San Francisco to San Diego ride

[brianfreddy]

This has probably been a topic a billion times but i can't find any current info regarding camping spots along the coast between San Francisco and San Diego.  I'm trying to go cheap since i'm a college student.  If anyone could help me with camping tips, sites and route info i would appreciate it, thanks!

[litespeed]

I assume you are talking about going down the coast - beautifully scenic and plenty interesting but the weather during the winter can be rough with storms rolling through. There are plenty of state parks for camping but the further south you get the more obnoxious, stumbling winos you'll encounter. They love the state parks too and can be hard to ignore although they will do you no harm.
The motels just south of Hearst Castle compete vigorously and are surprisingly cheap by California standards. You might treat yourself to a night there and a tour or two at the Castle.

[litespeed]

I forgot. Get a copy of "Bicycling The Pacific Coast" by Tom Kirkendall and Vicky Spring. A good, comprehensive guide.

[brianfreddy]

I'm planning on doing the ride in May, i figured that would be my best bet for weather.  That book looks like it will get me down the coast and then some, thanks for the advice!

[ecole]

Be prepared for cool (maybe cold), misty days.  It can be very hot five miles inland and feel like winter on the coast.  As far as camping, there are lots of places, but they don't always have showers.  Good luck, traffic along Hwy 1 should be moderate in the spring.

[LobodeSolo]

There are lots of campgrounds. I did my trip in '86 but if I remember correctly, Half Moon Bay, Monterrey Municipal campground, St' Lucia S. of Big Sur, Morro Bay State pk, near santa Barbara I stayed in Santa Ynez at John Seigel Boettner's school. I met him on his from "Sea to Shining Sea" trip. Read his account of the trip in his book " Hey Mom, Can I Ride my Bike across America" available thru Adventure Cycling. Carpenteria, LA is tough as I stayed with a friend in Hermosa Beach, Youth Hostel in Huntingdon Beach and then S.D where I again stayed with friends. Kirkendall and Spring's book mentionned above gives invaluable info on the whole route. Have a blast!!