Monterey Veterans Memorial Park Camping Guide 2025

If you’re looking for a quiet, budget-friendly spot to camp with easy access to the beauty of Monterey, Veterans Memorial Park might just be what you need. Perched above the city and just a short drive from the coast, this urban park offers a peaceful forested setting without requiring you to head deep into the backcountry.

We recommend this park for campers who want to explore the Monterey Bay Area—think Cannery Row, the aquarium, and the 17-Mile Drive—without paying for a pricey hotel. What makes Veterans Memorial Park stand out is its accessibility, low cost, and the feeling of being tucked away in the woods while still close to town. You can wake up to birdsong, sip your coffee under the shade of tall trees, and then drive down the hill to watch sea otters bob in the harbor. It’s that kind of balance that makes this place a local gem.

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How to Get There

Veterans Memorial Park is located just a couple of miles up the hill from downtown Monterey, California. It’s set within a wooded area near the top of Skyline Drive, in a quiet residential neighborhood. You’ll feel like you’re leaving the city behind, even though it’s only a 5-minute drive from Cannery Row.

Driving Directions:

• From Downtown Monterey, take Pacific Street up toward Skyline Forest. Pacific turns into Jefferson Street, and then you’ll merge onto Skyline Drive. The park entrance is clearly marked, and the campground is at the top of the hill.
• From Highway 1, take the Munras Ave exit and follow signs toward Veterans Memorial Park.

There’s a small parking area near the top of the park by the campground. If you’re just hiking or visiting the day-use area, street parking is also available nearby. Overnight campers will want to park right near their site once they’ve secured a spot.

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Permits and Fees

One of the biggest benefits of camping here is that it’s city-managed and very affordable—especially compared to coastal campgrounds in the region. Here’s what you need to know:

• Fee: As of the latest update, the cost is $35 per night per campsite. This includes vehicle parking and use of the facilities.
• Reservations: Currently, it’s first-come, first-served. No online booking system is in place. That said, the campground does fill up on weekends and during summer holidays, so arriving early in the day is a good idea.
• Stay Limit: There’s a maximum stay of 14 days in a 30-day period.
• Check-in/Check-out: Official check-in time is 2 PM, and check-out is by noon.
• Permits: No separate permit is needed beyond paying the nightly fee. You’ll receive a tag for your site and dashboard.

Always check with the City of Monterey Parks Division before your visit to confirm any changes in fees or policies—they’ve been known to adjust things seasonally or during special events.

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Camping Rules and Regulations

While this is a developed campground and not a backcountry site, it still operates under a set of straightforward rules aimed at keeping the area clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

• Campfires: Yes, campfires are allowed—but only in the designated fire pits provided at each site. No ground fires. Firewood collection from the park is not allowed, so bring your own (or buy it nearby).
• Dispersed Camping: Not allowed here. You must stay in a designated site. Veterans Memorial Park does not offer backcountry or hike-in camping options.
• Group Size: Each site allows up to 6 people and 1 or 2 small tents. Larger groups need to reserve multiple sites.
• Quiet Hours: From 10 PM to 6 AM. This is strictly enforced.
• Pets: Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash at all times and cleaned up after.
• Trash & Waste: There are dumpsters and recycling bins near the entrance, but it’s best to pack out what you pack in. Bathrooms with flush toilets are available, but there are no showers.

We’d suggest practicing basic Leave No Trace principles even in this semi-urban setting. Don’t leave food out, respect wildlife (you may spot deer here), and keep your site tidy for the next camper.

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Best Camping Spots and Recommendations

The campground at Veterans Memorial Park includes about 40 campsites, arranged in a loop through a grove of mature oak, pine, and eucalyptus trees. Most are fairly level, shaded, and set back enough from the road to feel semi-private.

Here’s what we’d recommend based on current conditions and layout:

• For more privacy: Try to grab a site at the far end of the loop, especially on the eastern edge. These are more tucked away and tend to be quieter, especially during weekdays.
• For proximity to facilities: Sites near the parking lot and restrooms are more convenient if you’re camping with kids or have a lot of gear. But keep in mind these areas can be a bit busier.
• For tent campers: The ground is mostly soft and flat, making it easy to stake down your tent. Some sites are larger and have better tree cover—look for sites with both sun and shade depending on the season.

Typical crowd levels:

• Weekdays: Usually calm, especially outside of summer.
• Weekends: It fills up fast—especially spring through early fall. If you’re coming on a Friday or Saturday, aim to arrive before noon to increase your chances of getting a spot.

