Limekiln State Park Campground
4.6334 reviews63025 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Limekiln State Park Campground
$5.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$35.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$5.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees include $35 per standard site and $5 per hike and bike site. Additional vehicle fees are $10 per night. Discounts include $2 off for seniors aged 62 and older, 50% off for Disabled Discount Pass holders, and free camping for Distinguished Veterans Pass holders.
About this campground
Where the rugged Big Sur coastline meets ancient redwood groves, Limekiln State Park Campground offers an extraordinary escape into nature's contrasts. Twenty-nine carefully positioned campsites invite you to choose your adventure: wake to crashing Pacific waves at ocean-facing sites or drift off to sleep beneath towering redwoods along the gentle murmur of Limekiln Creek. This remarkable convergence of forest and sea creates an unforgettable backdrop for exploring California's most dramatic coastline while uncovering remnants of the region's industrial past.
Limekiln State Park Campground offers campsites for tent camping, RV camping, and hike-and-bike camping. No group sites, cabins, or glamping accommodations are available.
Historical SignificanceLong before the thunderous kilns lit up these hillsides in the 1880s, the Salinan, Esselen, and Ohlone peoples called this dramatic landscape home, finding sustenance where forest meets sea. The park's namesake lime kilns stand as weathered monuments to California's building boom, when workers extracted precious lime from local deposits to construct growing cities to the north. These moss-covered stone towers now serve as portals to the past, inviting visitors to imagine the smoke and industry that once filled these now-peaceful groves. Each trail through the park weaves together threads of indigenous heritage and industrial ambition, creating a rich tapestry of human connection to this spectacular land.
Weather and SeasonsThe Big Sur coast dances with ever-changing moods, wrapped in nature's own theater of weather. Summer mornings often greet campers with a mystical marine layer that transforms the landscape into an ethereal dreamscape before dissolving into brilliant sunshine by noon. With temperatures hovering comfortably between 50°F and 75°F during peak season, the climate remains refreshingly mild. Yet this coastal paradise can surprise visitors with dramatic shifts—a sunny morning might yield to windswept afternoons or foggy evenings. Seasoned campers know the secret: dress in layers and embrace the coast's mercurial personality as part of the adventure.
ElevationFrom sea level to soaring canopy, Limekiln State Park's varied elevations create distinct worlds within walking distance of each other. Beach campsites sit practically at ocean's edge, where salt spray mingles with morning coffee, while creek-side sites nestle into gentle ravines carved by centuries of flowing water. This interplay of coastal and riparian habitats creates microenvironments that shift dramatically within just a few footsteps, offering campers an intimate exploration of California's ecological diversity without strenuous climbs.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine a place where thousand-year-old redwoods stretch their mighty limbs toward Pacific sunsets, where Limekiln Creek tumbles through ferned grottos before meeting the endless blue horizon. This is the magic of Limekiln State Park—a rare sanctuary where California's most iconic landscapes collide in spectacular fashion. Morning light filters through the redwood canopy, creating cathedral-like spaces of hushed beauty, while afternoon brings the rhythmic percussion of waves against weathered cliffs. The creek serves as nature's highway, supporting everything from nimble salamanders to majestic steelhead trout, while overhead, condors and hawks ride thermal currents between forest and sea.
Geological RegionPerched within the dramatic Santa Lucia Range, Limekiln State Park showcases millions of years of geological drama where the North American plate meets the Pacific. This dynamic coastline, protected as part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, reveals ancient limestone deposits that tell stories of prehistoric seas, while chaparral-covered slopes speak to Mediterranean climates and fire-adapted ecosystems. The park sits at a remarkable geological crossroads where sedimentary rocks meet granite peaks, where redwood forests find their southernmost coastal stronghold, and where the raw power of plate tectonics continues to shape one of the world's most spectacular meeting places of land and sea.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available, requiring a DMV Disabled Placard or similar credential. Accessibility improvements are ongoing, and campers should confirm with the park for updates.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size; ocean sites are known to fit smaller tents, whereas redwood sites provide more shade with decent separation.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Redwood sites offer more shade and separation, while ocean sites are closer together, with minimal privacy.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRedwood sites are recommended for those seeking privacy and shade. Ocean-facing sites are ideal for enjoying ocean views and beach access.
Best CampsitesRedwood sites along Limekiln Creek are praised for their serene environment and shade. Ocean sites provide direct beach access but are less private and near highway noise.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 Noon
Stay Limit
Seven consecutive nights during peak season. Maximum of 30 days per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to eight persons per site, including children.
