Camping with kids is a chance to unplug, explore, and create lasting family memories. Monterey County is home to five family-friendly campgrounds, offering the perfect mix of outdoor fun and modern comfort. Plus, we include a bonus campground in Santa Cruz County.
Whether you’re looking for a coastal breeze, redwood shade, or a wide-open space for the kids to run free, there’s a campground to match your family’s style.
Family Camping Made Easy
Getting kids outside helps everyone reset. No need for schedules—just campfires, s’mores, and star-filled nights. Camping builds confidence, encourages curiosity, and gives children the freedom to explore at their own pace. It’s also an affordable family getaway that doesn’t require a long flight.
Monterey County makes it especially easy with accessible sites, clean facilities, and diverse terrain—from beachside sites to forested hideaways.
Top Family-Friendly Campgrounds in Monterey County
1. Veterans Memorial Park – Monterey
- Located just minutes from downtown Monterey
- Forested setting with hiking trails and a playground
- Restrooms and showers on-site
- Ideal for first-timers or short weekend trips
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2. Laguna Seca Recreation Area – Salinas
- Spacious campsites with scenic valley views
- Wide-open areas and trails perfect for kids
- Bonus: Raceway events on select weekends
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3. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park – Big Sur
- One of the most iconic camping spots on the Central Coast
- Towering redwoods, river access, and easy family hikes
- Sites fill up fast—reserve early, especially in summer
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4. Andrew Molera State Park – Big Sur
- Walk-in campsites provide more privacy and a rustic experience
- Less crowded than neighboring parks
- Tide pools, hiking trails, and the Big Sur River for kids to explore
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5. Lake San Antonio – South Monterey County
- Great for boating, swimming, fishing, and wildlife spotting
- Kid-friendly trails, shaded oak groves, and year-round outdoor fun
- RV hookups, restrooms, showers, and marina amenities available
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6. Sunset State Beach – Watsonville (just north of Monterey County)
- Huge beach with dramatic sand dunes
- Campsites nestled in coastal scrub, a short walk to the ocean
- Perfect for building sandcastles and flying kites
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What to Look for in a Kid-Friendly Campground
- Restrooms and running water: Essential for young kids
- Short trails and open play space: Safe areas to explore
- Close to home: Great for younger children or first-time campers
- BONUS! Campground amenities: Playgrounds, ranger programs, and nature centers enhance the experience
Pack the S’mores and Get Outside
Camping with kids doesn’t have to be complicated. Monterey County offers a variety of easy-to-access, family-friendly options that make outdoor adventures fun and doable. With a little planning, some marshmallows, and an extra change of clothes, you’ll be ready for a trip your family won’t forget.
So grab that sleeping bag, load up the cooler, and hit the road—it’s camping season.
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