Name: Fern River Resort
Address: 5250 Highway 9, Felton, California, United States of America, Felton, California, US
Price range: $113–$324 per night
Rating: 8.47

What guests think

At Fern River Resort, guests highlight the beautiful redwood-and-river setting and peaceful vibe, with cozy rustic cabins, while noting trade-offs like inconsistent Wi‑Fi, thin shared walls, and occasional heating or maintenance issues.

Many appreciate easy access to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroads, and Santa Cruz, plus river access, decks, a fire pit, outdoor games, and convenient parking. Rooms are typically clean and cozy, though some mention musty odors, small showers, and beds that vary in comfort. Service is described as welcoming and responsive, with straightforward check-in and prompt help when problems arise. Expect a serene, nature-forward stay with rustic charm and a few practical compromises.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Nature-focused grounds with river access, decks, a community fire pit, and some outdoor games; parking is easy. Guests value the peaceful setting among redwoods.

Related guest reviews

10

Melanie

Jul 13, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Beautiful location, right in the middle of the California Redwoods. Clean, cute, comfortable cabins with porches to have your coffee on and decks to sit on and watch the river. The cabins and property are immaculately kept up. You can build a fire in the fire pit and play ping pong, badminton or choose a game from the game cabinet. Felton is a gorgeous little town with great places to eat, and there are plenty of eateries and a Safeway a short distance from Fern River Resort. Santa Cruz is only about 20 minutes away. Fern River Resort is the perfect place for a getaway to the Redwoods and the Northern California coast, the staff is wonderful and helpful, and we are already planning our next visit! Thank you, Fern River Resort, for the amazing time.

10

Michele

Dec 29, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The cabin was very cozy, clean, easy parking, and close to Henry Cowell State Park.

10

Susan

Jun 7, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Had to spend some time in between business engagements and wanted a relaxing place to catch up on paperwork - it was perfect! Listening to the river rolling by and enjoying the beautiful, shaded redwood grove - very special. Will come again!

10

Pamela

Apr 23, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

What a beautiful piece of property amongst the redwoods! We had 3 cabins and enjoyed cooking together and sitting outside on the deck together.

8

Elizabeth

Apr 17, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The property is gorgeous. It is centered around redwood trees and has stairs down to the river. The landscape of the property is beautiful and well-maintained. I cannot give it full stars due to one thing that was not well listed. We booked the deluxe cottage thinking it was a larger sized cottage for my husband and I to go on a quiet vacation. When we got there, we saw that the deluxe cottage had a shared wall instead of being a solo cabin. I wish I had known that prior to booking because there was a family with young kids staying on the other side. We could hear everything through the wall for 2days and made our trip less of a getaway and more of not wanting to stay there during the day. Next time, we won't spend more for the deluxe and instead book one of the smaller cabins.

10

Jarod

Mar 11, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

My overall stay here was fantastic. It was a nice cozy area, they had a bonfire pit, tether ball, and so many other fan activities to do (including a little storage with books and toys for children)! The rooms and the property were nice and clean and the beds were comfy. We will definitely be recommending this place to friends and family!

8

kenny

Feb 14, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Staff was friendly. Great location 1/2 hour away from Big Basin state park. 1/2 hour away from Santa Cruz. Parking was perfect for my Harley. Only minor issue was they don’t provide coffee. Will definitely stay again

10

Christopher

Dec 8, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place is absolutely amazing. Cabin 9 has a GIANT redwood right on its porch facing the river behind the property. On the second day I went down the stairs in the back where a large section is dry riverbed along the running water. I brought one of lightweight sitting chairs with me, planted it in the rocks, and built a footrest out of some of the larger ones. I proceeded to stare at clouds through the tops of giant trees for three hours before I knew it. That night we picked up a cord of wood at the nearby Safeway and built a fire in the very large community fire pit to make s’mores for the kids. I saw a lot of crazy places as a sailor, and this is one of the most pleasant spots on the planet. We will be back. Can I just buy one? 😆

10

Bobbie

Jan 6, 2026

·

Stayed 2 nights

The cabin was very very cozy. In the parking was great. I absolutely love this place.

