RV accommodations near Carmel Valley Village offer diverse camping experiences within California's central coastal region. The area sits at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,200 feet, characterized by oak woodlands and rolling hills. Seasonal temperature fluctuations create mild winters with occasional frost and summer highs reaching the upper 80s, with cooler temperatures near the coast than in the inland valley areas.
What to do
Hiking at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Located near Felton, this park offers trails through ancient redwoods. "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," notes a visitor to Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Explore Pinnacles National Park: About 30 minutes from Greenfield, this unique geological formation features hiking trails and wildlife viewing. "Pinnacles NP has lots of great hikes, bird watching is a thing out here and home to the California Condors," according to a visitor at Thousand Trails San Benito.
Beach access from Marina: Marina Dunes offers ocean proximity with fewer crowds than more popular beaches. "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," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the region provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We found a lot of shady sites to choose from. There is a lot of wildlife here to see. Deer wandered through camp at all times of the day. You can see wild boar passing along the hillsides," shares a visitor to Thousand Trails San Benito.
Proximity to attractions: The location provides convenient access to both coastal and inland destinations. "Just 5 min to Monterey wharf," mentions one guest at Monterey Pines RV Park - Military, while another visitor to Marina Dunes RV Park notes, "Nice and clean campground. Room for any size rig... But the real reason to camp here is the beach."
Campground amenities: Many parks offer recreational facilities beyond basic camping. "This was our first outing in our pop up and this place made it much better, walking trails and daily activities for the family," explains a camper at Thousand Trails San Benito.
What you should know
Access road challenges: Several campgrounds have steep or narrow approach roads. "Entrance is a little nerve racking on your first visit, but once your at your site you can relax," notes a visitor to Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
Site spacing varies: Proximity to neighbors differs greatly between campgrounds. "We stayed towards the back site 353 I believe and had no others around us," reports a San Benito visitor, while at other parks, sites can be quite close together.
Reservation importance: Booking ahead is essential, especially during peak seasons. "Called late (5pm) and the owners were really kind over the phone and had a space for us so last minute," shares a visitor to one park, though this experience may not be typical during busy periods.
Price variations: Nightly rates vary significantly across the region. "It is $160 to stay there. I have a camper van and I didn't need all the hook up," reports one Marina Dunes visitor, while Thousand Trails locations often offer more competitive rates for members.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools for family recreation. At Morgan Hill RV Resort, "Their pool is huge and very very well kept... There is multiple lodges and a recreation center so plenty to do. Nice spot to bring the family."
Recreation facilities: Look for parks with organized activities and play areas. "In mid October the campground is still running kids activities daily and they're good! Great culture here - friendly, lots of things to do (pool, basketball, volleyball, horse shoes, playground, billiards, karaoke, tennis)," shares a Morgan Hill visitor.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds provide secure environments for younger campers. "A safe and quiet location. I felt safe, with my young kids, that everyone was driving slowly and respecting the rules," notes a visitor to Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. "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," cautions a Monterey Pines RV Park visitor.
Hookup placement: The location of utilities may require additional equipment. "The location of the electrical/water is awkward," notes a visitor at Marina Dunes, while another mentions, "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose," when staying at Saddle Mountain Ranch.
Size limitations: Not all parks accommodate larger rigs. "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," reports a Marina Dunes visitor.
