Big Sur Bliss: A Gay Couple's Camping Adventure at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

For Daniel and me, Michael, exploring new landscapes and capturing their beauty through our lenses is more than just a hobby; it's a way of life. As digital nomads, our office is wherever we can find a strong (or at least decent) Wi-Fi signal and a stunning view. So, when we decided to trade our laptops for hiking boots and head to Big Sur, we were buzzing with excitement. We’d heard whispers of towering redwoods, dramatic coastal views, and the tranquil Big Sur River Gorge. Our recent camping trip to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park was everything we hoped for and more. Let us tell you all about it!

Ease to Find & Setup: Navigation Notes for the Tech-Savvy Traveler

Getting to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is relatively straightforward, but a word of warning: cell service becomes increasingly spotty after Carmel. Our pro tip? Download offline Google Maps before you leave! Seriously, do it. Trust us.

The park entrance is clearly marked with the iconic Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park sign, so keep an eye out. Once inside, the ranger station is your next key landmark. The staff there were incredibly helpful and efficient, quickly directing us to our campsite, #53.

Now, about that campsite… while the scenery was breathtaking, finding a perfectly level spot for our small camper van proved a little tricky. We spent a good 20 minutes maneuvering and adjusting our leveling blocks. So, be prepared to get a little creative! If you're sensitive to uneven surfaces when you sleep, it’s worth bringing extra leveling aids.

The iconic entrance sign to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, marking the beginning of our adventure and a crucial landmark for navigation, especially with limited cell service.

Campsite Rules & Atmosphere: Peace, Quiet, and Respect

The campsite rules were clearly posted and easy to follow. Quiet hours begin at 10 PM, and they are strictly enforced, which we greatly appreciated. As much as we love a good campfire singalong, we were really there for peace and quiet. Also, due to the dry season, there were fire restrictions in place, meaning no open fires allowed – propane stoves only.

Now, let's talk about the atmosphere. As a gay couple, we're always a little aware of how we're being perceived in new environments. Thankfully, at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, we felt completely comfortable and welcomed. Most campers kept to themselves, offering friendly nods and smiles. We didn't experience any negativity whatsoever. One afternoon, while setting up our solar panel, our neighbor complimented our setup and shared some tips on maximizing solar energy in the area. It was a brief but genuinely friendly interaction that perfectly encapsulated the overall vibe: respectful, laid-back, and inclusive. Ultimately, we were looking for a relaxing getaway, and that’s exactly what we found.

Bathroom & Shower Facilities: Pack Your Eco-Friendly Essentials!

Let's be honest, campsite bathrooms can be… well, unpredictable. The nearest facilities to our site (#53) were a short, five-minute walk away. They were reasonably accessible, though not fully ADA compliant. The cleanliness was decent, considering the high volume of campers.

Our advice? Come prepared! We always bring our own eco-friendly shampoo and soap to minimize our environmental impact. We're huge fans of "Ethique" and "Solidu" – their solid shampoo and conditioner bars are lightweight, plastic-free, and smell amazing. Plus, they're perfect for travel!

Activities in the Area: Adventures for Every Type of Traveler

Big Sur is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and art lovers alike. Here are some of our favorite activities, with a special focus on experiences that might appeal to LGBTQ+ travelers:

• Photography: The Big Sur River Gorge is a photographer's dream. The "golden hour" lighting (that magical time just after sunrise and before sunset) is absolutely epic for capturing stunning landscapes. We spent hours experimenting with different angles and compositions, trying to capture the majesty of the river and the towering redwood trees. Pro tip: get low to the ground to emphasize the height of the redwoods or shoot upwards through the canopy for a unique perspective. Don't forget to share your creations on Instagram using the hashtag #GayBigSurAdventures!

A breathtaking view of the Big Sur River Gorge, showcasing the lush greenery and towering trees, capturing the magic of the landscape at sunset during golden hour.

• Hiking: For a relatively easy but incredibly scenic hike, we highly recommend the Pfeiffer Falls Trail. It's a short loop (approximately 1.5 miles) that takes you through a redwood forest to a cascading waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels.

• Art Galleries: A short 30-minute drive north will bring you to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a haven for art lovers. We particularly enjoyed visiting the Weston Collective photography gallery, which showcases the work of emerging and established photographers. We also spent some time at the Carmel Art Association, which features a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artwork by local artists. The vibe in Carmel is very open and welcoming, and we felt completely comfortable exploring the galleries hand-in-hand.

• Wine Tasting: No trip to Monterey County is complete without indulging in some wine tasting! We did some research beforehand and sought out wineries known for being LGBTQ+ friendly. We ended up visiting two fantastic wineries: Folktale Winery & Vineyards in Carmel Valley (we spotted a pride flag sticker on the register!) and Hahn Family Wines in Soledad. At Folktale, we particularly enjoyed their Pinot Noir, while at Hahn, we were impressed by their Cabernet Sauvignon. Both wineries offered beautiful tasting rooms, knowledgeable staff, and, most importantly, delicious wine.

• Sustainable Practices: As digital nomads, we're acutely aware of our environmental footprint. We made a conscious effort to minimize our impact during our camping trip. We packed out all our trash (leaving no trace!), used biodegradable soap, and avoided single-use plastics whenever possible. Even small actions, like refilling our reusable water bottles and using reusable shopping bags, can make a difference.

Daniel and Michael toasting with their reusable water bottles amidst the redwood trees, highlighting their commitment to sustainable travel and minimizing environmental impact during their camping trip.

Final Thoughts: A Big Sur Memory to Cherish

Our camping trip to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and the Big Sur River Gorge was an unforgettable experience. We highly recommend it to other couples, especially those seeking a beautiful, peaceful, and inclusive getaway. The scenery is breathtaking, the atmosphere is relaxing, and the opportunities for adventure are endless. Just remember that phone service can be spotty, so preparation is key. Download those offline maps, pack your eco-friendly essentials, and get ready to create some amazing memories. Remember to pack your pride AND your reusable water bottle!