Whitney's Big Sur Weekend, Part 1

Camping in Big Sur is always going to be a beautiful experience. Many authors have been exhilarated by this place and I am no different in noticing its awe-inspiring qualities. I just finished my second annual camping trip to Ponderosa Campgrounds in Big Sur, CA and I can't wait to go back again.

Every year, I try to celebrate my birthday with two requirements; being surrounded by people I love and being outdoors. Although it takes some serious planning and coordinating, there really is nothing better than camping with your friends, drinking some beer, eating tons of food and taking a break from the normal nine to five.

This year's trip was a bit smaller of a group than the last one and because of that, I attempted to book a first come, first serve campsite closer to the coast. I knew it was a long shot, but I had some time and patience to check out what else was nearby.

As it is, Ponderosa campground is about 14 miles from the coast on a super swervy, nauseating road (Nacimiento-Ferguson Road) that lends many breathtakingly gorgeous views.

I showed up early Thursday morning along the coast of Highway 1 and stopped by all the spots I had looked up online. All sites were already full, couldn't accommodate dogs (we have a spunky wiener dog that comes with us wherever we go), or couldn't give us sites next to each other--understandably so, as it is the peak time for camping and we were a group of 12 people without reservations.

After a little research, we ended up back where we camped last year. It's not "beach camping" or "in the redwoods" but it is a good safe bet for a larger group of campers. When we showed up, Ponderosa was completely vacant. We stayed in the same two spots as last year and I think they're the best ones in the campground. Note to self: Campgrounds #8 and #9 are legit!

Check back Monday for the second half of the trip!!

- Whitney