The best RV sites in John Little State Natural Reserve, CA
Discover the rugged cliffs and conservation history of John Little State Natural Reserve.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next John Little State Natural Reserve adventure.
Top-rated campsites near John Little State Natural Reserve
Saddle Mountain Carmel
1. Saddle Mountain Carmel
91%
(680)
30mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 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 - 2 mi from Park
2. Pinnacles View - 2 mi from Park
100%
(16)
32mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 4 sites
Looking for your next great stop in your Sprinter van, camper van, or small RV? You’ve found it in Monterey County! Park your fully self-contained camping vehicle beside our organic vineyard, just 2 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%
(138)
33mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 18 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%
(374)
38mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 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
99%
(70)
43mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 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
95%
(397)
48mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 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
Song of the Ancients: Dark Sky Camping Near Pinnacles
7. Song of the Ancients: Dark Sky Camping Near Pinnacles
97%
(724)
49mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Dark skies, ancient blue oaks, forest bathing, and birdwatching in an Audubon Important Bird Area, about 40 minutes from Pinnacles National Park.
Pitch your tent or park your camper amid the ancient blue oaks of California. In the oak-studded Diablo Range, gentle breezes wind through the trees, giving you days of dappled sunshine and nights crisp and cool. Warm yourself by the campfire and drink in some of the darkest skies in the state, where the Milky Way, shooting stars, galaxies and even Saturn’s rings are yours for the watching.
Forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) is at the heart of our camping program.
Shinrin-yoku is the Japanese practice of slow, mindful immersion in nature, and a blue oak woodland is a wonderful place to try it. There’s no destination and nothing to accomplish. Wander wherever you want or simply sit under the oaks: the dappled light, the scent of the oaks, birdsong, the breeze moving through the branches. Research links time spent this way to lower stress and better mental and physical health. Also look for signs or ask your host about our self-guided tour.
Bring your binoculars. We’re in an Important Bird Area, and birding here is a quiet joy. Blue oak woodland is some of the richest bird habitat in California: watch for acorn woodpeckers, western bluebirds, oak titmice, California quail, and hawks and golden eagles circling overhead. Whether you’re a dedicated birder keeping a life list or just love waking to the dawn chorus, birdwatching under the oaks fits right in with a slow morning and a cup of coffee.
Shake the dust off your work-worn spirit. Let the celebration begin. Dance to the music in your heart and sing along with the songs of the ancients. Regenerate. Breathe and hear yourself breathe. It’s time to take time, to play and enjoy with friends and family, and to talk late into the night as the campfire slowly dies.
Our four spacious sites each have a fire pit with grill and a picnic table with benches, and plenty of room to find your privacy. We also have a flush toilet, outdoor hot shower, and clean clear water from the faucet. Perfect for group gatherings of up to 20, and just as welcome for families, singles, couples, and well-behaved, on-leash dog friends. Watch for wild rabbits, squirrels, the occasional fox, and listen for coyotes singing in the night.
Our firewood ($15 a bundle) is sustainably harvested from downed trees and branches. No healthy live trees are harmed, and no native trees are felled.
Before you come: we’re remote, and GPS, Apple Maps, and Google Maps are spotty. We’ll send directions right to your campsite after you submit your SmartWaivers, so please submit them before you leave and bring everything you need, since there are no stores nearby. If you forget something, ask Veronica, your on-site host. We can almost always find something for you. Pricing is per person, not per site. Wi-Fi is available if you want it. Dress in layers, and bring warm clothes and blankets for the evenings.
Use us as a home base for Pinnacles (watch for California condors), birding in the Panoche Valley, Monterey, Carmel, San Juan Bautista, and the ocean, or rest and relax the world away, forest bathing under the oaks by day, birdwatching at dawn, and stargazing by night. Come with your cares and leave clear and regenerated.
Brought to you by Wildfarmers, an IRS-designated 501(c)(3) public charity.
Pets
"Mi Querida" -Peaceful, Comfortable, Convenient- Family/Pet Friendly
8. "Mi Querida" -Peaceful, Comfortable, Convenient- Family/Pet Friendly
97%
(199)
51mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The "Nearby Getaway" to relax and unwind. Instant relief from stress and overcrowding.
