The purpose of John Little State Reserve, in Monterey County, is to preserve and protect an area of steep, rugged cliffs on the Big Sur coast where Lime Creek enters the Pacific Ocean. The unit contains the original 1917 cabin of early conservationist Elizabeth K. Livermore.

John Little State Reserve is a scenically valuable point of land between State Highway 1 and the Pacific Ocean which embraces both banks of Lime Creek in Monterey County. A small portion of the reserve extends across Highway 1 at the north end. The reserve makes available for public enjoyment, in an unspoiled condition forever, the scenic and natural values of the property.