Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Kid Tips

Babies: Pfeiffer Big Sur is one of the most accessible Big Sur state parks for families, with many shorter hikes that lead to streams and waterfalls that work well with a baby or toddler in a stroller.

School-Age Kids: Some picnic spots and areas of the campground have poison oak, so make sure active kids know what it looks like and don't go careening into the bushes. The creekside loop, which is only 1.8 miles long and brings you to dramatic Pfeiffer Falls, a 60-foot-high waterfall into a rocky pool, follows Redwood Creek and is great for kids who will walk if they can splash around to cool off.

Planning Notes

• Fishing is possible via permit from the department of fish and game: Steelhead season usually opens in December. You can do it West of the Highway 1 bridge, only on Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays, and legal holidays. The season continues through February.
• Plan ahead for camping: With more than 200 individual campsites, you'd think it would be reasonable to plan to camp at Pfeiffer Big Sur, but the campground's popularity still exceeds its capacity, so reserve ahead if possible. Sometimes a limited number of same-day spots are available, but call ahead before counting on that.
• Nice amenities: The campground and picnic area are very well developed with a restaurant and a camp store if you need to pick up picnic supplies.
• Helpful staff: Right next to the park is Big Sur Station, where you can find park rangers who can provide trail maps and give advice on trail conditions.

Just the Facts

Fees: Under $10

Recommended Time: 1 - 2 hours

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