California’s legendary Highway 1 is known for its rugged beauty and coastal charm, but storms have altered access along parts of the route. The good news? Visitors can still experience much of what makes Big Sur so iconic, no matter road conditions or closures. Here’s everything you need to know about getting there, camping, and what’s open and accessible.
Southern Big Sur is open and welcoming visitors
While Highway 1 is temporarily closed at Regent’s Slide, Southern Big Sur is still very much within reach. Visitors can enjoy a scenic inland alternative route by looping back through Monterey or Carmel, taking Highway 68 East to U.S. 101 South, and reconnecting with Highway 1 near Cambria or San Simeon. This alternative route adds a couple of hours to the journey, but offers the perfect opportunity to explore the beauty of California’s heartland along the way.
If you are coming from the South, you can access all businesses as far north as Lucia Lodge in Big Sur by taking Highway 1 north from Morro Bay/Cambria.
Camping in southern Big Sur
Several campgrounds in southern Big Sur are open and ready to welcome outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few standout options:
Treebones Resort
A premier glamping destination that blends the beauty of nature with modern amenities. A great choice for those looking for a more comfortable outdoor experience.
Limekiln State Park
Known for stunning views of the coast, redwoods, and historic limekilns. The park features 24 campsites.
Plaskett Creek Campground
Family-friendly with 44 campsites shaded by Monterey Pines and Cypress, just across from Sand Dollar Beach.
Kirk Creek Campground
Perched on a bluff 100 feet above the Pacific Ocean, each of its 34 sites offers a breathtaking view of the ocean.
Ponderosa Campground
Tucked along a mountain trout stream on Nacimiento-Fergusson Road, this quiet site features 23 campsites surrounded by trees.
Nacimiento Campground
A small, scenic campground with 8 first-come, first-served sites located about 11 miles east of Kirk Creek.
Important: RVs and heavy vehicles are not recommended on Nacimiento-Fergusson Road due to its winding, narrow layout.
What Businesses and Attractions Are Open?
Services and attractions are still open and available in Southern Big Sur, including:
How to Travel Between Monterey and Southern California
Though Highway 1 is not fully passable between Monterey and Los Angeles at this time, Highway 101 offers a beautiful and enriching route. Here are just a few highlights along this inland route:
- National Steinbeck Center in Salinas
- Pinnacles National Park in Salinas Valley
- San Antonio Mission in Jolon
- Salinas Valley Wine Tasting Rooms
Travel Tips & Safety Reminders
If you're planning a visit to Big Sur, please be respectful of CHP officers, Caltrans crews and emergency workers who are working hard to restore access and safety across the region.
- Use turnouts and legal parking areas.
- Be mindful and alert while driving.
- Travel only in daylight hours on Nacimiento-Fergusson Road.
- Prepare for limited services—bring water, food, and a printed map.
Big Sur remains a place of incredible natural beauty and inspiration. With a little extra planning and care, you can still experience the magic of the southern coast—camping under the stars, hiking among redwoods and gazing out over the Pacific. Learn more about how to travel responsibly in Big Sur below.