5 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Marina Dunes RV Park welcomes pets at its coastal location, providing access to beaches through sand dunes approximately five minutes away. The park features full hookups, clean facilities, and concrete pads for RVs and tent camping. Nearby Moss Landing KOA Express also accommodates pets in a harbor-side setting where travelers can observe wildlife including sea otters. Both campgrounds maintain pet-friendly policies though spaces are limited and reservations are recommended. Marina Dunes offers a convenient location between Santa Cruz and Monterey with highway access, while some campers note highway noise can be noticeable at night. The park includes showers, toilets, and trash facilities with picnic tables at most sites. Recent visitors appreciate the proximity to beaches where dogs are permitted.
Pet-friendly camping near Marina gives dog owners direct access to coastal shoreline where dogs can explore the dunes, with some visitors reporting uncrowded stretches during weekday visits. Moss Landing KOA provides concrete pads with grassy areas between sites suitable for pets, though spaces are tight for larger rigs. Both campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring the Monterey Peninsula with pets. Dog owners should note that some nearby restaurants do not permit dogs even in outdoor seating areas. The parks provide waste disposal facilities and require pets to be leashed when outside RVs. Sunset State Beach and Veterans Memorial Park Campground offer additional pet-friendly options in the area with varying amenities and proximity to dog-friendly hiking trails.
"Nice spot right near downtown Monterey. I live in the area, but when friends or family come into town, we usually stay here."
"The grassy area was perfect for my dog. The site is $50+10 for a RV or van. I had to leave and get more cash. $5 discount for veterans. You leave the cash in an envelope in a slot at the entrance."
from $60 / night
"we stayed here for two days while camping in california- it was sweet! we had the whole tent/dry camping campground to ourselves this time of year."
"Which had beautiful views, and got our Camper situated. The spots could be a bit updated in my opinion. The gravel was coming apart and the table and fir ring could use a bit of cleaning."
"Small space to walk dogs. Campground is directly adjacent to the parking lot and marina from which multiple boats sail for whale watching trips."
"Situated off highway 1 and surrounded by the marina is very appealing for us. Reservations were made over the phone with Liz. She did a nice job of getting us in for the following day."
from $69 - $80 / night
"There is a Best Western right next to this place were we ended up getting a room instead as that was less expensive. We did arrive there with no reservation and after hours."
"We love Marina Dunes RV Resort! This was our first stay here and we thoroughly enjoyed it! We love the proximity to the beach and the beautiful dunes. The park was very clean and well-maintained."
"Overall a nice experience, dog friendly. A great private hiking trail, clean showers and toilets"
"Super dog friendly. 10 minute drive to town, 15 to the beach, and 10 minutes to hike at Garland Ranch. We are tent car campers. "
Available this weekend
from $53 - $435 / night
"Dogs can be allowed on beach if you go to the right of the main entrance. No dogs to the left. Camp sites vary but the best loop is South Loop. Some with ocean views but those are hard to reserve. "
"The beach only allows dogs in one location and you need to drive to it. There are stairs to the trail from Dune Camp but dogs are not allowed there because it is a Plover nesting site."
"Camped with electricity and water, situated on a bluff near the ocean. Easy walking distance to the water, nice roomy campsites with fire rings and tables. Not too close to other campers."
"Not sure why the reserve california site says every SP or SB on the coast has 0 sites for the foreseeable future, but we decided to take our chances. Yes!"
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $35 - $185 / night
"Pet and kid friendly"
"Dog and kid friendly. Beautiful gardens. Will definitely come again"
from $110 - $235 / night
"This is at the edge of the Monterey Pines Golf Course. In fact you check in at the golf course office. Sites 1-14 have a view of the course. Mature shade trees, picnic tables and bbq’s in each site."
"Whatever you do, do not let the door open and let your dog run out by accident...the Navy Knives, err Wives club is always watching. Anyway, close to all Monterey, Big Sur, Salinas, Carmel Valley."
"The fairgrounds RV park is located as the name suggests on the Monterey Fairgrounds."
"We stopped by here to stay only a night or two but ended up staying for 3 nights since it was close to the bay and downtown. It was basically a large parking lot with hookups."
from $70 / night
Guidepro: close to the city, very quiet and dumping is possible. con: 60$ for dry camping is even for California brazen! The sites are very short and super close. RV’s are only allowed under 21 feet! But there are 3 sites behind the playground that are at least 30 feet!
Ranger3 day limit. $50 per site basic RR. Close to town.
RangerConvenient location - on 152, just west of I-5. The majority of the 115 sites are residential RVers, but there are a few sites available for short term. Clean and heated bathrooms, although dated; covered area with ping ping, pool, and tables and chairs. Pool, laundry, dog run area, and playground (closed for maintenance while we were here). No stray or feral animals; saw several people with dogs - all in a leash and behaved. The RV Park itself is very quiet - as essentially a residential area. The highway noise is fairly loud, thus the 4.
