Andrew Molera State Park

Much the spectacular Big Sur area has been developed some might say "over developed" but the Andrew Molera State Park is still a relatively pristine example of natural California coastal environs. Hiking and beachcombing are the primary activities available here, where miles of trails pass through meadows, along beaches, and over hilltops.

About a third of a mile from the primary parking area, there is a primitive walk-in Trail Camp. It is quite popular with hikers and bikers, containing 24 marked campsites. This is the only area in the park where camping is allowed, and there is a maximum of four people per site. Pre-registration is not available; sites are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pets must be on a leash and are confined to the developed areas, including the main parking lot and the roadways to the historical buildings area, which contains Molera Ranch House and the Ornithology Lab. Dogs are not allowed in Trail Camp, and they are not permitted on any of the trails or at the beach.

For those who enjoy horseback riding, the Molera Trail Rides complex offers scenic coastal tours. One popular ride is follows the Beach Trail to the mouth of the Big Sur River, and then returns via Creamery Meadow Trail. Andrew Molera State Park is located 20 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1.