Veteran's Memorial Park Campground offers tent and RV camping on 40 acres of pine forest less than a mile from downtown Monterey. Sites sit between 160-200 feet elevation with average overnight temperatures in the 50s throughout most of the year. The first-come, first-served camping area requires cash payment upon arrival, with most sites suitable for smaller recreational vehicles and all tent configurations.
What to do
Trail access from camp: Hike the moderate 1.2-mile Skyline Nature Trail directly from Veteran's Memorial Park Campground for panoramic views. "We arrived the Friday afternoon before Memorial Day, all campsites were full but the host was kind enough to allow us to use the overflow spot. It has the basics," notes Lauren C.
Explore tidepools: Drive 15 minutes to Asilomar State Beach where low tide reveals rich marine ecosystems. The beach extends 0.75 miles with several rocky outcrops perfect for exploration. "Short and sweet... Grateful for this little spot," shared bianca B., who used Veteran's Memorial Park as a convenient base for coastal adventures.
Golf course proximity: Laguna Seca Recreation Area campers can watch racing action from many sites. "We love staying here for the views, of both the landscape and the race track. Even when there's not a big event here, there's often car clubs out on the track. For race fans, that's eye candy!" reports Coral C.
What campers like
RV accessibility at airport location: Monterey County Fairgrounds provides paved sites within 2.5 miles of the waterfront. "Upper sites asphalt paved gently sloped for runoff. Two sites share one electrical box... bring 50A / 30A adapters just in case," advises Leonard H., adding that this location offers "basic parking space with hook-ups that is close to Monterey."
Secluded tree-lined sites: Saddle Mountain Ranch features campsites cut into hillsides with privacy walls between neighbors. "Our site on the hill was breathtaking views and extremely private," says Care B., who appreciated that staff were "helpful but not intrusive."
River access at campsite: "Camping in the trees, with some sites right on the river. We arrived in early March without a reservation, and found many open sites, some (like the one we snagged) right on the river," shares Patrick M. about Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground, noting its peaceful setting about 45 minutes south of Seaside.
What you should know
Cash or check only: Several campgrounds require non-electronic payment methods. "This campground requires cash or cheque payment. It's at the top of a hill so make sure you're prepared before arrival. Also not suitable for RV's over 20ft," warns Katherine J. about Veteran's Memorial Park.
Airport noise levels: Proximity to Monterey Regional Airport affects certain campgrounds during daylight hours. "The airport shoots out a few jets and prop planes per hour. Noise is tolerable," notes a reviewer at Monterey Pines RV Park, where flights typically cease by 9:00 pm.
Non-potable water: Laguna Seca Recreation Area provides hook-ups but no drinking water. "All of the available water is non-potable due to the level of arsenic. There are hot showers, picnic benches at each site and some sites are pull-through," explains HandL C., suggesting campers bring their own drinking water supply.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Carmel by the River RV Park welcomes children with designated play areas. "Friendly reception. Clean showers and bathrooms. Dog and kid friendly. Beautiful gardens," reports Sherry F., making it suitable for overnight stays while exploring Monterey Bay.
Beach camping options: "We stayed here for three nights and it was beautiful! You can walk down to the beach, take a trip to the henry cowel redwoods, go ride bikes in santa cruz," shares Tiffany W. about Sunset State Beach, though reminding visitors not to "let your kids pick flowers. Do not hang things on trees."
Heated pool amenities: Saddle Mountain Ranch offers summer swimming options. "Lots of activities for younger kids. Convenient location, lots of amenities," notes Tim F., who stayed in a cabin that was "super nice to stay in after a week of car camping! Kitchenette, bathroom, hot water. Perfect."
Tips from RVers
Tight entry roads: Narrow access roads affect several dog friendly campgrounds near Seaside. "The road in is basically a one lane road. Pray you don't encounter oncoming traffic," advises Dave N. about Carmel by the River RV Park, though he found the sites nicely separated with "hedges between the sites."
Proximity to wildlife viewing: Moss Landing KOA Express positions campers near marine habitats. "Located as close to the water as you can get. It literally shares a wall with the boat docks and boat dock parking. You can see the sandy beach across the street," explains stephanie, who notes campers "are minutes from launch points for both power or paddle sports."
RV size limitations: Many local campgrounds restrict larger rigs. "This place is okay it's just small and loud. It's hard to get bigger Rv's into spots. We have a 35' 5th wheel and there are only some spots that will fit it," cautions Tonya C. about Marina Dunes RV Park, recommending sound machines for highway noise.
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