Kirk Creek Campground

Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and a sunrise that speaks to the heart with its orange rays beaming into the sky. That’s what you can look forward to when you reserve a tent or space for your RV at Kirk Creek Campground, overlooking a bluff in the Los Padres National Forest.

You can bring your dog along for the fun as this campsite is pet-friendly. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet in length and be supervised by their owners at all times. It’s also expected that owners bring their own litter bags and pick up after their woofers.

This is camping with a raw edge and it makes for a dare-devil holiday for those who love hiking and exploring forest trails. Your pooch will love sniffing out new scents and feeling the sand under their paws on the beach, a short walk from the camp.

Kirk Creek Campground has a rugged landscape appeal with grass, gravel, and dirt clearings flanked by well-established trees for shade. Set up a few chairs by the bluff, a perfect spot for reflective thought, and feel the enormity of the ocean that sprawls before you. This is a place for getting back to basics as there is no electricity or water on tap. Sites are equipped with a picnic table, fire-ring and a grill for cooking and it doesn’t get more romantic than this as you greet folks from faraway places and share stories over a flickering camp-fire.

Vault restrooms are available but there are no showers. This is how some folks like it, as it is a reminder of simpler days when people had no electricity and lived in remote, forest locations. You won’t pay any extra to bring your pooch, but an up-to-date rabies certificate must be shown on arrival. Raccoons are always on the lookout for a free meal, so be sure to lock away eatables. They are pesky little critters that look for food left out by campers.

The peaceful ambiance makes this enchanting retreat a busy place in spring, summer, and fall, although the campsite is open all year round and it pays to book in advance. Having a camping permit allows you access to Sand Dollar Beach, a majestic sandy space where yes, you can bring your dog and check out the surfers hitting the waves. You might want to comb the beach for shells or bring home a fish for supper. This magical Big Sur beach boasts a phenomenal sandy shore where your dog can play fetch with the driftwood while you take in the sights. Once again, dogs must be leashed to navigate the beach.

There are around forty sites at Kirk Creek Campgrounds for those who seek seclusion in a magical forest setting.