P
Paula S.
Guide
GuidePinto Lake City Park
Urban Setting, Long Time Campers
This was a very urban park with the majority of obviously long term campers. Lots of geese and lots of bird droppings all over the park. Expensive for the value
Camping near Monterey, CA
122 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping near Monterey spans coastal bluffs, redwood forests, and inland parks, offering tent and RV sites across more than 136 campgrounds. Pinnacles National Park has both tent and RV sites with electric hookups and water, and has become a key habitat for California condors, which you might spot during your stay. The campground gets very hot in summer months, so many campers prefer spring or fall visits instead. If you're looking for ocean views, Kirk Creek Campground sits right on the coast but has basic facilities – just vault toilets and no drinking water on site. California Veterans Memorial Park Campground lies close to downtown Monterey and doesn't take reservations, which works well for last-minute trips. The sites are large with good bathroom facilities. Campers who like hiking head to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground to walk through redwoods and along the river. You should book ahead, particularly in summer when it fills up fast. Watch for wildlife like raccoons and deer, and store food safely. Pack layers for Monterey camping since mornings bring fog and evenings cool down quickly. The area has good camping variety, from coastal sites to forest settings further inland.
Best Campgrounds near Monterey (122)
1. Veteran's Memorial Park Campground
"VMCG was recommended by a friend as we were passing through Monterey."
"The best part of this campground was its proximity to everything in Monterey. While I had no real attraction to the campground, I also had no complaints."
from $10 - $47 / night
Check Availability2. Laguna Seca Recreation Area
"we stayed here for two days while camping in california- it was sweet! we had the whole tent/dry camping campground to ourselves this time of year."
"Only about 20 min outside of Monterey, this was a great spot we ended up staying at for almost a week. Full or partial hookups are available."
3. Saddle Mountain
"Beautiful views of the hills of Carmel & Monterey. Close to wonderful restaurants & shopping to drive to, as well as touring Monterey and the beaches. Quiet, peaceful setting. Clean bathrooms."
"Didn't bring the RV here but did tent camp, You need to carry your items in to the spots but that lets you spread out (get away) from other peeps if too noisy."
from $53 - $525 / night
Check Availability4. Carmel by the River RV Park
"Close enough to Carmel, Monterey, ocean and parks yet quiet and secluded. Very pleasant and helpful staff."
"It’s Monterey so I don’t think their prices are out of line. I called after they closed and the manager answered and was able to get me in a space, which I really appreciated."
from $110 - $235 / night
Check Availability5. Marina Dunes RV Park
"Nice super clean close to the PCH walking distance from a amazing beach. Nice facility as well. No views but I would stay again. Super safe feeling as well."
"There is a Best Western right next to this place were we ended up getting a room instead as that was less expensive. We did arrive there with no reservation and after hours."
6. Moss Landing KOA Express
"Great location between Santa Cruz and Monterey. Very good facilities in small park. Walking distance to wonderful beaches and several restaurants. 30 min drive to SC north or south to Monterey."
"Moss Landing RV park is a small, tight park close to Salinas Beach. Lots of great food close by."
from $69 - $80 / night
Check Availability7. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
"No other sites behind us. It felt secluded and private. Close to the bathrooms. And the bathrooms were clean. We didn’t have a river site but the river was right across from us."
"I think it's a California State Park and Covid thing right now. There is some construction going on but it didn't effect our stay at all. We had a river site."
from $50 - $75 / night
Check Availability8. Monterey County Fairgrounds
"The fairgrounds RV park is located as the name suggests on the Monterey Fairgrounds."
"Also has one outside washer/dryer. Be sure to note arrival and paperwork deadlines. Lower mostly unpaved level parking lot was only partially available due to food Faire w/ music taking place."
from $70 / night
Check Availability9. Monterey Pines RV Park - Military
"Great location near Monterey. Full hookup and fully paved. Restrooms were fairly clean. Great for a stopover or if you’re visiting Monterey."
"Pretty quiet with the exception of the Monterey Regional Airport next to it and even then it wasn’t very noticeable."
