Camping in Fort Ord National Monument, CA

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Fort Ord National Monument adventure.

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Stories from the community

Molly

6 days ago

21 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

My husband and I were trying out a camper van rental and driving down the coast. This spot is fantastic - it has everything you would have at a typical campground - except the crowds! It’s quiet and peaceful with pretty views of strawberry fields and Ray and Robin are lovely hosts; they gave us fresh eggs! As others have said there is a beautiful beach about an 8 min walk away that is dog friendly. We would definitely stay there again!

Ginamarie

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

This was a great location and Kim is so nice with the littles. We had a lovely time.

Billy

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Saddle Mountain Carmel

I loved our drive-in tent spot. The accommodations were very nice. Really liked watching the sunset from our hillside spot.

Keilani

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

We absolutely loved our time here! It’s such an amazing spot with so many thoughtful touches, like wifi and cute string lights along the paths. Will definitely be coming back!

Karen

1 week ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

Gracious hosts with plenty of space and a great location! Literally a 5 minute walk to the beach. You have fresh water, power, firewood at your disposal. Would not hesitate to book again, and we will

Sarah

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

This was our second time staying at Kim’s farm and it was just as fun this time around. Our 3 year old had been talking about it non stop since our last visit, so we came back. The animals are always fun, but it is Kim’s hospitality that always stands out the most. Couldn’t recommend more!

LOU

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

Yet another wonderful stay hosted by Kim. Second time back here and we enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. Perfect farmstay for a family!

Christopher

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Redwood Paradise

Great spot. Definitely need a 4x4 to access but quite and beautiful

Ivy

2 weeks ago

15 ft campervan

1 night at 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

We absolutely loved our stay here! Veronica is such a warm and accommodating host who went out of her way to make us feel welcome. The property itself is stunning, a beautiful non-profit space that feels like you have traveled far away to a peaceful savannah desert. We had the best time sitting around a bonfire with Veronica under a million stars, truly unforgettable. The location is perfect, close to Pinnacles National Park but feels worlds away from everything. Totally worth the drive, and we will definitely be back again!

Michael

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

Beautiful serene spot in the woods. Loved waking up to the sounds of nature. Woodpeckers especially. Owls at night. We very much enjoyed the gas fire pit. Burns cleaner and added warmth to a cozy night. Clean site and facilities.

alejandrina

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Camp Jaron

Great stay! The host provided clear and accurate info for accessing the property and using all the amenities. This is an excellent spot for families, swings, zip line, ropes, beautiful views, fire pits, BBQ, lounge chairs, and picnic tables. The place is spacious and peaceful. Just note that a 4x4 vehicle is definitely needed to get there. Would stay again!

Shm

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

Beautiful and friendly!! Thank you so much for having me and for being so kind Its a bit hard to navigate to since you are likely to lose signal but the directions provided were perfect and its absolutely worth the trip !!

Making + drinking afternoon tea while others nap

Luke

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Fern Ridge Camper

Matt's camper was the best experience! I had such a wonderful night with my partner after a great dinner at the local park spot. We kept our night at the fire telling stories of our trip. Thank you Matt and hip camp for the greatest end of summer beginning of fall experience!

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

Our stay was amazing! Matt was very accommodating and quickly responded to any of our questions. It was very fitting for a group of 4 and wasn't too far from Santa Cruz too.

Daniel

2 weeks ago

24 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

Nice peaceful spot. Lots of distance from the other campsite, and a lovely view of the strawberries. There’s a little road noise in the site closer to the road, but it’s only occasional, and not too loud – all the trees help with that. And the location was very convenient for a visit to Aptos. Would come back.

Katherine

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Happy Valley Haven

We enjoy our stay at happy valley haven, the room was very clean and cossy, we loved the outdoor kitchen and the sauna was great. This place is very quiet and surrounded by nature that creates a relaxing atmosphere.

Keli

2 weeks ago

23 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

My husband and I had such an amazing weekend! Robin welcomed us with freshly baked cookies and eggs from her ‘girls’. Robin and Ray are great hosts and have thought of everything for the campsite. It’s well-appointed with water, and electrical hookups, a sink, garbage cans and recycling, a fire pit, chairs and a picnic table. The sites are very spacious with lovely field views and the beach is less than an 8 minute walk. We can’t wait to return!

Adam

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp near Pinnacles National Park

Beautiful scenery, gracious hosts, highly recommend

Molly

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to FEEL GOOD CAMP

Love this campsite! Its secluded and the perfect place to rest and reset!

