Ponderosa Campground

About

Ponderosa Campground occupies a scenic stretch along the Nacimiento River in Los Padres National Forest at 1,500 feet elevation. The campground features 21 sites scattered beneath a mixed canopy of ponderosa pine, oak, madrone, and sycamore trees that provide ample shade. Each site includes a picnic table and campfire ring with grill, with vault toilets and drinking water available throughout. The paved parking surfaces accommodate RVs up to 35 feet, though no hookups are available. The Nacimiento River is the centerpiece attraction, offering swimming holes, trout fishing, and wading along its course. A variety of hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails are accessible within a short drive, featuring scenic views of waterfalls, massive redwood groves, meadows, and mountain streams. Nearby Mission San Antonio, located within Fort Hunter Liggett, is one of California's oldest missions and features a museum, original aqueducts, and a Native American cemetery. The San Antonio Reservoir Recreation Area lies about 32 miles southwest, offering boating, fishing, and swimming.

Directions

From Highway 101, take the Jolon Road exit and follow it east through Fort Hunter Liggett to the campground. From Monterey, take Highway 68 to Highway 101 South, then exit at Jolon Road. Access via Highway 1 and Nacimiento-Ferguson Road may be closed; call 831-385-5434 to confirm road conditions.