The best camping near Esalen Hot Springs

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Esalen Hot Springs adventure.

Discover the transformative allure of Esalen Hot Springs.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Esalen Hot Springs

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

TASHCREEK

6 sites · RVs5 acres · Greenfield, CA

5 USABLE ACRES LOCATED IN LAS PADRES FOREST AREA; A SPECIAL AREA ONCE HOME OF INDIANS BEAUTIFUL HIKING TRAILS AND BIKING ON PAVED SURFACES. LOCATED BETWEEN HIWAYS 1 AND 101. PINACLES PARK LOCATED 20 MILES AWAY. A SERENE UNINCORPORATED SPOT FOR RETREAT AND CAMPING ACTIVITY. SITES ARE GATED AND SAFE FROM UNINVITED TRAFFIC. CAMPFIRE RINGS CAN BE USED WITH PRIOR CONSENT. OUTDOOR TABLES. NON POTABLE WATER AND ELECTRICITY PROVIDED. LAND PHONE SERVICE AVAILABLE TO GUESTS UPON REQUEST. SELF CONTAINED RECREATIONAL VEHICLES ONLY AT THIS TIME. WELL BEHAVED DOGS WELCOME. BRING INSECT REPELLANT FOR PERSONAL COMFORT. SOME THINGS ALL CAMPERS NEED; HIKING BOOTS AS THE TERRAINE CAN BE HIKED IF DESIRED. BACK PACKS AND WATER BOTTLES. HAT FOR SUN PROTECTION. THE BASIC CAMP SITE IS CLEAN FLAT AND HAS SHADE OR SUN ACESS.. ELECTRICITY IS PROVIDED. NON POTABLE WATER PROVIDED. A FIRE PIT IS PROVIDED. SITES ARE FENCED AND GATED TO ALLOW CAMPERS TO EXPLORE SURROUNDING LOCATIONS AND NOT WORRY ABOUT VEHICLES AND BELONGINGS.

Glynnsong Farms

1 site · RV, Tent13 acres · Elkhorn, CA

Glynnsong farms is a beautiful private horse farm overlooking the Monterey bay, 5 miles to Moss Landing. We have 5 RV sights with water 2 with water and electricity. Quit and peaceful. You can even bring your horse or take a riding lesson on one of ours. We are close to Elkhorn Slough Sanctuary, great birdwatching. Take an Eco tour through the Elkhorn Slough and see otters and seals or go Whale watching on Monterey Bay. We are 20 minutes to Monterey, Pebble Beach and Carmel.

Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping

36 sites · Lodging112 acres · Carmel Valley, CA

The Camp was started in 1925 by Mrs. Douglas as a girls camp to teach young girls the beautiful wonders of the outdoors including horseback riding, swimming, archery, and camping. She felt that boys had plenty of opportunity to explore Mother Nature but at the time, girls had no such camp to attend. This 115 acre, beautiful, rolling hills ranch has been a camp ever since and now offers camping for the young and old, girls and boys, families and singles…. You name it… a camp for everyone. Located on 115 acres historic boys and girls summer camp complete with pool, tennis, and hiking in Carmel Valley, CA. Re-connect to nature and nostalgia! There is plenty to do at the Camp as well as surrounding areas. 2.5 miles from Carmel Village known for its many wine tasting rooms, restaurants and galleries. 14.5 miles inland from Carmel by-the-sea and Carmel Beach. Perfect locations for day excursion to Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur. Individual Glamping sessions are available on select dates. Breakfast included in the stay. Length of stay may be required. We highly recommend you stay for more than one day as it is difficult to take part in all activities when at the camp for only one day. Imagine! your own private off the grid cabin where you can enjoy tent camping without the hassle of setting up a tent. Numerous activities for you to take advantage of or simple step outside your cabin and wonder on our 115 acres and connect to nature. Welcome to The Camp. CABINS Solstice and Sunrise cabins recently re-built cabins have one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) and are located near a shared communal bathhouses. Sunset village cabins have access to a bathhouse with designated full baths with private shower and bathroom for each cabin. Each cabin has power and one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) Like tent camping without the hassle of having to set up a tent. You bring your sleeping bag, bedding and towels. Or we can provide you with a bedding/towel pack for an extra cost. POWER All cabins and bathhouses have power Wi-Fi Free wi-fi in central camp not at cabins. FOOD and DRINK 2024 Glamping Includes breakfast. Lunch and Dinner optional at an additional cost. ACTIVITIES Self guided activities include: Pool, pool deck, basketball half court, tennis courts, yard games, hiking trails and many areas to connect to nature. Guided activities: Hosted campfire nightly, Yoga, Archery and Tie Dye sessions available on Saturday. (holiday weekends additional sessions available) FIRE No individual fires. We do offer hosted campfires nightly. DOG Two dogs are welcome per cabin $50 per dog. MUSIC No speakers, amplification or radios. Acoustic instruments are allowed. RESERVATIONS Glamping weekends may require multiple night stays. Check-in is between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. We will send you an email prior to arrival with additional information. Please note Hipcamp site assignments do not correspond to the actual cabin you will be assigned. Our Camp cabin names and assignments are a little different. If you are reserving multiple cabins please let us know so we can try and assign you near each other. Parking is a short walk away from the Cabins. The Camp is private property and for registered guests only. Gate is closed 9PM-7PM. Campers are free to come and go as these please between 7AM-PM, but all Campers must be back onsite before 9PM. WHAT TO BRING: Sleeping Bag or bedding or rent linen pack Towels and Toiletries Flashlight Water Bottle

Pacheco Ranch

3 sites · Lodging36 acres · Paicines, CA

We are directly across the street from this address. This address is for Cal Fire if you look across the street, you’ll see a dirt road and the sign saying Pacheco Ranch. Take this road up a quarter mile on your left you’ll see a white picket fence pull into the first gate and you could park anywhere around the greenhouse. Open area with oak trees little heeled in some places. Two creeks . Blackstone grill and four fire pits Comes with propane. Easy parking Enjoy the sounds of nature when you stay in this unique place. We also offer more units, RVs, and can also host your special event here. There are four outdoor fire pits, two lounging areas covered cooking area with all utensils and spices and oils huge play area with turf grass. All the Yurts have heaters in them and all bedding is cleaned after every stay there is an outdoor bath and shower, indoor shower and toilet.

Buckeye Canyon

1 site · Lodging100 acres · Carmel, CA

Buckeye Canyon is a 100 acre retreat located in Carmel Valley, California. It is the home of Buckeye Canyon Lavender Farm, our honey bee hives and numerous chickens. Although very quiet and private, the location is only a short drive from the city of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pebble Beach and Big Sur. Guests can enjoy the wine tasting, restaurants, hiking trails, weekly farmer's market, art galleries, and scenic beach routes.

See The Stars Ranch

2 sites · Tents85 acres · Bradley, CA

A beautiful mix of mountains and valleys to explore. Camp at the highest point and touch the stars or explore the valleys with seasonal creeks. There is even a flat plain where you can settle if you wish. With 85 acres you can’t go wrong. Enjoy the peace of the countryside with clear night skies or drive 30 minutes to a local brewery or vineyard.

Carmel Valley Wine Country

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Carmel Valley Village, CA

Perfect spot for a dynamic duo. This is in the right location for so much enjoyment. Carmel Valley is an amazing place, with friendly smiles, yummy food and local wines. Easy walk down to the watering hole, wine tasting and gourmet restaurants. Head down to the river for some fun in the sun. Try our local creamery, bone broth, soaps, chocolates and olive oils. This cozy haven is waiting for you!

The Camp

12 sites · Lodging100 acres · Carmel Valley, CA

Started as a girl's summer camp in 1925 the sprawling 115 acre camp later allowed boys as well and was in business for over 50 years. Now purchased by new owners and renovated it sets the stage for you to make your own summer camp memories.Learn more about this land:Welcome!Experience our one-of-a-kind health & homesteading experience available ONLY on the following dates:May 6-9, June 23-27, August 19-22, September 9-12Wild Roots Health and Homesteading Retreats take place in a rustic camp setting in Carmel Valley, CA. Each day will be a mix of hiking, formal workouts, and homestead-style activities. Guests will take part in group wellness coaching, nutrition education and cooking demos and they will learn how to incorporate these newly acquired skills into life after the retreat. During down time guests are encouraged to take a nature walk, read a book in a hammock, or simply relax by the pool taking in the beauty of the ranch. Scrolling on your phone will not be an option since phones are surrendered at the beginning of the retreat for full digital detox.This retreat in all-inclusive. You are provided with a private guest cabin for up to two people, wholesome meals, and access to all health services in a small group atmosphere. Weekend itinerary is listed in the photos. Cabins do not have electric, heating or cooling. Bring your own bedding and bath towels. Baths have power, flush toilets, and hot water. No wifi available, but you will be too busy to notice.

Top-rated campgrounds near Esalen Hot Springs

Saddle Mountain

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents89 acres · Carmel, CA

Welcome to Saddle Mountain, RV and Campground! We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life. PLEASE NOTE, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING. Our glamping stays are NOT pet-friendly aside from one of our luxury tents. We charge $15 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets. On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation* On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, Foosball table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months. We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests. Thank you!

DABUDAGE

8 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · CA

Escape the electric grid and connect with the natural intelligence of the wild world. A place to stay for family and friends. Visit DABUDAGE.C0M for more information before requesting to book. Read entire written description and format request as specified.

Hideaway Oaks

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Lockwood, CA

This campsite is a natural setting in the corner of our lower pasture. It features several oaks and lots of room. It is an extremely private spot free from other campers or busy traffic. This site now includes a picnic table on a leveled area, a firepit and a toilet . Water is available if you wish to hike a bit up a hill. You can enjoy our beautiful evening skies, sunrises and starlit nights. If you are looking for a peaceful, poison oak free, quiet hideaway, this is your place. Trails are available for walks and taking in the views of the valley below. Since this site is tucked away in our pasture we recommend that campers arrive before dark. We are located near Lake San Antonio, Lake Nacimiento, San Antonio Mission, San Miguel Mission, Fort Hunter Liggett, and the Nacitone Museum. There is local wine tasting and we are 45 minutes away from wine tasting in Paso Robles. Many campers find this to be an ideal meeting place for family and friends coming from the north and south.

Road's End, Bradley Lockwood

2 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Lockwood, CA

Peaceful and private RV camping under the oaks with picnic table, fire pit and Adirondack chairs. We currently have two sites on our property. They are about 300 feet apart and not easily visible from each other. Property is fully fenced; both sites are next to an open field under the oaks with vineyard, olive orchard and mountain views. This property is 30 miles from Paso Robles and almost perfectly centered between Missions San Antonio and San Miguel. Lakes San Antonio and Nacimiento are close by. Coastal towns of Cayucos and Morro Bay are about an hour scenic drive, passing many wineries along the way. There is space for multiple RVs or additional tents sharing your party's RV restroom facilities. Site one will accommodate sixteen people and multiple vehicles. Site two will accommodate ten people and two vehicles. For larger groups we ask that that you book both sites. We have hosted many family reunions and the feedback has been 100% positive. Please feel free to message us with questions.

