Best Glamping near Monterey, CA

Saddle Mountain Ranch in Carmel Valley offers luxury glamping accommodations with heated queen beds inside canvas gazebo structures, complete with private fire pits and propane grills. The property features several glamping options including deluxe tents and yurts, all designed for comfort while maintaining a connection to nature. "This place has everything you need to entertain yourself and the family. Pool, park and many games to play," notes one visitor. The resort-style camping experience includes access to clean shower facilities, a heated swimming pool with surrounding deck and twinkle lights, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. For those seeking eco-friendly glamping near Monterey, the terraced hillside setting provides beautiful views of Carmel Valley with some sites offering spectacular valley vistas.

Mount Madonna County Park and Ventana Campground provide additional glamping experiences within driving distance of Monterey Bay. Glamping cabins and yurts are situated among the trees, offering a more secluded retreat option. A recent visitor mentioned, "If you need all of the amenities and luxuries while camping then this spot is for you." On-site activities include hiking trails with panoramic views, swimming in resort-quality pools, and playing games like ping pong, foosball, and cornhole. The location provides easy access to nearby attractions with Carmel-by-the-Sea just 15 minutes away, Big Sur a short drive south, and Monterey a short drive north. Many glamping accommodations include kitchenettes with necessary utensils and dishes, allowing guests to prepare meals while enjoying the comfort of their unique accommodations.

Best Glamping Sites Near Monterey, California (27)

    1. Saddle Mountain Ranch

    27 Reviews
    Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 624-1617

    "This was the cheapest way to stay with a family in Monterey/Carmel."

    "This place is nestled in the Carmel Valley and decently secluded. We booked a luxury gazebo situation which came with a queen bed (heated mattress) a fire pit and your own propane grill."

    2. Marina Dunes RV Park

    11 Reviews
    Marina, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 384-6914

    "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 the proximity to the beach and the beautiful dunes. The park was very clean and well-maintained. The staff was great and very welcoming. Thank you to Christy who made our stay extra fun!"

    3. Sunset State Beach

    27 Reviews
    Watsonville, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 763-7063

    "Clean bathrooms with running water. Very very very safe. Lots of families but again, super safe and beautiful"

    "Close to the beach, hot showers, fire pits"

    4. Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday

    16 Reviews
    Freedom, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 722-0551

    "A short drive to Santa Cruz and Monterey. They have a heated pool, laundry facilities and on site store. There are however some large raccoons so use caution with your trash."

    "The family loved it- it was the perfect size for us and everything worked and the outdoor patio had heavy duty tables and chairs along with fire pit and even a Weber grill."

    5. Salinas-Monterey KOA

    7 Reviews
    Castroville, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 663-2886

    "They have nice facilities and a heated pool although a hot tub would be nice also. The sites are a little small but very mature trees and they keep it clean."

    "If you appreciate the coast near Big Sur, you will love Monterey."

    6. Mount Madonna County Park

    32 Reviews
    Gilroy, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (408) 842-2341

    "There's something for everyone here, RVers, tenters, and those who want to rent tent cabins. There are plenty of trails to hike, as well as equestrian trails. No bikes on trails though."

    "While it was nice to hear the other campers having a great time with their families and friends, the noise level from it was extraordinary.  The campground in the forest and beautiful."

    7. Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    91 Reviews
    Pinnacles, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 200-1722

    $44 - $164 / night

    "We had a separate dome tent to keep out bugs. The site had two picnic benches, a fire pit and bear lockers for your food."

    "The campground loop we were in was full and the sites are fairly close to your neighbor but it wasn't bad. The main reason being absolutely NO generators allowed so it was peaceful."

    8. Fernwood Campground & Resort

    16 Reviews
    Big Sur, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 667-2422

    $60 - $100 / night

    "Fernwood is a unique campground because it has tent sites, RV spaces, canvas tents, cabins, a motel and even a restaurant."

    "So nice though, next a river, but close to other campers. The showers were nice and  clean bathrooms. The lady in charge was so nice and hospitable ready to help. She took us in without reservations."

    9. Ventana Campground

    23 Reviews
    Big Sur, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 667-2331

    $85 - $105 / night

    "We found it to be clean, in good repair, and the hosts were very warm and welcoming."

    "The setting is 10/10 and is probably one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places I could think of pitching a tent."

    10. Cabana Holiday RV Park-cabins

    2 Reviews
    Castroville, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 663-2886

    "Part of the KOA franchise, this is a very clean, well positioned RV and Cabin park for exploring the Monterey, Salinas, Watsonville, Santa Cruz area."

