Plaskett Creek Campground
4.32497 reviews.
Quick Facts
200 ftPrice
$45 - $200/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
43 campsites
Season
Open January 1 - Dec...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
200 ftPrice
$45 - $200/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
43 campsites
Season
Open January 1 - Dec...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsPlaskett Creek Campground
$45.00 - $200.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates by season include $45 for standard nonelectric campsites and $150-$200 for group sites. Additional charges apply for weekends and...
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Standard Site Fee$45.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$200.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$245.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider805-434-1996parksman@fix.net
What Campers Say
4.32
Recommended
Based on 497 reviews
265 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsshadebeachsites
Some mention
noise
"User reviews for Plaskett Creek Campground are mixed. Positive comments reflect the natural beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to Sand Dollar Beach. However, there are significant complaints about maintenance issues, including non-functional toilets, the absence of potable water, and overall cleanliness."
Fees & Passes at Plaskett Creek Campground
$45 - $200/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled with a $10 fee, plus late cancellation penalties; changes to reservatio...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official null website.
Best Time to Camp at Plaskett Creek Campground
Experience the enchanting moods of the California coast, where mild temperatures create year-round camping comfort. Summer mornings often arrive wrapped in mystical coastal fog, gradually lifting to reveal spectacular ocean vistas as the day unfolds. This natural air conditioning keeps temperatures pleasant even during peak season, while the marine layer adds an ethereal quality to sunrise walks and early morning coffee.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: January 1 - December 31 (Peak Season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open January 1 - December 31.
- Current Alerts: Hwy 1 is TEMPORARILY CLOSED from Monterey, limiting access from this direction.
About Plaskett Creek Campground
Nestled just minutes from the renowned Sand Dollar Beach, Plaskett Creek Campground beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts to experience the raw beauty of California's Big Sur coast. Wake up to the rhythmic sound of Pacific waves, gather around crackling campfires under towering pines, and spend your days exploring pristine beaches, casting lines into abundant waters, or traversing scenic coastal trails. Each thoughtfully positioned site comes complete with picnic tables and fire rings, creating the perfect basecamp for your coastal adventure.
Plaskett Creek Campground caters to a variety of campers with options for tent, RV, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceThis pristine stretch of coastline carries the timeless spirit of California's untamed shores, where generations of visitors have come to reconnect with nature's grandeur.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the enchanting moods of the California coast, where mild temperatures create year-round camping comfort. Summer mornings often arrive wrapped in mystical coastal fog, gradually lifting to reveal spectacular ocean vistas as the day unfolds. This natural air conditioning keeps temperatures pleasant even during peak season, while the marine layer adds an ethereal quality to sunrise walks and early morning coffee.
ElevationPerched at a gentle 200 feet above the sparkling Pacific, the campground offers just enough elevation to capture cooling ocean breezes while maintaining easy access to the beach below.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering Monterey pines, majestic cypress, and aromatic cedars that create a natural sanctuary within Los Padres National Forest. This living tapestry shelters an abundance of wildlife—watch for curious foxes at dusk, elusive bobcats in the early morning, graceful deer browsing through campsites, and clever raccoons investigating the evening activities. From many sites, the Pacific Ocean provides a constant soundtrack, its powerful surf creating a natural lullaby that enhances every moment of your stay.
Geological RegionDiscover your place in one of California's most dramatic landscapes, where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific in spectacular fashion. Located within the vast Los Padres National Forest in west-central California's legendary Big Sur region, Plaskett Creek Campground offers a park-like oasis beneath a protective canopy of Monterey pines and windswept cypress. Here, the rugged coastline's ancient geological story unfolds just steps away at Sand Dollar Beach, where jade hunters, tidepoolers, and sunset seekers find endless fascination along the dynamic shoreline.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAn accessible flush toilet is located near Site 10. However, there is no detailed information on other accessibility features.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally spacious, with grassy areas that are good for pitching tents. However, some sites, particularly group sites, are sloped or uneven, making them challenging for tent setups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across the campground. Many sites are well-spaced, particularly those on the outer loops, but central sites are less private. Group sites are reported to lack shade and are on slanted terrain.
Total Campsites43 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites 6, 7, and 8 due to generator noise. Sites on the outer perimeter offer better privacy.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in after 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of people per single site is 8.
