Kirk Creek Campground: A Design-Conscious Couple's Coastal Escape

For Javier and me, David, city life in San Francisco, with its constant hum and digital demands, can sometimes feel…overwhelming. We crave connection, not just to each other, but to the raw, unfiltered beauty of nature. That's why we planned a weekend escape to Big Sur, with Kirk Creek Campground as our destination. The promise of dramatic coastal views, crashing waves, and a digital detox was too enticing to resist. The drive down Highway 1 only amplified the anticipation. The iconic Bixby Bridge stood majestically against the azure sky, and as we neared Big Sur, the coastal fog began to roll in, creating an ethereal and mysterious atmosphere. It felt like entering another world, one where our only concerns would be finding the perfect sunset photo and savoring a gourmet picnic.

Arrival at Kirk Creek: Ocean Views Await

Kirk Creek Campground is wonderfully accessible, situated right off Highway 1. After navigating the winding roads, finding the campground was a breeze. Check-in was simple, and soon we were on our way to site #64, our home for the next two nights.

Campsite #64: Prime Real Estate

We’d heard whispers about the legendary views from campsite #64, and let me tell you, they didn't disappoint! Perched high above the Pacific, the site offered an unobstructed panorama of the endless ocean. The terrain was a bit uneven, a common characteristic of coastal campgrounds, but nothing a little careful tent placement couldn't solve. The real magic happened at sunset. The sky exploded with vibrant colors, painting the ocean in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The sound of the waves crashing below provided a constant, soothing soundtrack. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reconnect.

Our tent, a stylish REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus, felt perfectly at home amidst the rugged landscape. We oriented it to maximize the ocean view, so we could wake up each morning to the sight of the Pacific stretching out before us. It’s all about the details, right?

Campground Rules and Reservations: Plan Ahead!

Like most California campgrounds, Kirk Creek enforces strict fire restrictions, especially during the dry season. Wood fires are absolutely prohibited, which is understandable given the risk of wildfires. Propane stoves are allowed, but you need to obtain a permit. Make sure you check the latest regulations on recreation.gov before your trip.

Speaking of recreation.gov, booking a campsite at Kirk Creek is notoriously challenging. These sites are highly sought after, so you need to be prepared to book well in advance. We recommend booking at least six months ahead of your desired dates. Set reminders, be diligent, and refresh that page! Trust us, the effort is worth it.

Minimalist Amenities: Embrace Self-Sufficiency

Kirk Creek Campground embraces a minimalist approach when it comes to amenities. There are pit toilets, which are regularly maintained, but no showers. This means you need to be completely self-sufficient. Water conservation is crucial, so bring plenty of your own and be mindful of your usage. And, of course, pack out all your trash. Leave No Trace is not just a guideline; it's a responsibility.

Activities: Photography, Hiking, and Gourmet Picnics

Big Sur is a photographer's paradise, and we spent much of our time capturing its breathtaking beauty. The golden hour light was particularly stunning, and we experimented with a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the ocean and enhance the colors.

We also ventured into nearby Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for some redwood hikes. Towering redwoods offer a welcome respite from the sun and a chance to immerse ourselves in the serenity of the forest.

But the highlight of our trip was undoubtedly our gourmet picnic. We stopped in Carmel-by-the-Sea and stocked up on local artisanal cheeses and wines. We're foodies at heart, and we believe that even camping meals should be delicious and aesthetically pleasing. Our curated menu included avocado toast with everything bagel seasoning for breakfast, a burrata salad with grilled peaches for lunch, and pan-seared steak with rosemary potatoes for dinner. And yes, everything was served on enamelware plates, specifically selected for their vintage charm!

Wildlife Encounters: California Quail

We were delighted to encounter a small flock of California Quail that regularly foraged through our campsite and the surrounding area. These charming little birds added a touch of whimsy to our camping experience. Remember to never feed the wildlife!

Leave No Trace: Coastal Conservation

Being responsible stewards of the environment is paramount, especially in a fragile coastal ecosystem like Big Sur. We made a conscious effort to minimize our impact. We used biodegradable soap for washing dishes, packed out all our trash, and ensured that all food and scraps were tightly sealed to avoid attracting animals. Let's keep Big Sur beautiful for generations to come.

Tech-Savvy Camping: Staying Charged and Tuned In (Sort Of)

While we were seeking a digital detox, we also wanted to stay connected (to a degree) and capture our memories. A solar charger kept our phones and camera batteries topped up, and a portable Bluetooth speaker (a JBL Flip 5) provided a mellow soundtrack during our picnic. Bon Iver, in particular, seemed to perfectly complement the coastal ambiance.

Final Thoughts: A Big Sur Dream

Our weekend at Kirk Creek Campground was exactly what we needed: a chance to disconnect from the city, reconnect with nature, and strengthen our bond as a couple. The stunning coastal views, the soothing sound of the waves, and the carefully curated details made for an unforgettable experience. Big Sur is a truly magical place, and Kirk Creek Campground is the perfect base for exploring its wonders.

Instagram Post:

@vistalocation Just spent the most incredible weekend reconnecting with nature at Kirk Creek Campground in Big Sur! ✨ Waking up to the sound of waves crashing and those golden hour sunsets were pure magic. Highly recommend site #64 for the killer ocean views. 🏕️🌊 Be sure to book in advance on recreation.gov! #BigSur #KirkCreekCampground #CaliforniaCamping #GayTravel #WeekendGetaway #vistalocation #Travel #Camping #California #LGBTQTravel