RV sites near Monterey, California include numerous options within a 35-mile radius spanning from Marina north to Felton. Felton campgrounds sit at approximately 300 feet elevation within redwood groves, while coastal options remain at sea level with typical summer temperatures ranging 60-75°F. Seasonal variations affect availability, with several campgrounds implementing winter closure periods from late October through March.
What to do
Redwood hiking access: Campers staying at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort can explore nearby forests. "There is a little trail that goes down to the River where you can find a neat little beach. It's a goofy little descent/climb to get there and out but worth it," notes one camper. The resort provides direct access to the San Lorenzo River.
Beach exploration: The Marina area offers ocean access within walking distance of Marina Dunes RV Park. "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 visitor who appreciated the secluded shoreline.
Historic train rides: Near Smithwoods RV Park, visitors can experience authentic steam locomotives. "It was a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the red woods. Fun experience on a real steam locomotive," explains one reviewer. This activity combines historic transportation with redwood forest scenery for families.
What campers like
Quiet retreats: Thousand Trails San Benito offers wildlife viewing opportunities away from urban noise. "We stayed here over the weekend on a last minute reservation. And it's absolutely beautiful here, campground was very clean and quite. This was our first outing in our pop up and this place made it much better, walking trails and daily activities for the family. Had multiple deers wondering the grounds," shares a satisfied visitor.
Heated pools: Temperature-controlled swimming areas make camping comfortable year-round at some Monterey-area campgrounds. At Smithwoods RV Park, one camper reported, "Kids could ride bikes freely, heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room." These amenities extend the camping season beyond summer months.
Recreation options: Thousand Trails Morgan Hill provides diverse activities. "Great culture here - friendly, lots of things to do (pool, basketball, volleyball, horse shoes, playground, billiards, karaoke, tennis). We lost power twice here which was unfortunate but lasted 90 minutes once and 4-5 hours the other time," notes a visitor who appreciated the amenities despite occasional infrastructure issues.
What you should know
Entrance challenges: Several campgrounds have difficult access roads. At Carmel by the River RV Park, a camper warns: "Note that the road in is basically a one lane road. Pray you don't encounter oncoming traffic." Another advises: "Unless you're driving a sports car, definitely DO NOT drive on Lorales Grade! It's a narrow, windy, dark road with a 17% grade."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly by location. At Smithwoods RV Park, one visitor reported: "Be ready for no cell or WiFi. We occasionally got 1 bar of cell service in our site if we stood in a certain spot. (AT&T) There was WiFi up at the office but it was inconsistent."
Variable pricing: Costs range substantially between weekday and weekend stays, with premium spots commanding significantly higher rates. At Yanks RV Resort, a visitor noted it's "$80, but it's what we had to do and found it to be super nice." Marina Dunes RV Park prices reach "$190 a night plus $20 to choose your spot," according to a recent camper.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Cotillion Gardens RV Park offers child-friendly features. "We spent most of our time with relatives, so we didn't have a lot of time to use the amenities, but there were lots of kids around using the playground, bicycling, playing basketball, and swimming in the pool. There was also a large clubhouse with foosball, ping pong and arcade games which is open from 9am - 9pm," reports a parent.
Site selection: Request spots away from main roads for safety. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, a camper recommends: "We stayed towards the back site 353 I believe and had no others around us." This provides additional privacy and reduced traffic concerns.
Wildlife awareness: Multiple campgrounds feature animal encounters requiring proper food storage. At Thousand Trails San Benito, a visitor advises: "Had multiple deers wondering the grounds so be sure to put your food away." Several campgrounds report raccoon activity after dark.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Bring blocks for uneven sites. At Monterey Pines RV Park, a camper explains: "Sites need renovation and they claim it is coming. Of course they have said that for the last 3 years. 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."
Electrical considerations: Position varies between sites. At Marina Dunes RV Park, a visitor mentions: "The location of the electrical/water is awkward." This requires planning for cord and hose length when setting up.
Sewer connections: Bring extensions for distant hookups. At Yanks RV Resort, a camper notes: "Large level spots FHU some shade. Helpful staff clean and well kept." However, other campgrounds require longer hoses, with one visitor reporting: "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose."
