RV camping near Moss Landing, California provides access to varied environments from coastal dunes to inland redwood forests. The moderate coastal climate keeps temperatures mild year-round, typically ranging between 50-70°F, with summer fog common along the immediate coast. Campgrounds throughout Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz County sit at elevations ranging from sea level to 600 feet in the surrounding hills.
What to do
Hike the redwoods nearby: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is accessible directly from Smithwoods RV Park. "It backs into Henry Cowell State Park and you can walk into it," notes one visitor. "The river was visible from our spot over a small fence (not accessible because of a 20-30 foot drop)."
Take a train ride: The Roaring Camp Railroad near Smithwoods RV Park offers scenic steam locomotive tours. "It was a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the red woods. Fun experience on a real steam locomotive," shares a camper who stayed at the park.
Beach access: Marina Dunes RV Park offers a pathway 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."
What campers like
Pool amenities: Especially valuable during warmer months, several campgrounds maintain swimming pools. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, "Viewing areas allow all to enjoy the stream at the back of the resort, and paths to take a closer look. The campground is all natural! Trees and nature all around."
Bathroom facilities: Clean facilities remain a priority for many campers. At Carmel by the River RV Park, visitors appreciate the upkeep. "This park is well maintained and the staff are so friendly. Just small enough to not feel like a city and big enough for Class A motor homes," one reviewer mentioned.
Military accommodations: Monterey Pines RV Park offers dedicated facilities for military personnel. "Pretty quiet with the exception of the Monterey Regional Airport next to it and even then it wasn't very noticeable. 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."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many RV parks in the region have uneven sites. At Marina Dunes, "It's hard to get bigger RVs 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."
Accessibility concerns: Some access roads can be challenging. At Carmel by the River RV Park, "The road in is basically a one lane road. Pray you don't encounter oncoming traffic."
Connectivity limitations: Cell service and WiFi vary significantly across the region. At Smithwoods RV Park, "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. There was WiFi up at the office but it was inconsistent."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with multiple activities. Morgan Hill RV Resort offers "Great culture here - friendly, lots of things to do (pool, basketball, volleyball, horse shoes, playground, billiards, karaoke, tennis)."
Kid-specific programming: Some parks organize activities for children. Morgan Hill runs "kids activities daily and they're good! We made 2 day trips to Monterey and Carmel by the Sea and spent time in Morgan Hill and Gilroy."
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds offer safe areas for children to cycle. At Smithwoods, "Kids could ride bikes freely, heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room. Staff is very friendly and Sant Cruz beaches are 15min away."
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Pay attention to utility placement when booking. At Marina Dunes RV Park, "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."
Sewer hose requirements: Come prepared with extension equipment. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot."
Spacing considerations: Many parks place sites close together. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, "Some spaces are tight to back into. Marginal cell coverage. Camp WiFi is acceptable. Need to use WiFi to supplement cell service."
