National Forest
Abel Canyon Campground
Santa Barbara, California
Campground in California.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Kirk Creek Campground
Campground in California.
Nestled along the dramatic Big Sur coastline in California's Los Padres National Forest, Kirk Creek Campground offers a rare opportunity to camp in one of North America's most spectacular coastal wilderness areas. With just 33 sites spread across the rugged terrain, this intimate campground captures the essence of California's wild Pacific edge where towering redwoods meet crashing ocean waves.
The setting here is nothing short of extraordinary. Campers wake to the sound of sea lions barking in the distance and fall asleep under some of the darkest skies on the California coast. The campground sits perched above the ocean, providing breathtaking views that seem almost too beautiful to be real. Those who venture to Kirk Creek understand they're choosing an experience over amenities, trading crowded RV parks for authentic wilderness immersion.
The Big Sur area surrounding Kirk Creek is a destination unto itself. The Pacific Coast Highway winds through this region with iconic viewpoints and pullouts that showcase nature's grandeur at every turn. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park lies nearby, offering old-growth redwood groves, waterfall hikes, and pristine beaches. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park features the famous McWay Falls, where an elegant arch frames a pristine cove. For those seeking adventure, hiking trails crisscross the area, ranging from easy coastal walks to challenging backcountry routes through the wilderness.
Kirk Creek draws a particular kind of traveler – those seeking solitude and natural beauty over developed recreation. Photographers find endless inspiration in the coastal landscape. Nature enthusiasts appreciate access to protected forest ecosystems and marine habitats. Road trippers on the Pacific Coast Highway use Kirk Creek as a special stopping point rather than just another campground. Couples celebrating special moments, families teaching children to appreciate wilderness, and solo adventurers all find what they're seeking here.
The area's mild Mediterranean climate means the campground is accessible much of the year, though winter storms can be dramatic and summer sees perfect conditions. Sunset watching becomes a nightly ritual, with the sun dropping into the Pacific while the sky erupts in orange, pink, and purple hues.
The setting here is nothing short of extraordinary. Campers wake to the sound of sea lions barking in the distance and fall asleep under some of the darkest skies on the California coast. The campground sits perched above the ocean, providing breathtaking views that seem almost too beautiful to be real. Those who venture to Kirk Creek understand they're choosing an experience over amenities, trading crowded RV parks for authentic wilderness immersion.
The Big Sur area surrounding Kirk Creek is a destination unto itself. The Pacific Coast Highway winds through this region with iconic viewpoints and pullouts that showcase nature's grandeur at every turn. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park lies nearby, offering old-growth redwood groves, waterfall hikes, and pristine beaches. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park features the famous McWay Falls, where an elegant arch frames a pristine cove. For those seeking adventure, hiking trails crisscross the area, ranging from easy coastal walks to challenging backcountry routes through the wilderness.
Kirk Creek draws a particular kind of traveler – those seeking solitude and natural beauty over developed recreation. Photographers find endless inspiration in the coastal landscape. Nature enthusiasts appreciate access to protected forest ecosystems and marine habitats. Road trippers on the Pacific Coast Highway use Kirk Creek as a special stopping point rather than just another campground. Couples celebrating special moments, families teaching children to appreciate wilderness, and solo adventurers all find what they're seeking here.
The area's mild Mediterranean climate means the campground is accessible much of the year, though winter storms can be dramatic and summer sees perfect conditions. Sunset watching becomes a nightly ritual, with the sun dropping into the Pacific while the sky erupts in orange, pink, and purple hues.
33
Total Sites
4.7
Rating
457
Reviews
Park Details
Total Sites
33
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Templeton is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Templeton.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Templeton. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Kirk Creek Campground Reviews
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Peter Yoon
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Peter Yoon
Kirk Creek Campground offers an unbeatable Big Sur experience. The dramatic coastal views right from the campsite are absolutely stunning. The staff and hosts were so friendly and accommodating, creating a relaxed and positive atmosphere throughout the campground. A perfect blend of natural beauty and warm hospitality!
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Riley Gill
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Riley Gill
the campsite is beautiful!!! Such a great spot. But I came here mostly to write a review on the incredible park ranger (I didn't even get his name). My battery died and he came to the rescue to help me get my car started again!! I ended up having more trouble with my car and as you know, there's no service out there and I was alone so I was worried. He made me feel so reassured and safe, gave me g... the campsite is beautiful!!! Such a great spot. But I came here mostly to write a review on the incredible park ranger (I didn't even get his name). My battery died and he came to the rescue to help me get my car started again!! I ended up having more trouble with my car and as you know, there's no service out there and I was alone so I was worried. He made me feel so reassured and safe, gave me great advice and was able to get my car up and running again. I hope he has the best life ever, seriously. Could not recommend enough. If you're gonna camp somewhere in Big Sur where there's no service, this is the place to do it. Best ranger ever.
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David Beard
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by David Beard
One of my favorite places on Earth. Gateway to Big Sur primeval! Nice grass campsites. Unbelievable views up and down the coast. A nice path leading to the rock promontory festooned beach (but watch out for the ENDLESS poison oak). The only downside? The same one that every park service beach has in California; the park service! Kirk Creek was a first come, first serve camping area that you could... One of my favorite places on Earth. Gateway to Big Sur primeval! Nice grass campsites. Unbelievable views up and down the coast. A nice path leading to the rock promontory festooned beach (but watch out for the ENDLESS poison oak). The only downside? The same one that every park service beach has in California; the park service! Kirk Creek was a first come, first serve camping area that you could almost always find a camp site at. Now, thanks to the park services online reservations, you better be on their website exactly six months before you want to vacation there because every site will be booked almost immediately. Since the fee to lock in the reservations are fairly inexpensive, people book the campsites, and likely about half never show up, forfeiting a small amount of money...and your chances at a guaranteed spot!
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S Jones
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by S Jones
An amazing campground with an amazing camp host Zach! Such a pleasant & helpful young man. He’s always keeping the campground clean & well-kept; weed-whacking, running the mower, cleaning the bathrooms. Reservations needed!
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Gemma
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Gemma
Such a gem. Loved our stay here. I’d suggest getting a site that’s on the outside perimeter, and of course with a view if possible! Only comment is that we were close to the bathrooms which, unsurprisingly / expectedly, got a bit smelly at times. Asides from that, the vibe here is wonderful and the people running this place were absolutely terrific. So friendly and helpful. Fires are also per... Such a gem. Loved our stay here. I’d suggest getting a site that’s on the outside perimeter, and of course with a view if possible! Only comment is that we were close to the bathrooms which, unsurprisingly / expectedly, got a bit smelly at times. Asides from that, the vibe here is wonderful and the people running this place were absolutely terrific. So friendly and helpful. Fires are also permitted here, which meant we could have smores by the sea! Yay!
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