Monterey camping offers diverse terrain from coastal cliffsides to inland valleys. Many campgrounds monterey ca sites sit at elevations ranging from sea level at beach locations to 1,200 feet in the nearby hills. The temperature swing between morning fog and afternoon sun can reach 25-30°F, requiring campers to pack layers for comfort throughout their stay.
What to do
Beach hiking: 5-minute walk to shoreline at Sunset State Beach, where you can explore miles of uncrowded coastline. "You can walk to it from the campground... It's mass camping near the beach. Great for loading up your stuff for the day and spending the day at the beach then coming back to your site to eat and crash," notes Kelly S.
Whale watching: 1-mile walk to marina from Moss Landing KOA Express where tour boats depart regularly. "Campground is directly adjacent to the parking lot and marina from which multiple boats sail for whale watching trips. You can also rent kayaks nearby to kayak in the calm waters where you will almost certainly see sea otters," shares David C.
Racetrack viewing: trackside access from your campsite at Laguna Seca Recreation Area. "We weren't there during an event weekend so it was pretty quiet. The view from almost every site is like a dream, you have panoramic views of hills and mountains to one side and a huge racetrack with sexy cars on the other side," explains Minerva R.
What campers like
Hot showers year-round: California Veterans Memorial Park Campground provides convenient facilities for overnight stays. "Great campground. Payment is cash or check only. It has flushing toilets, potable water, and a bonus sink for washing your dishes. Showers are available but you have to pay," reports Luis N.
Private campsite separations: Saddle Mountain Ranch offers unique site layouts. "The campsites are cut into the side of the hill - many have privacy walls so you aren't looking at your neighbors campsite," notes Chris &. in their review, highlighting a rare feature in Monterey campgrounds.
Shelter from coastal winds: Sunset State Beach provides natural windbreaks. "Nice lots on a cliff above the beach protected from the wind by some doug firs and eucalyptus. Beach is long and expansive with very few people on an average day," writes Mauriel O.
What you should know
Cash-only payment: Several campgrounds require physical payment. At Veterans Memorial Park, "Payment is cash or check only. It's at the top of a hill so make sure you're prepared before arrival," Katherine J. warns in her review.
Limited potable water: Laguna Seca Recreation Area has unusual water restrictions. "No potable water. They mention this several times on their website but still people miss it. Bring your own water," cautions Erin S.
Beach access challenges: Marina Dunes RV Park requires effort to reach the ocean. "Beach requires a brutal walk through soft sand. It'll work as a landing point for a couple nights, but don't plan on this being a nice campground to enjoy your vacation at," advises courtney A.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Saddle Mountain Ranch Campground offers numerous activities. "Lots of activities for younger kids. Convenient location, lots of amenities. Cabin was super nice to stay in after a week of car camping! Kitchenette, bathroom, hot water. Perfect," shares Tim F.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Watch for marine mammals from Moss Landing. "You are minutes from launch points for both power or paddle sports. If you want a site seeing tour, they take off from the parking lot next to the KOA," explains stephanie.
Protected play areas: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation spaces. "The Park was nice to walk around, we took our dogs for a walk around the track as well. Overall, it was a very pleasant place to stay," Philip D. notes about Monterey County Fairgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Narrow access roads: Carmel by the River RV Park has challenging entry. "The road in is basically a one lane road. Pray you don't encounter oncoming traffic," cautions Dave N., highlighting a common issue in the area's smaller campgrounds.
Electrical hookup locations: Marina Dunes has awkward utility placement. "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," mentions Kandi R.
Grade challenges for larger rigs: Be aware of steep approaches at several campgrounds. "16% grade on the way up. Trailers and RVs, its doable but be aware!" warns Erin S. about Laguna Seca's access road, representing a common challenge in the hilly terrain of Monterey camping areas.
