Top Tent Camping near Spreckels, CA

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Spreckels? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your California tent camping excursion.

Best Tent Sites Near Spreckels, CA (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ventana Campground

    1. Ventana Campground

    23 Reviews
    93 Photos
    558 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $85 - $105 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

    2. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

    13 Reviews
    70 Photos
    645 Saves

    Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park camping is available at two Environmental Campsites, located on the west side of Highway 1 south of McWay Cove. Both sites are hike-in only and no vehicle access is permitted. These sites are extremely popular year round and usually fill up six months in advance. Reservations are required and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at Reserve California. You may also call toll free 1-800-444-7275. The Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is named after Julia Pfeiffer Burns, a well respected pioneer woman in the Big Sur country. The park stretches from the Big Sur coastline into nearby 3,000-foot ridges. It features redwood, tan oak, madrone, chaparral, and an 80-foot waterfall that drops from granite cliffs into the ocean from the Overlook Trail. A panoramic view of the ocean and miles of rugged coastline is available from the higher elevations along the trails east of Highway 1. No dogs are permitted in the campground or on park trails unless it is a licensed and working service dog.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Manresa State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Manresa State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Manresa State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Manresa State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Manresa State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Manresa State Beach

    3. Manresa State Beach

    7 Reviews
    24 Photos
    281 Saves

    Manresa State Beach Camping is tents only, no RVs, mid-May through September. Parking for over 60 walk-in tent sites at Manresa Uplands is in a separate lot near the campground. Pets must not be left unattended in campsites. One vehicle is included in camping fees.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Andrew Molera State Park Trail Camp

    4. Andrew Molera State Park Trail Camp

    7 Reviews
    13 Photos
    93 Saves
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Uvas Canyon County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Uvas Canyon County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Uvas Canyon County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Uvas Canyon County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Uvas Canyon County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Uvas Canyon County Park

    5. Uvas Canyon County Park

    9 Reviews
    53 Photos
    300 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Seacliff State Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Seacliff State Beach

    6. Seacliff State Beach

    6 Reviews
    2 Photos
    330 Saves
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Carmel River Backcountry Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach Campground

    8. Sunset State Beach Campground

    2 Reviews
    9 Photos
    5 Saves

    South Camp (sites 1-37)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $35 - $335 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock Trail Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock Trail Camp

    9. Castle Rock Trail Camp

    8 Reviews
    18 Photos
    256 Saves

    Castle Rock State Park is a land of sculpted sandstone, lush forests, and sweeping vistas. From one of the highest ridges in the Santa Cruz Mountains, park visitors enjoy hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding. Rock climbers explore the park's caverns and rocks, including the namesake Castle Rock. Plant-lovers come for California black oaks, knobcone pines, and high-elevation coast redwoods. The park’s 34 miles of rugged trails conveniently connect to an extensive trail system that links the Santa Clara and San Lorenzo valleys to nearby Big Basin Redwoods State Park and open space preserves on the Skyline to the Sea Trail. The Castle Rock Trail Camp is open year round on a first-come, first-serve basis. The campground is a 2.5 mile (4 kilometer) hike from the parking area and you will have to carry all of your equipment into the camp. Castle Rock Trail Camp has trash receptacles, bathrooms, and 20 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Wood is available for sale during the wet season. Fires are not allowed during fire season. Camping is permitted only in designated camps. Campers are required to be in their campsites from sunset to 6 a.m. To register and pay your fees, check in at the Entrance Station at the Castle Rock parking lot. If you arrive when the station is not staffed, you can use the self-registration envelopes. Make sure you bring exact change or a check to use in case you must use the self-registration. Place your receipt on the dashboard in a visible place as proof of payment. Rangers will verify payment. For more information about camping and fire closure dates, please call Castle Rock State Park at (408) 867-2952. For more information and reservations for Waterman Gap Trail Camp, please visit the Santa Cruz Mountain State Parks Backcountry Trail Camp Page.