10. Sunset State Beach
"Dogs can be allowed on beach if you go to the right of the main entrance. No dogs to the left. Camp sites vary but the best loop is South Loop. Some with ocean views but those are hard to reserve. "
"Strawberry fields surround the campground and are next to the Hike and Bike area. The walk is not too difficult down to the beach."
Drive Time
- 21 min from Salinas, CA
- 35 min from Santa Cruz, CA
- 54 min from San Jose, CA
- 1 hr 56 min from Modesto, CA
Recent Camping Photos near Monterey, CA
371 Photos of 122 Monterey Campgrounds
D.j. P.
Monterey Pines RV Park - Military
Cha C.
Veteran's Memorial Park Campground
Michael O.
Saddle Mountain
Minerva R.
Laguna Seca Recreation Area
Elizabeth S.
Sunset State Beach Campground
Alma L.
Sunset State Beach
Austin C.
Bluff Camp
Fiona W.
Manresa State Beach Campground
Michael S.
Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Austin C.
Carmel River Backcountry Camp
Carina B.
Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday
sasha N.
Andrew Molera State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Monterey, CA
1085 Reviews of 122 Monterey Campgrounds
- JJim D.
ScoutYanks RV Resort
Quiet
Reserved a site July 3/4 to get away from big city fireworks. The well maintained park was a very refreshing get away. I will return.
Lee D.
LegendSanta Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday
Many options for families
General: So many options, including full hookup back-in or pull-thru sites, sites with just w/e, pet sites, nine different types of cabins, and tent sites. Some sites are paved and some are gravel.
Bath/Shower: The one closest to our site had a women's and men's restroom, and the showers are individual units but shared for both genders. I expected a more upscale shower (it was ok but a little tight, skimpy on hooks and no bench).
Activities/Amenities: So many amenities including a pool and hot tub, playground, jump pad, climbing “palms”, rec center with bike rentals and concessions, and a train (I’ve probably missed a few). Laundry is available on site (operated via an app and your phone).
Although this is not our preferred type of camping, after five nights in California State parks with limited amenities, we stayed here for hot showers, laundry, and full hookups for van maintenance. This was a typical KOA in many ways, but one thing that was different was that we had to wear wristbands, and there was a gate to enter and leave. While it should have made us feel safe, I wondered why there were extra security features.
Chia-Chia W.GuideVentana Campground
3.8/5 – Beautiful Redwood Camping Experience with a Few Important Caveats
We camped at Ventana Campground(Alila/Hyatt) in Big Sur and overall had a great experience. The redwood forest provides incredible shade, keeping the campsite cool even on warm days, and the atmosphere feels peaceful and magical. The entrance is beautifully designed, and there's even an Airstream serving pizza, drinks, and gelato. Our biggest surprise was that some sites are limited by tent size, not guest count, so double-check before booking. Be prepared for a steep walk to certain sites and bring a wagon only if your site allows it. Mosquitoes were intense before the campfire, so insect repellent is essential. Restrooms were decent but not spotless, and showers require paid tokens. Overall, it's a beautiful, well-managed campground that's perfect for a relaxing redwood camping experience.
Izzy M.ScoutFernwood Campground & Resort
Thankful!!
Large sites, plenty to do and explore. The creek runs right through the campground. The hubby and I decided to take a last minute road trip up north from the long beach area... No reservations just a tent and some personal necessities. All of the campsites in big sur were sold out and we came across Fernwood. To our surprise they had one spot available for us. The girl in the office, along with the maintenance folks were super friendly and helpful. Very family friendly ambiance. We will be returning but with reservation this time 🤭 and a larger group.
- MMike T.Guide
Laguna Seca Recreation Area
Unusual but works...
First time I've camped at a racetrack but it worked. Was car camping and had my choice of sites overlooking the valley by the entrance to the Fort Ord trail. Check in was friendly but their payment app on a mobile was a bit buggy. Small issue with the tent sites was flatness but I got there. Benches / fire pits/ decent shower facilities. It was late so I didn't get a chance to check out the store (if it had one). Glorious sunrise with the marine layer below in the valley.
