How much does camping cost at Arroyo Seco?

Camping fees at Arroyo Seco are $33.97 - $152/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Arroyo Seco first-come first-served or reservation?

Arroyo Seco accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Arroyo Seco before I book?

Yes! Arroyo Seco has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Arroyo Seco?

Arroyo Seco is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Arroyo Seco?

Yes, Arroyo Seco has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Arroyo Seco?

Fire policies at Arroyo Seco: Please Do Not Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Arroyo Seco have?

Arroyo Seco has 50 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Arroyo Seco?

Yes, pets are allowed at Arroyo Seco. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Arroyo Seco?

Arroyo Seco offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Arroyo Seco?

Popular activities at Arroyo Seco include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Arroyo Seco

3.76

322 reviews

47600 ARROYO SECO ROAD

Top 10% in CASpring

CReport Card

Featured in:Summer Camping California

Quick Facts

1,200 ft

Price

$33.97 - $152/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Los Padres National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,200 ft

Price

$33.97 - $152/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Los Padres National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Arroyo Seco

$33.97 - $152.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $150.00 (+$2.00 weekend) (+$2.00 holiday); MANAGEMENT: $33.97; STANDARD NONELECTRIC- Double Site: $80.00 (+$4.00 weekend)...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$40.00

Group Site Fee$150.00

Get Notified When Available

This campground gets 1 cancellations/wk on average — set an alert, we'll notify you instantly.

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263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

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Provider

805-434-1996parksman@fix.net

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

47600 ARROYO SECO ROAD

Arroyo Seco

47600 ARROYO SECO ROAD

Nearby places

Monterey (50 miles), Pinnacles National Monument (30 miles)

Weather at Arroyo Seco

Current alerts(10)

All single campsite reservations are good for 6 people and 1 vehicle. The maximum number of people per site is 8 ($10.00 additional charge after 6 people). Maximum number of vehicles per site is 2 ($10.00 additional charge for 2nd vehicle).
Click here for more information on the Los Padres National Forest
In order to contact our offices, please use the email: customerservice@pmcparks.com or view our website: CampOne.Com for answers to frequently asked questions.
Insects may be present; please bring appropriate provisions (repellents, etc.)

Best Time to Camp at Arroyo Seco

Best season: spring. Spring brings the best combination of comfortable temperatures (daytime highs around 60–75°F, nights 40–50°F), higher river flows, and abundant wildflowers that carpet the hillsides—ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. River pools are full and fishing is productive as trout and other species are active after winter rains, while trails are cooler and less dusty than summer. Expect moderate weekend crowds at peak bloom (April–May) but generally quieter weekdays. Peak months: April, May, October, March

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in CA

Spring is best: comfortable temps, higher river flows and abundant wildflowers cited repeatedly.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Arroyo Seco

Arroyo Seco sits in the foothills of Los Padres National Forest near Greenfield, serving as a gateway to the Ventana Wilderness. This mid-sized campground offers tent sites, RV spots, primitive options, and group camping along a river corridor known for spring wildflowers and productive trout fishing. Managed by the Forest Service, it operates seasonally during peak months and provides showers, flush and vault toilets, and a camp store.

Arroyo Seco Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, from primitive sites to developed areas for families and groups. RV and tent camping are the primary options, with no utility hookups.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring brings the best combination of comfortable temperatures (daytime highs around 60–75°F, nights 40–50°F), higher river flows, and abundant wildflowers that carpet the hillsides—ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. River pools are full and fishing is productive as trout and other species are active after winter rains, while trails are cooler and less dusty than summer. Expect moderate weekend crowds at peak bloom (April–May) but generally quieter weekdays. Peak months: April, May, October, March

Elevation1200 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground spreads across hillsides where coastal fog meets mountain air, creating a microclimate unique to this westernmost national forest. Ancient oaks and native shrubs provide overhead canopy, though the sites themselves remain fairly open. The Arroyo Seco River creates pools suitable for swimming and fishing. Views extend to the Ventana Wilderness peaks in the distance. Spring wildflowers carpet the hillsides, particularly dramatic during April and May.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodgings available, but the campground accommodates RVs, tents, and group sites.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum Consecutive Stay: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

All single campsite reservations are good for 6 people and 1 vehicle. The maximum number of people per site is 8 ($10.00 additional charge after 6 people). Maximum number of vehicles per site is 2 ($10.00 additional charge for 2nd vehicle).

Groups

The group site accommodates up to 50 people and 10 vehicles. It includes tables, a campfire circle, vault toilets, and drinking water.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via app.

AccessibilitySome sites are fully accessible, with level terrain and close proximity to amenities like restrooms and water spigots.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating both single and double-family occupancy. One group site can host up to 50 people and 10 vehicles.

PrivacyThe campground offers limited privacy, as noted by a user: 'The sites are pretty open, and there’s no low shrubbery to provide privacy.

Total Campsites50 campsites

Recommended SitesPrimitive sites offer more space and quiet; standard sites have closer access to bathrooms and amenities.

Best CampsitesSite 027 offers the best views and privacy in the campground, according to visitor reports. One group site accommodates up to 50 people and 10 vehicles.

Need help booking Arroyo Seco?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Arroyo Seco Campground is a semi-rustic yet developed camping facility offering various amenities to enhance the camping experience. It features both modern and primitive sites, with amenities tailored to suit different preferences. Every campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with a grill, and access to drinking water. Flush toilets, vault toilets, and coin-operated showers are available depending on the site location.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Arroyo Seco

Arroyo Seco Campground offers a broad range of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Ventana Wilderness provides opportunities for horseback riding and exploring scenic trails.

Hiking4.0/5

Hiking is a main attraction; 15.5-mile Santa Lucia Trail and Ventana Wilderness access nearby.

Fishing4.0/5

Productive trout fishing noted; bass and catfish in Arroyo Seco River and nearby lake.

Biking4.0/5Top 13% in California

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Water Sports3.0/5

Small lake allows non-motorized craft (kayaks possible) but boating is limited.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Wildflowers, river pools, scenic trails and dark skies make strong photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Arroyo Seco

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From Booking Sources

3.8

322 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Arroyo Seco has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews present a mixed bag of experiences at Arroyo Seco Campground. Many appreciate its scenic beauty, proximity to hiking trails, and peaceful environment, especially during off-peak seasons. However, complaints about noisy neighbors, insufficient water supply, and inadequate maintenance also surface.

Review Summaries

Based on 322 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 322 reviews.

Site 012Loved
Site 012: Spacious and close to restrooms..
Site 007Loved
Site 007: Great for wildlife viewing and stargazing..
Site 033Mentioned
Site 033: Convenient location but lacks shade..

What Campers Love

1. Scenic beauty and proximity to Ventana Wilderness. 2. Clean facilities and friendly staff noted in many reviews. 3. Coin-operated showers and dishwashing facilities appreciated by some. 4....

Based on 322 reviews

Common Concerns

1. No potable water for extended periods due to broken infrastructure. 2. Noise levels, especially during weekends. 3. Lack of privacy between sites. 4. Inconsistent enforcement of rules, especially...

Based on 322 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

1. Bring plenty of water and quarters for showers. 2. Visit during weekdays or off-season for a quieter experience. 3. Explore the Santa Lucia Trail and Arroyo Seco Gorge for the best hiking...

Based on 322 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are the best seasons, with mild weather and blooming wildflowers. Summer can be crowded and noisy, while winter offers solitude but limited amenities.

Based on 322 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'The campground was incredible and the bathrooms sparkling clean.' - 'The Santa Lucia trail hike and Arroyo Seco river made the whole trip worth it.' - 'No water at the campground at all. We were...

Based on 322 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some sites are wheelchair-accessible and close to restrooms. 'The view of the gorge was spectacular, passing deer added to the quiet and peaceful vibe, the flush restrooms were very accommodating,...

Based on 322 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, but leash rules apply. Some users expressed frustration with unrestrained dogs near their sites.

Based on 322 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Arroyo Seco

$33.97 - $152.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $150.00 (+$2.00 weekend) (+$2.00 holiday); MANAGEMENT: $33.97; STANDARD NONELECTRIC- Double Site: $80.00 (+$4.00 weekend)...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$40.00

Group Site Fee$150.00

Get Notified When Available

This campground gets 1 cancellations/wk on average — set an alert, we'll notify you instantly.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

805-434-1996parksman@fix.net

Go if

You want a well-equipped base camp for Ventana Wilderness hiking and spring river fishing with shower facilities.

Skip if

You need guaranteed quiet or prefer campgrounds with consistent water and restroom availability based on recent reports.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

4.5

(34)

Arroyo Seco Group Campground

Los Padres National Forest

Arroyo Seco Group Campground sits in Los Padres National Forest at low elevation, offering group camping near the Arroyo Seco River. This very small primitive campground provides fire rings and picnic tables for groups seeking a base camp for river access and trail exploration. Visitors come for swimming holes, hiking, and the scenic canyon setting.

Arroyo Seco

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Weather at Arroyo Seco

Current alerts(10)

Best Time to Camp at Arroyo Seco

Planning Tips

About Arroyo Seco

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Arroyo Seco?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Arroyo Seco

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

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How campers graded it

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Ask Camp Sage about Arroyo Seco

Current alerts(10)

Best Time to Camp at Arroyo Seco

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Arroyo Seco?

Amenities available

Things to do at Arroyo Seco

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns