95% (5.8K) • 375 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carmel-by-the-Sea
95% (5.8K) • 375 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carmel-by-the-Sea
Top camping destinations around Carmel-by-the-Sea
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Kara
1 day ago
18 ft campervan
What a wonderful stay at the Valley View near La Selva Beach. The location is perfect—quiet, scenic, and just a short walk to the coast, making it an ideal base for beach days and exploring the area. The hosts, Robin and Ray, were incredibly welcoming and thoughtful; the fresh eggs they provided were such a special touch, as well as the abundance amount of fire wood. Another perk is the surf rental shop right on the property.
As a solo female traveler, I felt genuinely cared for and comfortable here. The hosts were very intentional and attentive when needed, while also being respectful of privacy, which made the stay feel both safe and relaxing. Highly recommend this spot if you’re looking for a relaxing coastal getaway with the needed amenities and warm hospitality. I’d absolutely stay here again.
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Michael
3 days ago
20 ft campervan
With pets
Wonderful quiet spot for us and our 2 boxers. The site was well cared for and our host was very welcoming. We would certainly stay here again!
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Maria
1 week ago
Tent
Had a great overnight trip to Matt’s site. Had rain in the forecast and I was able to easily add the canopy and blackstone extras to help us out. Everything was set up when we got there, extra amenities were super great. Very clear directions and communication from Matt. We loved how private the site felt while still being close to the local towns. Site is clearly described in the listing, we had room for the pop-up canopy and a four person tent for the two of us. Even with a downpour, we had no issues with anything. We’ll definitely be back!
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Mohammad
1 week ago
2 nights at Sacred Owl Land
Amazing experience! Great view of the mountains from the Cabana. Loved the deck overlooking the bay (I will make sure to pack my yoga mats next time). I was hoping to watch the sunset from my Cabana but it rained almost the whole day. But the clouds and mist on the mountains were no less of a visual treat. You can watch them slowly move as you sip our tea. I’d love to go again. The hosts were super nice.
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Sheri
1 week ago
10 ft campervan
Everything was great about the location. Easy directions, easy to park and set up. Very gracious hosts. Water and electrical hook ups were easy and plenty of fire wood. We stayed two nights instead of one. :)
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MAX
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Every moment of this trip will be shared on our YouTube channel, AMERSIAN CAMPERS.
If you enjoy peaceful camping, nature, and authentic outdoor experiences, follow us on YouTube and Instagram for the full adventure.
Our recent campground visit was exactly what we needed.
The site was tucked deep in a redwood forest—private, peaceful, and surrounded by nature. Each spot was thoughtfully prepared with a leveled pad for an RV or tent, a picnic table, and a fire pit. Upon arrival, the owner personally greeted us, guided us to our site, and even kindly offered firewood for the evening.
The entire campground felt calm, quiet, and secluded—true off-the-grid relaxation. The owners and their family were some of the warmest, kindest people we’ve ever met. On our second day, they stopped by to say hello and even brought their horses. Our dog was absolutely thrilled to see them.
This getaway was especially meaningful for us during the holidays—a perfect chance to reset and prepare for the new year.
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Chris
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
If you’re looking for the best mountain top sun rise in the Bay Area this is it!
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Helen
2 weeks ago
15 ft campervan
Group trip
I loved seeing the strawberry fields in the distance and the walk to the beach was quick and easy. Our host was friendly and helpful. They provided all the necessary luxuries of camping (water and electrical hookup, porta potty, sink, soap, chairs, table and bench, fire pit with all the wood we could use. I highly recommend staying here. I will definitely return.
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Basit
2 weeks ago
With kids
This was our first time visiting the secret garden with my kids and wife. It has an amazing view and too many stuff to explore truly it was a secret place and my kids had a lot of fun. Open big kitchen fully equipped, clean washrooms and hot shower, fire pit area is amazing and romantic. Overall great place to visit and spent time we will definitely visit again with friends and families.
How can I forget about friendly and welcoming hosts both husband and wife were amazing. Thanks again for the hospitality:)
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Nancy
2 weeks ago
With kids
Hostess Kim has a large collection of children’s playground toys and critters galore. They all enjoyed our twin girls’ attentions. Nice fire ring and comfy cabin with an effective space heater. Then, in the AM you get a beautiful farm breakfast made by Kim. I highly recommend this experience, even in the rain.
