Best Things Nearby:
Ventana Campground is a great location to use as a home base while exploring the Big Sur parks and beaches. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, and Pfeiffer Beach are all within 5 to 30 minutes of driving. Additionally, there are various restaurants, inns, and touristy shops all within 5 minutes of driving.
Best Things About the Resort:
Hands down, the redwood trees and stream make this campground one of the best campgrounds we have stayed at. Even Yosemite, Zion, Grand Canyon, and Lake Tahoe campgrounds do not compete with the comfort of Ventana.
Resort Experience:
Ventana Campground, a not-so-best-kept secret of Big Sur, is tucked away into a redwood canyon that is both private and breathtaking. Located 45 minutes south of Carmel, Ventana's 80 campsites are bisected by a fantastic stream that is dwarfed by 40 acres of towering redwood giants. As luck would have it, we stumbled upon Ventana only after being turned away from the state park campgrounds that were sold out long before we pulled in. While slightly more expensive than your average campsite, Ventana is the place to stay while camping in Big Sur. The state parks nearby are tempting, but Ventana's pure scenic beauty will knock your socks off within the first minute of entering the compound.
Thanks to the canyon slopes, the terraced sites have a good sense of privacy while still close to neighboring campsites. Trash cans, water, and three bathhouses are conveniently located and easy to reach. We had no doubt that Ventana's shower facilities were significantly cleaner and well maintained than their state park counterparts. Security also patrolled the grounds to make sure visitors honored the quiet hours as well as the campfire restrictions (unattended fires are strictly prohibited).
While not always necessary, it best to make reservations in advance due to the minimal number of campsites located in the entire Big Sur region. Due to the mild climate, campgrounds are in demand year-round, however spring to fall is the peak season.
- Campground Type: Private
- Campsite Type: Tent
- Price Range: $30 - $40
- Cleanliness: Excellent
- Campground Facilities: Excellent
- Recreational Facilities: Satisfactory
- Campsite Satisfaction: Excellent
- Family Friendliness: Excellent
- Service: Excellent