About Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park has 1,346 acres of redwood, oak, chaparral, and meadow areas. Hikers can enjoy 8 miles of hiking trails within the park and over 200 miles of trails in the Ventana Wilderness (USFS) which borders the park. Overlooks provide views of the Big Sur Valley and the Big Sur River Gorge. There is no coastal access from this park.

Get directions through Google Maps

The park is located 26 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1.

EV Information

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  EV Charger Locations

Overnight Facilities

  • En route Campsites
  • Family Campsites
  • Group Campsites
  • Hike or Bike Campsites
  • Lodging
  • RV Dump Station
  • RV Access
Other Facilities

  • Food Service
  • Camp Store
  • Parking
  • Restrooms / Showers
  • Restrooms
  • Drinking Water Available
Day-Use Activities & Facilities

  • Historical/Cultural Site
  • Picnic Areas
  • Exhibits and Programs
  • Guided Tours
  • Interpretive Exhibits
  • Swimming
  • Nature & Wildlife Viewing
  • Family Programs
Trail Use

  • Hiking Trails
Wildlife Sanctuary and Educational Programs Lodge, Restaurant and Gift Shop

HIGHWAY 1 CLOSURES

Northbound / Southbound 1 Full Closure

From Turnout South of Vicente Creek to Turnout South of Lime Creek

Due to Emergency Work
No estimated time for reopening of closure.
Information courtesy of 

Last updated: 07/11/2025

Highway Closure Map

 

About Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

THERE IS NO BEACH OR OCEAN ACCESS IN THIS PARK

The turn-off for popular Pfeiffer Beach is located on Highway 1, approximately one mile south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park's entrance. Heading south from the State Park entrance, it is the second right turn. Pfeiffer Beach is not a California State Park and charges a separate entrance fee.

On the western slope of the Santa Lucia Mountains, the peaks of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park tower high above the Big Sur River Gorge, where the Big Sur River enters this popular park. Walk along the banks of the river and among the redwoods, conifers, oaks, sycamores, cottonwoods, maples, alders and willows. A large campground accommodates hikers, bikers, car campers and RVers. Many campsites are located along the Big Sur River. Wildlife includes bobcats, black-tail deer, gray squirrels, raccoons, skunks, and birds, such as dippers and belted kingfishers. Hikers can enjoy many scenic trails, including a self-guided nature trail. Big Sur Lodge is located in the park. The lodge has 61 guest rooms, a conference center, cafe, and a grocery store.

Weather

CHECK CURRENT WEATHER
The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised. In winter, overnight temperatures can range in the 30s-50s (Fahrenheit). Winter daytime temperatures can be low 50s-mid 70s. In summer, overnight temperatures can range in the 50s-70s, with daytime temperatures typically in the 70s-80s. Summer mornings bring fog, which usually burns off by midday.

Location
Near mile marker 47.2 on Highway 1, the park is located 26 miles south of Carmel.
GOOGLE MAP

Swimming Hole

Ewoldsen Nature Center Now Open Friday through Tuesday

The Ewoldsen Nature Center is now open for all visitors to enjoy on
Friday through Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Set amidst life-size murals of Big Sur's natural habitat areas, visitors are encouraged to learn about the flora and fauna of Pfeiffer State Park and beyond. Adults and children alike can experience what it's like to "Fly like a Condor" at our digital condor flight station designed with actual Big Sur condor flight patterns. Hosted by State Parks staff and volunteers, the Ewoldsen Nature Center is a place of wonder and delight for all who stop by.

We'd love to see you here!!

Ewoldsen Nature Center

Junior RangersSchedule p1p2

Living History Day August 3rd

Point Sur