Glamping sites near Pacific Grove, California lie mostly within the redwood-covered coastal hills, where temperatures average 10-15 degrees cooler than in nearby valleys. At elevations ranging from 500-2,000 feet, these accommodations benefit from coastal fog patterns that create distinct microclimates ideal for year-round camping. Mount Madonna County Park sits at one of the higher elevations, allowing campers to witness the unique phenomenon of redwoods harvesting fog to create their own rain.
What to do
Hiking challenge trails: Mount Madonna County Park offers an archery trail with 28 targets set along a forest path. According to one visitor, "We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge. Now my daughter's asking to put a target in the back yard." The park also features numerous hiking trails through various forest types.
Wildlife viewing: Saddle Mountain Ranch Campground provides opportunities to see local wildlife. "First off the road coming to the campground is very steep, could be challenging for some rigs. I really liked the amount of shade, price is up there but being in Carmel Valley and close to Monterey really not too bad," notes a camper who appreciated the natural setting.
Beach exploration: Sunset State Beach offers miles of relatively uncrowded coastline. "If you enter the beach near the ranger kiosk at the opening and go right after descending the stairs you aren't technically on Sunset beach and you can take your on leash dog for miles," explains one camper who discovered this local tip for dog owners.
What campers like
Redwood immersion: Ventana Campground offers glamping tents set among towering redwoods. "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," describes a visitor who stayed during a quieter period.
River camping: Fernwood Campground & Resort has sites along the Big Sur River. A camper mentioned, "We spent a few nights camping here in January and it was quiet and peaceful. The camp host was extremely nice and hooked me up with a huge bundle of wood. It's fun to camp on the river in the trees and having access to a shower is always a plus."
Cleanliness: Mount Madonna County Park maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "Absolutely soo clean and a great place to camp without having to travel so far. Bathrooms are constantly cleaned and showers are free and clean. Parking is free with paid camping. People seem to be very aware and pick up after themselves which i love," noted a satisfied visitor.
What you should know
Wildlife precautions: At Pinnacles Campground, raccoons are particularly bold. "Raccoons….everywhere…. seriously leave your car locked, these little buggers were not afraid of humans. Otherwise, good showers, clean bathrooms, private sites, very convenient location to trails," warns one camper about necessary precautions.
Site selection matters: Ventana Campground has significant variations in site quality. "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."
Temperature fluctuations: Mount Madonna can be significantly colder than surrounding areas. One camper advises, "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!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday offers numerous recreational options. "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. There are also Plenty of options on how to stay- RV sites, cabins, tent sites, you can even book one of the campgrounds Airstreams!"
Biking opportunities: Mount Madonna County Park has good trails for children's biking. "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," suggests one parent who brought children along.
Unique animal viewing: Mount Madonna Park offers wildlife viewing opportunities. "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," explains a visitor who appreciated this educational opportunity.
Tips from RVers
Challenging access: Saddle Mountain Ranch has steep entry roads that require caution. "First off the road coming to the campground is very steep, could be challenging for some rigs," warns one RVer who successfully navigated the terrain.
Electrical connections: Marina Dunes RV Park has some awkward utility setups. "The location of the electrical/water is awkward," notes a reviewer who still gave the park 4 stars despite this minor inconvenience.
Limited privacy: Several glamping sites near Pacific Grove offer close-quarter camping. At Fernwood Campground & Resort, a camper observed, "The only negative is the sites are close together and it is a little pricey. However it is worth it to spend time in beautiful Big Sur."
