Big Sur Campground & Cabins

Have stayed here several times over last few years and previously recommended them. The change is mainly due to their harsh no refund policy during storms. I get that they have a firm policy because people can change their mind willy nilly and thats hard for a business.

However yesterday was an exception due to storms in the area. We were coming from the South and HWY 1 was closed. We called and they would not provide refunds. Ok, so we made a second attempt to come and drove the long way around from N which was technically open.

Once past Carmel, however, the wind was so strong that several trees toppled across the road, a large boulder rolled onto hwy 1 partially blocking us and my trailer started to sway significantly making the journey unsafe.

We pulled to the side of the road and considered option. With safety in mind, we called to cancel. Once we found safe accommodation we found out that the entire area was under a flood warning due to rising water in the Big Sur river. Yes, the one that goes through camp.

And guess what, they still wont accommodate refunds. So sorry, I will refuse to do business with them anymore. There have to be exceptions given the circumstances.

Perhaps if you’re in need of a large cabin this place is ok, but for camping, I don’t get the appeal. First off you’re forced to pay a “resort fee” for which you get wood (didn’t need), ice (no need) and a cheap flashlight (trash) $35. No WiFi, no reception. Sites close together. River view in our case was people from cabin aiming their chairs at the sun and thus our window.

Old-school bathrooms with saloon style doors.

I don’t get why people like it. Especially for that outrageous price.

Our site was right by the river which, amazingly, is flowing in September. Could hear the gentle gurgling sound all night.

Facilities are clean and well maintained. They have sites for tents, rvs, or rent a cabin.

Super friendly folks always helpful with suggestions on where to hike or eat.

Site has a pretty nice playground that the kids seem to love. About 20 little people all over it at 8 am on a Saturday. If kids are not your thing try weekday when its slower and they are in school.

The sites are nestled between enormous redwoods and some back up to the river.

Sites are dirt and it stays fairly muddy on the sites and road. Take a tarp or something to cover your RV entry space.

They have a nice general store with camping amenities and firewood. Gated access.

NO WIFI or CELL service. you can get wifi just down the road in front of the local library.

Lots of tent campers and kids.

I don’t have levelers and this is the only place i’ve needed them. Backed in with my front wheels on the top of my legos I was still at a slant. This spot is actually going up the side of the mountain. I had a hard time getting in far enough for my hose to reach the water, and I’m only 23’.

Otherwise it’s a very nice campground, though no cell service at all. We walked out of the driveway and to the right up to the library which does have cell service.

This campground is pretty pricey, but most all are in this area. There are nice sites all over, though some are a little tight. I chose a site up on the hill and stayed away from the bigger families down by the river, though those spots looked nice as well . If you are looking for a family spot in Big Sur, this is it! Take a walk around, each cabin is quirky and different.

Camp underneath the redwoods and alongside a river, really a great spot.

I'm glad I waited until we left to write our review. When we first got here, we had no idea there was no WiFi or Cell Signal (even with boosters). Forget about getting a satellite signal with 150ft. Redwoods. Working on the road, this was a big problem. Especially when you are use to being plugged in (not to mention client expectations).

That all said, there are 2 brew pubs close by with adequate WiFi. One that opens early about 3 miles away. and the other that is 1/4 mile away that opens at 2. I wouldn't suggest coming here with a lot of online work to do. But if you can do most of it offline and plug in for a hour or two while drinking some craft beer, you'll do just fine. In fact, if you haven't unplugged in while you'll be happy you stopped in for a few days.

The trip up PCH1 is not bad. Just need to take your time and pull off on the many turnoffs to let the cars behind you pass by. If you have a off-road vehicle, Old Coast Road is a nice afternoon trip to get away from the crowds (we were in Big Sur during Spring Break).