10

Janna

Feb 28, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place was great! From the moment I drove in it felt so peaceful. Surrounded by trees and right next to the river. The staff were incredibly friendly and very helpful when I had an issue with the tv. Had it fixed right away. It is just down the road from town and hiking trails. I stayed in Cabin 4 and it had everything I needed and was very cozy. The river was just steps from my door. I would definitely come stay here again.

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Cleanliness

Most reviews describe cabins as clean and well kept. A few report lapses such as dust, dirty floors, stained towels, or a musty smell.

Related guest reviews

8

Karen

Nov 8, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The room was rustic and clean,,, I was looking for a coffee maker which it did not have. Otherwise, very woodsy & nice.

10

Renee

Nov 13, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

We had a wonderful stay. The cabin was clean and cozy. We had never been to Felton before, but we would definitely come again and stay here.

10

Sandra

Mar 10, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Very clean and quiet resort with excellent and easy checkin/out process. We’d definitely go again.

10

Dunia

May 25, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful and clean space. Really enjoyed our stay and will return.

10

Elizabeth

Apr 14, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful grounds, clean cabin!

10

Michele

Dec 29, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The cabin was very cozy, clean, easy parking, and close to Henry Cowell State Park.

8

Jamie

Jan 7, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The staff is so friendly and helpful! The cabin was very clean and cozy! The property is beautiful and peaceful!

2

Nick

Aug 23, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The property is beautiful! The cabins are not clean. Lots of dust build up and overall neglect. Be sure to wear socks or shoes inside because your feet will turn black with how dirty the floors are. The mattresses might be the origonal ones as they are crunchy and lopsided. Also for those non smokers bring a respirator because the smell of cigarettes is overwhelming. Also be aware that you have other people just a wall over, im pretty sure our wall neighbor was a chain smoker and perhaps someone that lives/works at the property. Their smoke comes through the walls and windows. The property has a tremendous amount of opportunity to be fantastic! If cleanliness and the smell of smoke were not factors i would give 3 stars.

4

Andy

Apr 6, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The room was stuffy and therefore smell bad. They don’t provide paper towel, but instead provided cloth towels with gross stain. Though it’s nice to hear river from the room and the environment around the cabin was clam, quiet and descents. The overall experience was poor. I didn’t even want to take any pictures as it just gross me out.

10

Julia

Aug 30, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

A last minute getaway turned perfect! Easy check-in and out, the cottage was immaculately prepared. It was too warm to use the fireplace, what a blessing. I will always return if there is availability.

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Rooms

Rustic, cozy cabins with some spacious layouts and river views, but Wi‑Fi and cell reception can be unreliable. Several note thin shared walls, small showers, occasional heating issues, and beds that range from comfortable to uneven.

Related guest reviews

4

Paula Bianchi

Apr 12, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

The cabin is clean and spacious. It has a kitchenette with microwave and a mini fridge, which are nice to have. The doorknob seems flimsy though. The area is pretty quiet at night. Wifi is terrible; it always disconnects.

2

Thomas Allen

Jul 7, 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

With no heat we didn’t sleep well so we left the next day and didn’t stay for the rest of our nights we should get a partial refund

10

Rosemarie

Jul 16, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Check in was easy. We stood in a very spacious cabin. Nice and big to hold a good size family. The only downer is that it's connected to the sites laundry room so you can hear everything. Overall great, quiet and relaxing time. Right next to the river which was beautiful. Shopping is close by so if you need anything it's close. Definity will be staying here again.

8

Elizabeth

Apr 17, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The property is gorgeous. It is centered around redwood trees and has stairs down to the river. The landscape of the property is beautiful and well-maintained. I cannot give it full stars due to one thing that was not well listed. We booked the deluxe cottage thinking it was a larger sized cottage for my husband and I to go on a quiet vacation. When we got there, we saw that the deluxe cottage had a shared wall instead of being a solo cabin. I wish I had known that prior to booking because there was a family with young kids staying on the other side. We could hear everything through the wall for 2days and made our trip less of a getaway and more of not wanting to stay there during the day. Next time, we won't spend more for the deluxe and instead book one of the smaller cabins.

