Saddle Mountain RV Park & Campground

The Great Outdoors

Camping at Saddle Mountain RV Park & Campground includes direct access to a range of hiking trails, with sweeping views across the region en route to the peak of Saddle Mountain. You can go horseback riding or mountain biking on the trails that wind through nearby Garland Park or enjoy the breathtaking peninsula views from Jack’s Peak. Saddle Mountain RV Park & Campground is a short drive from the Garrapata State Park, which encompasses around 3,000 acres along the nearby coast. It features windswept ocean beaches and dense groves of coastal redwoods, as well as stunning vistas at Soberanes Point. Keep your eyes peeled for California sea lions, harbor seals, and sea otters that can often be seen playing on the shores, as well as gray whales that pass by on their yearly migration. Also nearby is the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which is renowned for boasting some of the most spectacular natural landscapes along the California Coast. It’s another popular wildlife viewing and whale spotting destination, with a variety of hiking trails leading to its picturesque beaches. For a dose of local history, visit the historic Whalers Cabin that was originally built by Chinese fishermen and later used by Japanese and Portuguese fishermen. It’s been transformed into a museum that explores its storied history and the cultural heritage of the region. Drive south of Saddle Mountain RV Park & Campground, and you’ll arrive at the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park that’s been nicknamed the “Mini Yosemite.” It sprawls around the Big Sur River and encompasses the southernmost redwood groves in the state, which can be explored on a network of hiking and mountain biking trails. Photograph the picturesque Pfeiffer Falls or soak up the impressive views of the Santa Lucia Mountains while spotting some of the wildlife and birds that thrive here. Combine your visit to the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park with a soak at the Tassajara Hot Springs, which are situated within the Ventana Wilderness of the Los Padres National Forest. It’s home to the Tassajara Zen Mountain Center and what is the first Zen Buddhist monastery established outside of Asia. A 4x4 dirt road leads to this spiritual retreat where you can learn about Zen Buddhism and soak in the hot springs that have been transformed into Japanese-style baths. 

Exploring the City

Camp in an RV near Carmel-By-The-Sea and you’re on the doorstep of numerous supermarkets for stocking up on grocery supplies. There are plenty of gas stations if you need to fill up your RV rental, as well as a great choice of restaurants, cafes, and chain eateries. Carmel-By-The-Sea is renowned for its historic mission, which was established in 1797 and stands as one of the most authentically restored Roman Catholic mission churches in California. It’s now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and houses numerous museums where you can learn about the complex’s restoration and the people who have shaped the region. Witness the monumental bronze and travertine cenotaph sculpted by Jo Mora in the Jo Mora Chapel Gallery and soak up the tranquility of the mission in its peaceful courtyard. Carmel-By-The-Sea campers can also enjoy a stroll through the village-style center, which is clustered with charming cottages and art galleries. Stretch your legs on the Scenic Bluff Path that extends from Carmel Beach to the Carmel River State Beach (a popular bird-watching destination) or venture underwater on a scuba diving trip. If you’re a fan of Clint Eastwood, then follow the aptly-named Clint Eastwood Trail that visits the attractive City Hall and former All Saints Church where he served his term as mayor. Whether you want to go whale watching along the coast of Big Sur or discover the unique boutiques of Carmel-By-The-Sea, book an RV in Monterey County and start planning your next vacation.