Glamping accommodations near Fort Hunter Liggett provide access to diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 240 to 4,000 feet with summer temperatures often exceeding 100°F. The region experiences Mediterranean climate patterns with dry summers and mild winters. Most glamping sites require advance arrangements with peak season reservations filling 3-6 months ahead.
What to do
Explore limestone caves: The Pinnacles National Park trail system leads to talus caves formed by fallen boulders. "The Pinnacles have some great hikes, there are bat caves to explore, lakes and slot canyons. We really enjoyed hiking thru caves and tight places. Super fun for adventurous kids," notes a visitor at Pinnacles Campground.
Waterfall hikes: Several camps offer direct trail access to seasonal waterfalls. A guest at Limekiln State Park Campground shared: "There's a great hike up to see the Limekilns with a beautiful waterfall. There's also beach camping and we watched a beautiful sunset."
Night astronomy: The region's limited light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "The nights were beautiful full of stars and warm," reports a camper who visited Pinnacles Campground in summer, noting the clear skies despite daytime heat.
What campers like
Diverse ecosystems: The camping region spans coastal beaches to inland forests. "We camped up the hill in the Redwood Forrest. The camping spots are a little sparse down by the beach, but the ones up in the redwoods are beautiful," explains a visitor to Limekiln State Park.
Creek access: Many glamping sites feature running water access. At Fernwood Campground & Resort, a camper noted: "We were just happy and fortunate to find a spot for the night in Big Sur during this crazy covid year. The campground was full and very dry and dusty, but the creek was refreshing and the sounds of the water and owls at night was soothing."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse animal species. "This camp is close to nothing - in a good way! Escape your phone. We enjoyed short hikes to see waterfall and like kilns with no one else on the trail," shares a November visitor to Limekiln State Park.
What you should know
Raccoon activity: Wildlife intrusions require proper food storage. "Raccoons….everywhere…. seriously leave your car locked, these little buggers were not afraid of humans. Otherwise, good showers, clean bathrooms. Private sites. Very convenient location to trails," warns a visitor to Pinnacles Campground.
Water limitations: Some sites restrict water usage or access. At Monterey County Lake San Antonio South Shore, a camper reported: "There is no potable water available, not even a water fountain. People and animals cannot touch the water. You cannot fish or swim in the lake. There is no reduction in price. This may be temporary, but it has been this way for at least a year."
Bathroom facilities vary: Toilet and shower availability differs between sites. "The bathrooms are great. While I had an amazing time in Big Sur- I wouldn't stay at this campground again," notes a visitor to Ventana Campground who found the site spacing too tight despite clean facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Some campgrounds offer swimming alternatives to lakes. A visitor to Pinnacles observed: "They have a pool that will be full of kids but feels really refreshing after a hot hike. There was a lot of wildlife."
Site selection strategy: Review site specifications carefully before booking. At Ventana Campground, a camper advised: "It should be noted that all sites are tent only sites and some are very small or have very steep elevation changes which could be problematic for larger tents or those with mobility restrictions."
Early morning activities: Plan activities to avoid midday heat. "Summer is not the best time to go. It gets hot and you can't have fires. I went in late June and it was bearable to do an early hike, but bat caves may be closed in summer," explains a Pinnacles visitor who adapted their schedule accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Many glamping sites restrict larger vehicles. At Lake Nacimiento Resort, a reviewer noted: "We camped right on the lake and were able to pay to have our boat docked overnight. Huge lake awesome experience, we were able to do some night wake boarding which I had never done."
Site elevation considerations: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "A lot of the RV sites had electric. And there is water stations throughout. Also a dump station on the way out. Can reserve everything. Good area for tenors too," reports a visitor to Pinnacles Campground, highlighting the available amenities despite limited hook-up options.
Length restrictions: Vehicle size limits apply at most locations. A Nacimiento Camp reviewer explained: "There really isn't room for RV's or campers (I think the limit is 25 feet), so most of your neighbors will be tents."
