JULIA PFEIFFER BURNS STATE PARK
This state park is named after Julia Pfeiffer Burns, a well respected pioneer woman in the Big Sur country. The park stretches from the Big Sur coastline into nearby 3,000-foot ridges. It features redwood, tan oak, madrone, chaparral, and an 80-foot waterfall that drops from granite cliffs into the ocean from the Overlook Trail. A panoramic view of the ocean and miles of rugged coastline is available from the higher elevations along the trails east of Highway 1.
The park was established in 1962. It's named after Julia Pfeiffer Burns, a respected pioneer woman. The land originally belonged to Christopher and Rachel McWay who were friends with Burns.
In their wills, Helen Hooper Brown (a relative of the McWays) donated over 1,800 acres for public use as long it honored her friend Julia's name. This included an iconic waterfall that drops into the Pacific Ocean - one of only two such waterfalls on America's western coastline.
The park is known for its redwood trees and diverse marine life which includes sea otters and seals among others.
- Environmental Campsites: Two hike-in campsites are available, offering stunning views of the Big Sur coastline.
- Waterfall Overlook Trail Camping: This is not a traditional campsite but allows overnight stays with special permits.
Note that there's no car camping or RV sites within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
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