Best Camping near Marina, CA

Looking for the best campgrounds near Marina, CA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Marina. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Marina, CA (123)

    Camper-submitted photo from Veteran's Memorial Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Veteran's Memorial Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Veteran's Memorial Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Veteran's Memorial Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Veteran's Memorial Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Veteran's Memorial Park Campground

    1. Veteran's Memorial Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    78 Photos
    919 Saves
    Pacific Grove, California

    Veteran's Memorial Park is a popular and beautiful 50 acre park in the forested hills of Monterey. Located only a mile from Downtown Monterey, this park is an affordable and fun way to stay overnight in the Monterey Peninsula. Besides campgrounds (open 365 days per year), the park includes hiking trails under towering Monterey Pine forest and bay views. You will also find BBQ picnic areas, play equipment, turf and lawn playfield and a basketball court.

    FIRE RESTRICTIONS During fire season (June 1st - November 1st, weather pending) no fires allowed and cooking with fuel camp stoves only.

    Campsites are first come, first served; no reservations. Camping is limited to three (3) consecutive days. Vehicles or trailers cannot be longer than 21 feet. Pets are allowed in the camp (leashed and attended only), but are not allowed in hiker/biker sites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 - $47 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach Campground

    2. New Brighton State Beach Campground

    42 Reviews
    138 Photos
    904 Saves
    Capitola, California

    New Brighton State Beach is one of the most popular beachfront campgrounds in California, offering over 100 developed campsites, including 11 RV hookup sites. With bluff top views of the the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, a visitor center museum, shade ramada for group picnics and special events, and campfire center with free summer programs, it’s no wonder New Brighton State Beach is such a favorite destination!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $185 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    3. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    61 Reviews
    182 Photos
    1185 Saves
    Big Sur, California

    Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground features 189 RV and tent sites are situated on or near the Big Sur River. There is a Campfire Center that offers evening programs on the weekends during peak season.

    Each campsite includes a parking area for at least one car, a fire pit with half-grill and picnic table. No hookups are provided at any site. Fresh water, hot showers and toilets are a short walk.

    All incoming campers must check in at the entrance kiosk. Camper vehicles must display vehicle tag (proof of reservation) in the windshield. Vehicle tags are also valid for day use entrance into other area state parks.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $50 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    4. Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    84 Reviews
    383 Photos
    109 Saves
    Pinnacles, California

    Overview

    Pinnacles Campground is located in the unique Pinnacles National Park, 32 miles south of Hollister, California. The park encompasses 26,000 acres of spectacular rock formations and remnants of an extinct 23 million-year old volcano. Hiking and rock climbing are very popular activities in Pinnacles, as is watching for the majestic California condor overhead. Pinnacles National Park is a nesting place for the endangered soaring bird, the largest in North America.

    Recreation

    Pinnacles National Park has more than 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Many trails intersect, allowing for a short loop or a longer all-day hike. Popular destinations include Bear Gulch Reservoir, High Peaks and the Balconies area. The Bench Trail provides direct access to the park from the campground. Visitors enjoy exploring Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave, which houses a large colony of Townsend's big-eared bats. Bring a flashlight! Rock climbers flock to Pinnacles for the variety of climbing routes that range from easy top-ropes to the multi-pitch climbs along Machete Ridge.

    Facilities

    Pinnacles National Park has more than 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Many trails intersect, allowing for a short loop or a longer all-day hike. Popular destinations include Bear Gulch Reservoir, High Peaks and the Balconies area. The Bench Trail provides direct access to the park from the campground. Visitors enjoy exploring Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave, which houses a large colony of Townsend's big-eared bats. Bring a flashlight! Rock climbers flock to Pinnacles for the variety of climbing routes that range from easy top-ropes to the multi-pitch climbs along Machete Ridge.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated in a rolling landscape dotted with shady Valley Oak, Blue Oak and Coast Live Oak trees. A gentle, seasonal creek runs through the grounds. Springtime finds Pinnacles bursting with a wide variety of vivid wildflowers that line every trail and fill entire meadows with color. Deer and wild turkeys roam the area, and condors can be viewed from within the campground. The park ranges in elevation from 824 feet along South Chalone Creek to 3,304 feet atop North Chalone Peak.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $129 - $154 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Seca Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Seca Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Seca Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Seca Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Seca Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Seca Recreation Area

