This beautiful park features redwoods, conifers, oaks, sycamores, cottonwoods, maples, alders and willows - plus open meadows. Wildlife includes black-tail deer, gray squirrels, raccoons, skunks, and birds, such as water ouzels and belted kingfishers. Hikers can enjoy the many scenic trails, including a self-guided nature trail. Some campsites are along the Big Sur River. Big Sur Lodge is located in the park .The lodge has 61 guest rooms, a conference center, cafe, and a grocery store. Meeting rooms have space for groups of 10 to 125. Other rooms are available for smaller meetings and workshops, some with fireplaces and kitchens.

Established in 1933, the park is located on land once owned by John Pfeiffer. It spans over 1,000 acres of California's Big Sur coast.

Pfeiffer inherited this property from his parents who were among the first European settlers in Big Sur. He rejected lucrative offers to sell it for development and instead sold it cheaply to the state government with a condition that they preserve its natural beauty.

The Civilian Conservation Corps developed trails and facilities during Great Depression years under President Roosevelt’s New Deal program.

In later years, campgrounds were added along with visitor centers providing information about local flora and fauna as well as history of indigenous tribes like Esselen people.

Over time, wildfires have periodically affected parts but restoration efforts continue ensuring preservation of redwood groves which are iconic features here alongside wildlife species such as bobcats or black-tailed deer.

Today visitors enjoy hiking through diverse landscapes including coastal cliffs while also participating in ranger-led programs aimed at environmental education.

The park is located 26 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1.