. Interagency Senior and Access Pass holders receive 50% off camping fees. Additional vehicles cost $10 per night.
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About this campground
Tucked away in a serene grove of ancient oak trees, this intimate nine-site campground offers a perfect escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. A babbling creek meanders alongside the campsites, providing a soothing soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. The campground welcomes smaller RVs up to 25 feet, making it ideal for couples and small families looking to disconnect from the modern world.
Nacimiento Campground offers primitive camping with limited facilities. There are both tent and RV sites, though RV lengths are restricted to 25 feet. Group camping and cabin lodging are not available.
Historical SignificanceThis resilient campground carries the powerful story of nature's cycles of destruction and renewal, having been touched by the devastating Dolan Fire of 2020. Today, it stands as a testament to the regenerative power of the forest ecosystem. The surrounding area is steeped in California history, with the nearby Fort Hunter Liggett military reservation and the historic Mission Road offering glimpses into the region's rich military and Spanish colonial past.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of California's coastal climate throughout the year. Winter brings refreshing coolness and occasional rain showers that rejuvenate the creek and surrounding landscape. As summer arrives, the campground transforms into a warm haven with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 95°F during the day, while evenings cool to a crisp 39°F—perfect for gathering around the campfire under star-filled skies.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable elevation within the coastal mountains, the campground offers a perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere.
Natural Features and SceneryVisitors consistently describe this hidden gem as 'remote, secluded, and absolutely gorgeous'—a rare trifecta in today's crowded outdoor destinations. The majestic oak canopy creates a natural cathedral overhead, while the creek's gentle flow provides life to the surrounding ecosystem. Lucky campers might spot magnificent bald eagles soaring above, while the observant will notice the diverse bird life and occasional snake sunning on warm rocks. This is nature at its most authentic and undisturbed.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Los Padres National Forest, the campground showcases the best of California's coastal forest ecosystem. The combination of weathered oaks and the perennial creek creates a unique microclimate that supports diverse wildlife and offers visitors a genuine wilderness experience just inland from the Pacific coast. This protected landscape represents one of California's most pristine and ecologically important regions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as loosely defined and can accommodate 6-8 people per site. RVs are limited to 25 feet.
Sites PrivacySites are described as secluded, some backing up to a small creek. Site #1 is noted for being particularly private.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #1 is described as one of the most private spots. Site #7 offers the best views and proximity to the creek.
Best CampsitesSite #7, noted as the best site by users due to its location near the creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00pm
Check-out
12:00 noon
Stay Limit
14 day maximum stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6-8 people per site.
Groups
Group camping is not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNine loosely defined campsites scattered among oak trees and adjacent to the creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but seasonal road conditions might limit access as indicated by user reviews.
Reservation PlatformsNo online or phone reservation platform mentioned. Payment is via fee tube or the campground host.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo reservations required; first-come-first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyInteragency Senior and Access Pass holders entitled to 50% off camping fees. Not valid for day use or extra vehicles.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Nacimiento Campground offers activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting in the surrounding area. The creek next to the campground provides opportunities for fishing, and hiking trails are accessible nearby. Wildlife viewing is another activity noted by visitors, with sightings of bald eagles and other wildlife. Some reviews mention beach activities and views of the ocean during the drive to the site as additional attractions.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available in the surrounding area, providing access to the natural beauty of the Los Padres National Forest.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the creek adjacent to the campground. One reviewer noted seeing fish in the gravel spawning areas.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagles and other bird species. Coyotes and snakes have also been observed in the area.Winter Activities
There is no specific mention of winter activities available at the campground.Water Sports
There are no non-motorized water sports mentioned. The creek may offer limited informal opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in designated fire pits; may be restricted during dry seasons.
- Quiet hours are 10:00pm - 6:00am
Hazards
General hazardsFlies are a recurring issue, particularly during late summer and early fall. Creek sometimes dries out, and pit toilets reportedly have a strong odor.
Active alertsRoad closure westbound reported in January 2022. Creek water availability and fire restrictions vary based on seasonal conditions.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Monterey Ranger District for fire and emergency inquiries. No specific hospitals or police stations are mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates noted.
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific mention of trash or recycling facilities. User reviews mention trash strewn about the campsite.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Nacimiento Creek, which runs along the campsites.
Common complaintsFrequent mentions of flies and bugs, pit toilet odor, and the dusty environment. Trash has been reported around campsites.
Host"Easy-going host." Users appreciated the host’s assistance, though some facilities remain basic and unmaintained.
Campground Map
Nacimiento Campground, Los Padres National Forest
Driving directionsFrom the north take Interstate 101 south and take the Ft. Hunter Liggett exit. Then go 17.5 miles to the junction with Mission Road. From the south take Interstate 101 south, take exit #252 and take county road G18, 21.7 miles to the junction at Mission Road. From the junction proceed 3.2 from the junction to Naciemento Ferguson Road and turn left. It is 13 miles to Nacimiento CG from this point.
The road is paved but windy and narrow. Some user reviews noted it could be nerve-wracking, and others mentioned its length at approximately 12-13 miles uphill and downhill to reach the campground.Nearby places
Big Sur (Approx. 45 minutes drive), Fort Hunter Liggett (Approx. 17.5 miles), and Monterey (Approx. 57 miles).
Nearby supplies
Supplies available at Ponderosa Campground 10 minutes east, including water. Additional camping gear should be brought from nearby towns like Monterey or Big Sur.
Camper Reviews
3.6
21 reviews
Nacimiento Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Nacimiento Campground are mixed. Positive comments highlight the remote and peaceful environment, proximity to a creek, and opportunities for solitude. Negative comments focus on the presence of flies, lack of potable water, and variable cleanliness of the vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the serene setting, secluded sites, creek adjacency, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Site #7 is mentioned as one of the best sites, and site #1 is noted for its privacy.
Based on 21 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include a lack of potable water, swarms of flies during the day, unpleasant odors from vault toilets, and trash scattered around the campsite.
Based on 21 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, as potable water is not available. Firewood should also be brought along, as it is not sold on-site. Arrive early to secure a site, especially on weekends. Site #7 is...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Flies are a notable problem in late summer and early fall. The campground is less crowded during weekdays and off-peak seasons. Summer and holiday weekends tend to see more visitors and higher site...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Remote, secluded, and absolutely gorgeous. 5/5 do recommend for solitude and peace." - Lea-Marie Hayward
"We couldn't find a campsite at any of the other sites we passed... and found out about this...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #7 is described as one of the best sites, offering a creek-side location. Site #1 is noted for its privacy. Vault toilets are described as basic but not always clean.
Based on 21 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific reviews or mentions of accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Reviewers noted bringing dogs to the site and appreciated the pet-friendly policy, though no specific amenities for pets are mentioned.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025