Camping in Sunset State Beach

Nestled in a breathtaking 40-acre redwood canyon, Ventana Campground in Big Sur offers a unique camping experience that immerses visitors in the natural beauty of California's coastline. Located approximately 65 miles north of San Simeon and 30 miles south of Carmel, this tent-only campground is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, ensuring that the pristine environment remains undisturbed. Each campsite features a picnic table and fire ring, with convenient water faucets just a short walk away. The campground is equipped with two modern bathhouses, providing essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy the privacy of their sites while being centrally located near a variety of attractions, including general stores, restaurants, cafes, gift shops, delis, taverns, and the local post office within the vibrant Big Sur community. Please note that Ventana Campground is exclusively for tent camping. We are unable to accommodate RVs, motor homes, travel trailers, pop-up tent trailers, or any type of camper van or truck with roof tents. Guests arriving with these vehicles will not be permitted entry to the campground. Experience the tranquility and beauty of Ventana Campground, where nature and comfort come together for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Ventana Campground

1 siteBig Sur, CA

24 sites1 acre · Big Sur, CA

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Fernwood Resort

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.

Nestled just one mile uphill from Old Monterey and the bustling Fisherman's Wharf area, Veterans Memorial Park stands out as a serene camping destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This tranquil park is adjacent to the 81-acre Huckleberry Hill Nature Preserve, a hidden gem for hikers and families seeking adventure in Monterey. Veterans Memorial Park features 40 campsites, with 30 of them accommodating trailers. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience. The park also provides essential amenities, including showers and restrooms. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to check the City of Monterey's website for detailed camping regulations and current fees. In addition to camping, Veterans Memorial Park is a favored spot for picnics and can host overnight youth groups of up to 100 people. Both day-use picnic areas and overnight group sites can be reserved in advance. For more information on fees and reservations, visit the City of Monterey's website or call 831-646-3865. For hiking enthusiasts, Veterans Memorial Park serves as the gateway to the scenic trails of Huckleberry Hill Nature Preserve. Access the preserve via the Veterans Park Trail, which runs along

Veterans Memorial Park

1 siteMonterey, CA

1 site1 acre · Albion, CA

Albion River Campground

Nestled along the stunning Mendocino coast beside the picturesque Albion River, Albion River Campground & Marina stands out as a unique destination for camping and boating enthusiasts. This campground is one of only two locations on the Mendocino Coast that offers both sheltered river moorage and direct access to the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal spot for adventurers seeking a blend of tranquility and excitement. Rich in history, the nearby Albion River Bridge, completed in 1944, is the last of its kind in California and adds a charming backdrop to your stay. Located just south of Mendocino, California, the campground is perfectly situated where the Albion River meets the ocean, providing a serene environment for both RV and tent campers. Albion River Campground is a popular annual destination for various outdoor activities. It attracts abalone dive clubs, avid cod and salmon fishing groups, crab lovers, and kayak and canoe enthusiasts. Visitors can choose to navigate the ocean swells or explore the scenic beauty of the Albion River, ensuring a memorable experience filled with adventure and relaxation. With its unique features and proximity to natural attractions, this campground is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Mendocino coast.

Nestled within acres of pristine wilderness, Costanoa stands out as a unique destination for those seeking an authentic California coastal experience. Surrounded by rolling hills and secluded beaches, our campground serves as the perfect basecamp for your adventures along the stunning Central Coast. Our diverse accommodations include cozy cabins, luxurious glamping tents, comfortable lodge rooms, and an inviting RV campground. Each cabin offers breathtaking views of the Chalk Hill Mountains, Ohlone Ridge, or Franklin Point, making them ideal for your next getaway. For a touch of glamour in the great outdoors, our glamping tent bungalows provide the perfect blend of camping and comfort. Each tent is uniquely designed and strategically placed throughout the property, offering a variety of layouts and scenic views to enhance your stay. Our lodge is more than just a meeting space; it’s a hub for inspiration and collaboration. Equipped with all the necessary amenities for indoor gatherings, our outdoor spaces invite you to engage in breakout sessions surrounded by nature. Whether you’re exploring nearby swimming holes, hiking trails, or local shops and restaurants, Costanoa is your gateway to unforgettable outdoor adventures.