A calm, private NEARBY RETREAT for people and pets to enjoy a stress-free holiday. Choose your accommodations: Tent, RV, Trailer, Sprinter, Car, Camper, SprinterVan. Or, Rustic “indoor camping style” Bunkhouse accommodations available.
Safe, serene rural setting with full fencing so your kids and pets can run free and relax. Bring your BBQ fixings, kick back, and spend quality time outdoors with your favorite companions. Family. Friends. Dogs OK. Cats OK. Rabbits, chickens, small goats, lambs, parrots and pot belly pigs OK.
Games provided: horseshoes, corn hole, darts, lawn dice, and more. Quiet activities encouraged.
Beautiful 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 hoard. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! Wildlife abounds.
Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Easy off and on to Highways 101, 129, 152, 156 and easy access to Highway 1. Charge your EV overnite!
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, Redwoods, wine tasting and more.
Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner and animal lover! Simply ask for recommendations.
Bring your pet to the "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 History - San Juan Bautista!
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
88%
(44)
22mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 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 long by 18 feet wide lot... that means 36 feet long including trailer and towing vehicle. *Gate entry to site is 140 inches wide
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Vineyard View NoFuss
10. Vineyard View NoFuss
75%
(4)
44mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 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
DeRose Winery
11. DeRose Winery
46mi from John Little State Natural Reserve · 5 sites
DeRose Winery — RV Camping Among California’s Historic Vineyards
Experience a unique stay at DeRose Winery, one of California’s oldest vineyards, located in the beautiful countryside of Hollister. Park your RV among historic vines and enjoy a peaceful vineyard setting while having the opportunity to explore the property’s unique charm, wine tasting, and relaxing outdoor spaces.
Guests will park in designated RV areas surrounded by the beauty of the vineyard and rustic countryside. Take a stroll through the vines, enjoy a wine tasting experience, or unwind on the patio while taking in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic estate.
With its scenic surroundings, convenient location, and one-of-a-kind vineyard setting, DeRose Winery offers RV travelers a memorable getaway that combines outdoor adventure with the character and charm of California wine country.
What to expect
• 🍇 Stay among some of California’s oldest vineyard vines
• 🚐 RV-only sites for a peaceful vineyard experience
• 🍷 Enjoy access to wine tasting and the winery patio
• 🌄 Beautiful countryside views and rustic surroundings
• 🐕 Pet-friendly sites available
• 🚻 Toilet available
• 🚫 No electrical hookups or water hookups
• 🚰 No potable water available
• 🔥 No campfires permitted
Whether you’re passing through Hollister or looking for a unique overnight stop, DeRose Winery offers a relaxing RV stay surrounded by history, vineyards, and California’s wine country charm.
Pets
Yanks RV Resort
12. Yanks RV Resort
26mi from John Little State Natural Reserve
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 John Little State Natural Reserve
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 John Little State Natural Reserve
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
Tom
September 2026
30 ft Class C
Nice campground close to Carmel-by-the-Sea.
We were greeted by the friendly hosts and they were very helpful. Beautiful pool, gazebo and walking trails. We found the Saddle Mountain RV park convenient to downtown. It was typically about a 15 minute Uber to Carmel by the sea.
Highly recommend eating at Hogs Breath and Mission Ranch (both once and currently owned by Clint Eastwood)- excellent food!!
We also took the 17 Mile Dr e-bike tour from the Big Sur Bikes - OUTSTANDING WAY TO SEE PEBBLE BEACH. If you go, ask for Suzy!
See more
Djalma
September 2026
24 ft Class C
Amazing place! The facilities and organization are excellent, as is the location.
See more
Susan
September 2026
19 ft Class B
The land was absolutely beautiful, within a vineyard. Kristine and her parents, who live on the land, were extremely nice, had great communication and were very generous. I would highly recommend this spot.
See more
Alan
August 2026
19 ft campervan
With pets
Saddle Mountain was great! Awesome pool, sauna and grounds. Well kept, friendly folks running it, nice (steep) hike.
Site 11 itself wasn't great. It's small and up against the office. When we arrived they happily suggested we choose another open spot. We took 23, and it was perfect.