    "pull-ins are easy to access. the Wi-Fi here is good enough to check email but not for streaming or anything intensive. however you can get a good starlink connection and over 100 megabits per second. it is pet"

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Glamping Reviews near Monterey, CA

422 Reviews of 27 Monterey Campgrounds


  • Laura Q.
    Nov. 22, 2019

    Saddle Mountain Ranch

    .

    I have come here since I was a kid with my Dad. This was the cheapest way to stay with a family in Monterey/Carmel. You will drive through a country residential area that does not look like there would be a campground then all of a sudden you take a turn and you’re in a nice wooded, shady place on a hill. The best of both worlds in the hills outside of Carmel but still close to town and beaches. They have glamping tents, cabins, and small tent camping spots. There is not room for more than two small and medium tents. Camp sites are not very private but they are clean. Kids love the pool and game areas and begged to stay longer and come back. Bathrooms are very nice and clean with hot water. I recommend if you want to take a family trip to Monterey or Carmel to check this place out. Only downside was I missed seeing and hearing the peacocks that I remember as a kid.

  • R
    Jul. 5, 2019

    Saddle Mountain Ranch

    Glamping Approved

    This place is nestled in the Carmel Valley and decently secluded. We booked a luxury gazebo situation which came with a queen bed (heated mattress) a fire pit and your own propane grill. There are areas for tents and RV’s as well and priced accordingly. The restrooms and showers are super clean and the staff is great. There is a heated pool and various hiking trails to keep you occupied. The only downfall is you’re a little close to other campers. You don’t get much space/privacy but it’s not too bad. I would come back for sure.

  • Natalie G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2020

    Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED

    Idyllic campground close to loads of beauty

    We stayed here with our 2 dogs last November as a nice winter getaway from L.A. We got one of the tent cabins, which are just adorable and so cozy. The sites are nice and distanced from each other, bathrooms were in great shape and it was pet friendly. We got a package with the tent cabin that came with bedding, cooking utensils and firewood, so were pretty much set once we got there. The beds are comfy and the wood burning stove (photo attached) is the only source of heat. It is neat but BE WARNED...it gets COLD on those winter nights so make sure you a) have enough wood; b) are good at keeping fires going throughout the night; and c) have lots of dry wood. The wood that was left for us as part of our package was really wet and wouldn't burn so we had a very chilly night even with loads of sleeping bags and blankets. Other than that, we had a great experience and got to take the dogs for a great walk on the paved trails in the State Park. Can't wait to go back!

  • Care B.
    Dec. 20, 2022

    Saddle Mountain Ranch

    Camp or glamp

    This is a fun little hideaway with a heated pool, but it still feels like camping. Bathrooms with showers, a sauna by the pool, some food all and communal fire pits/couches to lounge on. friendly staff on site who are helpful but not intrusive. Highly recommend going here, our site on the hill was breathtaking views and extremely private. Highly recommend!

  • r
    Aug. 4, 2021

    Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    Wonderful campground nestled in Pinnacles National Park

    Great camping spot with a small creek running by the site. Water = mosquitoes and this was no exception. Plenty of shade at this site, level ground and space was plentiful for our 14 x 15 tent. We had a separate dome tent to keep out bugs. The site had two picnic benches, a fire pit and bear lockers for your food. The potable water was just steps away and the parking area easily accommodated two vehicles (vans). The bathrooms were a short stroll away, along with the big trash dumpsters. They have a pool near the visitor’s center/camp store which was very popular. Staff was really nice and the sites are well-kept. The pool and showers are a longer walk from our site so we ended up driving to those accommodations. Pay showers and the water was generous and shower stalls were relatively clean. Pinnacles trail heads are close by. Lots of trails, but when we were there an excessive heat warning was in place. Definitely a place to return to!

  • A
    Aug. 16, 2019

    Fernwood Campground & Resort

    Magical Wooded Adventure with the Redwoods

    Fernwood is a unique campground because it has tent sites, RV spaces, canvas tents, cabins, a motel and even a restaurant. It’s situated on the river in Big Sur, and is surrounded by the majestic Redwood trees. If you don’t feel like cooking head up to the restaurant for a delicious meal. There’s also a small market to pick up necessities and ice.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 7, 2021

    Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    Crowded But Not Awful

    The park is amazing and there are so many great hikes, wildlife viewing and picturesque landscapes!

    The campground loop we were in was full and the sites are fairly close to your neighbor but it wasn't bad. The main reason being absolutely NO generators allowed so it was peaceful. The sites were semi private as the brush and trees have grown around most sites offering a little privacy. Other campers were friendly and considerate. Note that the RV side with the hook up does not offer any privacy and is near the main road. RVs are not confined to that area though.