Groups
Three group sites are available, each accommodating up to 40 people and 10 vehicles. These sites are equipped with multiple tables, grills, and campfire circles. However, group sites are reported to lack shade and have sloped terrain.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are grassy, spread under mature trees, and laid out in loops.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1 - December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability exists. Information on specific site count is unavailable.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee, plus late cancellation penalties; changes to reservation dates incur fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Plaskett Creek Campground is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, beachcombing, and surfing. Visitors frequently highlight the campground's proximity to Sand Dollar Beach and nearby trails with views of waterfalls and redwood groves.
Hiking
The campground offers access to trails leading to Sand Dollar Beach and nearby bluffs with ocean views. Within a short drive, additional trails offer scenic views of waterfalls, redwood groves, and mountain meadows.Fishing
Fishing at Sand Dollar Beach requires a permit for those over 16 years of age. Anglers commonly catch yellow perch and other surf fish.Swimming
Visitors can swim at Sand Dollar Beach, which is a short walk from the campground. The beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and water play.Biking
Trails near the campground accommodate mountain biking. Riders can explore terrain featuring ocean and forest views.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as foxes, bobcats, deer, raccoons, and occasionally mountain lions and bears can be seen in the area. The ocean views also make this a great place for birdwatching and spotting sea life.Beach activities
Sand Dollar Beach is a highlight of the campground, offering activities like beachcombing, surfing, and sunbathing. Stairs lead down to the beach, which can be challenging for visitors with mobility issues.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not well-documented, though the area is likely less crowded during colder months.Water Sports
The main water sport activity is surfing, which is popular at Sand Dollar Beach, located just a short walk from the campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are often restricted due to drought conditions. Propane stoves are allowed.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is abundant. Occasional mountain lion and bear sightings, but they have not entered the campground.
Active alertsHwy 1 is TEMPORARILY CLOSED from Monterey, limiting access from this direction.
Weather at Plaskett Creek Campground
64
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are located conveniently throughout the campground, but there are no recycling facilities. Some reviews noted the lack of animal-proof trash bins, which occasionally led to littering.
Proximity to water featuresMinutes away from Sand Dollar Beach, the largest sandy beach in Big Sur.
Common complaintsFrequent issues include generator noise, lack of potable water, steep or uneven sites for tents, and poor restroom maintenance.
HostHosts are frequently praised for being helpful, although some complaints about unfriendly behavior appear.
Campground Map
.
Driving directionsFrom San Luis Obispo, travel north on Highway 1 for approximately 65 miles to the campground.
Hwy 1 is TEMPORARILY CLOSED from the Monterey area, making access difficult from this direction.Nearby places
San Luis Obispo (approximately 65 miles south).
Nearby supplies
null
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
497 reviews
Plaskett Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Plaskett Creek Campground are mixed. Positive comments reflect the natural beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to Sand Dollar Beach. However, there are significant complaints about maintenance issues, including non-functional toilets, the absence of potable water, and overall cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 497 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the serene atmosphere, well-shaded sites, and proximity to Sand Dollar Beach. The area is noted for its scenic beauty, including ocean views and grassy campsites.
Based on 497 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include non-potable water, inoperable restrooms, high firewood prices, and lack of maintenance. Some users also reported noise disturbances from generators and limited privacy in...
Based on 497 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and hand sanitizer due to inconsistent water availability. Avoid sites near the north entrance to escape generator noise, and consider selecting outer-loop sites for more privacy.
Based on 497 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season, with many families and surfers visiting. Reviews suggest avoiding major holidays due to overcrowding. Winter offers quieter stays but with colder weather and fewer...
Based on 497 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'The campground is beautiful, but the facilities are lacking.' 'Bring your own water and hand sanitizer because the sinks don't work.' 'Sand Dollar Beach is a must-see and just a short walk away.'
Based on 497 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 6, 7, and 8 near the north entrance are reported to experience generator noise. Group sites lack shade and level ground. Site 33 is praised for its privacy and grassy area.
Based on 497 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground offers an accessible flush toilet near Site 10, but overall accessibility features are limited. Sloped terrain at some sites poses challenges for visitors with mobility concerns.
Based on 497 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the campground, and Sand Dollar Beach allows leashed dogs. Some users noted off-leash dogs as an issue in the campground.
Based on 497 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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