Riverside Campground & Cabins

For Californians, the majestic stretch of Big Sur along Highway 1 represents an iconic escape, a place where rugged coastline meets towering redwoods and the Pacific Ocean. Nestled amidst this breathtaking scenery is Riverside Campground & Cabins, a popular destination that offers a unique camping experience for locals seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of one of the state's most beloved regions. Whether you're planning a family getaway, a group adventure, or a romantic escape, Riverside Campground & Cabins provides a welcoming and amenity-rich environment right on the banks of the Big Sur River.

Unlike some of the more rustic or remote options in Big Sur, Riverside Campground & Cabins strikes a balance between natural beauty and convenient amenities. It’s a place where the sounds of the river can lull you to sleep, and the towering redwoods provide a magnificent backdrop to your outdoor adventures. For residents across California, this campground offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the magic of Big Sur with comfortable facilities and a lively atmosphere, making it a compelling choice for your next coastal mountain retreat. Its diverse offerings cater to different styles of camping, ensuring a memorable stay for various preferences.

Riverside Campground & Cabins is ideally located at 47020 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA. This puts it directly on the world-famous Highway 1, providing relatively easy access for Californians traveling north or south through Big Sur. Its position alongside the Big Sur River is a significant highlight, offering prime riverside sites that are just feet from the water. While its location on Highway 1 makes it highly accessible, some past visitors have noted that the entrance to the campground is on a somewhat dangerous turn with limited visibility and a steep incline. This suggests that careful navigation is required, especially for larger vehicles.

Despite this minor note on accessibility for larger vehicles, the overall convenience of being located directly on Highway 1 means that most California residents can reach the campground with relative ease. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the many attractions of Big Sur, including Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (home of McWay Falls), and numerous hiking trails and viewpoints that dot the coastline. The picturesque drive along Highway 1 itself is a significant part of the journey, making the trip to Riverside Campground & Cabins an experience in itself, setting the tone for a memorable Big Sur adventure.

Riverside Campground & Cabins prides itself on offering a range of services designed to make your Big Sur camping experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. While embracing the natural surroundings, the campground provides key amenities that enhance your stay.

• Tent & RV Sites: The campground offers a variety of sites suitable for both tent campers and RVs. While some sites are noted as being close together, they are generally level and well-maintained. Specific spots are perfectly suited for Class C RVs, as noted by visitors.
• Cabins: In addition to traditional campsites, Riverside Campground also provides cabins, offering a more sheltered and comfortable lodging option for those who prefer not to tent camp or travel in an RV.
• Clean Bathrooms & Showers: A significant highlight mentioned by multiple visitors is the cleanliness of the bathrooms. The showers are particularly praised for having great water pressure and heat, a welcome luxury in a campground setting.
• On-site Store: The campground features a well-stocked general store. This store offers a variety of options, including plenty of firewood, snacks, drinks, and other camping essentials, ensuring you don't have to leave the campground for basic supplies.
• Laundry Facilities: Laundry services are available, though some past visitors have noted they could be improved. Nevertheless, having laundry facilities on-site can be very convenient for longer stays.
• Free Coffee, Tea, and Oatmeal: A delightful and often appreciated perk, the campground provides complimentary coffee, tea, and oatmeal, a perfect way to start your day in Big Sur.
• River Access: With numerous riverside sites, campers have direct and easy access to the Big Sur River, perfect for wading, relaxing by the water, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds.
• Friendly Staff: Consistently mentioned in reviews, the staff at Riverside Campground & Cabins are known for being very friendly and helpful, contributing significantly to a positive camping experience.

Riverside Campground & Cabins stands out due to several key features and highlights that cater to a wide range of campers seeking a memorable Big Sur experience.

• Absolutely Beautiful Riverside Location: This is the campground's crown jewel. Many sites are literally "feet from the water" of the Big Sur River, providing stunning views, soothing sounds, and direct access for water activities. The beauty of the surrounding redwoods adds to this idyllic setting.
• Group-Friendly Layout: While some individual sites may lack extensive privacy, the layout can be highly beneficial for large groups or families camping together. The proximity of sites makes it easy for groups to socialize and share their camping experience.
• Ideal for RVs (Class C and Smaller): The level spots and generally accommodating nature make it suitable for Class C RVs and smaller vehicles, offering a comfortable stay for those traveling in mobile homes. Note: Larger Class A RVs might find the entrance challenging.
• Convenient Amenities for Comfort: The availability of clean, hot showers with good water pressure, an on-site store, and complimentary breakfast items significantly enhances the comfort level, setting it apart from more primitive campgrounds.
• Pet-Friendly: Riverside Campground is a pet-friendly establishment, allowing California residents to bring their furry companions along for the adventure (be sure to check specific pet policies and leash rules).
• Central Big Sur Location: Its location directly on Highway 1 makes it an excellent base camp for exploring all that Big Sur has to offer, from iconic landmarks to hidden hiking trails, without excessive driving.
• Lively and Social Atmosphere: Due to the proximity of sites and the presence of shared amenities, the campground often fosters a more social and community-oriented atmosphere, which is appealing to many families and groups.

For more information or to make reservations at Riverside Campground & Cabins, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 47020 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA

Phone: (831) 667-2414

Mobile Phone: +1 831-667-2414

It is highly recommended to call ahead or visit their official website (if available, which is common for private campgrounds) to check availability, make reservations, inquire about current rates, and confirm any specific policies or seasonal information. Given Big Sur's popularity, especially during peak seasons, booking in advance is often essential to secure your preferred spot.

Riverside Campground & Cabins is exceptionally well-suited for California locals seeking a convenient, amenity-rich, and family-friendly camping experience in the heart of Big Sur. For Californians who appreciate being close to the river, having clean facilities, and the option of cabins alongside traditional camping, this destination ticks many boxes. While some may find the site proximity a trade-off for absolute privacy, it fosters a welcoming atmosphere perfect for groups or those who enjoy a lively camping environment.

The ease of access directly off Highway 1 makes it a practical choice for weekend trips or longer vacations from various parts of California. The added conveniences of an on-site store, hot showers, and complimentary breakfast items elevate the camping experience beyond basic wilderness survival, allowing more time for relaxation and exploration of the stunning Big Sur coastline and redwood forests. For Californians looking for a blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and comfortable amenities, Riverside Campground & Cabins offers a delightful and memorable way to experience one of the state's most iconic natural treasures, truly making it a local favorite.

Riverside Campground & Cabins

47020 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA