Big Sur Camping: A Lesbian Couple's Anniversary Adventure at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Big Sur. Just the name conjures images of dramatic cliffs, towering redwoods, and the endless Pacific. For our 5th anniversary, Riley and I (Alex) decided to ditch the fancy hotel for a car camping adventure at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a location we had been dreaming about for years. We aimed for comfort and convenience without breaking the bank, proving that a mid-range budget can still deliver an unforgettable romantic getaway. This trip wasn’t just about escaping; it was about reconnecting amidst nature's grandeur, and experiencing the joy of traveling together. If you're an LGBTQ+ couple planning a Big Sur camping trip, this guide is for you!
Finding Our Way: Navigating to Big Sur Campground
The journey itself was an adventure. Highway 1 is notorious for its spotty cell service, a fact we quickly learned firsthand. Forget relying on your phone's map app; we highly recommend downloading offline maps beforehand. We used Gaia GPS, which proved to be a lifesaver. It helped us pinpoint the park's entrance (36.2414° N, 121.7622° W) and navigate to the Big Sur Campground after entering the general location of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Settling In: Our Campsite in Fernwood Loop
We were lucky enough to snag a spot in the Fernwood Loop, known for its proximity to the Big Sur River. The sound of the rushing water was incredibly soothing.
Tent Troubles (and Triumphs)
Setting up camp was... interesting. Riley is the self-proclaimed "gear guru" in our relationship, and she insisted on bringing our REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus tent. I (Alex), being the more practical software engineer, was initially skeptical of its "couple-friendly" design. However, the extra space was appreciated. The real challenge came with the rain fly. Let's just say there were some… disagreements on the proper way to attach it. But hey, teamwork makes the dream work, right? More tips to make car camping more comfortable for a romantic trip are below!
Campground Rules: Fire Safety First!
Living in California means being hyper-aware of fire danger. The campground takes fire safety very seriously, and for good reason. We learned that Cal Fire regulations are strictly enforced, with a hefty $500 fine for illegal campfires. We stuck to the shared fire pit and made sure to never leave the fire unattended. Definitely a crucial tip for car camping Big Sur for beginners!
Staying Clean: Bathroom and Shower Situation
The bathroom facilities were clean and well-maintained. The showers, however, were a pay-per-use situation. It cost $5 for 5 minutes, and they accepted credit cards, which was convenient. The water pressure was… unpredictable, and the temperature fluctuated a bit, so be prepared for some unexpected bursts of cold.
Adventures in Big Sur: Hiking, Dipping, and Wildlife
Big Sur offers a ton of activities! We tried to pack in as much as we could.
Hiking the Pfeiffer Falls Trail
Our first adventure was hiking the Pfeiffer Falls Trail. To be honest, I (Alex) wasn’t initially thrilled about the idea. But Riley insisted, and I'm so glad she did. The trail winds through a breathtaking redwood grove, and the waterfall at the end is stunning. Even I, the self-proclaimed indoor enthusiast, was captivated by the beauty of nature. This is a great option for couples.
River Dipping in the Big Sur River
The Big Sur River was cold. Seriously cold. I was hesitant to even dip a toe in, but Riley, ever the adventurer, practically dragged me in. Eventually, I succumbed to the peer pressure (and the promise of bragging rights) and waded in. The initial shock was intense, but after a few minutes, it became surprisingly refreshing. If you're looking for safe spots, stick to the shallower areas near the campground, but always be cautious of the current. What activities can couples do in Big Sur? River dipping is a great option!
Wildlife Viewing with iNaturalist
We also spent some time exploring the local wildlife. We spotted a couple of banana slugs (they're bigger than you think!) and some California quail. We used the iNaturalist app to identify them, which added a fun, educational element to our exploration. There is so much opportunity for California wildlife viewing in Big Sur!
Fine Dining: The Sur House at Ventana Big Sur
For our anniversary dinner, we decided to splurge a little and dine at The Sur House at Ventana Big Sur. The views were absolutely incredible, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Indulging in Cioppino
I ordered the Monterey Bay Cioppino, and it was divine. The seafood was fresh and perfectly cooked, and the broth was rich and flavorful. It was the perfect way to celebrate our anniversary. Plus, we were able to make our trip a romantic Big Sur camping trip, with a fancy dinner!
Camping Cuisine: Mountain House and Jetboil
Back at the campsite, we kept things simple. One of our go-to camping meals is Mountain House Biscuits and Gravy, prepared using our Jetboil Flash Cooking System. It's quick, easy, and surprisingly delicious after a long day of hiking. Alex wasn't too sure about this meal, but after a long day of hiking, it was a great comfort meal.
Cooler Comfort: Our Yeti Tundra 45
Our Yeti Tundra 45 cooler was an absolute lifesaver. It kept our food and drinks cold for the entire trip, even in the California heat. It's a bit of an investment, but definitely worth it for the convenience and peace of mind.
Big Sur for Lesbian Couples: Is it LGBTQ+ Friendly?
We felt incredibly welcomed and comfortable during our entire trip. Big Sur is a generally accepting and inclusive area. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings. Overall, we had a positive experience as a lesbian couple in Big Sur. Are Big Sur campgrounds lesbian-friendly? Absolutely!
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Anniversary Trip
Our car camping adventure in Big Sur was an experience we'll never forget. From the stunning scenery to the challenging tent setup to the delicious food, every moment was special. We reconnected with nature, with each other, and with ourselves. This trip proved that you don't need a fortune to have a romantic and memorable anniversary. So, pack your bags, grab your loved one, and head to Big Sur! And if you’re wondering what to do in Big Sur besides hiking, there are plenty of options. Book your trip today!