    5. Laguna Seca Recreation Area

    22 Reviews
    72 Photos
    273 Saves
    Seaside, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach

    6. Sunset State Beach

    27 Reviews
    70 Photos
    981 Saves
    Watsonville, California

    RVs and Tents. Sunset State Beach camping provides dozens of dune-protected family sites (without hookups) that hold recreational vehicles up to 31 feet in length. Pets must not be left unattended in campsites. Parking for one vehicle is included in camping fees. Additional funds may be collected on site for up to TWO additional vehicles at a nightly rate (this does not apply to tow-in cars or trailers).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Mountain Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Mountain Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Mountain Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Mountain Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Mountain Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Mountain Ranch

    8. Saddle Mountain Ranch

    23 Reviews
    65 Photos
    373 Saves
    Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

    We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great peaceful getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life. Experience Carmel Valley where the climate is tempered by the ocean just 15 minutes away. Our RV village offers 30-amp hook-ups, restrooms, free hot showers, wifi, cable, playground and we are pet-friendly. You can also enjoy our sparkling pool in the months of May to October. RV max length is up to 30ft. Enjoy Saddle Mountain Ranch and the surrounding areas with all the amenities and comforts of home. Our cabins have a variety of layouts and amenities to accommodate the different needs and desires of our guests. Camping Sites Pitch your tent on our cozy mountain amongst the trees and beautiful settings. Enjoy a short walk to our sparkling pool where you can relax under the gazebo with a propane fire pit. We also have fire pits (burning Duraflame logs only) for your campsite use as you gaze at the stars. Free hot showers/bathrooms are for our Saddle campers to use, and when you camp with us you can indulge in amenities such as ping pong, horseshoe pits, badminton or check out a board game. We welcome guests to try our Saddle Mountain trail up into the forest with beautiful views. Can’t wait to see you!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Madonna County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Madonna County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Madonna County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Madonna County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Madonna County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Madonna County Park

    9. Mount Madonna County Park

    29 Reviews
    102 Photos
    396 Saves
    Gilroy, California

    Visitors may choose from 116 drive-in and walk-in reservable campsites spread throughout four campgrounds. Each site comes equipped with a barbecue pit, food locker, and picnic table. Showers are also available (no coins needed) for campers (camping fee required for use of showers), as well as 29 partial hook-up RV sites. Yurts are also available for reservation. These domed-tent like structures come in three different sizes - 16', 20' and 24' offering bunk beds with mattresses, fold out futons and a wrap-around deck.

    Overnight camping is one of the most popular activities at Mt. Madonna. View here for more information about tent, yurt and RV camping. There is no longer first-come, first-serve camping sites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Moss Landing KOA Express
    Camper-submitted photo from Moss Landing KOA Express
    Camper-submitted photo from Moss Landing KOA Express
    Camper-submitted photo from Moss Landing KOA Express
    Camper-submitted photo from Moss Landing KOA Express
    Camper-submitted photo from Moss Landing KOA Express

    10. Moss Landing KOA Express

    15 Reviews
    22 Photos
    110 Saves
    Moss Landing, California
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $69 - $80 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 123 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Marina

Recent Reviews in Marina

971 Reviews of 123 Marina Campgrounds


  • Wendy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yanks RV Resort
    Nov. 18, 2024

    Yanks RV Resort

    Fancy!

    As folks who live in their van and travel, this is probably one of the fancier places we’ve stayed. Since part of 1 is closed, we had to detour. This is a true RV park that many live in for long periods. Thus, the bathrooms and showers were so nice and clean. It is expensive, at $80, but it’s what we had to do and found it to be super nice. It was a quick stay, as we headed to Pinnacles NP West for some hiking. Only 30 minutes away.

  • Wendy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Laguna Seca Recreation Area
    Nov. 18, 2024

    Laguna Seca Recreation Area

    Perfect for our needs!

    We were just traveling through since part of 1 is closed. Found this spot for $51 and it was great. It is hilly, which made it cool to walk around for views. The water is not potable, but bathrooms were very clean and the staff were so kind. There was not a race, but there were some cars running the track the next morning. Which was pretty cool!

  • Günter S.
    Camper-submitted photo from French Camp Recreational Vehicle Park
    Oct. 25, 2024

    French Camp Recreational Vehicle Park

    Camp Site doesnt accsist!

    The coordinate given are Not valid. It is a residential area and not an RV nore an campsite! Reservation per phone with none refondable possibility. Be carefull! Dont book!