While this isn’t a wild backcountry experience, we still think it’s a great pick if you’re looking for a clean, low-key, and scenic place to camp within city limits. And being just a few minutes away from a world-famous coastline? That’s a huge bonus.

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Hiking Trails and Routes

If you’re planning to camp at Monterey Veterans Memorial Park, we definitely recommend setting aside time to explore the hiking trails right from your campsite. The park isn’t massive, but it’s got a nice network of scenic trails that wind through oak woodlands, coastal pines, and eucalyptus groves.

The main trail loop starts near the parking lot and winds through the park for about 1.5 miles round-trip, depending on your route. The trails are mostly dirt, well-maintained, and suitable for beginners or families with kids. You’ll get occasional glimpses of the Monterey Bay, especially if you take one of the upper ridge paths.

If you’re up for a longer hike, you can connect to the Huckleberry Hill Natural Area or even make your way down toward downtown Monterey via Skyline Drive and nearby residential paths. It’s a steep descent, but walkable—just keep in mind the uphill trek back.

Trail maps are posted near the entrance and campground bulletin board. We’d suggest snapping a photo or using an offline trail map app before heading out, just in case.

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Packing List and Gear Guide

Even though you’re not far from civilization here, it’s still camping—and you’ll want to be prepared. Here’s a practical packing list that fits the park’s terrain and typical weather conditions:

Essentials to Bring:

• Tent and ground tarp – Some sites can have slightly uneven or root-covered ground. A tarp helps protect your gear and adds comfort.
• Sleeping bag + pad – Nights can dip into the 50s, even in summer, so don’t skimp on insulation.
• Layers – Fog, wind, and sun can all hit in the same day. A lightweight hoodie or fleece and a windbreaker come in handy.
• Headlamp or flashlight – There’s no campground lighting after dark.
• Bug spray – Not a huge mosquito problem, but gnats and flies can show up depending on the season.

If You Plan to Hike:

• Trail shoes or hiking sandals – Most trails are soft dirt with occasional roots and rocks.
• Small daypack – For water, snacks, and a light jacket.
• Sun protection – Even if it’s foggy, the UV still cuts through. Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen are a must.

Water and Filtration:

While the park has restrooms and faucets, don’t count on filtered drinking water—especially during drought months. We recommend bringing at least 1-2 gallons per person per day, plus a basic filtration bottle or water treatment tablets if you plan to use onsite sources (which can sometimes be turned off or low-pressure).

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Water and Food Tips

Veterans Memorial Park is city-managed, but it still feels rustic—and there’s no potable water guarantee at the campsites. There are a few spigots around the campground, but the water quality and availability can vary depending on drought conditions and maintenance schedules.

To play it safe, we suggest:

• Bringing your own jugs of drinking water—especially in summer or if staying multiple nights.
• Carrying a small water filter (like a LifeStraw or Sawyer Mini) just in case you need to refill from nearby spigots or natural runoff areas.
• For cooking, having a camp stove or portable propane grill is more reliable than depending on a fire ring. Open fires may be restricted during high fire-risk periods.

For food, we recommend the basics:

• Cooler with ice or reusable freezer packs
• Bear-proof containers aren’t required, but do store food in your vehicle overnight to avoid curious raccoons and squirrels.
• Dry snacks, like trail mix, protein bars, and dried fruit, are perfect for daytime hikes.

There are grocery stores just a 5- to 10-minute drive away in Monterey and Pacific Grove, so if you forget something, it’s not the end of the world.

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Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips

The weather here can feel unpredictable if you’re not familiar with coastal California. Even in the middle of summer, it’s not unusual to wake up to fog or need a jacket in the evening.

Best Months to Camp:

• Late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) are ideal. You’ll get cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and thinner crowds.
• Summer (July to August) is busier and foggier, especially in the mornings. Still pleasant, but bring layers and expect cooler mornings.
• Winter (November to March) can be hit or miss. Rain is common, and campsites may be muddy or closed during storms. That said, you’ll find peace and quiet if you don’t mind a bit of dampness.

Bug and Animal Notes:

• Mosquitoes aren’t a huge problem, but gnats and flies show up around fallen leaves or standing water. A good natural repellent or DEET spray helps.
• You might hear or see raccoons and deer, especially around dusk. Just keep food secure and you’ll be fine.

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Safety and Navigation

Even though you’re camping just minutes from downtown, it’s still smart to be aware of your surroundings. You’re in a wooded area with changing weather, uneven trails, and limited after-dark visibility.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Let someone know your plans, especially if you’re going off the main trail system. While cell coverage is decent near the parking lot, it can be spotty deeper in the trees or along ridge trails.
• Bring a basic first aid kit. Blisters, splinters, and mild scrapes are more common than you’d think, especially if you’re hiking in sandals or shorts.
• Avoid wandering at night. Stick to your campsite after dark. The trail signage is minimal and easy to miss once the sun’s down.
• Pack a paper map or download offline trail maps. It’s easy to get turned around in the eucalyptus groves and back trails.
• Fire safety: Check local fire regulations before you light anything. Even when fire rings are available, bans can be in place during dry spells.

Camping here gives you a taste of the wild without the full backcountry commitment, but we still recommend coming prepared and treating it with the same respect you’d give any other wilderness area.

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Leave No Trace Principles

One of the things we really appreciate about Monterey Veterans Memorial Park is how natural it still feels—even though it’s so close to town. To help keep it that way, it’s important that we all follow Leave No Trace principles when camping here.

Here’s how we’d recommend applying them during your stay:

• Pack it in, pack it out: There are trash bins at the park entrance, but it’s best to bring your own small trash bag and take everything with you. Don’t leave food scraps, wrappers, or even biodegradable waste like orange peels behind.
• Stay on existing trails and campsites: Don’t create new paths or clear new areas for tents. Stick to established sites to avoid damaging native plants and roots.
• Respect wildlife: You might see deer, squirrels, and raccoons. Don’t feed them and make sure all food is sealed and stored. Animals that associate humans with food often become aggressive—or end up relocated.
• Use a camp stove instead of building fires: Fire restrictions are often in place, especially during dry months. Even when fires are allowed, it’s better to use a stove to minimize impact and reduce risk.
• Minimize noise: Sound carries easily through the trees. Keep music and conversations low, especially in the evening.
• Leave what you find: Resist the urge to collect pinecones, feathers, or plants. Take photos, not souvenirs.

It’s all about leaving the area looking like no one was there—so others can enjoy it just as much.

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Nearby Attractions

If you’re staying at the park, you’re perfectly placed to explore Monterey and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re into nature, history, or coastal views, there’s something worth seeing nearby.

Here are a few places we’d suggest checking out:

• Cannery Row & Monterey Bay Aquarium: Just a 10-minute drive from the campground. You can explore shops, eat fresh seafood, or spend hours at one of the best aquariums in the country.
• 17-Mile Drive: This scenic coastal route winds through Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. Perfect for an afternoon drive or short hikes along the ocean.
• Lovers Point Park: Ideal for a picnic, quick ocean dip, or kayak launch. It’s great for sunrise if you’re up early.
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: A short drive south toward Carmel. Amazing hiking trails, coastal views, and lots of chances to see sea lions and otters.
• Downtown Monterey Farmers Market: If your trip lands on a Tuesday, grab local produce, baked goods, or a fresh meal downtown.

You don’t have to go far from camp to find memorable stops.

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Suggested Itineraries

1-Night Quick Trip (Great for Beginners or a Simple Escape)

Pack: Tent, sleeping bag, camp stove, water jugs, layered clothing, flashlight, snacks, and a simple dinner like pasta or sandwiches.

What to Do: Arrive around 3–4 PM, set up your site, and enjoy an early evening hike around the trail loop. As the sun sets, cook dinner and enjoy the quiet. In the morning, take a short walk before heading down to Cannery Row for coffee and breakfast.

This quick trip gives you a taste of nature without a big commitment—and it’s perfect for first-timers or those with limited time.

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2–3 Night Adventure (More Relaxed and Full of Exploration)

Pack: Everything from the 1-night list, plus: extra clothes, more food, a cooler, power bank for devices, and a few comfort items like folding chairs or a hammock.

Day 1: Arrive mid-afternoon, pick a shaded site, and do a short hike around the park. Cook dinner at camp and settle in.

Day 2: Head out in the morning to explore Monterey Bay Aquarium or Point Lobos. Return in the afternoon for a nap, journal session, or leisurely trail walk. Grill dinner at camp and stargaze.

Day 3: Enjoy a slow morning at camp before packing up. Maybe stop at the downtown market or Lovers Point on your way out.

This itinerary balances adventure and downtime, giving you time to enjoy both the outdoors and the nearby coastline.

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Frequently Asked Questions