    The spots are flat and include fire pit, picnic table and food locker. Raccoons apparently are a big problem here so keep your food locked up. There is a small general store/visitor center with a variety of food items, stove fuel, firewood, general camping supplies and souvenirs. WiFi also available for $10 for 7days per device. We paid, but our T-Mobile hotspot with Weboost won out in the end because the WiFi did not reach our spot. There is better reception for the WiFI in other spots. No cell reception with AT&T or Verizon.

    The hiking is great! and during the week pleasantly absent of tons of other hikers. Masks are required even on trails when 6 ft distance cannot be maintained, and people were very respectful of that on the trails. There is a lot of wildlife to see though sadly we did not see any condors on this trip. The caves are currently closed due to Covid. 

    Other amenities:

    Tent cabins

    RV only loop with 30amp hook up only (no sewer or water hook up)

    Showers

    Bathrooms

    Garbage and Recycling

    RV dump station (flush water only)

    Fresh water filler up (near RV camping area)

    Group camping

    Pool (currently closed)

    Pets allowed but NOT allowed on any trails

    Overall a great experience for a lesser known National Park, would come here again!

  • C
    Sep. 10, 2020

    Ventana Campground

    Camping Under Giants

    The was our first visit to Ventana Campgrounds and we found it to be very nice. All of the sites are under beautiful big Redwood trees which gave it a magical feel! We found it to be clean, in good repair, and the hosts were very warm and welcoming. We were incredibly fortunate when we camped as all of the National Parks had been closed due to the Dolan fires, and Highway 1 was closed just after the campground turnoff, so there literally was no traffic on the Coastal road which is unheard of! Fortunately for us, Ventana had reopened a few days prior to our reservation and I’d say that 75 percent of the reservations had been canceled so the campground was quiet and quite private which we loved! I imagine when it is filled to capacity the scene could be quite different as campsites are very close. The campsites had a fire pit with a grill but unfortunately fires were prohibited with the fire risks. Water spigots were convenient as were toilets and showers ( pay showers). Recycling and trash receptacles were also conveniently located around camp. Because most sites were empty we were able to scope out all the sites. 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. Some sites are hike in only and should you choose those you had better pack extremely light as the climbs up were incredibly steep and the task of getting down without falling was a challenge for us being hands free and nimble let alone being older, or carrying a cooler, child, or larger tent. Just be aware! Once you got to the hike in sites they were much more private and quite nice, but I could see that it could bring some challenges. Be sure to pick a site with your tent size in mind as some of the sites literally could only hold a two man tent. It should be noted that while we were there, there was construction of some type going on in one part on the campground and the workers started quite early. We were well away so it was not too bad where we were located but if you were close you would have hammering and sawing as your alarm. Ventana also offers glamping tents which are adorable! If you wanted an easy turn key experience that is the way to go. Those tents have running warm water, a propane fire pit and a grill. Some even had hammocks. They are in a loop that is much more private and spread out than the tent sites. Overall, we had a great experience and would love to return. Crowds are not our thing, so I am not sure we will ever be able to duplicate the lovely quiet experience we had, but we are thankful that we got to experience it that way!

  • Shawnna B.
    Jun. 13, 2019

    Mount Madonna County Park

    My favorite campground of the Monterey Bay

    Mount Madonna County Park has 4 campgrounds. I've been camping in this park since the late 70s. I've seen some changes over the years...ahem...decades. There's something for everyone here, RVers, tenters, and those who want to rent tent cabins. There are plenty of trails to hike, as well as equestrian trails. No bikes on trails though.

    There are several micro climates in this area and temps can vary, besides our weather varies from day to day.

    There are trails offering views of the Santa Clara Valley, and trails offering views of the Monterey Bay. The park is above the fog line (most of the year). We don't get rain in the summer here. The park is situated at the County lines of Santa Clara County and Santa Cruz County and is part of the Santa Clara County Parks system.

    No stores or markets in the park, but you can easily run into town, either Watsonville or Gilroy. It's slightly closer to Watsonville where you will find a gas station/market on 152 (Currently a Valero), or go into Gilroy on 152 for Safeway and more.

    There's a small cabin (ranger's station) with a history exhibit and the white reindeer up from the kiosk. My favorite campground in the park is the Tan Oak campground at the top and through the day use area. There are plenty of Geocaches on the trails.

    The bathrooms are generally clean. I say generally because I prefer the off season when I have the campground to myself and the bathrooms are super clean, but when the campground is full, like any public bathroom they can need more attention. (Or maybe people just need to clean up after themselves) I've never used the showers, nor the tent cabins. I like the sites because overall they are separated by trees so you don't feel as crowded as more open campgrounds.

    Despite signage warning of mountain lions, I have never encountered a single one in all the years of camping here. I've had raccoons and skunks (so lock up your food and belongings), turkeys and deer.

    Weekends, especially a holiday weekend such as Memorial Day weekend, can be full. (Not my favorite) I have also stayed for the 4th of July when it fell midweek and had the campground (Tan Oak) literally to myself.

    Leashed pets are allowed (2 per site) and 2 cars and 8 people per site.


Guide to Monterey

Camping near Monterey offers diverse terrain from coastal dunes to redwood forests at elevations ranging from sea level to over 2,000 feet. The climate varies significantly between locations, with coastal sites experiencing fog and temperatures 10-15°F cooler than inland campgrounds. Winter camping often provides more solitude with temperatures averaging 45-55°F at night.

What to Do

Explore hidden hiking trails: At Mount Madonna County Park, trails wind through redwood forests with unique natural phenomena. "This is the only place I've seen the redwood trees harvest the fog and make their own rain, which is pretty cool. In the morning it's raining under the redwood trees but not under the madrone or tan oak trees, which is wild," notes one visitor.

Visit historic structures: Tour the ruins at Mount Madonna where remnants of an old homestead can be found. "Great hikes right from the site or you can drive up to where the old homestead was and see some ruins," explains a camper.

Observe wildlife sanctuaries: Mount Madonna features pens with white fallow deer near the ranger station. "The park has some unique features. Near the ranger station there are pens with white fallow deer. They are descendants of the exotic zoo at William Randolph Hearst's mansion down the coast," shares a visitor.

Test your archery skills: The park maintains a dedicated archery course through the woods. "There is an archery trail with 28 targets on a trail through the woods. We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge."

What Campers Like

Access to uncrowded beaches: From Marina Dunes RV Park, a short walk leads to secluded shorelines. "But the real reason to camp here is the beach. 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," reports one camper.

Coastal sunset viewing: At Sunset State Beach, visitors gather at dusk for spectacular ocean views. "They Call it Sunset for a Reason...Wanna see an epic sunset? Bring your family, and camp here. Hike to the top of the dune. Don't forget your layers, the windy is chilly!" advises a regular visitor.

Kid-friendly features: The Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday offers extensive children's activities. "Very close to the beach, quiet, excellent friendly staff always happy to help. They have activities daily and things to do which are sent out in a text," notes one visitor. Another mentions, "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."

What You Should Know

Weather variations: Coastal versus inland sites experience dramatically different conditions. "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared & had to drive into town & buy more clothes!" warns a Mount Madonna County Park visitor.

Wildlife awareness: Many sites have active animal populations. At Pinnacles Campground, "raccoons...everywhere.... seriously leave your car locked, these little buggers were not afraid of humans," warns one camper. Another notes, "My campsite was right next to a common raccoon path and a few walked by within a few feet of me and my campfire."

Reservation complexity: Some campgrounds use automated site assignments. "When you go to reserve on the campground's website, you find you cannot reserve a particular campsite. She informed us that the night before your arrival a computer assigns campsites," explains a frustrated visitor.

Cost considerations: Expect premium pricing, especially for luxury glamping in Monterey. "The campsites had a fire pit with a grill but unfortunately fires were prohibited with the fire risks. Water spigots were convenient as were toilets and showers (pay showers)," notes a visitor describing the amenities that come with the higher costs.

Tips for Camping with Families

Shade selection: Choose redwood sites for natural temperature control. "This is a great campground for hot weather (if you can get a site). Almost all the sites were fully shaded by the big redwoods," advises a Mount Madonna visitor.

Terrain assessment: Some sites have challenging access. "Some sites are hike in only and should you choose those you had better pack extremely light as the climbs up were incredibly steep and the task of getting down without falling was a challenge for us being hands free and nimble let alone being older, or carrying a cooler, child, or larger tent," warns a Ventana Campground visitor.

Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer pools for kids. "We usually do a early morning hike and then spend the afternoon cooling off at the pool," shares a Pinnacles visitor. The Santa Cruz KOA visitor notes, "Beautiful pool but the kids kind of take it over."

Tips from RVers

Site selection strategy: At Marina Dunes RV Park, "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. It looks like motorhomes fit in a lot of these spots okay."

Electrical access placement: Note the utility layout before setting up. "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," shares an RVer.

Highway noise considerations: Consider site location relative to roads. "It is very hilly and steps are around to get between levels. After being here for 4 days, I would consider coming back again," notes a visitor at Salinas-Monterey KOA who adds, "All day/night highway noise but it starts to become white noise after a while."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Monterey, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Monterey, CA is Saddle Mountain Ranch with a 4-star rating from 27 reviews.

What is the best site to find glamping camping near Monterey, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 27 glamping camping locations near Monterey, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.