  • Amy M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    Amazing

    Camped with family over Memorial Day weekend. Park was busy , but amazing. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. Our camp neighbors were awesome. Bathroom and showers clean. We camp here at least twice a year. Can’t wait to come back.

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Coyote Valley RV Resort
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Coyote Valley RV Resort

    Buttoned up, formal atmosphere RV resort

    High priced. Nice people at desk. Damon who helped us park was very friendly. Almost entirely high-priced big rigs, some of whom seem settled here but it's clean, 'orderly,' very quiet. Rigid rules keep the order; nice that no political flags/signs allowed. 2 dog parks and lots of grassy areas to take for a walk. Showers in locker-room/bldg, bathrooms nice and clean. Green grass. Also has laundry with 2.50 wash and.25 dry for 8 min. Skunk wandered by site in the night. Cool train sounds from nearby tracks at night. Was probably the most convenient to San Jose, otherwise we likely would've been in mtns. and too far away from town for our needs at the time. Would not be a regular choice for us.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Salinas-Monterey KOA
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Salinas-Monterey KOA

    Parking lot with a pool

    Pretty basic place. Level, noisy highway. Very friendly staff clean. I enjoy more of the outdoors so not really my cup of tea. Very narrow spaces.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach Campground
    Sep. 30, 2024

    New Brighton State Beach Campground

    Love it here

    There are a ton of reviews for this place already so I will try to keep it short and only add info that I didn't see mentioned in previous reviews.

    Showers are $0.25 per min ($0.50 min to start).  You don't get to adjust water temp, but it was pleasantly hot. Showers are non-gendered and individual.

    Dump station is no longer free; all California State Parks are charging $10 to dump now, even for campers.  You pay at the dump site with a credit card. There are 4 dump holes and a potable water fill as well.

    We love staying here as it's so convenient to Capitola. We were able to park our RV in Capitola and walk to the shops. We got last minute reservations (it's really hard to book a site here in the summer), but had to move sites in between days, and so we used that 2 hour block between noon checkout and 2pm checkin to drive the RV to Capitola. It seemed like it would have been too much of a hassle to try and get to move to the new spot before checkin, so this worked out fine.

    We love all the state parks along the beach in California, and I'm sure we'll be back at some point.

  • Elizabeth S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach Campground
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Sunset State Beach Campground

    Quiet nice views

    Campground is quiet except those who run their generators all day and play the radio loud. It is spread out. (But still close, you do see your neighbors.) The camp ground is between fields and the ocean. Site 25 has amazing views but also can be breezy. Or windy. Old but clean bathrooms with coin showers. Water close to sites.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Medeiros Primitive Campsites — San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Medeiros Primitive Campsites — San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

    Great for a stopover

    This place always comes through for us when we need a quiet place to stay when traveling in the area. It's $20/night, there seems to always be room, and it's always been nice and quiet when we stay here.

    Sites are hit or miss, so drive around until you find one that suits you. One of these days we'll nab one of the sites to the right of the fork when you enter the campground, but they always seem to be taken.

    Good cell reception, pit toilets, trash dumpster (no recycling).

  • CJ S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat

    Not great for the price

    The pictures here are very deceiving. Driving in, the first 4 campsites are occupied by broken down trailers, an overturned couch and broken BBQ pits. We stayed in site #6 which was probably one of the best sites. Great shade and car was able to be parked nearby (you walk down non-maintained "stairs" with rotted tree branches as the steps).  

    Overall, I had high hopes based on the description here especially reading: "Our onsite staff will go around and enforce the rules." but this is clearly a non-maintained campground that was probably very nice 45 years ago. No hiking trails are maintained, the bathrooms are "rustic" which is fine--nice to have running water when you've got little ones to clean. But the floors were rotted and I was afraid we'd step through the floorboards. 

    If you are a true car camper who can lock your doors at night, this is probably the spot for you. Running water, showers and washing machine. If you are a tent camper with small kids like me, this is not where you want to stay. I'm disappointed I paid the price I did to stay here, I'd pay $25/night because this is essentially a parking space in a poorly maintained campground.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    The Off Season Love Affair in Big Sur

    I know we all rant here about how, “if you can go outside school holidays, you’re in for a real treat!” The most popular places, like Pfeiffer, can be nuts in the high season, although socially, that can be fun, too. 

    However, I have had the nicest times in the Winter here, truly. Christmas, Thanksgiving, special moments. The winter sun and sunsets are extraordinary. The Big Sur community, chill and awesome without all the tourist pressure. 

    Another fun fact… sometimes, when I have come back from a backpacking trip in the area, I will book a day or night, even if I don’t SPEND the whole night, because the showers are SO GOOD. And you know what’s it like to want a decent shower after you’ve been in the muck a few days.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    The Pinnacles are Other-Worldly - this is your launchpad

    I didn’t enjoy this campground for years — I’d always drive home, to my cooler coastal home. It is WICKED hot in the summer. But one time, I joined my daughter, who did have a summer reservation, and I changed my mind! They have a pool! The kids are thrilled! There are beautiful tucked away campsites in the shade, by a creek. Really enjoyed cooking in the evenings outside and settling in. By day, of course, the trails are wild, like a moonscape. In spring, it’s a wildflower fantasia. 

    I was selfishly a little sad when Pinnacles became a national monument, instead of a regional secret. But I’m so glad they got the money, they deserve it! Note: I discovered it because my kids were in rock climbing classes in town, and “this” was the field trip. So exciting to see their first climbing and bouldering outside.

  • Brittanie F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sur Campground & Cabins
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Big Sur Campground & Cabins

    Staff are awful

    Long story short the staff were unhelpful and lied about there being multiple spots open. When we arrived the people in the spot next to us had completely blocked our spot with one of their cars and were using our table. Had to asked a second time to be moved spots and only found out there were available spots when someone without a reservation showed up to registration when I was up there complaining.

  • Jason M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilroy Garlic USA RV Park
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Gilroy Garlic USA RV Park

    Great Layover

    We had a quick three-day trip here to visit family. The pool is small, yet well-kept and we had it to ourselves every time we went each day. The park was perfect for the kids biking around through the short- and long-term areas.

  • Elisha E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Seacliff Center Trailer & RV Park
    Aug. 9, 2024

    Seacliff Center Trailer & RV Park

    Amazing people, amazing location

    After weeks on the road, we were so grateful to find a last minute spot a short, beautiful, and whimsical walk away from the beach!!! The campground itself is simple but full of good vibes with FREE showers and ice cream two minute stroll away!

  • h
    Camper-submitted photo from Sanborn County Park
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Sanborn County Park

    Great hideaway for Saratoga

    Nothing fancy but very nice park for tent camping, RVs. Electric and water included in price. The park gates are locked at sundown but they give you the combination (the combo changed routinely). Free open WiFi is provided but recommend a security app just to be safe. The Mountain Winery is 2 miles from the park, fantastic views and they host concerts all the time.



Guide to Marina

Camping near Marina, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park. One visitor noted, "The trails are wild, like a moonscape," making it a great spot for adventure seekers.
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campers have spotted diverse wildlife. One reviewer at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground mentioned, "Seen a ton of wildlife and overall wasn’t very crowded."
  • Star Gazing: The dark skies at Kirk Creek Campground make it perfect for star gazing. A camper shared, "Great views. Very dark at night which is great for star gazing."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Heat in Summer: If you're camping at Pinnacles Campground, be prepared for extreme heat. One reviewer warned, "It is WICKED hot in the summer."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kirk Creek Campground, have minimal amenities. A visitor mentioned, "Not even drinking water. Make sure you have what you need."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at Veteran's Memorial Park Campground advised, "Your best bet to get a site is to show up a day or two early."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places like Big Sur Campground & Cabins that offer fun activities. One family shared, "You can go down and walk by the river float the river with the complimentary tubes."
  • Plan for Bugs: Be ready for insects, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground mentioned, "There were numerous mosquitoes."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand is essential, especially in campgrounds with limited markets. A camper at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground noted, "Bring groceries and firewood as it cost us $13 for a bundle at the market."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Road Conditions: Before heading to Mount Madonna County Park, ensure your RV can navigate the roads. One reviewer mentioned, "Not sure that this place would be good for giant rigs."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Big Sur Campground & Cabins offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. A visitor shared, "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great!"
  • Arrive Early for Best Spots: Many RVers recommend arriving early to snag the best spots. A camper at Veteran's Memorial Park Campground noted, "We arrived around 11 and had no problem finding a camp spot."

Camping around Marina, CA, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Marina, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Marina, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 123 campgrounds and RV parks near Marina, CA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Marina, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Marina, CA is Veteran's Memorial Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 33 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Marina, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Marina, CA.

  • What parks are near Marina, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Marina, CA that allow camping, notably Pinnacles National Park and Golden Gate National Recreation Area.