40mins to Pinn Song of the Ancients

18 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Paicines, CA

Only 35 miles from Pinnacle National Park! An easy drive from San Jose, Morgan Hill, San Francisco Bay Area and the East Bay. From here you are closer to Pinnacles, Monterey, Carmel, the Ocean, Salinas and the Salinas Valley, San Juan Bautista, as well as the Central Valley and I-5. Winter is here! With cool evenings spent sipping hot chocolate or tea in front of a roaring fire. Dress in layers and the sun will warm you and the evening cool is made comfortable with warm clothing under the brilliant milky way. In the oak studded world of the Diablo Mountain Range, the ocean influence sends cool breezes through, gently winding their way through the oaks, offering shade through the heat of the summer and losing their leaves to let the sun warm you in winter. You can use this as a home base and spend days at Pinnacle, the beach, Monterey, Carmel, the Central Valley, and so on or...you can rest and relax the world away, this is a place to regain your balance; come with your cares leave clear and regenerated. This is a place to sing and dance, to talk late into the night as the night sky fills with stars and the campfire dies down. We are perfect for group gatherings, and can accommodate your large party easily and comfortably. This is a fantastic place to bird watch and listen to the sounds of nature. What we provide is: outdoor hot shower, flush toilet, clean clear water from faucets, and at your campsite a fire pit and grill to cook on, picnic table with benches, and the blue oak savanna. Firewood for $15/bundle, fire starters -first two free in the winter then $0.50/each. Our firewood is sustainably harvested from downed trees and branches. We sell it for a neighbor. No healthy live trees are harmed in order to produce firewood. No native trees are felled in order to plant fast growing hardwood for fire or anything else! We are at same latitude of Carmel (but a world away), Between Hollister and the Monterey - Salinas metro area and Los Banos and the San Joaquin Valley, close to the vast San Francisco Bay Area; which includes Berkeley, Oakland, Walnut Creek and all the East, North, and South Bay to Pinnacles National Monument and the town of Paicines. You can spend the day in San Juan Bautista at the Mission and Shops or breakfast or lunch at Flapjacks in Tres Pinos, Monterey at the Aquarium, walk on the beach at Moss Landing, hike at Pinnacles, Fremont Peak, Griswold Mountains, or Panoche Hills. Then back home to sit in a quiet world under the stars. You can also...do nothing. Read a book doze in the shade drift off in a hammock or walk and discover the land and recover your place in this world. The Blue Oaks are hard at work at the job they have held for 3 million years; shading and cooling California. Summer is a coming in! Come and cool off under the Blue Oaks during the warm days and cool dark skies of summer. The annual grasses are turning gold and now you can see the green of the native grasses and plants with stars of color amid the gold. The days are bright and sunny and comfortably warm. The nights are cool and crisp and filled with the song of coyote and their frog chorus'. Bring your family and friends outside and laze around in the hammock or put your feet up on the side of the campfire, throw your head back and lose yourself in the galaxies above. You can pitch any where from 1 to 15 or more tents at each campsite. Our campsites are RV friendly but remember we are off grid so we do not have blackwater facilities or electricity for RVs. We do have garden hoses to fill up the RV water tanks. Song of the Ancients is a program of wildfarmers, a 501c3 not for profit woman led organization. Bringing people back in touch with the ancient woods of California for over fourteen years. Our main focus is restoring and saving the Blue Oak Ecosystem for the future. Pitch your tent or park your camper amid the ancient Blue Oaks of California. Warm yourself by your campfire as you drink in the dark skies. Shake the dust off your work worn spirit. Let the celebration begin. Dance to the music in your heart sing along with the songs of the ancients. Regenerate. A place to breathe and to hear yourself breathe. A sacred place in the shade of the blue oaks. It's time to take time. Time to play and enjoy with friends and family. A place to bask in opulent starlight and absorb the sounds of darkness. A quiet place to clear your soul and revive your spirit. As the air softens and relaxes listen closely to the ancients singing in the oaks. Lend your voice to the Song of the Ancients and let Coyote sing you to sleep.

Redwood Cabins

5 sites · Lodging13 acres · Carmel Valley, CA

25 minute drive on a country road to Carmel Valley Village and all it's wineries and restaurants. Buy that perfect bottle of wine and enjoy it in your tent topped cabin, or redwood cabin. The Los Padres dam in the Ventana wilderness is just down the road.. Nothing but peace and quiet other than the crickets, birds, frogs, and the resident owl. Relax and recharge away from city life. 40 minutes to the coast, Carmel's shops and galleries and restaurants. A few more minutes puts you on the most beautiful golf courses in the world or take Highway #1 to Big Sur for the day. Short drive and hike to Los Padres Dam . Fishing, rubber rafts, and a gorgeous spillway. Spend the night at the Redwood Cabin on your way to your adventure at Tassjarra. Ride your mountain bike along scenic Cachagua rd with it's SEASONAL creek to Chews Ridge. Totally private and quiet. Off the power grid. 12v power supplied by solar and batteries. Unlimited hot water in the private bath house. The bath house is a 40 step stroll through the oaks, No tv's or microwaves. AT&T cell service along with a few other small providers. Guests love staying here "Really lovely little camp cabin. Has everything you need to elevate your camping experience while maintaining the outdoor feels. It was so nice to have a flush toilet and indoor sleeping area while being able to prepare food outdoors. The property is somewhat remote, tucked away from light pollution, providing excellent stargazing. I really enjoyed the peacefulness of this trip, and the hosts were excellent."