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Annelise
2 weeks ago
With kids
This was my family's second time visiting, this time with 1 year old twins, so it was a special and new kind of experience for all of us. It was their first time seeing farm animals and getting to feed them was of course the highlight. Kim makes everything so easy, we just showed up and had a great time! There is even a swing set that soothed one kid that was not so happy at one point. Hard to beat such an amenity when you need it!
We really enjoyed the fresh eggs for breakfast and our campfire time with the smoores kit that we ordered as Extras. The gas powered fire pit couldn't be easier to operate, and there was room for two pack and plays in the cabin. It was toasty warm even mid Winter. 10/10, we will be back!
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Bob
2 weeks ago
25 ft Class C
With pets
The Secret Gardens is a magical place, where you are tended to by caring and attentive hosts. Will definitely stay again!
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Erica
2 weeks ago
With kids
Kim is fantastic! Not only is the room, clean, cozy, and has everything I needed, but Kam is also a wonderful host that provides all of the comforts. My son enjoys the large backyard and animals to feed. Kim is very attentive and asks if you want to participate in the feeding. This is our second time back at the farm, and we already have another trip planned in the summer. This is the perfect getaway to get kids off their screens !
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Sarah
3 weeks ago
25 ft campervan
John was a wonderful host! The campsite was clean, quiet, and the bathrooms were clean!
The site also had a lovely Baba Temple on it that I went to and meditated at. Next time, I’ll remember my yoga mat.
There’s a great little winery/cidery on site too. We didn’t get a chance to go because we had a busy weekend, but will be sure to next time.
Also, their winery dog is super sweet and joined us on some walks around the property!
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Loren
3 weeks ago
15 ft travel trailer
Great setting, quiet, and conveniently located. I felt that I was in good hands with the Felton Baba Temple within 100 feet of my camp site.
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Masa
3 weeks ago
Group trip
I just love this place. I came with a bunch of friends to celebrate my birthday, and the hosts took such great care of us. They even had a special surprise for me, a piano player, to help me celebrate. Very special, magical place, and awesome, caring hosts!
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Andrea
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Great location. Feels like you’re isolated but just minutes to town. We’ll be back.
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Chris
December 2025
Tent
With pets
We had an awesome time at camp rewilding !
We had booked skid camp but unfortunately high clearance 4x4 was needed. My suv was too low for my comfort to keep going ! Haha but we messaged Jessica and she accommodated us with out any questions. Cams place was a nice spot with plenty of space for our family, our pup was able to run around and had the time of his life. We would definitely recommend. Jessica is a great host, we can’t wait to go back !
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Richard
December 2025
20 ft campervan
Beautiful place, it is truly a secret garden! Great location. Will be coming back with all our family and friends!
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Kelsey
December 2025
With kids
Kim was an amazing host for our visit. My kids had a really great time playing with all of the different animals. My son's favorite was feeding the sheep. My daughter loved collecting eggs from the hens. The pictures don't do this place justice, it was a fantastic treat for all of us.
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Camping near Carmel-by-the-Sea guide
Where to go
The Monterey Peninsula
Just north of Carmel, the Monterey Peninsula is ideal for taking in coastal scenery, with numerous viewpoints that look out over the sea—not to mention a ton of golf courses. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium to learn about (and view) coastal creatures ranging from sea otters to sharks.
Big Sur
South of Carmel, Big Sur has a reputation for having some of the prettiest coastline in California, if not the United States. Tent sites are available at many area parks, including Andrew Molera State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, but reservations usually fill up well in advance.
Santa Cruz Mountains
If you want to do some serious hiking or backcountry camping, head north up Highway 1 to the Santa Cruz Mountains. Here you'll find a mix of county parks and wilderness areas, plus plenty of high-elevation viewpoints.
When to go
The weather in Carmel is mild throughout the year, with cool, somewhat rainy winters and mild, dry summers. The months of June through August see the most crowds, but weather in early fall is usually just as warm, with little chance of rainfall. If you hope to see migrating whales, your best bet is to come from January through March, when pods of gray and killer whales pass through the area.
Nearby attractions
Adventure calls at Fort Ord National Monument, a spectacular destination for camping enthusiasts. With its rolling hills, diverse flora and fauna, and an array of hiking and biking trails, it promises an unforgettable outdoor experience.