Set Up Your Campsite Overlooking The Pacific Ocean At This California National Forest

Getting away from the hustle of life, connecting with nature, and spending quality time with family and friends are all great reasons to plan a camping trip. The camping enthusiasts over at The Dyrt recently released their 2023 camping report estimating there are currently more than 80 million campers across the U.S. Of those campers, around 7.2 million camped for the very first time in 2022.

Whether you camp multiple times a year or you're looking forward to trying it for the first time, you'll have seemingly endless campsite options to choose from. Picking the perfect place to set up your tent or park your RV for a well-deserved adventure can be the hardest part. If you are looking to set up your campsite in California with spectacular views out over the Pacific Ocean, planning to camp at Kirk Creek Campground in Los Padres National Forest is the way to go.

When you reserve your camp at Kirk Creek Campground, you'll enjoy a stay right on a bluff where every campsite overlooks the ocean. The campground offers easy access to scenic trails that take you right through the heart of the Los Padres National Forest when you're ready to explore. While the campground comes with the appeal of feeling off-the-beaten-path, it's also a convenient 30-minute drive from Big Sur.

Thanks to breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, prime California weather, and access to outdoor recreation, Kirk Creek Campground is a popular place for campers to set their sights. In fact, the campground recommends visitors book a stay as far out as six months in advance to make sure there's plenty of space available. When you do make your reservation, you'll have options to pick and choose between 40 campsites or an RV parking space. Do keep in mind that your RV must be 30 feet long or less to qualify for a space at Kirk Creek Campground.

The beauty of booking a stay within the parameters of Los Padres National Forest is that campers can embrace an authentic feeling of being off the grid and immersed in nature. While the tranquility here is a sure thing, what's not guaranteed is that campers will always have access to drinking water and firewood. If you're going to camp at Kirk Creek Campground, pack your own water to last for the entirety of your trip, as the nearest supply store is located in Lucia, California.

Each campsite at Kirk Creek Campground is designed to accommodate anywhere from six to eight guests at a time. This makes it a great option for new campers, experienced adventurers, families, and groups of friends. Two vehicles are allowed per campsite, and reservations can be made for a maximum of up to 14 days.

Taking time to hike and explore the many nature trails that wind their way through Los Padres National Forest is a top activity among travelers who stay at Kirk Creek Campground. Wildlife spotting is also easily paired with these treks, as the area is a known home to raccoons, foxes, deer, bobcats, bears, and mountain lions. The campground's coastal location and incredible ocean views make whale watching possible from campsites, as these thrilling creatures migrate through between November and February.

If it's a beach day that's calling to you, then you won't have to venture far. There's a rocky stretch of shoreline within walking distance of the campground for visitors to enjoy. If you're looking for a more traditional on-the-sand experience, you'll want to drive the 5 miles from the campsite to Sand Dollar Beach. Here, you can make the most of your time sunbathing, swimming, fishing, or surfing depending on your preference.

When nothing sounds better than an ocean-view picnic, that's an option at Kirk Creek Campground. Once you've packed your snacks, you'll want to take Nacimiento Road toward the first ocean overlook. This area doubles as a popular picnic destination among campers thanks to its open setting and sweeping vistas.