Stay at Fern River Resort – Feels like a Summer Camp
Nestled behind Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, just off the ever meandering highway 9, lives Fern River Resort. Fern River is a charming gathering of cabins in the redwoods fit for large family vacations, weddings, or even just a romantic getaway for two. Fern River Resort was founded in 1929, years after a boulder containing thousands of dollars worth of gold was (supposedly) uncovered on the property.
For years the resort was run by the Griffin Family, but in 1971 when the Martin family purchased it, the resort underwent a change.
They instilled a camp like family fun atmosphere with games such as horseshoes and weekly sing along campfires. Since then the Martin family has expanded the resort to include picnic tables, a fire ring, a horseshoe pit, a badminton court, tetherball, basketball and more.
You might be tempted to enjoy their outdoor amenities, but the biggest attraction is their private river access.
The natural shoreline of the San Lorenzo River is just moments away from your cabin’s front door. It is un-groomed to preserve natural wildlife, and you may see small fish, birds, or deer in the early mornings. The river directly in front of the Fern River property is lazy, slow and shallow, perfect for small children to play safely. For the more adventurous guests, a little ways down river will lead you to large swimming holes and to Henry Cowell State Park.
There are 15 cabins on sight, each with their own personality and charm.
The cabins range from a single Queen sized bed and studio, to a Presidential Cabin with a spiral staircase and enough space to sleep 8 of your closest family members. Each cabin comes with basic amenities like towels, drip coffee maker, microwave, refrigerators of varying sizes, toaster, outdoor barbecue and most kitchen equipment needed for your stay with them to feel more like a home away from home.
Because of its charm and cozy atmosphere, Fern River Resort is the host of many magnificent weddings.
The early owners of Fern River Resort loved and raised horses on the property, but after many years their stables were replaced with a beautiful event garden. Today, the rustic yet elegant garden is the perfect place for brides and grooms to say their vows. There is a kitchen dedicated for catering events, a dance floor to get groovy on, and a handmade redwood gazebo for marriage ceremonies to take place under. All of this sits beneath the ancient redwoods of the Santa Cruz mountains, which allow soft sunlight to trickle through, and provide a cathedral like atmosphere.
A stay at Fern River Resort is sure to relax and rejuvenate you.
The peaceful quiet of the redwoods, the soft sounds of the river, the expansive green forest all around you, all create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. For your next visit to the Santa Cruz Mountains, I highly recommend Fern River Resort.
