Ponderosa Campground
3.6053 reviewsPonderosa Campground
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees are $35 per night for standard nonelectric sites, with additional charges of $2 per weekend and $2 per holiday.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Los Padres National Forest, Ponderosa Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape along the banks of the Nacimiento River. This hidden gem attracts those seeking solitude and natural beauty, with sites nestled among towering trees perfect for tent camping and small trailers. The winding approach road adds to the adventure, filtering out larger RVs and preserving the campground's intimate character. Days here unfold with refreshing river swims, quiet fishing spots, scenic trail explorations, and encounters with the diverse wildlife that call this pristine landscape home.
The campground supports both RV and tent camping with single-family sites. Primitive camping and group camping options are not highlighted, and cabins or glamping accommodations are not provided.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive away stands Mission San Antonio at Fort Hunter Liggett, a living testament to California's Spanish colonial past. Founded in 1771, this remarkably preserved mission invites visitors to walk through centuries of history, from its still-functioning original aqueducts to the thoughtfully curated museum exhibits. The sacred Native American cemetery on the grounds serves as a poignant reminder of the indigenous peoples who first called this region home, adding layers of cultural significance to your camping adventure.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Ponderosa into a sun-drenched retreat where temperatures climb into the 90s, making the river's cool waters especially inviting—though visitors should come prepared for the season's enthusiastic insect population. Spring and fall paint the campground in perfect mild weather, ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration. As summer progresses, the creek gradually transitions from rushing waters to gentle trickles, revealing new rocky landscapes to explore by late season.
ElevationPerched at 1,500 feet above sea level, Ponderosa Campground occupies a sweet spot where mountain air meets forest tranquility. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate that supports diverse ecosystems while offering cooler temperatures than the valley floor below, making it a refreshing retreat during California's warm months.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of ponderosa pines stretches skyward, their vanilla-scented bark perfuming the air, while sturdy oaks, vibrant madrones with their distinctive red bark, and graceful sycamores create a multi-layered canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns across the forest floor. The Nacimiento River meanders nearby, its waters creating a ribbon of life that supports everything from darting fish to visiting deer. This diverse woodland ecosystem provides natural shade throughout most campsites while framing spectacular views of the surrounding Los Padres wilderness.
Geological RegionPonderosa Campground sits within the rugged embrace of the Los Padres National Forest, where the dramatic mountains of Big Sur reveal their inland secrets at 1,500 feet elevation. This unique geological position places campers at the intersection of coastal mountain ranges and interior valleys, creating a landscape carved by ancient rivers and shaped by tectonic forces that continue to define California's spectacular Central Coast wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampsites offer some degree of spread and privacy, but limited information is available about accessibility accommodations for those with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some notably large ones such as Spot 1 described by Karen L Chambers: "Spot 1 is HUGE!!!! We have a 9-person condominium tent and could have had at least 5 of them in this spot."
Sites PrivacySite privacy depends on location. Some sites, like Site 23, offer seclusion, while others are more exposed. Mitch Ginsburg notes: "Campsite 23 is a hidden gem! Tucked away off the road, you get far more privacy, shade, and seclusion than any of the other campsites."
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with shade and proximity to water features, and avoid those near vault toilets or overflowing dumpsters. Campsites 6, 1, and 23 are highly recommended for their unique features.
Best CampsitesCampsite 6 is praised for its shade and proximity to the creek. Campsite 1 offers spaciousness and creek access. Campsite 23 provides privacy but is surrounded by poison oak.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay allowed is 15 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsite reservation fee covers 6 people and 1 vehicle. Maximum number of people per site is 8 ($10 additional charge after 6 people).
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned as available at Ponderosa Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spread out in a paved loop. Half are shaded and secluded in wooded areas, while others are more open and located in a meadow.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 01, 2025, and closes September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations can be made three days in advance; walk-ups are not explicitly noted.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the scheduled arrival date will incur a $10 fee, with additional penalties for late cancellations. Late cancellations subtract the first night's fee. Changes to reservations have a $10 charge if dates are entirely different.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ponderosa Campground offers several recreational activities, leveraging its proximity to the Nacimiento River. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing for trout, wading, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, a variety of hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails are accessible within a short drive, featuring scenic vistas like waterfalls, redwood groves, and meadows.