    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $8 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Little Basin Cabins and Campground - Big Basin Redwoods State Park CLOSED FOR FIRES
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Basin Cabins and Campground - Big Basin Redwoods State Park CLOSED FOR FIRES
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Basin Cabins and Campground - Big Basin Redwoods State Park CLOSED FOR FIRES
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Basin Cabins and Campground - Big Basin Redwoods State Park CLOSED FOR FIRES
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Basin Cabins and Campground - Big Basin Redwoods State Park CLOSED FOR FIRES
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Basin Cabins and Campground - Big Basin Redwoods State Park CLOSED FOR FIRES
Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Spreckels

894 Reviews of 15 Spreckels Campgrounds


  • Amy M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

    Amazing

    Camped with family over Memorial Day weekend. Park was busy , but amazing. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. Our camp neighbors were awesome. Bathroom and showers clean. We camp here at least twice a year. Can’t wait to come back.

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Coyote Valley RV Resort
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Coyote Valley RV Resort

    Buttoned up, formal atmosphere RV resort

    High priced. Nice people at desk. Damon who helped us park was very friendly. Almost entirely high-priced big rigs, some of whom seem settled here but it's clean, 'orderly,' very quiet. Rigid rules keep the order; nice that no political flags/signs allowed. 2 dog parks and lots of grassy areas to take for a walk. Showers in locker-room/bldg, bathrooms nice and clean. Green grass. Also has laundry with 2.50 wash and.25 dry for 8 min. Skunk wandered by site in the night. Cool train sounds from nearby tracks at night. Was probably the most convenient to San Jose, otherwise we likely would've been in mtns. and too far away from town for our needs at the time. Would not be a regular choice for us.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Salinas-Monterey KOA
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Salinas-Monterey KOA

    Parking lot with a pool

    Pretty basic place. Level, noisy highway. Very friendly staff clean. I enjoy more of the outdoors so not really my cup of tea. Very narrow spaces.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach
    Sep. 30, 2024

    New Brighton State Beach

    Love it here

    There are a ton of reviews for this place already so I will try to keep it short and only add info that I didn't see mentioned in previous reviews.

    Showers are $0.25 per min ($0.50 min to start).  You don't get to adjust water temp, but it was pleasantly hot. Showers are non-gendered and individual.

    Dump station is no longer free; all California State Parks are charging $10 to dump now, even for campers.  You pay at the dump site with a credit card. There are 4 dump holes and a potable water fill as well.

    We love staying here as it's so convenient to Capitola. We were able to park our RV in Capitola and walk to the shops. We got last minute reservations (it's really hard to book a site here in the summer), but had to move sites in between days, and so we used that 2 hour block between noon checkout and 2pm checkin to drive the RV to Capitola. It seemed like it would have been too much of a hassle to try and get to move to the new spot before checkin, so this worked out fine.

    We love all the state parks along the beach in California, and I'm sure we'll be back at some point.

  • Elizabeth S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset State Beach Campground
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Sunset State Beach Campground

    Quiet nice views

    Campground is quiet except those who run their generators all day and play the radio loud. It is spread out. (But still close, you do see your neighbors.) The camp ground is between fields and the ocean. Site 25 has amazing views but also can be breezy. Or windy. Old but clean bathrooms with coin showers. Water close to sites.

  • CJ S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat

    Not great for the price

    The pictures here are very deceiving. Driving in, the first 4 campsites are occupied by broken down trailers, an overturned couch and broken BBQ pits. We stayed in site #6 which was probably one of the best sites. Great shade and car was able to be parked nearby (you walk down non-maintained "stairs" with rotted tree branches as the steps).  

    Overall, I had high hopes based on the description here especially reading: "Our onsite staff will go around and enforce the rules." but this is clearly a non-maintained campground that was probably very nice 45 years ago. No hiking trails are maintained, the bathrooms are "rustic" which is fine--nice to have running water when you've got little ones to clean. But the floors were rotted and I was afraid we'd step through the floorboards. 

    If you are a true car camper who can lock your doors at night, this is probably the spot for you. Running water, showers and washing machine. If you are a tent camper with small kids like me, this is not where you want to stay. I'm disappointed I paid the price I did to stay here, I'd pay $25/night because this is essentially a parking space in a poorly maintained campground.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

    The Off Season Love Affair in Big Sur

    I know we all rant here about how, “if you can go outside school holidays, you’re in for a real treat!” The most popular places, like Pfeiffer, can be nuts in the high season, although socially, that can be fun, too. 

    However, I have had the nicest times in the Winter here, truly. Christmas, Thanksgiving, special moments. The winter sun and sunsets are extraordinary. The Big Sur community, chill and awesome without all the tourist pressure. 

    Another fun fact… sometimes, when I have come back from a backpacking trip in the area, I will book a day or night, even if I don’t SPEND the whole night, because the showers are SO GOOD. And you know what’s it like to want a decent shower after you’ve been in the muck a few days.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    The Pinnacles are Other-Worldly - this is your launchpad

    I didn’t enjoy this campground for years — I’d always drive home, to my cooler coastal home. It is WICKED hot in the summer. But one time, I joined my daughter, who did have a summer reservation, and I changed my mind! They have a pool! The kids are thrilled! There are beautiful tucked away campsites in the shade, by a creek. Really enjoyed cooking in the evenings outside and settling in. By day, of course, the trails are wild, like a moonscape. In spring, it’s a wildflower fantasia. 

    I was selfishly a little sad when Pinnacles became a national monument, instead of a regional secret. But I’m so glad they got the money, they deserve it! Note: I discovered it because my kids were in rock climbing classes in town, and “this” was the field trip. So exciting to see their first climbing and bouldering outside.

  • Brittanie F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sur Campground & Cabins
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Big Sur Campground & Cabins

    Staff are awful

    Long story short the staff were unhelpful and lied about there being multiple spots open. When we arrived the people in the spot next to us had completely blocked our spot with one of their cars and were using our table. Had to asked a second time to be moved spots and only found out there were available spots when someone without a reservation showed up to registration when I was up there complaining.

  • Jason M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilroy Garlic USA RV Park
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Gilroy Garlic USA RV Park

    Great Layover

    We had a quick three-day trip here to visit family. The pool is small, yet well-kept and we had it to ourselves every time we went each day. The park was perfect for the kids biking around through the short- and long-term areas.

  • Julia H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Sweetwater Laguna Mountain Campground
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Upper Sweetwater Laguna Mountain Campground

    Great

    Great spot. takes like a whole hour to get there. you’ll lose reception about half way getting there (at least with Verizon you will). i went early August and there was only one other camper van. very quiet. AMAZING sunset view. one of the best i’ve seen. just wished there was signal , for safety reasons.

  • Michael O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Mountain Ranch
    Aug. 2, 2024

    Saddle Mountain Ranch

    In between camping and glamping, but somehow neither

    So, if you’re looking to be in nature and have a proper camping experience, this ain’t it. If you want a resort style vacation, this isn’t it either… yet somehow it’s a little of both. I wouldn’t recommend tent camping because you’re literally right next to your neighbor camping and isn’t really in the “woods”. Suggest you get a delux tent which includes a bed, fire pit and bbq. That’s why I’ve rated it high because it’s what I needed for one night. Plus the pull and games (corn hill, ping pong) are nice additions. Just know what you’re in for.

  • Vincent B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from New Brighton State Beach
    Jul. 23, 2024

    New Brighton State Beach

    Good spot with availability

    Despite the website showing every site booked, we drove in about 4 pm to a decent number of sites. Entry ranger was available pretty late. Site was $35 I believe, and has paid showers and restrooms. Site had a fire pit, paved parking for a larger vehicle, table and decent amount of shade. Lots of families and lots of kids. Cool weather along the beach, can't ask for much more.

  • Chris N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Veteran's Memorial Park Campground
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Veteran's Memorial Park Campground

    Affordable Monterey/Carmel Access

    I have family in Monterey, but can't see paying the higher prices for a hotel or home rental when I visit. This location gives you complete access to the beautiful surrounding area at a price that doesn't hurt. Showers, restrooms, tables and fire rings make it really sweet for the family on a light camping adventure. I dry camp a lot, and having the amenities is worth the fees they're asking. Your best bet to get a site is to show up a day or two early, if you can, due to a first come first serve policy for sites. The early bird gets the worm. No reservations can be made.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat

    This was an excellent getaway

    Booked this as a last minute escape from the heat where I live and it didn’t disappoint. Towering Coastal Redwoods provide for tons of shade and really nice campsites. Definitely a dry time of year but there were still some beautiful wildflowers to be seen. There’s a lovely easy trail that takes you to a stream along a mostly shaded path. I imagine that during the spring you’ll get a greater runoff but it was still really nice. Saturday was pretty bust with campers but Sunday was almost all vacant so it felt like I had the whole place to myself and the wildlife showed up. The hosts were communicative and descriptions and directions were great. Zero cell service with Verizon but it was nice to just unplug. I would definitely recommend this one. Happy camping!

