RV camping near Marina, California offers coastal access and redwood retreats within a 25-mile radius. The region sits at the edge of Monterey Bay with summer temperatures averaging 65-70°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 45°F. Full-service RV sites and tent camping options require early booking during peak season from June through September.
What to do
Beach exploration: 0.5 miles from Marina Dunes RV Park with access to less-crowded 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," notes one camper.
Golfing: 4 miles from downtown Monterey at Monterey Pines RV Park. "The golf course next to it is beautiful so bring your sticks or rent them from the clubhouse. One of the more affordable courses to play in the area," according to a military visitor.
Hiking in redwoods: 20 minutes from Santa Cruz at Cotillion Gardens RV Park. "Plenty of trees for shade, there's a pool, hiking trails, a little river. So beautiful and peaceful here," reports a visitor who appreciated the natural setting.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Carmel by the River RV Park uses hedges to create separation. "Nice for an RV Park. Had nice hedges between the sites. Steep price ($95-$105/night) but I suppose everything is expensive in Carmel," observed one guest.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple locations offer opportunities to observe local fauna. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, a short trail leads to natural areas. "A short distance drive to Santa Cruz wharf and boardwalk," notes one visitor, making it convenient for coastal exploration.
Clean facilities: Most parks maintain quality amenities. "Clean, quiet campground nestled in the big trees. Friendly staff and a quick drive into the Santa Cruz beach communities," shared a visitor to Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Several RV parks have narrow entrance roads. "Note that the road in is basically a one lane road. Pray you don't encounter oncoming traffic," warns a visitor about Carmel by the River RV Park.
Site selection matters: Parks vary in spacing and orientation. "Sites need renovation and they claim it is coming. 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," explains a visitor to Monterey Pines.
WiFi quality varies: From excellent to non-existent depending on location. "The WiFi was outstanding!" reports a visitor to Gilroy Garlic USA RV Park, while other parks have limited connectivity.
Airport noise: Some locations experience periodic air traffic. "This park sits in the approach to the airport, but the last flights are around 9:00 pm and this is a small airport not JFK," notes a Monterey Pines visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Multiple parks offer family-focused amenities. "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 visitor to Thousand Trails Morgan Hill.
Pool availability: Check seasonal operations as not all pools remain open year-round. "The pool was closed for the winter but I can't wait to visit again," notes a visitor to San Benito RV Resort.
Beach access with kids: Consider distance and terrain. "It's a good half mile to the water. Staff was fantastic, the RV slots were level and with full hookups, it was just a little too far from ocean activities," reports a Marina Dunes RV Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require additional equipment. "Site 1 on the very eastern end - it was narrow and not very level (tail up). Site 14 was the handicap accessible site, and accordingly was wide and level," explains a Monterey Pines visitor.
Hookup locations: Be prepared for unusual placements. "Nice rv park by the beach. Bathrooms and showers are great. Downside is the store is closed on Sundays. Also, $190 a night plus $20 to choose your spot is wild. The location of the electrical/water is awkward," notes a Marina Dunes visitor.
Site size limitations: "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," shares another Marina Dunes camper, highlighting the importance of checking size restrictions before booking.