Hiking
The campground is near hiking trails that showcase waterfalls, redwood groves, and meadows. However, a user review notes: "No clear hiking trails either," reflecting limited accessibility directly from the campground.Fishing
The Nacimiento River offers trout fishing opportunities. "The creek is amazingly beautiful and absolutely clear! You can see the trout swimming in place," Karen L Chambers mentions.Swimming
Swimming is available in the river's swimming holes along its course. "Swimming in any of the swimming holes along its course," is cited in authoritative descriptions.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities exist in nearby trails. Specific details about trail difficulty or terrain are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Ample wildlife viewing is possible thanks to the scenic forested location. Kianna Silva-Jara mentions bird watching: "There were so many birds, it would be a great place for bird watching."Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby Mission San Antonio provides cultural and educational opportunities, featuring a museum, aqueduct, and Native American cemetery.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not available due to the seasonal nature of the campground.Water Sports
Swimming and wading in the Nacimiento River are available, but specific water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in fire pits and grills provided at each site, but restrictions apply during fire hazard periods.
- Quiet hours are Not specifically stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is common around campsites, particularly near narrow paths like those leading to site 23. Bugs, including mosquitoes, gnats, and yellow jackets, are pervasive during summer. Limited shade and high temperatures can also pose challenges.
Active alertsHighway 1/Nacimiento Road access is closed. Fire restrictions are in place during certain periods. Water spigots in some areas are non-functional.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Campground is located near Fort Hunter Liggett Military Base, which could provide emergency services, though specifics are not stated.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection bins are available, although user reviews frequently report overflowing dumpsters and inadequate maintenance: "The trash cans were all overflowing," according to Jessica L. Ping G notes: "A huge dumpster full of smelly trash near our camp site."
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Nacimiento River, which is a seasonal water feature with clear swimming holes and trout fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsIssues include overflowing trash cans, dirty vault toilets, lack of running water at upper campsites, bugs, and the absence of a camp host at times. Some users also dislike the proximity of certain sites to dumpsters or toilets.
HostOn-site hosts are occasionally present, such as Pat or Andres, who are noted for their helpfulness and maintenance of restrooms.
Campground Map
Driving directionsCampground is only available to access via the 101 side, the Highway 1/ Nacimiento Road Access is CLOSED. From Monterey, Take highway 68 to the 101. Accessible through Highway 101 exit Jolon Road. From Los Angeles/South take highway 101 to the Jolon Road exit, follow until campground.
RVs are not recommended to travel Nacimiento/Ferguson Road from Hwy 1. Access is available through the Hwy 101.Nearby supplies
No gas stations are available after leaving Highway 101. Campers should plan accordingly. Nearby mission at Fort Hunter Liggett provides historic attractions but not supplies.
Camper Reviews
3.6
53 reviews
Ponderosa Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty, wildlife, and facilities like grills and fire pits, but also draw attention to issues such as bugs, trash maintenance, and vault toilet cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's beautiful setting, secluded sites, wildlife viewing opportunities, and stargazing at night. "Beautiful spot, very quiet and peaceful. Stars are gorgeous at...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include bugs, overflowing trash bins, poorly maintained vault toilets, and limited access to water and hiking trails. "Bathrooms were terrible and no one is around to help," notes...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and citronella candles to fend off bugs, as suggested by Jordan A. Karen L Chambers recommends campsite 6 for its shade: "Campsite 6 was where we stayed and I think it is probably the...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest spring and early summer are ideal due to flowing creeks and moderate weather, while summer can be excessively hot and buggy. "I love camping here during the spring and early summer...
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Camper Quotes
"The creek is amazingly beautiful and absolutely clear! You can see the trout swimming in place," Karen L Chambers. "Vault toilets are full and disgusting," Mackenzie L. "Spot 1 is HUGE!!!!" Karen L...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 23 is noted for privacy and seclusion. "Campsite 23 is a hidden gem," says Mitch Ginsburg. Site 13 is described as lacking shade during peak hours by John Lamb: "Our site (13) had no shade at...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Limited information is available about accessibility features. The campground layout offers varied privacy and spacing.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several reviews mention dogs enjoying the location. "I took my dogs to run free for an hour, they love it there," says Roger Krone.
Based on 53 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025