Groups
.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into ocean-facing and redwood forest sections. Sites are compact with limited separation.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season includes the spring and summer months. The campground is currently closed due to infrastructure repairs, with only day-use open from 8 AM to sunset.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are reservation-based, but canceled reservations may open up and can be obtained in person at the kiosk after 3 PM on the day of camping.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled in accordance with California State Parks policies. Specific cancellation deadlines are not provided.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Limekiln State Park Campground can enjoy hiking, beach activities, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Trails offer unique views of redwoods, waterfalls, and historic lime kilns, though some trails remain closed due to past fire and weather damage. Beach activities, such as picnicking and exploring the shore where a creek meets the ocean, are popular. Fishing is permitted with valid licenses, though stream fishing is restricted most of the year.
Hiking
Hiking trails include Limekiln Trail leading to historic lime kilns and Falls Trail showcasing a 100-foot waterfall. Some trails remain closed due to Dolan Fire damage.Fishing
Fishing in the park is permitted with a valid California fishing license, though stream fishing is prohibited for most of the year. Beach fishing requires caution due to rough surf.Wildlife viewing
Campers can view diverse wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and seabirds. Raccoons are known to frequent campsites at night.Beach activities
Beach activities include picnicking and exploring the area where Limekiln Creek meets the ocean. The beach offers both sand and rocky areas.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the provided data.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not detailed in the provided information.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in metal fire rings. Firewood must be purchased onsite; gathering wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCoastal cliffs and canyon walls are steep and unstable; climbing is prohibited. Poison oak is abundant on trails. Wildlife such as raccoons and rodents are common; proper food storage is essential.
Active alertsCurrent closures include all camping facilities due to storm damage and infrastructure repairs. Trails such as Hare Creek and Falls Trail remain closed.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 94%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Closest emergency services are located in Cambria, approximately 43 miles south of the park, with hospitals and police stations available. Emergency contact within the park is 911.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season spans spring and summer. Specific dates are not provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available. Campers should use provided food storage bins to avoid attracting wildlife such as raccoons and squirrels.
Proximity to water featuresLimekiln Creek flows through the park, and ocean sites are directly adjacent to the Pacific coastline. Freshwater runs into the creek and beach.
Common complaintsCampsites are described as cramped with limited privacy. Some users have reported issues with rodent infestations in lower campsites and poor maintenance of facilities.
HostCamp hosts are described as helpful and friendly. Hosts sell firewood and shower tokens onsite.
Campground Map
63025 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Driving directionsLocated 56 miles south of Carmel at Highway 1 mile marker 20.95, 2 miles south of Lucia. Drivers can access the Limekiln State Park entrance from the Cambria/San Simeon area via Highway 1. Note that Highway 1 remains closed 4.4 miles north of the park due to a landslide. Park entrance road is at the south end of the bridge over Limekiln Creek.
The park can only be accessed from the south via Highway 1 (Cambria/San Simeon area). Highway 1 is closed north of Limekiln State Park due to multiple landslides, creating significant delays in repairs. Roads are paved but closures limit access.Nearby places
Lucia (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Cambria (43 miles, approximately 1.5 hours), Carmel (56 miles, approximately 1.5 hours), Monterey (57 miles, approximately 1.5 hours).
Nearby supplies
The nearest grocery stores, fuel, and camping supplies can be found in Cambria, 43 miles south. Limited essential goods can be purchased from camp hosts at Limekiln State Park, such as firewood and shower tokens.
Camper Reviews
4.6
34 reviews
Limekiln State Park Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight Limekiln State Park Campground as a uniquely beautiful destination combining redwoods and ocean scenery. While the facilities like showers and toilets are appreciated, some reviews note maintenance issues. Privacy and proximity to scenic features like waterfalls and Limekilns are recurring praises.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the scenic beauty, proximity to ocean and redwoods, availability of showers and flush toilets, and helpful camp hosts. Many reviewers enjoyed the trails leading to falls...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with campsite size and privacy, occasional unclean bathrooms, noisy generators near ocean sites, and rodent problems. Some users expressed dissatisfaction with the...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking reservations six months in advance, staying in redwood sites for shade and privacy, and securing food and trash to deter raccoons.
Based on 34 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Campground experiences vary seasonally, with summer offering mild temperatures but crowded campsites. Winter campers praised solitude but noted limited trail access due to closures.
Based on 34 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This place was absolutely amazing! We played on the shore for about 2 hours. Really awesome how the fresh water creek runs right into the ocean." (User: Ariel Valenzuela) "Stayed in the upper...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #11 (Ocean): Beautiful ocean views but traffic noise and generator sounds detract from the experience. Site #15 (Creekside): Tight spacing but worth it for proximity to the creek. General...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible campsites are praised for providing equal camping opportunities, though the specific sites are not detailed.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policy allows dogs but restricts them to parking and camping areas, not trails. Some campers appreciated the enforcement while others noted policy leniency during their stay.
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025