8

Thomas

Apr 28, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

The couch is not very comfortable for sleeping. The internet was down for our three day stay. Cell service is minimal at best. All that aside, the place is beautiful and the river is a nice teat. Ride the steam train while you are there.

10

Juventina

Oct 26, 2023

·

Property was amazing. Love the sound of the river. Place was very clean and cozy. Stood in 11A. You have a shared wall from 11B and you can hear EVERYTHING. Would definitely stay again. Also main bedroom bed kinda pulls to the middle. So I kept rolling towards my husband.

8

Taye

Apr 8, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The place is Rustic and the property is well kept. The staff are very friendly. I gave it fours star, it would been five stars if the studio unit I stayed for 3 nights the shower valve did not work so great. It is very hard to adjust the water temperture. The water is too hot or too cold, It would be best to upgrade the shower valve. I think I wasted alot of water because it took me very long to get the tempurture warm so i can take a shower. I had to leave it on and switch with my kids or not, they would not be able to adjust the water temp.

8

Cassandra

Jan 28, 2023

·

The check-in process was a little odd (instructions on a board outside the office), and our reservation wasn’t on there. Lucky for us, there was someone inside ready to talk us through the process and get us checked in! The cabin was exactly as pictured, so it met all our expectations, and on the deck, you could clearly hear the forest and the river at all times. It was lovely! Some downsides are that the cabins are closer together than I realized so it’s not as secluded as we’d hoped, the shower head was very low and the shower small, and a bright light outside our cabin shone straight into the bedroom until late at night. But overall it’s a comfortable and adorable place to stay that is well-represented in the photos and the description provided!

4

Nicolas

Dec 6, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Unforgivablely freezing inside. Internet doesn’t work. There is no central heating, just 1 oil heater for bedroom and a fake fireplace that only heats up if you stand next to it. We felt mislead and had a freezing stay - it felt like camping inside a musty cold cabin.

10

Willem

May 28, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

How can spending a night among the Redwoods, with a babbling brook to serenade you, not be enchanting? Beds are firm, not great for side sleepers and I am not a fan of their pillows. But all in all, a wonderful time!

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Service

Staff are consistently described as friendly, helpful, and responsive, with easy check‑in and quick assistance when issues occur.

Related guest reviews

10

Sandra

Mar 10, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Very clean and quiet resort with excellent and easy checkin/out process. We’d definitely go again.

10

SOK HYUN

Apr 11, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

All staffs are very kind. Very nice place for family trip.

8

Jamie

Jan 7, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The staff is so friendly and helpful! The cabin was very clean and cozy! The property is beautiful and peaceful!

10

Ruken

Dec 25, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

everything was perfect. I will definitely go again. They were very helpful. They even brought us towels when it rained :) We went a little unprepared and they brought our coal right away. They were very quick and practical in solving problems. The cabins were clean inside and there was a very warm family atmosphere. Thank you very much.

10

Melissa

Nov 25, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

We were greeted and checked on to make sure we were checking in without issue and thay we knew where to go. I was delighted to also be greeted by two kitties! Beautiful cabins and property.

10

Jessica

Feb 26, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

We enjoyed ourselves and will go back again. Some of the beds need to be replaced and 1 was nice. The owner was very good and helpful. The pictures don't actually do it justice.

8

Cassandra

Jan 28, 2023

·

The check-in process was a little odd (instructions on a board outside the office), and our reservation wasn’t on there. Lucky for us, there was someone inside ready to talk us through the process and get us checked in! The cabin was exactly as pictured, so it met all our expectations, and on the deck, you could clearly hear the forest and the river at all times. It was lovely! Some downsides are that the cabins are closer together than I realized so it’s not as secluded as we’d hoped, the shower head was very low and the shower small, and a bright light outside our cabin shone straight into the bedroom until late at night. But overall it’s a comfortable and adorable place to stay that is well-represented in the photos and the description provided!

10

Julia

Aug 30, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

A last minute getaway turned perfect! Easy check-in and out, the cottage was immaculately prepared. It was too warm to use the fireplace, what a blessing. I will always return if there is availability.

