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Riverside Campground
Overview
Riverside Campground and Cabins offers a quintessential coastal redwood experience for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. Located directly on the banks of the Big Sur River, this park provides a serene escape from the highway bustle. It is a family-owned destination that successfully balances authentic rustic charm with essential modern comforts. Visitors come here to disconnect from the digital world and immerse themselves in the towering trees and the soothing sounds of the flowing water.
Location & Surroundings
The park is perfectly situated in the heart of the Big Sur valley, surrounded by majestic old-growth redwood groves. Its unique position along the Big Sur River allows guests easy access to the water for wading, inner-tubing, or simply relaxing on the riverbanks. The environment is incredibly lush and well-shaded, offering a cool and refreshing retreat even during the warmer summer months. It serves as an ideal base camp for exploring the dramatic rugged California coastline and the nearby Santa Lucia Mountains.
Amenities & Park Features
While the setting remains intentionally rugged, the park provides water and electric hookups for RVs. Each individual site includes a private fire pit and picnic table, which are perfect for evening meals. The facility offers several essential features to improve your stay:
- Clean restrooms and hot showers
- On-site laundry facilities
- Pet-friendly designated areas
- A small camp store for essentials
It is important to note that sites are mostly designed for smaller rigs, typically under 30 feet, so check dimensions before arriving.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Just a short distance from the park, guests can explore the wonders of the central coast. For those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area, consider visiting these nearby highlights:
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for hiking
- Andrew Molera State Park for beach vistas
- The iconic Bixby Creek Bridge for photography
- Point Sur State Historic Park
These destinations are just a short drive away, offering some of the most spectacular coastal views in California.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is absolutely ideal for nature enthusiasts and small-rig owners who prefer a wooded, intimate setting over a traditional paved RV resort. It is a fantastic choice for active families looking to spend their days playing in the river or couples seeking a quiet, romantic getaway under the redwood canopy. If you value immediate river access and a traditional camping atmosphere that emphasizes the great outdoors, this park will fit your travel style perfectly.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Internet
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Margaret Eppli
What a fantastic campground, I wish we could have stayed longer! The entrance is VERY steep and narrow - coming from north to south it's okay, but coming from south to north the turn into the campground isn't possible with an RV, and the curve at the bottom of the hill to enter the campground may have your rig scraping the ground in the back. But the sites themselves are GORGEOUS, especially the waterfront sites - I'm very glad we got one! The campground was clean and well-maintained and the complementary coffee station was much appreciated.
Maria Cristina So
We had a great time during our long memorial weekend. Kids enjoyed river tubing. I love that they have a camp store, a laundry, free coffee, tea and hot chocolate. The place feels safe for the kids as no other travelers can come in except for guests who booked in this place. We already made our advance booking for next year! Hooray!
Yari Arredondo
I have camped in a tent before but wanted to try something new this time, so we booked a cabin. Check in was smooth & clear instructions. Once night time came, we were tired & wanted to get in bed. Upon preparing to go to bed, we noticed some stains on the sheet & some debris of some sort? The top part looked like ear wax perhaps? We were kind of disgusted & disappointed because not only were we already tired but we now had to change the sheets. I think that was just the bad part. I wish the cabins were not attached to the next room over because our neighbors snored incredibly loud & and we could hear everything. Other than that, I love the location.
Charlotte Fron
Overpriced for what you get. $115 per night for an RV site on the river seemed fair until we got there and realized how closely packed and small the sites are. We left after 1 night, forfeiting our second night fee, because the smoke from the next campsite was so close to us and we couldn’t breathe and we just didn’t have the space we needed. The staff was nice, the free coffee in the morning was a nice tough, the bathrooms were clean, the river was clean and nice.
space cadet
I loved camping at Riverside campground. It was great, the sound of the river was wonderful. They have wifi and it worked great. Every spot had a water spout. The showers had the best smelling toiletries. The space was perfect, I definitely plan on going back camping 🏕️