Camp near Pinnacles National Park

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2200 acres · Paicines, CA

Started in 2014 by Tim and Michelle Borland and their three kids, the Bar SZ Ranch is a true family business with a mission to help others “forge their legacy.” Set on 2200-acres in its own valley with iconic California oak trees and golden hills; views of the surrounding mountains and Pinnacles National Park; and painted, sunlit skies guests can't get enough of, this working ranch offers unique, getaway camping and glamping experiences for both new and seasoned campers. The Bar SZ Campground is near Pinnacles National Park but relatively remote from other services, which is part of what makes the area so special. It is a place to unplug, share stories and spend time with your family and friends, and explore the wilderness of California. If you’d like to schedule animal feeding, horseback riding, arena riding/horsemanship lessons, or archery/BB gun lessons with us, these are available at an additional cost and a link will be provided for booking. (No activities available on Sundays or Mondays, except for holiday weekends.) From the ranch: Pinnacles National Park East entrance 6.6 miles Nearest Groceries and restaurants: Hollister 36 miles north King City 28.5 miles south Tres Pinos 29.2 miles north The nearest amenities (stores, restaurants, gas) are about 30 miles away so please plan ahead and bring the things you will need during your stay. We have great service for AT&T on the ranch. Do you have an even larger group? Message us if you have a larger event or are interested in a whole campsite/ranch rental.

Star Route

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Carmel Valley, CA

The original owner, of this property, Varisto, was a happy go lucky bootlegger back in the day, that welcomed many to try his brew and listen to a song or two on the accordion. He's good neighbor, a famous cowboy artist, Jack Swanson, and he used to have fun fishing out of the river, and sharing a glass or two. One day as Jack was herding his cattle through the area, past Princess Camp, located across the street, he spend a little too long here at Star Route, and to his surprise, the cattle had made their way into Princess Camp startling a few campers outside their airstreams.The Esselen Indians settled just up the road at the Cachagua Community Park back in the 1800's right by the Carmel River, which has an old stone house above the river, and many places to sit and reflect.

San Juan Bautista Dog Friendly

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · San Juan Bautista, CA

Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Come to relax in peace and quiet, pleasant outdoor. A short drive away but far from troubles you've left behind! Relax and rejuvenate. The weather is always temperate, sometimes the evening marine layer lavishly blankets the rolling hills like cotton. Evening campfires are cozy and relaxing. Easy access to Highway 101 for "Nearby Getaways" or convenient stops along your travels. Nearby attractions include whale watching, Elkhorn Slough Safaris, fishing, Monterey Zoo, Fisherman's Whart, world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pebble Beach, Carmel, Big Sur, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and miles of beaches, redwoods, miles of bike trails from the new Coastline Trail to Fort Ord and Niscene Marks Redwoods, wine tasting and more. Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner. Simply ask for recommendations. Come to your "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great sky views, and pleasant country walks, or step back in time to the Mission-era town of San Juan Bautista without commercialism! Well, we do have a gas station, a market, the active mission, of course, a step back in history, a few quaint restaurants, craft beer and local wines in our "one-horse" historical town. For the ultimate Nearby Getaway book the entire property and bring along your own selected guest list of friends or family. We invite private groups to exclusive use of the property for Getaways, family & friends picnics, celebrations, reunions, even weddings. Day use or overnite facilities. Groups of 1-100. NEWS FLASH: Skip the long stopover at urban EV charging stations. Charge your EV overnite! Special rates for stopover charging! Easy off and on to Highway 101, 129. 156 and on your way! Learn more about this land: This is a large flat site with rolling hills, lovely rural views, rolling oak studded pastureland, open views, lovely sunsets and beautiful mornings. Very quiet, private, peaceful and serene. Afternoon breezes while red tailed hawks ride the thermals, and woodpeckers work on their treasure hoarde. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! Wildlife abounds. Easy access from Highway 101, yet private and secluded. Historic San Juan Bautista Mission and town nearby. Monterey/Carmel 30 minutes. Santa Cruz/Beaches 20 minutes. Hollister, Salinas, or Gilroy 20 minutes. Site will accommodate RV, Sprintervan, or trailer 50/30/20 amp service. Tents welcome too! Water. Ranch "outhouse" with flushable composting style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity. Bunkhouse rustic accommodations available. Contact Host for details. Tent and Car Top Tent sites also available. Contact Host for details. Beautiful peaceful historic San Juan Bautista. Quaint historic mission town nearby with restaurants. Hiking trails nearby Horseback riding woods & beach. Equine Facilities available. 20 min to beach or redwoods. Beautiful rural area. Weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life; event camp; event site. Family groups and events always welcome! Call for more information. NOTE: This property is located in a very private country area. It is approximately 8 minutes from the small historic town of San Juan Bautista. We meet our first time guests at the Park & Ride as a welcome courtesy so you can easily follow us in and around the potholes on our rural roads! Let us know if we can assist you with any special interests or attractions in the Monterey Bay and Central Coast Area. As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."