See more
MaGro
August 2026
20 ft campervan
With kids
Everything is easy. Easy parking, easy access to pool, restrooms, common area. Highly recommended
See more
Roman
August 2026
20 ft campervan
Beautiful place. Very quiet at night, the staff were very friendly as well! Will be coming back for sure
See moreSuzanne
August 2026
19 ft Class C
It is was so clean, quiet, and serene! We brought our truck and had a tent in the back. The showers were spacious and hot water which we appreciated after a long day. Directions for arriving to the site were easy to follow and we had a wonderful time. Will 100% be staying here again. We came for car week and will be back next car week!!
See more
Julie
August 2026
16 ft campervan
With pets
This was our first time camping in a Winnebago Solis and the site was perfect with hook-ups and a picnic table. We cooked on their bbq stand with charcoal. The bathrooms were clean and convenient to space 17. As it was August, there were a. lot of children and next time I would pick a site further from the pool.
See more
Christina
August 2026
17 ft campervan
A truly stunning 360 view. Spectacular sunset and brilliant night sky. It’s quiet and peaceful.
The inn is a short walk away and you can even purchase the local wine. Great communication with host. Definitely coming back
See more
Llew
July 2026
20 ft campervan
Beatutiful site with everything that I need, hot showers, water, and close to Big Sur and Monterey.
See more
Alex
July 2026
22 ft Class B
Great spot with hospitable hosts. We will definitely be going back.
See moreMichael
July 2026
28 ft Class C
With pets
We really enjoyed staying at this camp site. Staff was friendly and we liked that the shower and bathroom were open all day and kept very clean. We were already discussing the next time we would come before we even left. Also it’s only 20 minutes from the beach and city dining.
See moreMike
June 2026
25 ft Class C
Group trip
Place was booked last min on a road trip. They were amazingly helpful, responsive and caring. Place is a hidden gem !! Will come back again and again
See moreLauren
June 2026
21 ft Class B
Excellent and easy stay! Would definitely come back!
See moreYunnel
June 2026
19 ft travel trailer
We stayed three nights, very clean, quiet. There is so many areas to hang out, lots of fire pits, (gas) the pool area is huge, several gazebos with comfy couches, chairs. We walked on the trail to the top, totally worth it, very nice views from the very top. WiFi is a little weak but wasn’t a big deal for us.
We didn’t interact with any staff personal besides at checking in.
It’s a little tight when it comes to parking the trailers, depending on how big and how many cars are parked on the lot by the time you get there.
In general, we had a great experience, also it’s close enough to the towns to go explore, about 20 minutes from the Monterey aquarium
See more
Adam
June 2026
27 ft travel trailer
This campground is uniquely nestled into the Carmel Valley above the river. We loved the location and being close to lots of things to do and see. The facilities and the site itself were both very nice. The pool is next level, better than any I've seen at another campground. We will definitely be back again!
See moreMonica
June 2026
24 ft Class C
This was a beautiful spot up in the hills of Carmel Valley. Still close to Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur. Everything was lovely and clean. Would definitely stay again!
See moreRichard
June 2026
24 ft travel trailer
With kids
Our family of 5 loved bringing our camper there! Will definitely be planning another trip leaving behind the heat of Southern California!
See more
G. Donald
June 2026
22 ft campervan
This tiny 5-site camping area is unique in that it is surrounded by vineyards and reached through a gate (code provided to guests) then a very narrow private road. It is an adventure just getting there.
It was very hot when I stayed, 98° F (37° Celsius), which probably explains why I was the only camper. The host, Phil, came by to greet me and answer questions soon after I arrived. The temperature dropped as the sun neared the horizon and I enjoyed walking around a bit, wandering through the grounds of the adjacent inn.
The campsites are just level places to park, my van was perfect. It was very quiet and nobody came near me. The peacefulness and privacy was just what I wanted.
This campsite is located halfway up the Gabilan Range, between the Salinas Valley and Pinnacles National Park. Some of the Pinnacles are in view, but the real view is of the Chalone Peaks (within the park) in one direction and the Sierra de Salinas in the other. There was fog in the valley below and a clear sky at sunset. I plan to go back, to experience a different season, maybe harvest time.
See moreRoland
June 2026
30 ft travel trailer
Nice clean camp ground. Nice RV spots, full hook ups. Clean facilities.
See moreReviews for John Little State Natural Reserve Campgrounds
Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.