10

Amy

Jan 14, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful location! Right on the San Lorenzo River in the midst of some big redwoods. We stayed in 11A, which is just lovely. Two teenagers in our group slept in the upper loft, which is accessible by spiral staircase, and has a skylight to gaze up at the redwoods or stars. My partner and I both felt like the mattress in the bedroom was better quality than the one we have at home! We slept great! We had one issue during our stay on a cold and rainy weekend. The gas fireplace went out, which heats the unit. We let the manager know, and they called a repair person right away. We were gone most of the day, and were hoping it would be fixed when we got back. Unfortunately, the repairman had to go home to get some extra tools, so it took him until into the evening to get it fixed. In the end, we had heat again before nightfall, which we were super appreciative of. Know that this is a no frills sort of place. Your room will be super clean when you check in, but there is no maid service during your stay. You can ask the front desk for extra towels or other things that you need. The kitchen has all the cookware and utensils that you need, but don't expect to find things like spices, foil, plastic bags, etc. The rule book in the cabin is a bit intimidating, but in the end, we found everyone who worked there to be super chill. We look forward to staying her again, maybe in the summer next time.

10

Janna

Feb 28, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place was great! From the moment I drove in it felt so peaceful. Surrounded by trees and right next to the river. The staff were incredibly friendly and very helpful when I had an issue with the tv. Had it fixed right away. It is just down the road from town and hiking trails. I stayed in Cabin 4 and it had everything I needed and was very cozy. The river was just steps from my door. I would definitely come stay here again.

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Location

Scenic, quiet setting among redwoods beside the river, with convenient access to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroads, Felton, and Santa Cruz.

Related guest reviews

10

Jennifer

Jan 7, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Perfect resort for a little get away. Great location. The cabin was a good size.

10

Pavel

Jun 29, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Excellent location. It was easy to get to the Roaring Camp Railroads and all trails in the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

10

Michele

Dec 29, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The cabin was very cozy, clean, easy parking, and close to Henry Cowell State Park.

10

Susan

Jun 7, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Had to spend some time in between business engagements and wanted a relaxing place to catch up on paperwork - it was perfect! Listening to the river rolling by and enjoying the beautiful, shaded redwood grove - very special. Will come again!

8

Mary Ann

May 4, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The locatiom of the property was very close to town. .y cabin was quite dark due to a lack of lighting at night. The TV remote didn't work to catch up on world events.

10

Dean

Feb 21, 2023

·

Comfortable property in an absolutely stunning redwood grove. Easy access to amenities in town to the north and Santa Cruz to the south. Perfect Basecamp for a mountain biking trip.

8

kenny

Feb 14, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Staff was friendly. Great location 1/2 hour away from Big Basin state park. 1/2 hour away from Santa Cruz. Parking was perfect for my Harley. Only minor issue was they don’t provide coffee. Will definitely stay again

10

Jennifer

Feb 21, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

We experienced an enjoyable stay here at Fern River Resort. It was a quiet, peaceful area. The inside of our cottage was nicely maintained and everything we needed was included as mentioned. Would stay again:)

10

Catherine

Jun 6, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Nestled within the Big Trees, this is a hidden gem. Cabins are quaint, lovely and near to mny special spots. Santa Cruz coast just 8 miles away, yet here, you are a cozy in the woods. Very special place

10

Elvira

Jun 12, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Perfect getaway if you want peace and quiet among majestic redwoods. Enjoyed the short walk to the river to listen to the rippling sound of water. Easy access to Highway 9.

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Dining

Not enough information in reviews.

Related guest reviews

8

Leah

Jan 1, 2023

·

Stayed 19,353 nights

We liked the cabin feel and it's right on the creek. They expect you to sweep, take out your trash and wash your dishes. They have a coffee maker and don't provide coffee or sell any.

10

Melanie

Jul 13, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Beautiful location, right in the middle of the California Redwoods. Clean, cute, comfortable cabins with porches to have your coffee on and decks to sit on and watch the river. The cabins and property are immaculately kept up. You can build a fire in the fire pit and play ping pong, badminton or choose a game from the game cabinet. Felton is a gorgeous little town with great places to eat, and there are plenty of eateries and a Safeway a short distance from Fern River Resort. Santa Cruz is only about 20 minutes away. Fern River Resort is the perfect place for a getaway to the Redwoods and the Northern California coast, the staff is wonderful and helpful, and we are already planning our next visit! Thank you, Fern River Resort, for the amazing time.

