Reyes Peak Campground
Small but spectacularly scenic and close to all sorts of recreational opportunities -- if you and your furry friend are planning a Fido-friendly Big Sur adventure, Reyes Peak Campground might just be the paw-fect place to pitch your tent! Facilities at Reyes Peak are pretty basic. You won’t find any showers, electricity, or RV hookups.
But with such a beautiful location, who can complain? The views from Reyes Peak Campground are nothing short of stunning. Look in one direction and you’ll see all the way to the ocean, in another and you’ll be treated to the sight of the striking Cuyama Badlands spread out below. The sites are well shaded by mature pines, and colorful wildflowers dot the campground in spring and early summer. At an elevation of over 7,000 feet, you and your buddy should have no trouble keeping cool even in the height of summer! Just be sure to wrap up warm at night, as those trees don’t provide nearly as much shelter from the chill wind as you might think. There are only six campsites at Reyes Peak, and none are reservable -- you’ll have to get there very early to ensure your spot! There’s no entrance fee to the area, and sites start at $20.
You and your pupper won’t find it too hard to sniff out something to do during your stay! Hound-dog hikers will by far get the most out of a trip here. Four-pawed fitness freaks might want to try their luck on the challenging Chorro Grande Trail, a seven-mile out-and-back stretch with inclines varying from the steep to the truly punishing. The route rewards those who can complete it with panoramic vistas of Big Sur, and if you thought that the wildflowers at the campground were something, wait ‘til you see those along the trail! The less athletic among us might want to try out the Reyes Peak Trail or the Raspberry Spring Trail, far shorter routes with similarly beautiful sights. You can gather fruit on the latter in the right season! Avid birders might want to keep their eyes out for woodpeckers, chickadees, and even the occasional condor.
Wifi isn’t available at Reyes Peak, and cellular coverage is hard to come by. Fires are permitted, but only in designated rings, and regulations can change with the weather. There isn’t any drinking water at the campground -- you’ll need to bring your own bottle. Remember to bring waste bags for your doggo, and have a pawesome time!
