Tent campsites near Seaside, California range from redwood-sheltered inland locations to windswept coastal options with direct beach access. The region experiences moderate coastal temperatures that typically remain between 50-70°F year-round, with seasonal fog common from June through August. Most campgrounds require reservations 6 months in advance for peak summer periods, particularly those near Highway 1.
What to do
Hike the waterfall trails: Uvas Canyon County Park, located 65 miles northeast of Seaside, offers multiple waterfall hikes suitable for all levels. "The trails are narrow and steep at some places but mostly shaded. Small waterfalls are the highlights of the trail, but kids will enjoy playing in the water on hot days," notes Mon M. about the park's accessible nature trails.
Explore coastal caves and beaches: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground provides tent sites near excellent beach access points. "Many sites all nestled with the trees and foliage creating a private feel. Many things to see and do along Hwy 1 here in Big Sur," explains Mike M., who visited the park in 2025.
Stargaze from open meadows: Andrew Molera State Park Campground features tent sites in an open field area with minimal light pollution. "A great view of the sky and stars if it's not cloudy. Saw quails and deer around the campground," reports Sasha N., highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities.
Winter camping: Most tent camping areas near Seaside remain open year-round, though winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain. "We arrived in early March without a reservation, and found many open sites, some (like the one we snagged) right on the river," says Patrick M. about off-season availability at Pfeiffer Big Sur.
What campers like
Secluded redwood settings: Ventana Campground offers tent sites under old-growth 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," shares Carolyn W., who enjoyed the forested setting.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds provide natural vegetation barriers. "The sites were nicely maintained. Plenty of area to pitch a tent, all the sites have a BBQ, fire pit, and picnic table," notes DEREK B. about Uvas Canyon, though he cautions that some sites are close together.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain regular bathroom cleaning schedules. "The bathrooms are great," remarks Allison G. about Ventana, despite finding the campsites themselves too cramped for her preference.
Wildlife viewing: Tent campers frequently report wildlife sightings. "Saw quails and deer around the campground," mentions a reviewer at Andrew Molera, while others report seeing everything from raccoons to foxes and non-venomous snakes at various parks in the region.
What you should know
River crossings affect access: Seasonal water levels impact some backcountry sites. At Carmel River Backcountry Camp, "the trail is pretty easy to follow, but crosses the river/creek extremely frequently. I had to cross the river about 50 times in a weekend in an out & back trip," reports Austin C., highlighting the importance of checking conditions before departure.
Reservation challenges: Popular tent camping areas book quickly. "The only con is that is very very hard to book, as everyone wants to be there!" explains Kalai L. about Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Fog and wind: Coastal tent sites experience significant wind and fog, particularly in summer. "Wind can be significant at coastal tent campgrounds, so proper tent staking and wind-resistant gear is recommended," advises a seasoned camper about coastal sites.
Bear boxes required: Most campgrounds provide food storage boxes. "Firepts, picnic tables, and food storage boxes at all sites," confirms Sasha N. about Andrew Molera State Park, as proper food storage is mandatory throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Easy tent access: Choose campgrounds with minimal walking distance. "The loading zone was a short walk to our site. It was an easy 5-7 minute walk down to the beach," reports Laura D. about Manresa State Beach Campground, making it suitable for families with young children.
Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds offer shallow creek access. "The campsites we had were great. 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," shares Grace M. about her family's experience at Pfeiffer Big Sur.
Winter camping with kids: Off-season camping offers quieter experiences. "During less crowded times (winter) this campground is one of the best. Extremely beautiful & peaceful surroundings," recommends Tom and Marianne H. about Uvas Canyon County Park.
Plan for exposed sites: Bring portable shade for meadow campsites. "Most sites are very exposed, I would bring extra shade for your site if you'll be here in the summer," advises Sasha N. about the open field setting at Andrew Molera.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most tent campgrounds have strict RV limitations. At Butano State Park, "The campsite has car camping and walk-in sites... Overall, the sites are spaced apart nicely," notes Kathleen C., emphasizing the focus on tent camping rather than RVs.
Parking considerations: Tent sites often have limited parking space. "If you have a roof top tent, we scoped out a few sites which are more flat, and also have the picnic table near the parking spot. They are: 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, and 12," advises Kyle H. about Uvas Canyon County Park.
Supply runs: Remote tent camping areas require planning. "Get any supplies you will need before you head out, as it is a long, winding drive to the campground and there is no cell service (at least for ATT) when you are there," warns Darin D., highlighting the importance of advance preparation.
