Carmel-by-the-Sea camping options extend beyond the immediate coastline into the surrounding valleys and redwood forests. The region sits at elevations ranging from sea level to about 1,000 feet in the nearby hills, creating varied camping microclimates. Many tent sites in the area require walking short distances from parking areas to accommodate the terrain, with some campgrounds built into hillsides requiring steep access roads.
What to do
Beach access from camp: Marina Dunes RV Park offers direct beach access via a short trail through sand dunes. "About a 5 min trek through sand and dunes and you'll find yourself at a beach not many people frequent. On Friday we were the only ones for as far as I could see. No exaggeration," notes one camper at Marina Dunes RV Park.
Redwood forest exploration: Sites near Felton provide easy access to ancient redwood groves. "There is a little trail that goes down to the River where you can find a neat little beach. It's a goofy little descent/climb to get there and out but worth it," reports a visitor to Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Some campgrounds offer unexpected wildlife encounters. A camper at San Benito RV and Camping Resort writes, "We had Condors above our cabin, deer around us, wild pigs crossing the roads. Its amazing!!!! My favorite part of our California trip was staying here!"
What campers like
Heated pools during cool weather: Several campgrounds maintain heated swimming facilities year-round. "The pool was too cold to enjoy unfortunately," noted one visitor at San Benito RV and Camping Resort, while at Cotillion Gardens RV Park, one reviewer mentioned, "Kids liked the pool and clubhouse."
Unique lodging options: Beyond standard RV spots, some parks offer specialized accommodations. "We booked a luxury gazebo situation which came with a queen bed (heated mattress) a fire pit and your own propane grill," describes one visitor to Saddle Mountain Ranch.
Communal spaces: Some parks provide gathering areas outside individual sites. "3 gas fire pits near the office with nice space for socializing or sharing an outdoor dinner," notes a Saddle Mountain Ranch camper, highlighting facilities beyond individual campsites.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds have difficult approach roads. "The road in is a bit narrow but don't give up! You will make it without any trouble," advises one visitor to Carmel by the River RV Park. Another notes, "Unless you're driving a sports car, definitely DO NOT drive on Lorales Grade! It's a narrow, windy, dark road with a 17% grade."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some locations. "It is also very loud her with the freeway right behind you. It didn't bother us in the day. At night I had a sound machine so it didn't bother us," reports a Marina Dunes RV Park camper.
Variable connectivity: Most parks have limited cell service. "No cell or WiFi. We occasionally got 1 bar of cell service in our site if we stood in a certain spot. (AT&T)There was WiFi up at the office but it was inconsistent," notes a Smithwoods RV Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds provide dedicated children's areas. "Lots of activities for younger kids. Convenient location, lots of amenities," writes one visitor about Smithwoods RV Park.
Kid-friendly trails: Look for campgrounds with manageable hiking options. "Keep your eyes out for the highway signs. Once there, it was a pleasant check in. Roads to the sites are narrow, so again, keep your eyes pealed. Site was nice, partially under a redwood. River runs behind the park. We took a few hikes in the area that were very nice," notes a visitor to Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Site privacy considerations: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options for families. "We've tent camped here several times, each time in a different spot. 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 camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Several rv parks near Carmel-by-the-Sea have unusual utility configurations. "The location of the electrical/water is awkward," notes one Marina Dunes RV Park visitor. Another camper mentioned, "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose" at Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require significant adjustments. "Sites need renovation and they claim it is coming. Of course they have said that for the last 3 years. Their answer to uneven sites is to give you pieces of wood to try and level. Good luck, I saw some raised up 2-3 feet," reports a military camper.
Size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "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. It looks like motorhomes fit in a lot of these spots okay," advises a Marina Dunes visitor.
