Cabin camping near Carmel-by-the-Sea, California offers a blend of coastal and forest experiences with sites typically situated between 400-1,200 feet elevation. The region experiences summer high temperatures averaging 70°F, while winter lows can dip to the 40s with periodic coastal fog that creates damp conditions. Morning fog patterns often clear by midday, particularly during summer months when cabins provide shelter from overnight moisture.
What to do
Explore redwood groves nearby: Multiple cabin sites are nestled within redwood forests, allowing direct access to forest trails. At Fernwood Campground & Resort, campers appreciate the natural setting: "Loved this campground, only able to stay 1 night but will be going back!" The campground offers direct access to Big Sur trails leading through impressive redwood stands.
Visit white fallow deer enclosure: A unique attraction at Mount Madonna County Park is the rare white deer habitat. "Near the ranger station there are pens with white fallow deer. They are descendants of the exotic zoo at William Randolph Hearst's mansion down the coast," notes one visitor who explored the park's historical features.
Try archery in the woods: Mount Madonna County Park maintains a dedicated archery course through the forest. "There is an archery trail with 28 targets on a trail through the woods. We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28," reports a camper who enjoyed this distinctive activity with family.
River tubing opportunities: During warmer months, cabins situated along rivers offer water recreation. At Big Sur Campground & Cabins, "the campground has a river running right thru the middle, our campsite was just 10 ft from the river with tubing available for rent and rope swings into the water!" This provides a refreshing activity option during hot days.
What campers like
Private cabins with riverside access: Campers frequently mention proximity to water as a major benefit. "Great campground, tucked into the trees. Nice quiet spot right on route 1. The campground has a river running right thru the middle," notes a visitor to Big Sur Campground & Cabins, highlighting the combination of shade and water access.
Heated cabin amenities for cold nights: Cabins at Saddle Mountain Ranch provide comfort during chilly coastal evenings. "We booked a luxury gazebo situation which came with a queen bed (heated mattress) a fire pit and your own propane grill," reports one camper, appreciating the warmth during cool nights.
Clean shower facilities: Despite rustic settings, cabin campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms. A visitor to Mount Madonna County Park noted, "Bathrooms are constantly cleaned and showers are free and clean." This stands out as a valued amenity when staying in cabins that may not have private bathrooms.
Convenience for families: Cabin camping sites are typically designed for easy family access. "Cabins are tight but nice and clean. Our kitchen had all the necessary utensils and dishes to cook for a couple nights," explains a Saddle Mountain Ranch visitor, highlighting the practical setup for family meals.
What you should know
Winter cabin availability is limited: Most cabin facilities reduce operations during winter months. Some sites like Fernwood Campground & Resort maintain year-round availability but with reduced services. "We stayed in site #66 in early November... It rained each evening during our stay and was pretty cold but we had a great time still," notes a visitor describing off-season conditions.
Price varies significantly by season: Cabin costs fluctuate by 30-50% between peak and off-peak periods. One Marina Dunes RV Park visitor noted, "It is $160 to stay there. I have a camper van and I didn't need all the hook up. There is a Best Western right next to this place were we ended up getting a room instead as that was less expensive."
Noise levels between sites: Cabin proximity can impact the experience. At Ventana Campground, a visitor observed, "the campground is part of a resort and although the showers and bathrooms were always very clean it was a very costly campsite. The sites are also pretty close together."
Raccoon activity is common: Wildlife encounters, particularly with raccoons, require food security measures. "Raccoons are very active here so be sure to lock all of your food away and don't leave anything out through the night," warns a Pinnacles Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of proper food storage even when staying in cabins.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for children: Several cabin locations offer swimming facilities that appeal to families. "This KOA is great for a family getaway. TONS of activities on site- huge bouncy pad, a climbing wall, ping pong tables, a swimming pool, pedal go karts, the list goes on and on," describes a visitor to Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday, listing the amenities valuable to families.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for cabins with dedicated children's facilities. At Saddle Mountain Ranch, "Lots of activities for younger kids. Convenient location, lots of amenities. Cabin was super nice to stay in after a week of car camping! Kitchenette, bathroom, hot water. Perfect," notes a family that appreciated the combination of outdoor activities and cabin comforts.
Private cabin locations: For families seeking quieter settings, select specific cabin locations. "Some sites are much more private than others & many share a driveway with neighbors; some have spectacular views of Carmel Valley (like site 35)," advises a Saddle Mountain Ranch visitor who has camped there multiple times.
Bring entertainment for foggy days: Coastal weather can limit outdoor activities. A parent camping at Mount Madonna County Park suggested: "Great campground for the kids to bike at but there are a few big hills so make sure they know how to use their brakes," offering a practical activity option when conditions aren't ideal for hiking.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: RV cabins require attention to access routes. At Marina Dunes RV Park, "This place is okay it's just small and loud. It's hard to get bigger Rv's into spots also. We have a 35' 5th wheel and there are only some spots that will fit it," cautions an RVer who found site navigation challenging.
Power and water hookup locations: Pay attention to utility configuration at cabin and RV sites. "Our site was large and had river access... Power and water were also at the site," notes a Fernwood visitor, but others mention unusual placements: "The location of the electrical/water is awkward," observes a Marina Dunes RV Park camper.
Dump station convenience: For RVers using cabin facilities as a base, knowing dump station access is important. At Mount Madonna County Park, visitors appreciate the "very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park that we used as we departed."
Road condition warnings: Routes to cabin sites can present challenges for large vehicles. A Saddle Mountain Ranch visitor warns, "First off the road coming to the campground is very steep, could be challenging for some rigs. Didn't bring the RV here but did tent camp."