Elkhorn Ranch

6 sites · Tents11 acres · CA

Five minutes from the beach, Elkhorn Ranch is home to goats, sheep, wild chickens followed by their baby chicks, and a couple of cows, dogs, and sheep. In addition to the animals there is a greenhouse and an acre of pumpkins, corn, and beans. A small fruit orchard borders the chicken coop. Anybody who enjoys small farm life and activity will find this place enchanting. Norris and Roberta are incredible hosts and inclusive to any guests that want to participate in farm life. Close to restaurants and the cute harbor town of Moss Landing, 30 minutes from Carmel and Santa Cruz, Elkhorn Ranch can be a place to relax or a gateway to explore Big Sur and all the amazing hidden gems of the Central California Coast.

OUR HAPPY PLACE

10 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Lockwood, CA

NO FIRES The property is easy Motorcycle, Auto, Van. Camper, Caravan and RV access from paved road. It's an enjoyable, primitive, quiet place to hang out. Dog and Cat friendly. Surrounded by mountains. Weak to no signal! Plenty of Wildlife with cool and quiet evenings.. The stars will be bright. Rugged setting. Clean portable potty.. Check out the BACK 40 for an even more remote rugged camping experience.... Hikers welcome.

Smith Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents1100 acres · Bradley, CA

Settled by Thomas James Lynch in the mid to late 1800's, the Lynch Ranch originally ran sheep along Tierra Redonda Mountain. It transitioned into a cattle ranch in the early 1900's when Archie Smith married into the Lynch family. The Smith family continues to raise cattle on the ranch and enjoys all that the Smith Ranch has to offer. Learn more about this land:Spend a night on a working cattle ranch with history dating back to the late 1800's. Once the original Lynch Ranch, the Smith Ranch offers a primative, dry camp with easy access down a dirt road and plenty of privacy. Tucked back in the Oak trees, you'll have views of Tierra Redonda mountain and the Coast range. (Cow camp is just over the hill from Hearst Castle but takes an hour and a half to drive to the coast and San Simeon.) The ranch also offers some of the best star gazing this side of the Sierras!

The best camping near Esalen Hot Springs guide

Overview

About

Esalen Hot Springs is perched along Big Sur's world-famous coastline, over 100 ft above the waves that crash onto the giant boulders below. While the world-class spa is the main reason some visit Esalen, the opportunities to learn are what make guests return. At its heart Esalen is a non-profit holistic educational center that offers many different courses where you can train your mind and body. Take a program to become a certified massage practitioner or join one of the many eye opening workshops offered on-site and online.

When to go

The best time to visit Esalen Hot Springs is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the beauty of the landscape is at its peak. Summer offers longer days, ideal for exploring, though it can be busier. Winter might bring closures due to weather, so it's less ideal for a visit.

Know before you go

Check the latest road conditions for Highway 1 before traveling, as closures can affect access.
Esalen Hot Springs is a non-smoking community, and the use of tobacco and cannabis is prohibited.
Remember, the hot springs are clothing-optional and gender-inclusive.
Accessibility is a priority, with ADA access available for certain facilities.
While direct access to the beach is prohibited due to strong currents, the ocean views are spectacular.

Top parks near Esalen Hot Springs

Castle Rock State Park

Half Moon Bay State Beach

Los Padres National Forest

Mount Tamalpais State Park

Deep Creek Hot Springs

Tahoe National Forest

Salt Point State Park

Yosemite National Park

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