Reservation7/10
Hike/Bike
Walk-in sites for hikers and cyclists....
View Pfeiffer Big Sur Hike/Bike Sites permit details and availability
ReservationOvernightVery High Demand
Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground
Main family campground along the Big Sur River.
“One of America's most sought-after wilderness permits.”
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Pfeiffer Campground Quick Facts
Permit RequiredYes
Booking MethodReservation
Demand LevelExtremely High9/10
Key Information
Permit Details
TypeOvernight
Booking MethodReservation
Demand Level9/10
LocationCA SP
How to Get This Permit
1
Create a Recreation.gov account
Sign up at recreation.gov if you don't have an account. Have your payment info ready.
2
Know the release schedule
Permits typically release on a rolling basis. Check the specific release time for your desired dates.
3
Be ready when permits drop
Log in a few minutes early. Have your dates, group size, and payment ready to go.
4
Monitor for cancellations
If your dates are sold out, people cancel all the time. Set up PermitSnag alerts to catch openings instantly.
When to Go
Peak: Summer monthsShoulder: Spring and Fall
Conditions
Summer offers the most reliable conditions for most wilderness areas.
Crowd Level
ModerateAdvantages
- +Longest days
- +Warmest temperatures
- +Reliable trail conditions
Challenges
- !Peak demand for permits
- !Book accommodations early
- !Weather varies
Difficulty Assessment
Physical Demand1/5
Fitness and endurance required
Technical Skill1/5
Climbing, scrambling, or specialized skills
Exposure Risk1/5
Steep dropoffs and fall potential
Navigation1/5
Route finding and trail clarity
Commitment3/5
Difficulty of bailing out mid-route
Best For
Hikers of moderate fitness willing to put in the effort.
Recommended Experience
Basic hiking experience. Start with shorter trails if new to hiking.
The Experience
Why It Matters
Pfeiffer Campground is among the most competitive permits in Pfeiffer Big Sur. Thousands attempt to get permits each season, and success requires planning, persistence, and often a bit of luck. The permit system exists because this destination is genuinely special.
Safety & Planning
🚨
Emergency Info
Download the PermitSnag app for offline access to emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Pfeiffer Campground.
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🐻
Food Storage
Check bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations in the PermitSnag app.
Want to check food storage requirements?Get the app →
Pfeiffer Campground FAQ
How do I get a Pfeiffer Campground permit?
Pfeiffer Campground permits are obtained through a reservation system. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.
When is the best time to visit Pfeiffer Campground?
Check with the managing agency for current season dates. Weekdays generally have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Pfeiffer Campground permit?
This permit has a demand score of 9/10, making it extremely competitive. We recommend having backup dates and using PermitSnag's cancellation alerts.
What if I can't get a Pfeiffer Campground permit?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. We check availability every few minutes, 24/7.
Photography Guide
Golden Hour
Golden hour at Pfeiffer Campground offers the best photography conditions with warm, directional light.
Best Light
Early morning typically provides the clearest conditions and best light quality.
Beat the Crowds
Weekdays and early mornings see fewer visitors for cleaner compositions.
Classic Shots
- 📍Classic view of Pfeiffer Campground
- 📍Pfeiffer Big Sur scenery
- 📍Trail or route documentation
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