8

Luana Katherine

Jun 16, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

If you are a person who loves 5-star luxury hotels with modern amenities, this ain’t it. However, if you love being surrounded by nature and a clean and functional living space for sleeping and eating between your nature fun, this is THE place. We only stayed a night while passing through the area in this cozy old school cabin with a river in the backyard. We picked up some grocery provisions and had a great time! In this crazy and chaotic world, it was a rare chance to breathe deeply and listen to the river, birds, and cabin neighbors enjoying family and friends. Musty old cabin some reviewers say? Open the windows, let the sun in and enjoy the cross breeze - old cabins like to breathe, too.

10

Angelina

Dec 21, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Property was very warm and easy to navigate. Impressed by the high quality pots and pans left in the kitchen cabinets and came in handy. The resort overall was beautiful and would definitely consider staying again.

10

Carrie

Jan 25, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

our stay at fern resort was nothing short of perfect. we loved the scenery around the resort, the neighbors were nice and peaceful, there were games and sports equipment for guests, and the cabins themselves were adorable. Our only complaint was that the kitchen stove is an older style gas stove, and requires a flame to start. We were unaware of this, and had to go buy a lighter/matches. Lovely stay, would definitely stay again!

10

Pamela

Apr 23, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

What a beautiful piece of property amongst the redwoods! We had 3 cabins and enjoyed cooking together and sitting outside on the deck together.

8

Carol

Jul 22, 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

Overall, great visit. However, description listed a toaster was provided. There wasn't one. Also, no oven mitts for the oven. Would be helpful to include those.

8

kenny

Feb 14, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Staff was friendly. Great location 1/2 hour away from Big Basin state park. 1/2 hour away from Santa Cruz. Parking was perfect for my Harley. Only minor issue was they don’t provide coffee. Will definitely stay again

8

Cindy

Oct 17, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

our stay was really nice. clean and comfy property. The only drawback for us was that they had a large booking for a wedding the week-end before and silverware, bowls, etc had been all swapped to other cabins, so we did not have enough. However after letting them know they apoligized and brought us what we needed. normally they had more staff to check all cabins inventory but we came thhe day after.

10

Amy

Jan 14, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful location! Right on the San Lorenzo River in the midst of some big redwoods. We stayed in 11A, which is just lovely. Two teenagers in our group slept in the upper loft, which is accessible by spiral staircase, and has a skylight to gaze up at the redwoods or stars. My partner and I both felt like the mattress in the bedroom was better quality than the one we have at home! We slept great! We had one issue during our stay on a cold and rainy weekend. The gas fireplace went out, which heats the unit. We let the manager know, and they called a repair person right away. We were gone most of the day, and were hoping it would be fixed when we got back. Unfortunately, the repairman had to go home to get some extra tools, so it took him until into the evening to get it fixed. In the end, we had heat again before nightfall, which we were super appreciative of. Know that this is a no frills sort of place. Your room will be super clean when you check in, but there is no maid service during your stay. You can ask the front desk for extra towels or other things that you need. The kitchen has all the cookware and utensils that you need, but don't expect to find things like spices, foil, plastic bags, etc. The rule book in the cabin is a bit intimidating, but in the end, we found everyone who worked there to be super chill. We look forward to staying her again, maybe in the summer next time.

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Month	Average price
January	$96
February	$117
March	$134
April	$147
May	$167
June	$220
July	$262
August	$220
September	$178
October	$172
November	$163
December	$147

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1 $160	2 $319	3
4 $178	5 $128	6 $153	7 $147	8 $169	9	10
11	12	13 $133	14 $128	15 $324	16	17
18 $289	19 $122	20 $119	21 $122	22 $142	23	24
25 $126	26 $113	27 $117	28 $178	29 $126	30	31

Fern River Resort

Prices for Fern River Resort

Monthly average prices

About this property

Location

Guest reviews of Fern River Resort

Who stays here?

What guests think

Property Policies

Check-in instructions

Good to know

Optional extras

FAQs about Fern River Resort

Prices for upcoming dates

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20	21	22	23 $137	24	25	26
27	28 $137	29 $151	30 $187