ScoutAs mentioned in other reviews - beautiful views but beware that some of the RV sites are on a slope. We booked #3 unaware that it was on quite an incline - we ended up driving onto the camping space as we wouldn’t have been able to sleep on the designated RV space. Otherwise nice, but basic campsite and not busy at all in October
TravelerThis is a great camp ground. Plenty of activities. Showers are clean, laundry room takes tap pay.
TravelerOur favorite place. We have stayed here 14 times. Always clean.
TravelerIt’s absolutely beautiful. There are no hook ups, but I have a solar generator. I’m working with or learning to use.
GuideNice big campsites, creek running but unsure if clean enough to go in. There’s a dog park with lights which is really awesome for our old dogs. There are definitely some long term campers here but it still has a nice feel. Only reason it’s not 5 star is we are close to the road so it’s loud.
GuideSuch a fun vibe. Beautiful creek for swimming and nearby hikes. Wish we would access pfeiffer beach from here but oh well.
Marina, California sits on the Monterey Bay at 43 feet above sea level, with coastal areas flanked by sand dunes that reach up to 150 feet tall. Campers experience the central California climate patterns where morning fog often burns off by afternoon, with summer temperatures averaging 62-68°F. Most campgrounds near Marina are within 5-10 miles of Highway 1, providing good regional access while dealing with seasonal traffic congestion.
Beach exploration: At Sunset State Beach, campers can walk to the water's edge after descending approximately 100 steps from the campground. "Winter can be a very nice weekend!" notes Pete M., highlighting the less-crowded off-season option for those seeking quieter beach time.
Wildlife watching: Moss Landing KOA Express provides access to excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper recommends: "Don't miss exploring the Elkhorn Slew. Kayaking or take a guided tour by experienced guid. See Sea Otters and tons of birds." The marine mammal watching starts right at the harbor.
Racing experiences: Motorsport enthusiasts can camp beside Laguna Seca's famous racetrack. According to Erin S., "Right next to a race track? No potable water? But it turns out my doubts were unfounded. My daughter and I had a great time here!" Even during non-event weekends, smaller car clubs often practice on the track.
Uncrowded beaches: At Veteran's Memorial Park Campground, visitors enjoy a secluded feel despite proximity to Monterey. "Close to downtown but you feel secluded at the same time," reports Rob M., adding perspective on the park's dual appeal for both urban convenience and natural setting.
Clean facilities: Marina Dunes RV Park maintains well-kept grounds with paved sites. One camper notes: "Nice and clean campground. Room for any size rig. The store closed at noon on Saturday and wasn't open Sunday, so don't forget anything." This attention to cleanliness extends to shower facilities as well.
Diverse camping options: The region offers alternatives beyond standard tent and RV sites. Saddle Mountain Ranch features "a luxury gazebo situation which came with a queen bed (heated mattress) a fire pit and your own propane grill," according to Rosa L., who adds that "the restrooms and showers are super clean and the staff is great."
Reservation challenges: Popular state beaches book quickly. "If you can get a reservation here (which is VERY difficult) you will have the best time," writes a camper about Sunset State Beach, reflecting the competitive nature of securing spots during peak season.
Highway noise: At several locations, highway sounds can be noticeable. "It is 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," shares a Marina Dunes RV Park visitor.
Water restrictions: Laguna Seca Recreation Area has important water limitations. "No potable water. They mention this several times on their website but still people miss it. Bring your own water," advises Erin S., highlighting a crucial planning requirement that catches many campers unprepared.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Good playground for kids. Foosball, ping pong, corn hole, horseshoes, and other games available," notes Craig N. about Saddle Mountain Ranch, making it suitable for families seeking built-in activities.
Educational opportunities: The Monterey region provides numerous learning experiences. "If you like to walk There is a great bird sanctuary where you can ride your bike or hike around. Seals barking out you door," shares Nancy L. about staying at Moss Landing.
Pet-friendly beaches: For families camping with dogs, beach access varies by location. At New Brighton State Beach Campground, "Long walk to the beach, so we ended up just parking at the day use parking lot. Beach had plenty of litter and even a decaying seal which was a little unpleasant," reports Hattie R., offering practical insight about actual conditions.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require preparation for uneven sites. At Veteran's Memorial Park Campground, Katherine J. advises: "It's at the top of a hill so make sure you're prepared before arrival. Also not suitable for RV's over 20ft. No hook ups but decent bathrooms."
Access considerations: Some roads leading to campgrounds present challenges. "16% grade on the way up. Trailers and RVs, its doable but be aware!" warns Erin S. about Laguna Seca Recreation Area, while another camper notes "the road in is basically a one lane road. Pray you don't encounter oncoming traffic" regarding Carmel by the River RV Park.
Hookup placement: At Marina Dunes RV Park, "The location of the electrical/water is awkward," according to Kandi R., who still gave the park a positive rating despite this inconvenience. Many RVers recommend bringing extension cords and longer hoses when camping in this region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Marina, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Marina, CA is Veteran's Memorial Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 48 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Marina, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 90 dog-friendly camping locations near Marina, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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