Comings Camp

California, a state of unparalleled natural beauty, offers everything from sun-drenched beaches to towering Sierra peaks. For those seeking an undiluted, truly immersive wilderness experience, far from the comforts of car-accessible campgrounds, Comings Camp in Big Sur is a remarkable destination. Tucked away in the rugged Ventana Wilderness of the Los Padres National Forest, this primitive trail camp is a testament to the wild heart of California. It’s a place for adventurers, backpackers, and those who cherish the challenge and profound peace found only by venturing deep into nature.

Comings Camp is not for the faint of heart or those reliant on modern conveniences. As multiple recent reviews emphatically state, "There is no way to get to this campsite via Robinson Canyon Road. Google is wrong." This highlights the very nature of Comings Camp: it is a wilderness trail camp, accessible primarily by hiking. This characteristic is precisely what makes it so appealing to experienced California locals who yearn for genuine solitude and a true off-grid experience. Here, the amenities are the towering redwoods, the babbling springs, and the vast, star-filled night sky, inviting you to create an unforgettable adventure rooted in the raw beauty of Big Sur.

Comings Camp is located in the Unnamed Road, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA. More specifically, it is a wilderness trail camp situated on the Skinner Ridge Trail (1E04) within the Ventana Wilderness of the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey County. Its elevation is approximately 3200 feet, offering commanding views of the rugged Big Sur coastline and interior mountains.

For California residents, understanding the access to Comings Camp is crucial, as direct vehicle access is not possible. The reviews clearly indicate that common mapping services may provide incorrect driving directions to the campsite. Instead, Comings Camp is a hike-in destination, requiring backpackers to traverse established trails. Common access points to trails leading towards Comings Camp might include various trailheads off Highway 1 or from the interior via routes like Nacimiento-Ferguson Road, depending on current road and trail conditions. The journey itself is part of the adventure, leading you through diverse Big Sur landscapes, from oak woodlands to chaparral and redwood groves. This remote location ensures a true wilderness experience, appealing to those who are well-versed in backcountry travel and seek to explore the less-traveled paths of California's iconic coastline.

As a wilderness trail camp, Comings Camp offers a minimalist and primitive experience, focusing on natural resources rather than developed facilities. Campers should be fully self-sufficient and prepared for a backcountry setting. Based on available public data and hiker reviews:

• Designated Trail Camp Sites: Comings Camp offers established, though undeveloped, areas suitable for tent pitching. These are typically flat spots along the trail where previous campers have set up. Reviews mention it being "very big, open and pleasant."
• Natural Water Source: A significant feature of Comings Camp is the presence of a natural spring or cistern. Reviews indicate the spring is often flowing, though sometimes minimally, and that water can be found by following the ravine below the camp. While the water is available, it is crucial for campers to carry their own water purification method (filter, tablets, or boiling) as the water is untreated and its quality can vary.
• Fire Rings (Conditional): Primitive fire rings may exist at campsites. However, visitors must always adhere to current fire restrictions and regulations imposed by the Los Padres National Forest, which are very strict in Big Sur due to wildfire risk. It is common for fire bans to be in effect for extended periods. Campers should be prepared to cook without a campfire.
• No Developed Restrooms: There are no developed restrooms (flush toilets or vault toilets) at Comings Camp. Campers must practice Leave No Trace principles, including digging catholes for human waste at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites, and packing out all toilet paper.
• No Amenities: There are no picnic tables, potable water spigots, trash services, or cell service/Wi-Fi. Campers must pack in and pack out all their supplies and waste.

• True Wilderness Immersion: Comings Camp offers a rare opportunity for a deep wilderness experience in Big Sur. It’s far removed from Highway 1's crowds and provides genuine solitude, allowing campers to fully disconnect and appreciate the natural environment.
• Access to Ventana Wilderness Trails: The camp is located directly on the Skinner Ridge Trail, which connects to a vast network of hiking trails within the Ventana Wilderness. This provides endless opportunities for extended backpacking trips, challenging day hikes, and exploration of diverse ecosystems.
• Natural Spring Water: The availability of spring water, while requiring purification, is a vital natural resource for backpackers in this remote area. Knowing there's a water source reduces the burden of carrying all water, though preparation is key.
• Stunning Views: The elevated location at 3200 feet likely offers impressive views of the surrounding mountains and potentially glimpses of the Pacific Ocean through the canyons, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your wilderness adventure.
• Historical Significance: Many trail camps in the Ventana Wilderness have a long history of use by hikers and locals, contributing to a sense of connection with the area's rich outdoor heritage.
• Abundant Wildlife: The remote and wild setting makes it an excellent location for wildlife observation, including various bird species, deer, and potentially larger mammals that inhabit the Big Sur wilderness.
• Challenges and Rewards: The difficulty of access and the primitive nature of the camp contribute to a highly rewarding experience. Successfully navigating to and camping at Comings Camp provides a strong sense of accomplishment for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Address: Unnamed Road, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA

As Comings Camp is a wilderness trail camp within the Los Padres National Forest, direct contact with the camp itself is not possible. For information, permits (if required for wilderness entry or campfires), and current trail conditions, it is essential to contact the managing ranger district of the Los Padres National Forest that oversees the Ventana Wilderness. The Monterey Ranger District is the primary contact for this area.

Phone: (831) 385-5434 (Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District)

It is crucial to call or check the Los Padres National Forest website before your trip for the most up-to-date information on trail closures (especially given Big Sur's susceptibility to landslides and fire damage), fire restrictions, water source reliability at the camp, and any necessary permits for wilderness travel or overnight stays. Wilderness camps like Comings Camp operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not taken.

For California residents who are seasoned backpackers and true wilderness lovers, Comings Camp in Big Sur represents the pinnacle of an authentic outdoor experience. Far removed from the crowded, developed campgrounds, it offers a deep dive into the raw, untamed beauty of the Ventana Wilderness. The challenge of hiking to this remote trail camp, away from any road access – as emphasized by the crucial notes about incorrect mapping information – is precisely what makes the reward so profound. It allows for an unparalleled sense of solitude, connection with nature, and self-reliance that is increasingly rare.

The availability of natural spring water (to be treated), combined with the rustic charm of a true trail camp, provides the essential elements for a memorable backcountry trip. It's an ideal base for exploring the extensive trail networks of the Ventana Wilderness, offering breathtaking views and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. For Californians seeking to truly test their skills, find ultimate peace, and immerse themselves in the wild heart of their home state, Comings Camp stands as an iconic and deeply rewarding destination, offering an unforgettable and unadulterated Big Sur wilderness adventure.

Comings Camp

Unnamed Road, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA