Located between Santa Cruz and Monterey, Moss Landing sits at the midpoint of Monterey Bay near the Elkhorn Slough, one of California's largest wetland areas. Winter temperatures average 45-60°F while summer ranges from 55-75°F with morning fog common. Camping cabins near Moss Landing, California offer access to coastal recreation with varying seasonal conditions affecting both inland and beachfront locations.
What to do
Archery trails: Mount Madonna County Park features a 28-target 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," notes April N. from Mount Madonna County Park.
Beach exploration: Marina Dunes RV Park provides access to less-visited 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," reports James from Marina Dunes RV Park.
Monterey day trips: When staying at cabin accommodations near Moss Landing, exploring nearby cities becomes easy. "You can go to Monterey and do things there though. If you have kids, they also have a pool and a giant trampoline made out of beach ball material," mentions Drew M. about options from Santa Cruz KOA.
What campers like
Unique weather experiences: Redwood forests create their own microclimates. "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," explains April N. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Free shower facilities: Many campers appreciate clean, accessible shower options. "Bathrooms are constantly cleaned and showers are free and clean. Parking is free with paid camping," reports Carolina M. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Wildlife viewing: Cabins provide a home base for observing local fauna. "Big Sur is just a short drive south and Monterey is just a short drive north. You can spend the day driving the 17 mile drive and seeing Pismo Beach or shop the quaint shops in Carmel by the sea," notes Anna W. about Saddle Mountain Ranch.
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies: Site selection impacts your experience. "While the sites are a little close to each other, those on the outside of the loop had a great deal of privacy. Inner loop sites have none, but would be great if you were camping with friends," advises Lori T. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Temperature preparation: Coastal mountain areas can be significantly colder than nearby valleys. "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 April N.
Store operating hours: Some camp stores close early or remain closed certain days. "Downside is the store is closed on Sundays. Also, $190 a night plus $20 to choose your spot is wild," mentions Kandi R. about Marina Dunes RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kids' activities: Many locations offer family-friendly amenities. "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 daily in a text," notes Brian C. about Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday.
Kid-friendly trails: Some parks feature accessible hiking options. "Great campground for the kids to bike at but there are a few big hills so make sure they know how to use their brakes," advises Weston W. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Playground access considerations: Site selection impacts noise levels near play areas. "I would recommend booking away from the jump pillow or playground, unless easy playground access is important, because the spots are pretty noisy," suggests Andrea A. about Santa Cruz KOA.
Tips from RVers
Utility placement challenges: Some RV sites have unusual hookup configurations. "The location of the electrical/water is awkward," reports Kandi R. about Marina Dunes RV Park.
Leveling requirements: Sites may not be perfectly level, requiring adjustments. "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," explains Rick G. about Monterey Pines RV Park.
Highway noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some cabin camping locations. "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," shares Korey Y. about Salinas-Monterey KOA.