  • Laura D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Manresa State Beach
    Jul. 6, 2024

    Manresa State Beach

    Right on beach!

    First time visiting, We stayed at site 63 for two nights June 30 and July 1st. Sites are very private and seperated by bushes and trees. The loading zone was a short walk to our site. It was an easy 5-7 minute walk down to the beach. Beach was clean and not crowded. Beautiful sunset views. Only complaints are that the bathrooms were filthy. One of the showers wasn’t working and robbed us of $2. They need to put a quarter change machine for coins for the showers. We had to drive to KOA to get change to shower. We will definitely come back !

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinto Lake City Park
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Pinto Lake City Park

    Small City Park... Good Option for short and/or Longer Stays

    Small city park with RV Parking on grass between lake and baseball fields.  Sites almost level; however, might need to use a few blocks.  Park was busy with locals using pavilions for birthday and other parties when we visited on a Saturday in June.  Adjacent baseball field was busy on Sunday morning with little league game and parking lot was full.  Cars were being parked in unused RV spots.  Many people were fishing from the shoreline.  Many Candian geese (with poop) were in the dock area and alone the shoreline.  Some ducks made themselves at home in the shade under our RV.  Temperature was considerably cooler versus the very hot temps only a few miles further inland.  Nice that each site has electric / water / sewer hook-ups.  Two rest rooms (one by lake and one by baseball field) were a little dirty due to heavy use.  Unfortunate there are no showers and that you can only walk around perhaps 10% of the lake shoreline.  Quiet at night as they lock the park gate... they give you an access card ($25 deposit req'd) if you need to leave and return after gate is locked at night.  Called and requested my $25 credit after refund was not automatically received a few days later.  Credit was immediately made.  A good option especially if parks along the coast are booked and you want reasonably cool temperatures.  Would stay again.



Guide to Spreckels

Camping near Spreckels, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Pinnacles Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "By day, of course, the trails are wild, like a moonscape."
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campers have spotted wildlife in the area. One camper at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground noted, "Seen a ton of wildlife and overall wasn’t very crowded."
  • Star Gazing: The dark skies around Kirk Creek Campground make it perfect for star gazing. A visitor shared, "Great views. Very dark at night which is great for star gazing."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views at Kirk Creek Campground. One review stated, "small hilltop campground with amazing sunrise and sunset view."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground said, "The bathroom/showers were cleaned regularly and stocked with shampoo conditioner and shower gel."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like New Brighton State Beach Campground are great for families. One reviewer mentioned, "Lots of families and lots of kids. Cool weather along the beach, can't ask for much more."

What you should know:

  • Heat in Summer: If you're camping at Pinnacles Campground, be prepared for the heat. One camper warned, "It is WICKED hot in the summer."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kirk Creek Campground, have minimal amenities. A visitor noted, "There are pit toilets and trash cans, but basically no other amenities."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at California Veterans Memorial Park Campground advised, "Your best bet to get a site is to show up a day or two early."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground that offer playgrounds and easy access to trails. One parent mentioned, "The playground was well maintained and modern."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand is a must. A camper at New Brighton State Beach Campground said, "Bathrooms were fine, no lines ever. Lots of cute dogs."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. A visitor at Big Sur Campground & Cabins noted, "The playground was well maintained and modern."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Mount Madonna County Park mentioned, "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great!"
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A visitor at Kirk Creek Campground noted, "No cell service or showers."
  • Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, arrive early. A camper at California Veterans Memorial Park Campground suggested, "We arrived around 11 and had no problem finding a camp spot."

Camping near Spreckels, California, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Spreckels, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Spreckels, CA is Ventana Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 23 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Spreckels, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Spreckels, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.