Fernwood Resort and Campground

Fernwood Campground & Resort is in such a beautiful, majestic setting — truly what you picture when you think of Big Sur. The campsites are spacious and having water and electric hookups made everything easy and comfortable. The river is clean and peaceful, and the grounds are very well manicured and cared for. One of my favorite parts was the easy hiking trail that connects directly to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, giving access to even more scenic trails without needing to move the car. The camp store is super convenient and well stocked with essentials, and the staff were friendly and welcoming throughout our stay. The only downside — and the reason for 4 instead of 5 stars — is that the $20 dump fee felt unexpected and seems like it should be included in the campsite price. Other than

This place is absolutely majestic. But if yo are expecting peace and quiet while enjoying the sound of the river, you may be surprised. My one suggestion would be to have a campsite attendant on site until at least 10 PM. In our experience, several campers ignored quiet hours and general campsite etiquette, blasting music late into the night. The location itself is phenomenal, but without someone enforcing quiet hours it can be tough to fully enjoy.

Quiet hours are 10pm-6am... however, this does not apply to their bar up on the hill. The noise from their bar carries down into the river valley at night and can be heard from sites 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, and 60. If you are a light sleeper, beware of the constant drunk laughing, yelling, and singing you may hear. The sound of the river covers much of this noise in many of the other sites. Otherwise, location is beautiful and very family friendly.

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.

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.