Overview

As of 11/1/2026, this campground is under new management - it is now being managed directly by the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District. The campground is CLOSED while we assess and address health and safety concerns. Thank you for your patience, we look forward to serving you soon!

Ponderosa Campground offers visitors a beautiful location to relax and enjoy nature. It runs along the seasonal Nacimiento River, which provides a variety of recreational opportunities. Swimming, fishing, wading, are seasonally available at this location!

Facilities

The campground offers sites for tent and RV camping. A maximum of two vehicles is allowed for each site. Additional vehicles are not allowed in the campground. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Utility hookups are not available. NO Trash bins are available. Pack in. Pack out.

Natural Features

The campground is situated next a seasonal river a source of water for wildlife as well as a variety of ponderosa pines, oak, madrone, and sycamore trees, providing ample shade in most campsites. At an elevation of 1,500 feet.

Recreation

The Nacimiento River provides opportunities for trout fishing and wading, as well as swimming in any of the swimming holes along its course (may need to exit the campground to find). A variety of hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking trails can be accessed within a short drive from the campground.

Nearby Attractions

Mission San Antonio is a short drive east of the campground. Located in the Fort Hunter Liggett Military Base, the mission is one of the oldest in California.

Important Notices

• As of 11/1/2026, this campground is under new management - it is now being managed directly by the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District. The campground is CLOSED while we assess and address health and safety concerns. Thank you for your patience, we look forward to serving you soon!

• Limit of 2 vehicles per site; additional vehicles are not permitted
• RVs are not recommended to travel Nacimiento/Ferguson Road from Hwy 1. Access is available through the Hwy 101.
• Reservations can be made three days in advance.
• Campsite reservation fee covers 6 people and 1 vehicle. Maximum number of people per site is 8 ($10.00 additional charge after 6 people). Maximum number of vehicles per site is 2 ($10.00 additional charge for 2nd vehicle).
• Click here for more information on the Los Padres National Forest
• Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

• Caution: Poison Oak may be present

Available Activities

• Swimming Site - Swimming Site
• Wildlife Viewing - Wildlife Viewing
• Hunting - Hunting
• Hiking - Hiking
• Fishing - Fishing
• Camping - Camping
• Biking - Biking

Directions

<p>Campground is accessible via the 101 side, the Highway 1and Nacimiento Road Access.</p><p>From Monterey, Take highway 68 to the 101. Accessible through Highway 101 exit Jolon Road.</p><p>From Los Angeles/South take highway 101 to the Jolon Road exit, follow until campground.</p>

Contact Information

Phone: 805-434-1996

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip