The best RV sites near Esalen Hot Springs, CA
Discover the transformative allure of Esalen Hot Springs.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Esalen Hot Springs adventure.
Top-rated campsites near Esalen Hot Springs
Saddle Mountain Carmel
1. Saddle Mountain Carmel
92%
(640)
30mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 52 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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, all our sites are pet friendly, but there are additional fees and size limitations depending on the type of site. Please add to the reservation or message us.
On site seasonally heated pool (Memorial Day weekend in May through October).
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, ping pong 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!
Pets
Full hookups
Pinnacles View - Camper vans only
2. Pinnacles View - Camper vans only
100%
(12)
32mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 4 sites
Looking for your next great stop in your Sprinter van, camper van, or RV? You’ve found it in Monterey County! Park your fully self-contained camping vehicle beside our organic vineyard, just 2.5 miles from the Westside entrance of Pinnacles National Park. You can be at the gate right when it opens and snag the best parking spot without the morning scramble.
After a full day on the trails, return to the vineyard to catch the sunset from one of our comfortable patios. Stay out a little longer, and you’ll see the sky deepen into a canopy of stars — we are proudly in a designated dark-sky zone!
Please note that we do NOT have services on site and you must be in a fully self-contained camping van or RV to stay on site. No tent or car camping is allowed on this private property.
Due to the "no pets" policy at the Pinnacles National Park, and because we have working barn cats on site, we also have a "no pets" policy on this private property.
OUR HAPPY PLACE
3. OUR HAPPY PLACE
93%
(177)
33mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
The property is easy Motorcycle, Auto, Van, Camper, Caravan and RV access from paved road. It's an enjoyable, primitive, quiet place to hang out. Dog and Cat friendly. Surrounded by mountains. Weak to no signal! Plenty of Wildlife with cool and quiet evenings.. The stars will be bright. Rugged setting. Clean portable potty..
Be sure to add some firewood, sourdough bread, homemade jelly, various homemade canned goods, or an off road tour from the EXTRAS tab on this Hipcamp page.
Check out the BACK 40 for an even more remote rugged camping experience.... Hikers welcome.
Pets
Road's End, Bradley Lockwood
4. Road's End, Bradley Lockwood
99%
(352)
38mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Peaceful and private RV camping under the oaks with picnic table, fire pit and Adirondack chairs. We currently have two sites on our property. They are about 300 feet apart and not easily visible from each other. Property is fully fenced; both sites are next to an open field under the oaks with vineyard, olive orchard and mountain views. This property is 30 miles from Paso Robles and almost perfectly centered between Missions San Antonio and San Miguel. Lakes San Antonio and Nacimiento are close by. Coastal towns of Cayucos and Morro Bay are about an hour scenic drive, passing many wineries along the way. There is space for multiple RVs or additional tents sharing your party's RV restroom facilities. Site one will accommodate sixteen people and multiple vehicles. Site two will accommodate ten people and two vehicles. For larger groups we ask that that you book both sites. We have hosted many family reunions and the feedback has been 100% positive. Please feel free to message us with questions.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Smith Ranch
5. Smith Ranch
100%
(114)
44mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV
Settled by Thomas James Lynch in the mid to late 1800's, the Lynch Ranch originally ran sheep along Tierra Redonda Mountain. It transitioned into a cattle ranch in the early 1900's when Archie Smith married into the Lynch family. The Smith family continues to raise cattle on the ranch and enjoys all that the Smith Ranch has to offer. Learn more about this land:Spend a night on a working cattle ranch with history dating back to the late 1800's. Once the original Lynch Ranch, the Smith Ranch offers a primative, dry camp with easy access down a dirt road and plenty of privacy. Tucked back in the Oak trees, you'll have views of Tierra Redonda mountain and the Coast range. (Cow camp is just over the hill from Hearst Castle but takes an hour and a half to drive to the coast and San Simeon.) The ranch also offers some of the best star gazing this side of the Sierras!
Pets
Elkhorn Ranch
6. Elkhorn Ranch
96%
(350)
48mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Five minutes from the beach, Elkhorn Ranch is home to goats, sheep, wild chickens followed by their baby chicks, and a couple of cows, dogs, and sheep.
In addition to the animals there is a greenhouse and an acre of pumpkins, corn, and beans. A small fruit orchard borders the chicken coop.
Anybody who enjoys small farm life and activity will find this place enchanting. Norris and Roberta are incredible hosts and inclusive to any guests that want to participate in farm life.
Close to restaurants and the cute harbor town of Moss Landing, 30 minutes from Carmel and Santa Cruz, Elkhorn Ranch can be a place to relax or a gateway to explore Big Sur and all the amazing hidden gems of the Central California Coast.
After your stay here if you would like to continue your exploration of the coast, we have a partner who does surfing tours between Santa Cruz and San Francisco.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566796147238
Thanks and hope to see you soon!
Pets
40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients
7. 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients
97%
(1147)
49mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
35 miles to Pinnacles, and only 6 miles to Panoche Valley, a globally important migratory bird routes! Dark Skies at night for galaxy cruising and plenty of oak trees for cool shade.
Summer is here! Beautiful warm days cool under the canopies of the ancient blue oak forest. Bring warm clothes and throws to wrap in while sitting by a roaring fire under dark skies streaming planets and galaxies. For daytime, dress in layers. In the oak studded world of the Diablo Mountain Range, the ocean influence sends gentle breezes winding their way through the oaks, offering days of dappled sunshine and nights crisp and cool. Use this as a home base and spend days at Pinnacles, Monterey, Carmel, the Central Valley, and so on or...you can rest and relax the world away, this is a place to regain your balance. Come with your cares leave clear and regenerated. A place to sing and dance, to talk late into the night as the night sky brims over with stars, and the campfire slowly dies. Perfect for group gatherings, and can accommodate your large party as easily and comfortably as we accommodate families, singles, and couples.
What we provide is: outdoor hot shower, flush toilet, clean clear water from faucets, and at your campsite: A fire pit and grill to cook on, picnic table with benches, and the blue oak savanna. Firewood for $15/bundle, fire starters -first two free in the winter then $0.50/each. Our firewood is sustainably harvested from downed trees and branches. We sell it for a neighbor. No healthy live trees are harmed in order to produce firewood. No native trees are felled in order to plant fast growing hardwood for fire or anything else!
Pitch your tent or park your camper amid the ancient Blue Oaks of California. Warm yourself by your campfire as you drink in the dark skies. Shake the dust off your work worn spirit. Let the celebration begin.
Dance to the music in your heart sing along with the songs of the ancients. Regenerate. Breathe and hear yourself breathe. A safe place in the shade of the blue oaks. It's time to take time. Time to play and enjoy with friends and family. A place to bask in opulent starlight and absorb the sounds of darkness.
Brought to you by wildfarmers/spif, an IRS designated 501c3 public charity.
Pets
Nearby Getaway -Dogs Welcome!
8. Nearby Getaway -Dogs Welcome!
98%
(196)
51mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Come to relax in peace and quiet, pleasant outdoor. A short drive away but far from troubles you've left behind! Relax and rejuvenate. The weather is always temperate, sometimes the evening marine layer lavishly blankets the rolling hills like cotton. Evening campfires are cozy and relaxing.
Easy access to Highway 101 for "Nearby Getaways" or convenient stops along your travels.
Nearby attractions include whale watching, Elkhorn Slough Safaris, fishing, Monterey Zoo, world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pebble Beach, Carmel, Big Sur, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and miles of beaches, redwoods, miles of bike trails from the new Coastline Trail to Fort Ord and Niscene Marks Redwoods, wine tasting and more.
Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner. Simply ask for recommendations.
Come to your "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great sky views, and pleasant country walks, or step back in time to the Mission-era town of San Juan Bautista without commercialism!
Well, we do have a gas station, a market, the active mission, of course, a step back in history, a few quaint restaurants, craft beer and local wines in our "one-horse" historical town.
For the ultimate Nearby Getaway book the entire property and bring along your own selected guest list of friends or family. We invite private groups to exclusive use of the property for Getaways, family & friends picnics, celebrations, reunions, even weddings. Day use or overnite facilities. Groups of 1-100.
NEWS FLASH: Skip the long stopover at urban EV charging stations. Charge your EV overnite! Special rates for stopover charging! Easy off and on to Highway 101, 129. 156 and on your way!
Learn more about this land:
This is a large flat site with rolling hills, lovely rural views, rolling oak studded pastureland, open views, lovely sunsets and beautiful mornings. Very quiet, private, peaceful and serene. Afternoon breezes while red tailed hawks ride the thermals, and woodpeckers work on their treasure hoarde. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch!
Wildlife abounds.
Easy access from Highway 101, yet private and secluded. Historic San Juan Bautista Mission and town nearby. Monterey/Carmel 30 minutes. Santa Cruz/Beaches 20 minutes. Hollister, Salinas, or Gilroy 20 minutes.
Site will accommodate RV, Sprintervan, or trailer 50/30/20 amp service. Tents welcome too! Water. Ranch "outhouse" with flushable composting style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity.
Bunkhouse rustic accommodations available. Contact Host for details.
Tent and Car Top Tent sites also available. Contact Host for details.
Beautiful peaceful historic San Juan Bautista. Quaint historic mission town nearby with restaurants. Hiking trails nearby Horseback riding woods & beach. Equine Facilities available. 20 min to beach or redwoods. Beautiful rural area. Weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life; event camp; event site. Family groups and events always welcome! Call for more information.
NOTE: This property is located in a very private country area. It is approximately 8 minutes from the small historic town of San Juan Bautista. We meet our first time guests at the Park & Ride as a welcome courtesy so you can easily follow us in and around the potholes on our rural roads!
Let us know if we can assist you with any special interests or attractions in the Monterey Bay and Central Coast Area.
As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Mountain Paradise
9. Mountain Paradise
89%
(14)
22mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
New Location established 2026 January. Located on Cachagua Road in Carmel Valley. Cachagua means “hidden waters” in native and is inspired by the Carmel River and Cachagua Dam nearby. While 8 miles from Carmel valley village and 20 from Carmel by the Sea, our weather is consistently warm and sunny as we are tucked in the hills and in the Valley, surrounded by trees in Los Padres National Forest. Within a mile from the property you will have access to single track trails that connect via foot with Big Sur and the Ventana wilderness area in the Santa Lucia Mountains. On the property itself, you will have access to an electrical outlet and water hookup. 36 feet wide by 18 feet wide lot. *Gate entry to site is 140 inches wide
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
TOYO FARM
10. TOYO FARM
35mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 72 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Toyo Farm, a unique farm-stay destination in the heart of California’s beautiful Salinas Valley. Whether you’re arriving in an RV, setting up a tent under the stars, traveling in a camper van, hosting a family gathering, planning a retreat, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reconnect with nature, our farm offers a one-of-a-kind experience with plenty of room to explore, relax, and create lasting memories.
Spread across a spacious agricultural property, Toyo Farm combines open land, working farm scenery, historic greenhouses, rustic barns, and wide-open skies to create an experience unlike a traditional campground. Guests can enjoy the quiet pace of country life while remaining conveniently located just minutes from Salinas and within easy reach of Monterey, Carmel, Pacific Grove, Moss Landing, Marina, Big Sur, and many of California’s most popular Central Coast destinations.
RV travelers will find large parking areas with plenty of room for motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, camper vans, and overlanding vehicles. Select sites may offer water, sewer, and electrical access, with easy maneuverability for larger rigs. Guests looking for a simple overnight stop or an extended stay will appreciate the peaceful surroundings, beautiful sunsets, and relaxed farm atmosphere.
Tent campers can choose from open areas throughout the property and enjoy star-filled skies, fresh country air, and a quieter alternative to crowded campgrounds. Wake up to the sounds of nature, enjoy your morning coffee overlooking the farm, and experience the beauty of the Salinas Valley from a unique agricultural setting.
One of the most distinctive features of Toyo Farm is our collection of greenhouses. These structures provide a glimpse into the region’s rich farming heritage and create a truly unique backdrop for your stay. Depending on availability and scheduled activities, guests may have opportunities to explore designated greenhouse areas and experience the farm from a different perspective.
For groups, families, clubs, retreats, and special gatherings, Toyo Farm also offers large rustic metal barns and open event spaces that can accommodate everything from small family celebrations to larger private gatherings. Our spacious property provides flexibility for
Pets
Full hookups
Vineyard View NoFuss
11. Vineyard View NoFuss
75%
(4)
45mi from Esalen Hot Springs · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Vineyard view dry camping minutes away from Lake San Antonio with access to stocked reservoir. A perfect spot for wildflower triathalon campers. Access to porta potty and potential for guided pig hunting with reservation.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Yanks RV Resort
12. Yanks RV Resort
26mi from Esalen Hot Springs
Experience the unparalleled charm of Yanks RV Resort, the premier upscale RV park in the Monterey area. Nestled at the gateway to Monterey, our resort is designed with the discerning RV traveler in mind, offering top-notch amenities and spacious RV sites that cater to all sizes, from motorhomes and fifth wheels to campervans and tent trailers.
Our park features full hookups and generously sized pull-through sites that can accommodate vehicles up to 100 feet long. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, unwind in the spa, or stay active in our fitness center. Additional amenities include a laundry facility, a pet wash station, and a fenced exercise park for your furry friends. Every site is equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV, ensuring you stay connected during your stay. Our RV Club House boasts a kitchen and multiple meeting spaces, perfect for gatherings and events.
Conveniently located on Highway 101 near Salinas, Yanks RV Resort is just minutes away from the renowned tasting rooms of the Monterey County wine region and the breathtaking hiking trails at Pinnacles National Monument. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, local dining, or shopping, our prime location offers easy access to a variety of attractions that enhance your RV experience.
Pets
Full hookups
Fernwood Resort
13. Fernwood Resort
100%
(2)
13mi from Esalen Hot Springs
Fernwood Resort stands out as a unique all-purpose facility nestled within a stunning redwood forest, offering a diverse range of accommodations and amenities for every type of traveler. Our property features a cozy 12-unit motel, charming Forest and Meadow View cabins, and a delightful Redwood Bar & Grill. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of our General Store & Espresso Bar, as well as a welcoming tavern.
For those seeking outdoor adventure, our 60-unit campground is perfect for large RVs up to 30 feet and includes tent cabins situated along the picturesque banks of the Big Sur River. We also offer Adventure Tents for glamping enthusiasts, providing a luxurious camping experience.
Stay connected with our Calendar of Events, where you can find information about weekend music, festivals, and various activities. Fernwood Campground is conveniently located adjacent to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, granting easy access to breathtaking hiking trails and a memorable winter camping experience. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, Fernwood Resort has something for everyone.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Big Sur Campground & Cabins
14. Big Sur Campground & Cabins
14mi from Esalen Hot Springs
Nestled among the towering Coastal Redwood trees and alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Big Sur River, Big Sur Campground & Cabins stands out as a premier destination for families seeking a memorable outdoor experience. This unique campground emphasizes togetherness, offering a perfect blend of nature and comfort.
Guests can choose from RV or tent camping right on the forest floor, where children can delight in inner tubing in the refreshing river. For those who prefer a cozier stay, our charming cabins provide a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors without the hassle of extensive gear or supplies.
In addition to the serene surroundings, visitors can explore nearby attractions, including stunning natural features, inviting swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities. The area is also home to delightful restaurants and shops, ensuring that your stay is both enjoyable and convenient. Experience the magic of Big Sur Campground & Cabins, where family bonding and nature come together in perfect harmony.
Pets
Full hookups
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
O
Owen
2 weeks ago
15 ft campervan
Excellent view in the morning, feels private, and would definitely go again!!
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Adam
2 weeks ago
16 ft campervan
Beautiful place with friendly hosts. I was able to hit the west gate soon after the park opened and I got a great spot at the trailhead. Host was friendly and helpful, great communication and flexibility to make sure I had a pleasant stay.
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K
Kristy
3 weeks ago
16 ft campervan
Incredible stay, everything you need to glamp. highly recommended! do the hike!
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K
Katy
May 2026
20 ft Class B
With pets
The campground was so peaceful. The grounds are immaculate. Shower was clean, Bathroom was clean. I appreciate the dishwashing area and filtered water area. I have a class B so, I was able to utilize the amenities and not use my water or hook up. The pool was heating up for the holiday weekend so I did not use it. They also have a dry sauna which I did not utilize. I tried to modify my reservation quickly after booking to remove a day but you can only modify 1 week prior so I stayed the extra day. I paid 117/night for a week day reservation. Although I loved it, I wouldn’t pay that price for a weekday stay again. The staff and host were very nice and helpful. As someone else mentioned sometimes they are working with leaf blowers on the property -no other way around that and that is why it is so beautiful because of the way they maintain it.
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D
Dan
May 2026
19 ft campervan
With pets
Great site and great staff! Very clean and well maintained.
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Patricia
April 2026
22 ft Class B
Incredible view of the vineyards and sunset. Can’t beat the proximity to the West entrance of Pinnacles. Phil, the groundskeeper was very friendly and welcoming.
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Wendy Carol
April 2026
21 ft campervan
With pets
Individual sites for RVs vary in size but all are well kept and surrounded by lush, flowering shrubs for added privacy. So many beautiful glamping sites scattered about along with lovely scenic gathering spots & a beautiful pool too - they allow dogs everywhere except the playground. The hilltop location offers beautiful views. Clean restrooms too. Saddle Mountain is a great campground.
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M
Michael J
April 2026
28 ft Class C
Great area, wonderful hike, quiet. We would definitely come back.
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Kim
April 2026
19 ft campervan
There are very few, if any, places to stay on the west entrance of The Pinnacles and driving to the east gate where the campground is located takes about an hour. A stay in this vineyard is a perfect t solution and would be a top pick even if there were several options. We left the trails and were at our site within 10 minutes just in time to watch the sun set over the mountains. Choose sites 1&2 for sunrise over the vineyards or 3&4 for sunset over the hills. Enjoy!
See moreA
Andria
April 2026
15 ft campervan
With pets
This was a fun spot! Very reasonable pricing for the amount of amenities, care, and cleanliness in this amazing space!
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L
Lindsay
April 2026
29 ft Class C
With kids
Check in was super easy. We got there right before the office closed and they kindly directed us to our site. The site itself was clean and well maintained with a picnic table and fire pit. Hook ups for water and electricity were readily available (the 30A plug was a little wonky but we got it to work). The overall campground was lovely, nestled among the trees on the mountain. There was a nice play area for kids with a small playground structure and games. The pool looked awesome but it was a little too cold to get in it. We did the hike up Saddle Mountain our last morning and were rewarded with gorgeous views of the valley after 2 miles up. The location is close to Monterey if you plan to do activities there or Carmel. Highly recommend staying here!
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S
Susan
March 2026
25 ft Class C
This is a beautiful campground in the hills of Carmel. We had a great site for our RV and ate dinner outside in one of their gazebos overlooking the valley. Would definitely stay again!
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Eddie
March 2026
14 ft Class B
We were in spot 21, across from the shower and restrooms. The Office isn't far away, but the
Wi-Fi signal was very weak. The shower is spacious and clean. However, adjusting the water temperature is quite tricky. Overall, it's a good place to spend the night.
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C
Charlene
March 2026
18 ft campervan
This was a stunningly beautiful site with great access to Pinnacles NP. I appreciated the greeting from the site manager, and the sunset was not to be missed. Seriously, be sure to arrive before nightfall!
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A
Aaron
February 2026
22 ft travel trailer
Beautiful, somewhat isolated location, very accommodating and friendly staff, and close to everything. We had a great time and will definitely be back.
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S
Sandra
February 2026
14 ft campervan
The location was great with beautiful 360 views, All the instructions were clear and easy to follow! Kristine was friendly and made us feel very comfortable!
See moreL
Libby
January 2026
19 ft campervan
What a truly remarkable retreat! This campsite offers an enchanting blend of tranquility and breathtaking beauty. Kristine, my gracious host, struck the perfect balance between warmth and respect for my privacy, making my stay both comfortable and enjoyable. For anyone seeking a serene escape near the west side of Pinnacles National Park, this is undoubtedly the finest option available. I wholeheartedly recommend it and can’t wait to return!
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S
Shane
January 2026
10 ft campervan
By far the best car camping experience we have ever had. Kristine and the entire team were fabulous - extremely responsive with great instructions before arriving and so genuinely friendly once we arrived. The property is literally minutes from the west gate of pinnacles (unheard of given how remote the park is), and feels like you are already in the park. Vineyards one direction and the mountains and pinnacles the other - we saw four outstanding sunrises/sunsets in just two days. We walked the vineyards and got to learn about the history of the winery from the owners and staff who were on site while we were there - all were incredibly kind and welcomed us like family. We can’t wait to go back and will be recommending this to all of our friends!
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