Phillip S.ScoutBeach RV Pleasure Point
Very Convenient Spot
A very nice and well kept spot to park and enjoy Santa Cruz. You are close enough to walk to the beach and several restaurants. The sites are very close together. We were pleased on how clean and neat the area is kept. The temperatures were amazing for July.
Chris C.GuideVentana Campground
Nice, but Overpriced and Crowded
This is a resort campground. Nice bathrooms w/ showers, well kept campsites, a store in the campground, beautiful redwoods and staff rolling around in golf carts. For $80 you basically share a campsite with 2-3 other groups and park your car in tiny parking spaces. For spending that kind of money I was expecting to have some more space. The only place I’ve been so close to other people was upper pines in Yosemite.
I recommend this as a backup option for your camping in Big Sur. The price for what you get is not worth it and there is cheaper and much better camping around the area - just book far in advance!
- KKimberly W.Guide
Costanoa Coastal Lodge & Campground
Outstanding coastal access and amenities!
I loved my stay here! I had a lot of tasks and couldn't have asked for a better place to accomplish them. I particularly appreciated the close coastal access, the birds and the clean, comfortable surroundings. Staff was welcoming and friendly throughout my stay. Highly recommend this gem!
Guide to Monterey
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What RV camping options are available in Monterey, California?
What RV camping options are available in Monterey, California?
Monterey County offers diverse RV camping options to accommodate various preferences. Monterey County Fairgrounds provides centrally located RV sites with easy access to town via bus routes and nearby bike paths, though spaces are somewhat tight. Moss Landing KOA Express offers quality facilities in a smaller park setting between Santa Cruz and Monterey, with beaches and restaurants within walking distance. Military members and veterans can enjoy Monterey Pines RV Park with full hookups and paved sites. Other options include Marina Dunes RV Park near the coast and Carmel by the River RV Park for those who prefer staying closer to Carmel. Most parks offer water and electrical hookups, with many providing full-service sites for larger rigs.
Where are the best campgrounds near Monterey, CA?
Where are the best campgrounds near Monterey, CA?
Monterey offers excellent camping options for various preferences. Veteran's Memorial Park Campground stands out for its prime location, allowing you to walk to downtown Monterey's restaurants and shops. The park features clean facilities, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, Saddle Mountain Ranch provides beautiful views of the Carmel and Monterey hills, a heated pool, and easy access to local attractions. Other notable options include Pinnacles Campground for national park enthusiasts and Laguna Seca Recreation Area for a quieter experience. The region's campgrounds typically offer amenities like clean bathrooms, showers, and varying levels of hookups, making them suitable for different camping styles.
How much does camping cost in Monterey County?
How much does camping cost in Monterey County?
Camping costs in Monterey County vary significantly based on amenities and location. Laguna Seca Recreation Area charges $40-50 for dry camping sites without hookups. RV sites with utilities typically command higher prices across the region. Monterey Pines RV Park - Military offers competitive rates for qualified military personnel and veterans. Public campgrounds like Veteran's Memorial Park tend to be more affordable than private RV resorts. County fairground camping provides decent value for central locations. For budget options, consider camping slightly inland or at state parks during off-peak seasons. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer months and weekends, with prices typically higher during peak tourist season (May-September).
Is beach camping available in Monterey?
Is beach camping available in Monterey?
Direct beach camping within Monterey city limits is limited, but several nearby options provide coastal access. Salinas-Monterey KOA offers camping with easy access to Monterey's beaches and coastal attractions. For those willing to venture slightly outside Monterey, Sunset State Beach near Watsonville provides drive-in camping with direct beach access. Most beach-oriented camping in the region requires you to camp in designated campgrounds rather than directly on the sand. The Monterey Peninsula offers spectacular coastal views and beach access from established campgrounds, though you'll need to follow specific regulations regarding beach use after dark. For day use, Monterey State Beach offers beautiful shoreline without overnight options. Beach weather is most reliable from late summer through early fall.
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