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Costanoa Lodge and Camp

1 sitePescadero, CA

Marina Dunes RV Park in Marina, CA, stands out as a premier destination among Monterey Bay RV parks due to its prime location near the ocean and its proximity to a wealth of local attractions. Guests can enjoy not only one of the most convenient RV sites but also a variety of amenities that enhance their stay. With direct beachfront access to the stunning Monterey Bay, visitors are just a short drive away from the vibrant downtown Monterey area. Nestled in the picturesque Marina, CA, and adjacent to the Marina Dunes Preserve, our park is easily accessible from Route 1. This prime location offers direct access to Fort Ord Dunes State Park, where you can explore scenic hiking trails or take a leisurely stroll along Marina State Beach. For those looking to indulge in shopping and dining, a variety of options are conveniently located nearby. Additionally, iconic attractions such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pacific Grove, Pebble Beach, Big Sur, and Carmel by the Sea are all within easy reach. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate that the renowned wineries of Carmel Valley are just 23 miles away, while the breathtaking landscapes of Big Sur are 31 miles from our park. Santa Cruz, with its lively downtown, boardwalk, and wharf, is only 32 miles away, making Marina Dunes

Marina Dunes RV Park

1 siteMarina, CA

1 site10 acres · Sunol, CA

Sunol Regional Wilderness

Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve stands out as a unique destination due to its rich history as ranch land, now transformed into a stunning 6,859-acre wilderness area. Under the East Bay Regional Park District's multi-use land management policy, the preserve continues to support cattle grazing, which adds to its rustic charm. Today, this expansive wilderness attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, picnicking, hiking, and backpacking. It’s important for visitors to remember to bring their own drinking water, as there are no water sources available within the park. The dedicated naturalist staff at Sunol enhances the visitor experience by leading guided nature hikes and organizing special events throughout the year. They also provide educational programs focused on natural and cultural history, aligning with current State Science and Social Science Curriculum Standards for school groups. This combination of recreational and educational opportunities makes Sunol Wilderness a remarkable place for both adventure and learning.

2 sites30 acres · Felton, CA

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Cotillion Gardens RV Park

Campers looking to explore the Santa Cruz Mountain redwoods can spend their nights at Cotillion Gardens RV Park, a rare spot bordering Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park off of Highway 9. Here, you’ll find an array of pet-friendly RV sites, San Lorenzo River-front camping cabins (bring your own bedding!), and four designated tent camping sites with wooden platforms, fire pits, and picnic tables. Take advantage of direct state park access to discover beautiful Redwood Grove Loop Trail and other hiking trails, home to some of California’s oldest redwood trees. RV sites can accommodate up to 6 guests in travel trailers, big rigs, and fifth-wheel trailers up to 36 feet, with options ranging from 30-amp electrical service to full hookups and sewer connections. Standout amenities include a heated swimming pool (May to October), laundry facilities, redwood forest horseshoe pits, and for the kids, a playground and clubhouse filled with games. Choose site #68 if you need pull-through access—also, look out for offseason discounts and even extended-stay RV sites.

Discover the unparalleled beauty of Mt. Madonna County Park, a hidden gem in Santa Clara County that offers a unique blend of majestic redwood forests and stunning vistas. Spanning 4,605 acres, this regional park is a true representation of the Santa Cruz Mountain range, providing visitors with an immersive natural experience. As you explore the park, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking views of the Santa Clara Valley to the east and the picturesque Monterey Bay to the west. The diverse landscape transitions from towering redwoods to oak woodlands, dense chaparral, and serene grassy meadows, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can delve into the rich history of the area, learning about the Ohlone Indians who once hunted and gathered here, as well as the cattle baron Henry Miller, who cherished his summers in this idyllic setting. For those seeking adventure, Mt. Madonna Stables offers horseback trail rides, allowing you to experience the park's beauty from a different perspective. Whether you're hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the pristine redwood forest, Mt. Madonna County Park promises an unforgettable outdoor experience. Come visit today and make it a regular retreat!

