Previously called East Monterey, the coastal community of Seaside stretches along the northeastern edge of Monterey until the municipalities seamlessly blend together. The destination borders Fort Ord Dunes State Park, a converted military installation boasting an expansive 4-mile stretch of shoreline, observation deck with panoramic ocean views, and educational exhibits detailing the area's history. This vibrant coastal town serves as an ideal launching point for discovering the Monterey Bay region, with numerous private camping locations available in the surrounding inland areas.
Camping Near Seaside
Embrace the Rugged Beauty of Seaside's Dramatic Coastal Cliffs - Pitch Your Tent and Let Adventure Unfold.
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The 5 best campgrounds near Seaside, CA
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Limekiln State Park
Big Sur, CA
Limekiln State Park offers a tranquil camping experience with stunning redwood groves and easy access to the Big Sur coast.
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Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Big Sur, CA
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a scenic gem with campsites nestled among towering redwoods and the Big Sur River.
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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Big Sur, CA
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers secluded campsites nestled among towering redwoods with access to scenic hiking trails winding along rugged coastal cliffs and secluded coves boasting pristine sandy beaches.
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Fremont Peak State Park
San Juan Bautista, CA
Nestled in the rugged Gabilan Mountains Fremont Peak State Park boasts panoramic vistas winding hiking trails through diverse habitats and tranquil campsites tucked away amidst towering oak trees and chaparral-covered slopes.
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Veteran's Memorial Park
Monterey, CA
Veteran's Memorial Park boasts a scenic coastal location offering campsites amidst lush greenery and tranquil trails complete with modern facilities and proximity to Monterey's beaches aquarium and historic sites.
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Camping near Seaside guide
The Monterey Peninsula
Venture south of Seaside to experience the captivating Monterey Peninsula's countless attractions, including the spectacular coastal drives and historic Point Pinos Lighthouse, which has guided ships since 1855. Make time to explore Carmel, situated at the peninsula's southern tip, where you can discover an authentic 18th-century mission or wander the charming streets lined with whimsical fairy-tale architecture.
The San Francisco Peninsula
Head northward to discover the San Francisco Peninsula's diverse coastline, where dramatic rocky shores alternate with gentle sandy beaches, all sheltered by majestic redwood forests. While perfect for day excursions from Seaside, the region's numerous state parks offer such excellent camping opportunities that you might be tempted to extend your stay.
California's Central Coast
The magnificent California coast stretches from Monterey Bay down to Ventura County, renowned for its stunning year-round campground beaches and acclaimed wine regions. Just a brief drive south, the iconic Big Sur coastline presents some of the most breathtaking vistas in the region, complemented by verdant forests crisscrossed with hiking trails and dotted with scenic camping locations.
Similar to its neighbor Monterey, Seaside enjoys temperate weather and welcomes visitors throughout all seasons. Peak crowds arrive during summer weekends, while the renowned Monterey Jazz Festival draws thousands of music enthusiasts during the third weekend of September. Winter months offer a special attraction as migrating whales make their seasonal journey past the coastal waters.