Castroville's camping options extend beyond typical accommodations, with several campgrounds situated along the central California coast where temperatures remain mild year-round, averaging 50-70°F. The area's unique coastal environment creates distinct microclimates where morning fog often burns off by midday, particularly during summer months when inland temperatures rise. Camping availability varies significantly by season with many locations requiring reservations weeks or even months in advance.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: At Uvas Canyon County Park, visitors can explore multiple waterfall trails right from the campground. "Go see the waterfalls. With the current California drought all of the falls were at little more than a trickle but still something to see. To hike to each fall it's about 6ish miles with just a few hundred feet of total elevation gain," notes one camper. The trails are generally considered beginner-friendly and well-defined.
Beach exploration: At Sunset State Beach, campers can access miles of less-crowded shoreline. "We camped in the winter and had no reservations, but got a good spot anyway. Winter can be a very nice weekend!" reports one visitor. The beach is just a short walk from the campground, which offers three large loops of sites.
Wildlife viewing: Within Pinnacles National Park, visitors often spot diverse wildlife. "We had a spot that was facing the strawberry fields instead of the water and it was still great," reports one camper at Sunset State Beach. Raccoons are particularly common at many area campgrounds, with campers frequently reporting nighttime encounters requiring proper food storage.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Mount Madonna County Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Absolutely soo clean and a great place to camp without having to travel so far. Bathrooms are constantly cleaned and showers are free and clean," notes one visitor. This redwood-covered hilltop park provides a cooler camping climate than surrounding areas.
Natural separation: Many campsites offer privacy through natural terrain features. "Those on the outside of the loop had a great deal of privacy. Inner loop sites have none, but would be great if you were camping with friends," explains a visitor to Mount Madonna. Site selection significantly impacts the camping experience, with corner sites and outer loop positions generally offering more seclusion.
Family amenities: Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday provides extensive family activities. "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," states one visitor. The campground offers diverse accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and Airstream rentals.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be extreme. "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose," warns a Mount Madonna camper. Coastal fog can create damp conditions requiring additional layers, even during summer months.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds have strict booking requirements. "If you can get a reservation here (which is VERY difficult) you will have the best time," explains one Sunset State Beach camper. For yurt camping near Castroville, California, reservations often open 6 months in advance and fill quickly, especially at Mount Madonna and Santa Cruz KOA.
Environmental considerations: Saddle Mountain Ranch has challenging terrain. "First off the road coming to the campground is very steep, could be challenging for some rigs," notes one visitor. Yurt accommodations at Saddle Mountain provide a glamping alternative for those seeking more comfort while still experiencing the natural setting.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several campgrounds provide swimming options. "They have a heated pool and game room alongside its luxury accommodations," reports a visitor to Salinas-Monterey KOA. The heated pool is particularly appreciated during cooler weather periods when ocean swimming isn't practical.
Noise levels: Site selection affects noise exposure. "This is a beautiful campground nestled in the redwood forest of the coastal range. Varied sites and multiple campgrounds make for a choice option for everyone," advises a Mount Madonna visitor. Sites near bathroom facilities tend to experience more foot traffic and corresponding noise.
Safety considerations: Wildlife interactions require preparation. "These little buggers were not afraid of humans. Otherwise, good showers, clean bathrooms," reports a camper at Pinnacles Campground regarding raccoons. Proper food storage is essential at all campgrounds in the region, with many providing metal food lockers at individual sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Marina Dunes RV Park, utility placement can be challenging. "The location of the electrical/water is awkward," notes one RVer. While the park provides full hookups, the configuration may require extended hoses or cords depending on vehicle layout.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. "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," explains a Marina Dunes camper. When booking yurt camping around Castroville, California, specify vehicle size requirements as parking arrangements vary significantly between locations.
Site leveling: Terrain varies considerably throughout the region. "If you plan to sleep in your car, you may want to take leveling blocks as I found the car parking spot to be not leveled at all," advises an Uvas Canyon visitor. Most campgrounds don't offer perfectly level sites, requiring adjustments for comfortable RV parking.