Mt Madonna County Park

114 sitesWatsonville, CA

Camping in Sunset State Beach guide

Overview

About

Fall asleep to sounds of the sea at this oceanside campground in Santa Cruz County. The beach offers stunning vistas of Monterey Bay, and the campground accommodates RVs up to 31 feet. The sites don’t offer hookups, but the campground has restrooms and coin-operated showers. While dogs are allowed in the campground, they aren’t allowed on the beach.

Non-campers can pay a day use fee and enjoy a picnic along the bluff. For special events, two large ramadas are available for reservations. Whether you’re daytripping or camping, come prepared because there is no camp store or concession.

Natural beauty is in abundance on this 1.5-mile stretch of beach. This small park provides views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the hills of the Monterey Peninsula. Playing on the beach is a must, but the water has rip currents and deep offshore drop-offs. Surfing is only recommended for the most experienced. Those with a fishing license can fish for surf perch, sardines and striped bass.

Notable campgrounds

Family Campsites: Spacious sites nestled among coastal pines, perfect for family outings and making memories.
Group Campsites: Ideal for larger gatherings, these sites offer a communal experience in a stunning natural setting.
Hike or Bike Campsites: For the adventurous at heart, these campsites reward travelers with a more secluded and rustic stay.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early: Reserve your spot up to six months in advance to secure your ideal dates.
Off-peak planning: Consider visiting during the weekdays or outside of peak season for better availability.
Stay flexible: Have alternate dates ready in case your first choice is not available.
Explore nearby camping options: Look into nearby Manresa State Beach for additional camping opportunities.

When to go

The best time to visit Sunset State Beach is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, the beach's beauty can be enjoyed year-round, with fewer crowds in the off-season. Winter months may bring cooler temperatures and the chance of rain, so prepare accordingly.

Know before you go

Check the weather: Coastal conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared with appropriate attire.
Beach safety: Heed warnings about rip currents and frigid waters, and always supervise children near the ocean.
Accessibility: The park offers wheelchair-accessible features, ensuring everyone can enjoy its beauty.
Day-use fees: A $10 vehicle day-use fee applies, with discounts available for seniors.
Fire regulations: Fires are permitted only in designated park fire rings for a cozy evening under the stars.

95%

52 ratings · 14 reviews

Recommends

· July 2025

Core Memories Made

Tent · With kids ·

Took my two young children here for their first time camping; we live locally in Santa Cruz and wanted to be close to home in case anything went drastically awry. Campsites were great, reservation was easy. Neighbor campers were courteous. Beach was BEAUTIFUL and we loved showing the kids the strawberry fields all around (so they know where their berries come from now!). Already hunting for our next weekend to go back to visit. :)

Kaleigh V.

2 reviews

March 2018

Researching this just now, and noted that the 'Check Availability' link above took me to "reserveamerica.com" - searching for 'Sunset Campground', it took me to: "Sunset campground is centrally located in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in central California's rugged Sierra Nevada range"... a completely different place. Sunset BEACH Campground is a CA State Park, bookable here: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=544

Rob & Anita M.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2017

You're right next to a strawberry field. So cute!

Shaneesa A.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2017

Really close to beach but not so much that the wind whips through the camping area at night

Nate G.

8 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· April 2017

Look at the sites before you pitch your tent! The locations are very different. Also- there is a large hill you have to climb to get to the beach. Be prepared!

Jessica G.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· February 2017

So good have fun!

Nathan H.

8 years on Hipcamp

September 2016

The campground is family friendly. We were 3 families and we shared a camp site and it was easy. The trail to the beach is close by. We were in site #79 and it was an easy access to the beach trail from there. Day time was a bit hot when we went - May. Overall amazing experience... Privacy is not very high here though.

Krishna S.

8 years on Hipcamp

July 2015