Best Tent Camping near Pacific Grove, CA

The coastal region surrounding Pacific Grove, California offers tent campers several established campgrounds within a short drive. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground, located 36 miles south along Highway 1, provides tent sites nestled among redwoods with access to hiking trails and a creek. Andrew Molera State Park Campground in Big Sur features walk-in tent sites in an open grassy area with nearby beach access, operating seasonally from April to October.

Most tent sites in the area include fire rings, picnic tables, and food storage lockers, though fire restrictions are common during dry summer months. Walk-in tent sites at Castle Rock State Park require a 2.5-mile hike from the trailhead and offer primitive camping with pit toilets. Potable water is available at most established campgrounds, though Castle Rock's water source has been reported unsafe for drinking, requiring campers to filter creek water or bring their own. Tent campers should check reservation requirements, as many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends.

The tent camping experience near Pacific Grove varies significantly by location, with coastal sites offering ocean views but more exposure to wind and sun. Redwood forest campgrounds like Butano State Park provide ample shade and protection from coastal fog. Many tent sites feature proximity to trail networks, with Andrew Molera offering access to a "secret beach" via a short hike. Tent campers at Castle Rock enjoy ridge-top views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Pacific Ocean. According to one visitor, "Castle Rock has a shelter with tables in the event there is rain, scattered sites with tables, and is a great home base for climbing or hiking the Skyline to the Sea Trail."

Best Tent Sites Near Pacific Grove, California (12)

    1. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Big Sur, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 667-2315

    $50 - $75 / night

    "With a stream running near the hike and bike camping area and tall trees offering a cool shade it is a wonderful reprieve from the outside world.  "

    "Site 100 is located on the last/ end loop of the campground in Weyland Camp. It is on the outer edge farthest from the river."

    2. Manresa State Beach Campground

    9 Reviews
    Freedom, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 761-1795

    $35 / night

    "The drive in was a little confusing. We got most of our turns right the first time around and still spent a while circling trying to tell if we were where we were supposed to be."

    "The shower had hot water and the restrooms were cleaned each morning. I loved that the beach was easily accessible for my morning walk. The many flowers were also lovely to wake up to."

    3. Andrew Molera State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Big Sur, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 667-2315

    $50 / night

    "Easy walk from the parking area with intermittent views of the river. A few stairs but mostly flat. The river along the camp site was dry due to the time of year."

    "Big Sur is one of my favorite CA stops and this campsite is a perfect place to pitch your tent and enjoy the scenery."

    4. Seacliff State Beach

    7 Reviews
    Aptos, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 685-6442

    "Full hookups in one area and dry camping in overflow area. All camping spots are adjacent to the 'boardwalk' beach path and the beach. Yes, your rig is within 20' of the beach at all campsites."

    5. Uvas Canyon County Park

    11 Reviews
    New Almaden, CA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (408) 779-9232

    $34 / night

    "There's 25 campsites; each with a food locker, fire ring, a picnic table, and parking space for 2 sedan sized vehicles or 1 RV. 8 people max per site."

    "We camp in a roof top tent and wish we had been more selective on our site, as parking space and the incline at each site are different."

    6. Carmel River Backcountry Camp

    1 Review
    Carmel Valley Village, CA
    23 miles

    "This is a trail camp in the Ventana Wilderness along the Carmel River Trail.  The trailhead and parking lot is at the Los Padres Dam. "

    7. Ben Ries Campground — Butano State Park - CLOSED INDEFINITELY

    18 Reviews
    Pescadero, CA
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (650) 879-2040

    $35 / night

    "It is a smaller park than many of the other redwoods parks in Northern California, so it was very nice and peaceful. Butano is a bit off the beaten path to get to, but so worth it."

    "The campsite has car camping and walk-in sites. I had sites 5 and 6. The map for the campground is deceiving as they looked close together and connected but they were separate."

    8. Castle Rock Trail Camp — Castle Rock State Park

    8 Reviews
    Saratoga, CA
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (408) 867-2952

    $8 / night

    "I liked the trees, picnic tables, and fire rings at the sites. The sites were spaced nicely to allow for privacy. Frog Flat seemed a bit more secluded than the main camp."

    "This is sweet hike in trail camp.  We have used it for two purposes. "

    9. Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP Environmental Campsite

    Be the first to review!
    Big Sur, CA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 667-1112

    $30 - $38 / night

    10. Portola Redwoods State Park Campground

    1 Review
    Loma Mar, CA
    47 miles

    $35 - $335 / night

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Tent Camping Reviews near Pacific Grove, CA

779 Reviews of 12 Pacific Grove Campgrounds



Guide to Pacific Grove

Tent camping near Pacific Grove, California, offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Tips for tent camping near Pacific Grove

  • Andrew Molera State Park Campground provides a hike-in experience with fire pits and picnic tables, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground is well-reviewed for its friendly atmosphere and clean facilities, making it a great choice for families and groups.
  • Ventana Campground offers a magical experience under the redwoods, complete with clean restrooms and hot showers, ensuring comfort during your stay.

Some prices for tent camping range from $34 to $50

  • Manresa State Beach Campground has a fee that can be waived if you stay at nearby Pfeiffer State Park, making it a budget-friendly option.
  • Sunset State Beach Campground features a variety of amenities, including showers and picnic tables, with prices that reflect its prime location near the beach.
  • Uvas Canyon County Park offers well-maintained sites with access to scenic trails, providing excellent value for families looking to explore.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • At Carmel River Backcountry Camp, enjoy a wilderness backpacking experience along the Carmel River Trail, perfect for those seeking adventure.
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP Environmental Campsite allows for a unique hike-in camping experience, where you can enjoy stunning coastal views and explore nearby trails.
  • Seacliff State Beach is just a short walk from your tent, offering beautiful sunsets and opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife watching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pacific Grove, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pacific Grove, CA is Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 67 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Pacific Grove, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Pacific Grove, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.