Andrew

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

This was a great place to tent camp! The directions were clear, and the site was convenient to set up.

Top-rated campgrounds

dabudage Big Sur

95%

(718)

44mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA

DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.

Amaya Creek Redwood Campground

78%

(148)

38mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Los Gatos, CA

Welcome to the Amaya Creek Redwood Campground! We are deep in the Santa Cruz mountains and it’s rustic so be prepared! The road is all paved but it can be narrow, bumpy and steep in some areas. Be sure to follow our directions to bypass the road closure! There is no cell phone service in some areas. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a trash service for the campground, we require all campers to PACK OUT THEIR TRASH with them! We have 40 acres of redwood forest and two creeks running through including the Amaya Creek which serves the boundary of our property at the end of Amayak Creek Trail. There’s also a small waterfall off the Amaya Creek Trail, but it may dry out during the summer. Enjoy hiking, creeks and small waterfall exploration, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, star gazing, relaxation, meditation and more. Our campground has running water from a natural spring, Men and Women's Restrooms each with 2 toilets and 1 FREE hot water shower, utility shed with sink and hot water, and an outdoor amphitheater. The kitchen and washer/dryer is Staff Only not for campers. . Most campsites allow 4-6 guests maximum with 1 car included in the nightly rate. Each additional vehicle is $15 per day and will be added at checkout once you add the correct number of vehicles you will be bringing. Pets are $10 per day, 1 pet per group ONLY. Please add this as an extra at the time of booking, you will see the option to add extras once you begin the checkout process. Dogs must be on leash at all times! Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. No drugs of any kind including marijuana allowed. No loud music allowed. This is a private property so no visitors are allowed, only paid guests. Our onsite staff will go around and enforce the rules. No hookup for RV and trailer, check each site description to see if RV/trailer is ok for that site.

FEEL GOOD CAMP

96%

(292)

28mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Watsonville, CA

This is camping made easy. No need to bring your cooking supplies, stoves, barbeque and dinnerwares ! We have them all. If you like to be social and have bonfire and have a nice chat with fellow campers , this is the place for you. However, if you plan to have a group larger than 10 people please consider The Secret Gardens in Watsonville, they have private sites for group camping. The campground is located in a serene oak grove area of the property. Its a peaceful getaway with an abundance of bird varieties and occasional wild turkeys passing through. Take a stroll around our 5-acre property and catch a breathtaking sunset from the hillside. We're only 11 minutes away from Mount Madonna State Park and just 10 minutes from a local healthy grocery store and yoga studio. The beautiful Pajaro Dunes coastal area is just a 15-minute drive away, and the Santa Cruz Fairground is only two minutes away. Our location is surrounded by family friendly farms such as Gizdich ranch and nurseries, hence why it's considered the salad bowl of the United States There are plenty of activities to enjoy nearby, including horseback riding at Mount Madonna Stable, Mount Madonna Retreat Center, hiking at Mount Madonna State Park, wine tastings at various wineries with stunning views, kayaking at Elkhorn Slough or any beaches, yoga at Watsonville Yoga or onsite, swimming, scuba diving in Monterey, visiting the Hanoman temple at Mount Madonna retreat center, and attending any events at the Santa Cruz Fairground. The property has 3 stalls for hot showers, 1 hand washing sink, 3 flushable toilettes, 1 communal outdoor kitchen with supplies of cookwares, dishes, mugs, glasses, utensils, pots and pans, coffee mugs, and 1 sink with hot water, 3 fire pits (2 of them is fire burning and 1 of them is propane), camping stoves, 1 gas barbeque and there is an electricity in the communal kitchen area. Propane for fireplace is included and Firewoods are available for sale. Board games, Books, Magazines, Lawn games are available as well as drawing papers and coloring pencils/markers/oil paint for our little artists. Your parking spot is within a very short walking distance and there is a wagon for you to use to haul your belongings to your camp site.

Buddha Room RV glamping, Redwoods

100%

(1)

37mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 1 site · Lodging · Felton, CA

This is a peaceful space centrally located in Felton. The Buddha room comes with an outdoor kitchen, a living room, and a shower under the Redwoods under covered patios and pergola. The entrance covered porch can sleep one (in the blow up bed) and is a reading/mediation nook and the 1/2 bath. This entrance has a smart lock code, that you will get in a message. The room is attached to the house on the back end with your own entrance through (covered porch) and sleeps two in the cozy sofa bed. Sheets and pillows are stored in the sofa, lift up the long side and pull out the other to create a bed. You have shared use of the whole back property. The spa studio is locked and has a clientele booked during the day. But if not in use you can lounge in there if you ask or book some healing treatments. . The spa also uses the 1/2 bath on the covered porch. Melissa will give you times when you arrive. Best Solo/Staycation trip This property has been Melissa’s private practice for over two decades. Award-winning private day spa and the most unique experience you will find in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This is going to be an amazing experience and could be life-changing. Want to learn meditation 🧘 Yoga 🧘‍♂️ Get some body or energy work. Get yourself in balance and on the right track. You can sign up for The Key To Life Is Balance course to have these tools after you check out. You will have access to the Buddha Room at the back end of the house. With your own code entrance and room, you have a key. When you walk in, you are in the house's back porch with a breakfast nook and half bath. The bedroom door has its own lock and key, a sofa sleeper, a DVD screen TV with DVDs of 80s and 90s movies and sitcoms. Yoga and meditation DVDs and CDs with a CD player, and massage tools. Outdoor kitchen, living space, and outdoor shower. It’s like glamping but sleeping in a room. See the Spa‘s website for add-ons to spa packages. The neighborhood has a park that is across the street, a great walking loop, and a pool. The pool is only open during the Summer and when a lifeguard is present. You will need me to walk you in. Just let me know if you want to float in our neighborhood pool. Melissa may or may not greet you at arrival.

Felton Open Space Camp Sites

94%

(537)

38mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Felton, CA

Next to Historic Winery in the heart of Santa Cruz Mountains in the quaint town of Felton. Located between two state parks, Henry Cowell and Fall Creek. Just 6 miles, up in the mountains, from the Pacific Ocean and the Monterey Bay. Half a mile from the famous Roaring Camp Railway. Wine & Cider tasting next door at Hallcrest Vineyards; Dine in Felton, hiking, biking and local shops to explore. Please note when booking that each of the sites are limited to 4 adults only. Children are welcome.

Saddle Mountain Carmel

91%

(555)

8.5mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carmel, CA

Welcome to Saddle Mountain, RV and Campground! We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life. PLEASE NOTE, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING. We charge $15 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets. On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation* On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, Foosball table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months. We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests. Thank you!

Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

93%

(82)

41mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Los Gatos, CA

Patchen Farm is a 6 acre, choose and cut Christmas tree farm. Since the farm is only open during the holiday season, in the off season you'll find a working farm (work being done, cars coming and going, etc.). Patchen is located only 10 mins from downtown Los Gatos in one direction and the Santa Cruz beach in the other direction. Perched at the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Patchen offers the scenic beauty of lush redwood forests and views of the surrounding area. There are several wonderful wineries within 5 miles and great hiking and biking trails. The one and only store in the mountains is the Summit Store and just 3 miles down Summit Road. They have plenty of the essentials plus an excellent deli, wine collection and coffee bar. NO CHECK IN OR CHECK OUT NECESSARY NO RESTROOM ON SITE NO ATTENDANT ON SITE WATER and POWER are marked with signs (EACH SERVICE IS $20 PER NIGHT) NO TRASH SHOULD BE LEFT AT THE PROPERTY Payment envelopes at red barn door or Venmo 408-605-1522 Zelle 408-605-1522 Water can be found near the giant wreath just inside entrance and on either end of the red barn. Power is 15 amp and can be found near the giant wreath just inside the entrance, mid-way up the parking lot on the in the wood chips and at the tiny red shack.

Camp near Pinnacles National Park

98%

(472)

37mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Paicines, CA

Started in 2014 by Tim and Michelle Borland and their three kids, the Bar SZ Ranch is a true family business with a mission to help others “forge their legacy.” Set on 2200-acres in its own valley with iconic California oak trees and golden hills; views of the surrounding mountains and Pinnacles National Park; and painted, sunlit skies guests can't get enough of, this working ranch offers unique, getaway camping and glamping experiences for both new and seasoned campers. The Bar SZ Campground is near Pinnacles National Park but relatively remote from other services, which is part of what makes the area so special. It is a place to unplug, share stories and spend time with your family and friends, and explore the wilderness of California. From the ranch: Pinnacles National Park East entrance 6.6 miles Nearest Groceries and restaurants: Hollister 36 miles north King City 28.5 miles south Tres Pinos 29.2 miles north The nearest amenities (stores, restaurants, gas) are about 30 miles away so please plan ahead and bring the things you will need during your stay. We have great service for AT&T on the ranch. Do you have an even larger group? Message us if you have a larger event or are interested in a whole campsite/ranch rental.

Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

96%

(221)

25mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 5 sites · RVs · La Selva Beach, CA

Eight minute walk to the beach! Pet friendly! Welcome to southern Santa Cruz County, home of some of the longest and most beautiful beaches in central California. Enjoy the peaceful view of 300 acres of strawberry fields across the valley. We are located in La Selva Beach, an eight-minute walk to Manresa State Beach. We are a small, working farm with vegetable and flower gardens, chickens and bees. There are many excellent places nearby to hike, walk, surf, swim, tide pool, kayak or just sit and enjoy the view. Our two campsites include water and electric hookups, and are only appropriate for self-contained recreational vehicles and trailers (no tent camping). You will not have another camper next to you! There are no size constraint on RVs or trailers. We have plenty of room for a second vehicle. We do offer a port-a potty. Cell service is very good. The Valley View site can be expanded to two sites, both with water and power hookups. The second site (Valley View 2) can only be booked together with Valley View - please inquire if interested. This is helpful for guests who have separate rigs but want to be close to each other. Our property is a great base camp for your Santa Cruz and Monterey County adventures! We are 15 minutes from Capitola Village, 30 minutes to downtown Santa Cruz and 45 minutes to Monterey. We love to host guests and will provide information about things to do and see in our area. We often loan our State Parks pass so that you can venture out to Point Lobos, Wilder Ranch, Sunset Beach, Natural Bridges and more. There is a Dump station 5 minutes down the road at the KOA (for a fee).

Redwood Paradise

93%

(121)

37mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 5 sites · Tents · Santa Cruz, CA

40 Acres of majestic redwoods bordering Wilder Ranch State Park gives you access to thousands of acres of excellent hiking and mountain biking right from your campsite. Miles of single-track and fire roads in this world-class mountain bike destination lead you through the redwoods to sunny meadows with sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Monterey Bay. Conveniently located above the westside of Santa Cruz, our site will give you easy access to scenic Westcliff Drive, Natural Bridges State Beach, downtown Santa Cruz, quaint Felton, Henry Cowell Redwoods state park as well as incredibly scenic & private North Coast beaches. Please note tent camping is a rain-or-shine activity. :)

Camp Rewilding

97%

(16)

33mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Morgan Hill, CA

Discover our serene campground nestled in the Santa Cruz mountains. Enjoy private sites, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking views. Ideal for your next outdoor adventure! Nestled near Mt. Madonna County Park. Explore nearby attractions like Gilroy Gardens and the coastal charm of Santa Cruz from your peaceful retreat. Amenities include picnic tables and fire pits to enhance your outdoor experience.

Up Shit Creek

95%

(155)

44mi from Fort Ord National Monument · 11 sites · Tents · Boulder Creek, CA

Nestled on beautiful Bear creek. Tent sites are first come first served. Disclaimer: this is not a state park campground or an Airbnb, this is an off grid Homestead and I have lots of junk lying around such as tools, materials, equipment, etc., outhouse/porta potty only. You must take your trash with you. The directions provided by Hipcamp are not accurate. Please contact me the day before your listing and I will provide directions. 12 Acres in the Redwoods. Creekside. We have a private driveway with lots of secluded Space. Lots of chickens. Small campfires available.

Camping in Fort Ord National Monument, CA guide

Overview

About

Start your adventure with a Fort Ord National Monument camping journey. This historic site is an inviting spot for campers, offering rugged terrains for hiking and biking. Not far away lies the breathtaking Pinnacles National Park, offering spectacular geological wonders and a sanctuary for wildlife. Your Fort Ord National Monument camping expedition promises history, nature, and much more.

Nearby attractions

Experience coastal camping at its finest in charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. With its picturesque beaches and quaint village, it's a haven for relaxation. Set up camp near the ocean, explore coastal trails, and soak in the laid-back vibes of this coastal gem.

Experience coastal camping bliss at Fort Ord Dunes State Park. Nestled along the sandy shores, it offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Explore scenic trails, soak up the sun, and let the rhythmic ocean waves lull you to sleep.

Welcome to the stunning Marina State Beach, a paradise for camping enthusiasts. Set up your tent on the pristine sands, listen to the seagulls, and enjoy endless beach activities while creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Immerse yourself in coastal charm at Monterey State Beach. With its golden sands and breathtaking vistas, it's a camper's dream come true. Relax by the waves, explore tide pools, and savor the coastal beauty that surrounds you.

Discover the untamed beauty of Salinas River State Beach, a hidden gem for camping enthusiasts. Pitch your tent near the shoreline, embark on beach walks, and revel in the peacefulness of this unspoiled coastal paradise.

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