Santa Lucia Campground & Chapel

For California locals seeking a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and a special setting for group gatherings, Santa Lucia Campground & Chapel in Big Sur offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled amidst the majestic redwood trees and alongside the pristine Big Sur River, this privately-owned property provides a serene and spiritual environment that stands apart from typical public campgrounds. It’s a space dedicated to outdoor and wilderness enjoyment, primarily for non-profit organizations, churches, and families associated with All Saints' Church and All Saints Day School.

Santa Lucia Campground & Chapel is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a sacred space designed for spiritual and physical renewal. Visitors consistently praise its beautiful setting and suitability for large groups, highlighting the friendly and welcoming hosts who help make every stay comfortable and memorable. Whether you're planning a church retreat, a non-profit outdoor program, or a significant family gathering in the heart of Big Sur, this campground provides a private, comfortable, and deeply peaceful base. Its emphasis on a tranquil, private experience makes it a highly sought-after destination for those looking for something truly special in one of California's most iconic landscapes.

Santa Lucia Campground & Chapel is exquisitely situated at 46896 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA. This prime location places it right in the heart of the world-renowned Big Sur region of California, offering immediate access to some of the state’s most breathtaking coastal and forested landscapes. The campground is approximately 26 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1, a quarter-mile south of the Big Sur River Inn.

Accessibility to the campground involves a specific turn-off from Highway 1. Visitors should take an immediate right turn on the west side of the highway, driving past the Big Sur Health Center, and then turning left at the entrance to Santa Lucia Chapel and Campground. Upon arrival, visitors are asked to stop at the entrance and wait to be admitted by the Campground Caretakers. This controlled access contributes to the private and secure feel of the property. While Highway 1 itself is a well-maintained paved road, conditions in Big Sur can sometimes be affected by weather events, so it's always advisable to check road conditions with CalTrans before traveling. Despite its secluded feel, its location along Highway 1 means it’s relatively easy to find for those familiar with the Big Sur stretch, and offers convenient access to nearby attractions while retaining its tranquil charm.

• Group Campsites: The campground features three dedicated group campsites, making it ideal for larger gatherings of non-profit organizations, churches, and families.
• Tent Pitching Areas: These campsites offer ample space for pitching multiple tents, catering to group needs.
• Picnic Tables: Each group campsite is equipped with picnic tables, providing communal areas for dining and activities.
• Fire Pits/Rings: Open fire pits and fire rings are available at the campsites, perfect for campfires and grilling (subject to any local fire restrictions).
• Restroom Facility: A dedicated restroom facility is provided for campers. Reviews consistently highlight that the bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.
• Fresh Drinking Water: The campground provides fresh drinking water from its own well, a valuable amenity in a natural setting.
• Rocky Beach along Big Sur River: Direct access to a rocky beach along the Big Sur River, offering opportunities for relaxation by the water.
• Outdoor Chapel: A significant feature is the outdoor chapel, which provides a beautiful and rustic setting for worship services, intimate weddings, and spiritual gatherings.
• Redwood Grove Wedding Location: Another popular spot for weddings is a small grove of Redwoods near the river, offering a naturally majestic setting.
• On-Site Caretakers: Campground Caretakers are present to assist guests and ensure a smooth experience upon arrival and throughout their stay.
• Reservations Required (Group Sites): Reservations for group campsites are required, often needing to be made well in advance (e.g., one year) due to popularity. Availability must be confirmed prior to booking.
• No Showers: It's important to note that there are no showers available at the campground.
• No Public Access/Private Property: This is a private property primarily for non-profit organizations, churches, and families associated with All Saints' Church and All Saints Day School, not a public campground open to individual, casual bookings.

• Unique Private Retreat: Santa Lucia Campground & Chapel offers a distinct private and exclusive camping experience, specifically tailored for group bookings by non-profit organizations, churches, and affiliated families, setting it apart from public campgrounds.
• Stunning Big Sur Setting: Nestled under majestic redwood trees and alongside the Big Sur River, the campground provides an incredibly picturesque and tranquil natural environment.
• Outdoor Chapel for Events: A significant highlight is the beautiful outdoor chapel, which serves as an ideal venue for spiritual services, intimate weddings, and other significant group events amidst nature.
• Spiritual and Physical Renewal: The entire property is designed to be a sacred space promoting spiritual and physical renewal, offering a serene escape from daily life.
• Clean and Comfortable Facilities: Despite its rustic charm, campers consistently praise the cleanliness and comfort of the restrooms, enhancing the overall camping experience.
• Big Group Camping Suitable: With three designated group campsites, the venue is highly suitable for accommodating large groups, fostering communal experiences.
• Direct River Access: The presence of a rocky beach along the Big Sur River allows for easy access to the water, perfect for relaxation or exploration.
• Friendly and Accommodating Hosts: Reviews frequently commend the welcoming and helpful nature of the hosts and staff (like Jack and Madison), ensuring a positive and comfortable stay for visitors.
• Proximity to Big Sur Attractions: The campground's excellent location offers convenient access to many popular Big Sur sites, including Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, and scenic viewpoints, making it a great base for exploration.
• Seclusion and Privacy: The private nature of the property and its controlled access ensure a higher degree of seclusion and privacy, allowing groups to fully enjoy their time together without external disturbances.

Address: 46896 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA

Phone: (831) 667-2310

Mobile Phone: +1 831-667-2310

For inquiries about booking group sites, checking availability for non-profit organizations, churches, or affiliated families, or for information regarding the use of the Chapel for weddings and services, it is highly recommended to contact the property directly using the provided phone numbers. You can also find more detailed information and potentially an inquiry form through All Saints' Episcopal Church Carmel-by-the-Sea, as they manage this private property.

Email inquiries for availability are often directed to: santalucia@allsaintscarmel.org.

For California locals, especially those in the Central Coast region, Santa Lucia Campground & Chapel offers a distinctive and highly desirable group camping and retreat experience within the world-renowned Big Sur. This isn't a public campground for individual bookings, but rather a cherished private resource designed for non-profit organizations, churches, and affiliated families seeking a special place for gatherings and renewal. For these groups, it represents an unparalleled opportunity to access one of California's most iconic and beautiful landscapes in a private, managed setting.

The ability to host large group camping, combined with essential amenities like clean restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits, and fresh well water, ensures a comfortable and communal experience. The presence of an outdoor chapel further enhances its appeal, providing a serene backdrop for spiritual services, weddings, or reflective moments. Local groups can truly leverage this unique property to foster connection, team-building, or spiritual growth, all while being enveloped by the majestic redwood trees and the soothing sounds of the Big Sur River.

Its prime location along Highway 1 means that while it feels secluded and private, it's conveniently close to Big Sur's myriad attractions, including state parks, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints. This allows groups to combine their private retreat with exploration of the wider Big Sur area. For Californians seeking a tranquil, comfortable, and thoughtfully managed private space for their group's next outdoor adventure or special event, Santa Lucia Campground & Chapel is an ideal choice, offering a truly memorable and enriching experience in the heart of their home state's natural grandeur.

Santa Lucia Campground & Chapel

46896 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA