How much does camping cost at Trail Campground?

Camping fees at Trail Campground range from $5-$30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Trail Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Trail Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Trail Campground before I book?

Yes! Trail Campground has 15 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Trail Campground?

Trail Campground is open Late spring through mid-October.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Trail Campground?

Trail Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Trail Campground have?

Trail Campground has 24 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Trail Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Trail Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Trail Campground?

Trail Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Trail Campground?

Popular activities at Trail Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Trail Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Trail Campground?

Fire policies at Trail Campground: Fires are allowed only in provided steel fire rings. No wood gathering is permitted; firewood is available for purchase at the entrance station.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.30

31 reviews

45500 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920

Top 16% in CASummer

Scenic Views

Featured in:Camping Near Big Sur

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

36 ft

Price

$5 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

Open during late spr...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

36 ft

Price

$5 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

Open during late spr...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Trail Campground

$5.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees include $30 per night for standard campsites, $5 per night for hike-and-bike sites, and $10 per night for a second vehicle (parking not...

Standard Site Fee$30.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$5.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve California

Provider

1-800-444-7275BigSur.Admin@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Trail Campground

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

45500 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920

Trail Campground

45500 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920

Nearby places

Carmel (22 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Monterey (36 miles, approximately 45 minutes), Santa Cruz (71 miles, approximately 1.5 hours), San Luis Obispo (135 miles, approximately 2.5 hours)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies can be found in Big Sur Village (approximately 8 miles south), including a general store and fuel station. Larger supply options are available in Carmel (22 miles).

Driving directionsThe campground is located 21 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1. Follow Highway 1 south and turn into the Andrew Molera State Park entrance near mile marker 51.2.

The campground is accessible via paved roads up to the parking area. No vehicles are allowed in the campground itself, as visitors must hike 1/4 mile from the day-use parking lot. Highway 1 closures may occur; visitors are advised to check CalTrans updates before traveling.

Weather at Trail Campground

Current alert: The campground is closed for winter starting October 22, 2024, and Highway 1 closures may affect access.

Best Time to Camp at Trail Campground

Summer brings the most predictable conditions. Marine fog blankets the meadow most mornings, burning off to warm afternoons. Daytime highs in the mid-60s to low 70s, mornings in the 50s to 60s. This is peak season for hiking, river access, and beach visits, but it's also the most crowded time. Reserve early. Winter sees temperatures from the 30s to 70s with more frequent rain, which means fuller streams, greener hillsides, and fewer people. Pack layers year-round for cool, foggy mornings and breezy evenings.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in CA

Most predictable conditions; fog burns off to warm afternoons; footbridge eases beach access.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Late spring through mid-October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open during late spring through mid-October. Closed for winter season starting October 22, 2024, scheduled to reopen late spring 2025.

About Trail Campground

Trail Campground sits in a meadow at Andrew Molera State Park where the Big Sur River winds toward the Pacific. This walk-in campground has 24 primitive sites. 22 tent spots and two hike-and-bike sites. Each with a fire ring, picnic table, and bear locker. Potable water and flush toilets are available, but there are no showers. Fees run $5-$30 per night.

Andrew Molera Trail Camp is strictly hike-in and offers tent camping sites as its primary accommodation. The campground does not support RVs, trailers, or glamping.

Historical Significance

The park contains the Cooper Cabin from the late 1800s land grant era and the Molera Ranch House Museum, which displays artifacts from Big Sur's ranching and logging history.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most predictable conditions. Marine fog blankets the meadow most mornings, burning off to warm afternoons. Daytime highs in the mid-60s to low 70s, mornings in the 50s to 60s. This is peak season for hiking, river access, and beach visits, but it's also the most crowded time. Reserve early. Winter sees temperatures from the 30s to 70s with more frequent rain, which means fuller streams, greener hillsides, and fewer people. Pack layers year-round for cool, foggy mornings and breezy evenings.

ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain unrecorded for this meadow campground, visitors will find themselves perfectly positioned between the coastal lowlands and the rising Santa Lucia Mountains, creating an ideal basecamp for exploring Big Sur's dramatic vertical landscape.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a river meadow at 36 feet elevation, surrounded by redwoods, oaks, and coastal sage. The Big Sur River runs nearby, and trails lead from the meadow through shrubland to coastal bluffs overlooking the Pacific. The setting balances forest and open space: some sites sit fully shaded under trees, while others get partial or no shade. Poison oak grows near some trails. Morning fog is common, especially in summer.

Geological RegionPerched within the legendary Big Sur region, Andrew Molera State Park showcases nature's architectural mastery where the Santa Lucia Mountains plunge dramatically into the Pacific. This remarkable geological tapestry weaves together windswept coastal bluffs carved by millennia of ocean storms, tranquil meadows cradled in ancient river valleys, and dense forests that thrive in the fog-kissed canyons. The Big Sur River serves as the park's liquid lifeline, carving its patient path from mountain springs to sea, creating the fertile floodplains and diverse habitats that make this corner of the California coast an ecological treasure.

Scenic ViewsCampers can enjoy views of the Big Sur coastline, towering cliffs, and meadows. Trails near the campground offer panoramic ocean views and sunset vistas.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is offered at Andrew Molera Trail Camp.

Programs & ActivitiesEducational programs include the California Condor Discovery Center and the Molera Ranch House Museum featuring the history of Big Sur.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2p.m.

Check-out

12 p.m.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 30 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Four people per campsite, including children.

Groups

No designated group camping sites are mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe 24 sites spread across a meadow in a walk-in layout. Spacing provides a balance of privacy and a quiet atmosphere, though shade varies. Some sites sit fully shaded, others get partial sun or none. Most sites accommodate standard tent camping and feel spacious.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability. All campsites require reservations in advance.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made through ReserveCalifornia.com and may incur penalties depending on proximity to reservation date.

AccessibilityCampground is walk-in only, requiring a 1/4-mile hike from the parking area. Accessible trails to reach facilities, but no specific ADA-compliant amenities mentioned.

Site SizeMost sites are intended for standard tent camping and are described as spacious. Shade varies by site; some are fully shaded, and others offer partial or no shade.

PrivacySites provide a balance of privacy with a meadow-style layout. Users have noted a quiet atmosphere during stays.

Total Campsites24 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites with full shade for hot summer days or those near water spigots for convenience.

Best CampsitesSites near the river offer easier trail access and scenic views, though poison oak grows close to some paths in those areas.

Need help booking Trail Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveCalifornia Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Andrew Molera Trail Camp is a hike-in campground located in Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur, California. The campground features 22 standard tent sites and two hike-and-bike campsites, all situated in a meadow near the Big Sur River. Each campsite is equipped with a steel fire ring, picnic table, and animal-proof food storage container. Potable water is available on-site, and the campground provides flush toilets, but there are no shower facilities. Firewood can be purchased at the entrance station, and trash containers are animal-proof with recycling options for plastic, glass, and aluminum. The campground is walk-in only, requiring campers to park in a designated lot and hike approximately 1/4 mile to the sites. Dogs are prohibited, and quiet hours are enforced from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Andrew Molera Trail Camp offers a variety of recreational activities both at the campsite and in the surrounding park. These include hiking on trails, wildlife viewing, and access to beach-related activities. The park itself is known for its rugged coastline and scenic trails.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCommon hazards include poison oak, ticks, and wasps. Campers should also be aware of cold river crossings and potential wildlife encounters.

Food Storage RequiredEach campsite includes animal-proof food storage lockers to protect wildlife and ensure food safety.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed only in provided steel fire rings. No wood gathering is permitted; firewood is available for purchase at the entrance station.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Emergency ServicesNearest hospital: Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula in Monterey (36 miles away). Police services: Monterey County Sheriff's Office in Monterey. Ranger station: Andrew Molera State Park has an entrance station.

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans at the campground are animal-proof, and recycling containers are available for plastic, glass, and aluminum.

Water FeaturesLocated near the Big Sur River, with trails leading to the river mouth where it meets the ocean.

Camp HostCampground hosts are available near the entrance station to assist with check-in and provide firewood.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Trail Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.3

31 reviews

Satisfactory

Trail Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Andrew Molera Trail Camp, but also mention challenges such as the hike-in requirement and occasional wildlife encounters.

Review Summaries

Based on 31 reviews

What Campers Love

The campground is praised for its clean facilities, serene location near the river, and access to stunning hiking trails. Visitors enjoy the quiet and natural setting.

Based on 31 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of showers, wasp infestations during certain seasons, and challenges in accessing the beach due to river crossings.

Based on 31 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #4 is noted for having full shade and proximity to the river, while sites #5 and #6 offer partial shade. Users appreciate clean facilities and bear lockers.

Based on 31 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra water, wear long pants to avoid poison oak, and plan for a hike-in with lightweight gear. Check conditions for river crossings if heading to the beach.

Based on 31 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During summer, visitors appreciate the temporary footbridge allowing easier access to trails leading to the beach. Winter is noted for colder temperatures and challenging conditions for river...

Based on 31 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Had to hike into our site but the accommodations and location were amazing. Bathrooms were clean.' - Stacie Taylor 2. 'Nice walking path to the beach access. Bring water shoes, a towel, and a...

Based on 31 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific ADA-compliant features are highlighted, but users report that the hike to campsites may be challenging for some individuals.

Based on 31 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are prohibited at the campground and trails, with no exceptions for dogs, as mentioned in user reviews.

Based on 31 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Lightweight backpackers and coastal hikers who want Big Sur at $30 with actual flush toilets. The 1/4-mile carry-in keeps car campers away, Ridge Trail delivers ocean panoramas from camp, and site #4 has full shade right on the river.

Skip if

Dogs, RVs, and anyone who needs a shower are all turned away at the gate. Wasp infestations are a recurring summer complaint, river crossings to the beach can be cold and difficult, and parking is limited with no overflow guarantee.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.4

(137)

Group A & B Campground

47225 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920

Group A & B sit a quarter-mile walk from Highway 1 parking, offering two tent-only sites for gatherings up to 35 people. At $150 per night, each site includes picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water but no showers or food lockers. The walk-in format and group-only reservations keep these spots quieter than the main campground, though strict park rules and spotty cell service mean you'll need to plan ahead and disconnect.