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Fernwood Resort Campground
Overview
Fernwood Resort Campground offers a quintessential coastal redwood experience in the heart of Big Sur. Established in 1932, this destination blends rustic charm with the natural majesty of the California coast. It serves as a central hub for those looking to immerse themselves in the scenic riverfront forest while maintaining access to convenient on-site dining and supplies. The park provides a unique bridge between the rugged wilderness and modern comfort for every visitor.
Location & Surroundings
Situated right along Highway 1, the park is nestled in a lush valley where towering redwood trees provide a cool, shaded canopy. The Big Sur River flows directly through the property, offering a serene backdrop for morning coffee or afternoon relaxation. Its position makes it an ideal basecamp for exploring the dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches that define this iconic stretch of coastline. The surrounding wilderness feels miles away from civilization despite the park's accessible location.
Amenities & Park Features
The RV sites at Fernwood are specifically designed for smaller rigs, typically accommodating units up to 30 feet in length. While sites offer water and electricity, travelers have access to a convenient dump station on-site. The resort provides several key features to enhance your stay:
- A historic tavern and grill featuring local craft beers and pub fare.
- A well-stocked general store with camping supplies and groceries.
- An on-site espresso bar for your morning caffeine fix.
- A scenic volleyball court located near the riverbank.
These facilities ensure that even in the heart of the forest, you have everything needed for a comfortable and social camping experience.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Just a short drive or a moderate walk away, guests can explore the extensive hiking trails of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. For those chasing world-class coastal views, the dramatic vistas at McWay Falls and the historic Point Sur Lighthouse are only a few miles down the road. Visitors also enjoy easy access to the Big Sur River for wading or simply relaxing by the water's edge under the ancient forest growth during the warmer summer months.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for active outdoor enthusiasts and families who prioritize location and character over modern luxury resort amenities. It is a perfect fit for vintage trailer owners and van lifers who appreciate a social atmosphere with on-site dining options. If you seek a historic, wooded retreat that places you minutes away from California’s most famous hiking trails and scenic beaches, this park fits your travel style perfectly.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Internet
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Gabby J
The motel rooms are cozy and nice, the bed is comfy. However, the walls and windows are extremely thin. You can hear EVERYTHING- from cars driving outside to guests talking next door. We are not light sleepers but we could not sleep.
Larry Ovalle
Wonderful campground and hotel with direct access to hiking trails and the state Park. The restaurant is excellent, campsites clean, shaded and quiet. The store has anything you may need. Staff is very friendly. Make reservations in advance as it fills up.
Doug Thomas
Location is wonderful -- surrounded by sequoias, and right on the river. We stayed in the tent cabins. The prices are crazy high, but that's what the private campgrounds go for here. Definitely avoid staying in the motel on weekends, as they always have loud music till 1am then; but down by the river it was not too bad. Camp in a state park if you can, but if everything is full, this is not a bad option if you can drop $200 a night.
Erin Kantorski
We had a blast staying here! We brought our toddler and stayed in one of the cabins. The cabin was nice and clean and had all of the amenities we needed (except for a microwave). We liked that even though we stayed in a cabin, it still felt like we camped! This place has everything you need, from epic nature to a restaurant, tavern, camp store, laundry facilities, etc. There’s no need to even leave the campground lol. We recommend buying all of your groceries/spices/oil/etc in advance. The river is also very nice and relaxing. The prices are steep, however, but the experience is worth it.
Nicholas Sullivan
First of all: the staff were amazing. Friendly smiles and helpful at every turn. This is not a place for an escape from reality or any kind of peace and quiet. We didn’t realize before booking how close the sites were from each other; like a wooded parking lot. We had zero privacy whatsoever and could see and hear every other site in the campground from our site, and were about 5ft from our neighbors on every side. For the $155/night we paid for the site, I could not recommend this place to anyone. Campsites are hard to come by in Big Sur, which is how we ended up here by default. If you are a family looking for a place to bring your young kids for the first time, or if you’re brand new to camping, this place might still be for you. Otherwise, you might seek a better alternative. We hope for new management in the future 🤞