Sykes Hot Springs Campground offers a unique and serene camping experience nestled along the banks of the mighty river in Big Sur, California. Known for its secluded sites and natural beauty, this campground provides a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts seeking privacy and outdoor adventure.
Campers visiting Sykes Hot Springs Campground often praise the pristine environment and the sense of seclusion it offers. However, they also note that during high water levels, accessing some sites and hot springs may require careful navigation, including climbing rocks or wading through shallow waters.
Good for kids
On-site parking
Dogs allowed
Sykes is a pretty amazing campground. There are some awesome spots along the river to camp at. It's hard to even call it a campground because of how spread out all the sites are. You really do get some great privacy. The hot springs (or warm springs 😀) are a real fun spot. There is one upper pool that can take about two people and a lower pool that is a bit cooler that can also handle two. For whatever reason the pool that was in the river has been taken out by the forest service. Something about preserving the natural flow of the river. Wish they would open that one up again, it doesn't seem that disruptive. When the water level is high it can be a little challenging to reach some of the sites as well as the hot springs. You may be climbing the rock wall to get through. Or just go barefoot into the water. We'll worth it though!
Sykes is a sacred place that's long been being "loved to death". I'm writing this review to ask you, and I pledge to continue to do the same, to pick up and carry out trash when you visit. We have to pick up after our fellow man, unfortunately- but the wilderness needs and deserves our stewardship.
The hike is worth it, to soak in the tubs of hot, sulphury water.
I love this place! It is only the people who you bring or meet, the shape of your body & your love of nature that could make this place anything other than paradise, generally. Please observe all campfire rules & keep it wonderful for future generations by being overly precautious of fire, litter carryout, & otherwise, just lay back, recover from the hike, & enjoy all nature has to offer! Also it is at least 10+ miles of mountainous hiking each way, so stop along the way if need be at any obvious spots & do pack enough dehydrated food & a water filter &/or boil on safe camping stove. Enjoy Paradise!
We were first time backpackers when we did this hike , it was just as intense as described but the amazing view , the redwoods and the hits prints made our journey the most magical. Highly recommended!!! It was such a great experience , even though the hike was overwhelming but you can always end with a rewarding soak :)