Memorial Campground
3.8722 reviewsMemorial Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The standard nightly rate is $30. Weekends and holidays incur a $2.00 additional fee. The fee includes one vehicle and one tent, trailer, or RV. An...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$30.00
Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider805-434-1996customerservice@pmcparks.com
About this campground
Tucked away in the enchanting Santa Lucia Mountains, Memorial Park Campground offers an intimate escape where eight thoughtfully placed campsites nestle among towering oaks and dramatic sandstone formations. This hidden gem attracts those seeking solitude and natural beauty, where a babbling trout stream provides the soundtrack to your adventure. Though the amenities are simple, the setting is extraordinary—perfect for families who value authentic outdoor experiences over crowded commercial campgrounds.
Memorial Campground is a primitive camping area featuring standard non-electric campsites suitable for tents or RVs. Group camping and glamping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure sits at the crossroads of California's rich heritage. Just a scenic 15-minute drive away, the historic San Antonio Mission stands as one of the state's most treasured landmarks, offering a fascinating glimpse into California's Spanish colonial past. This proximity allows you to blend outdoor recreation with cultural exploration, making your camping trip both refreshing and enriching.
Weather and SeasonsMemorial Park enjoys a gentle climate that makes camping comfortable throughout much of the year. Expect crisp mornings around 44°F that warm to pleasant afternoons near 56°F, with more than half your days blessed by brilliant blue skies. The low humidity and minimal rainfall create ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. These stable weather patterns mean you can plan your visit with confidence, knowing that Mother Nature is likely to cooperate with your outdoor plans.
ElevationNestled within the mountainous terrain of the Santa Lucia range, the campground offers the refreshing mountain air and cooler temperatures that make for comfortable camping, especially during warmer months.
Natural Features and SceneryMemorial Park is a living gallery of California's diverse ecosystems. Majestic ponderosa pines stretch skyward while gnarled oaks spread their ancient branches overhead. The distinctive red-barked madrones and graceful sycamores complete this botanical tapestry. Spring transforms the landscape into a wildflower wonderland, while the year-round trout stream invites quiet contemplation or exciting fishing adventures. Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that calls this sanctuary home—each visit promises new discoveries among the sculptural rock formations.
Geological RegionThe Santa Lucia Mountains reveal their geological story through Memorial Park's stunning sandstone landscapes. These ancient formations, carved by millennia of wind and water, create a natural playground of caves, overhangs, and climbing opportunities. The weathered rock faces glow golden in the morning light and turn deep amber at sunset, while the sprawling oaks that have found purchase in this rocky terrain stand as testament to nature's persistence and beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities were mentioned in the source materials or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites range from standard tent setups to RV-accessible sites, specifically sites 1-4, according to user reviews.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some being more exposed to sun and neighbors. User reviews highlight that sites 5-8 offer better coverage and a forest vibe.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive before darkness due to difficulty locating campsites; Sites 1-4 are in an open area close to facilities, while Sites 5-8 offer forest coverage.
Best CampsitesSites 5-8 are praised for their coverage and forest ambiance; Site 7 was frequently mentioned for its ideal location near trails and water features.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Camping fee includes 1 vehicle and 1 tent, trailer, or RV. $10 fee for each additional vehicle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are divided into two sections: Sites 1-4 are in the open area near facilities, while Sites 5-8 are in the forested area accessed by a separate road.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen daily, year-round. Reservations are available from January 1 to November 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by contacting the facility directly.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo details regarding walk-up availability provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed any time before the scheduled arrival date but incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No cancellations are allowed after the check-in date.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Memorial Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The campground is surrounded by scenic rock formations, a trout stream, and numerous trails.
Hiking
The campground serves as a trailhead for several hiking paths. Nearby trails feature sandstone landscapes, wildflowers, and opportunities to explore the forest. User reviews praise the 'amazing rock formations' and the 'fantastic' hiking opportunities.Fishing
Fishing is available in the nearby trout stream, although specific details about the fishing experience are not provided in reviews.Biking
Biking trails are accessible close to the campground. These trails are part of the larger natural features of the area.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is part of the natural experience, with the area known for its pristine forest and variety of creatures.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned. However, the campground is open year-round.Water Sports
While there are swimming holes and a trout stream, there is no indication of organized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally and burned on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. - 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include snakes (as reported by campers), poison oak growth after the 2020 Dolan Fire, and mosquitos and flies in warm months. Road access can be challenging due to creek crossings.
Active alertsHighway 1/Nacimiento Road access is closed.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency help is miles away. Campers are advised not to take unnecessary risks due to the remote location.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to November 1.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans and recycling facilities are available, but user reviews indicate issues with garbage cans not being emptied regularly.
Proximity to water featuresA trout stream runs through the campground with swimming holes nearby. San Lucia Creek and San Antonio River offer water and small waterfalls.
Common complaintsComplaints in reviews highlight no potable water, unclean toilets, prevalence of bugs, lack of shade, and difficulty in reaching the campground due to poor road conditions.
HostOne user review commented positively about the camp host and the nearby general store, although specifics about host services were not detailed.
Campground Map
Driving directionsAccessible ONLY from Hwy 101. HWY 1 side is CLOSED. From the U.S. Highway 101 Nacimiento-Fergusson Road can be reached from the King City area at Jolon Road (county road G-14), from the Bradley area at Jolon Road (county road G-18), or from Paso Robles along county road G-14. Travel to the town of Jolon, continue west along Mission Road about 5 miles, then north on Del Venturi Road for about 12 and 15 miles.
The paved road turns into dirt about three-quarters of the way there. Access is limited to Highway 101; Highway 1/Nacimiento Road is closed.Nearby places
Town of Jolon: ~5 miles
Bradley area: ~12 miles
Paso Robles: ~15 miles
Nearby supplies
No official supplies nearby. Note that there is no potable water onsite
campers must bring their own supplies from the nearest town.
Camper Reviews
3.9
22 reviews
Memorial Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground’s remote beauty, excellent hiking opportunities, and its rustic, primitive setup. However, common concerns include the challenging access road, lack of potable water, and vault toilet cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects noted by users include the 'secluded' and 'quiet' environment, beautiful natural features like rock formations and a trout stream, and multiple hiking trails directly accessible from...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include 'stinky' vault toilets, absence of potable water, no cell service, and a 'bumpy, dusty' access road. One review also mentioned a snake near their tent.
Based on 22 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own potable water and bug spray. Arrive before dark if possible, as navigating the area at night can be challenging. Sites 5–8 are recommended for better coverage and a forest vibe.
Based on 22 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention bugs like mosquitoes and gnats, while spring reviews highlight the beauty of wildflowers and flowing streams. Fall and winter reviews suggest the area remains less...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Perfect place to see the stars at night. Bring bug spray.' 2. 'The hiking around this area is fantastic.' 3. 'So disappointing- no water, no shade, a stinky vault toilet.' 4. 'Sites 5–8 are great...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 1-4 are more open and suitable for RVs, while sites 5-8 are noted for being more forested and secluded. Some users recommend site 7 for its proximity to trails and overall quality.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews explicitly mentioned accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the area was noted as 'great for pets' by a reviewer. However, ticks and other bugs may be an issue, especially in the late afternoon.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025