Arroyo Seco
4.12164 reviews47600 ARROYO SECO ROAD
Arroyo Seco
$35.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$40.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Rates range from $35-$150 depending on site type and season, with additional charges for weekends ($2-$4) and holidays ($2-$4).
About this campground
Escape to Arroyo Seco, where the rhythms of city life fade into the whisper of oak leaves and the gentle murmur of flowing water. This semi-rustic gem strikes the perfect balance between wilderness adventure and modern comfort, offering everything from streamside primitive camping to well-appointed sites with amenities. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear pools, exploring winding trails, or cooling off in natural swimming holes, Arroyo Seco provides an authentic California outdoor experience. Choose from modern campsites, primitive spots for the more adventurous, or gather your crew at the spacious group site.
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 SeasonsNature's moods shift dramatically at Arroyo Seco, keeping each visit fresh and surprising. Spring transforms the landscape into a painter's palette of wildflower blooms, while autumn sets the hillsides ablaze with golden and crimson foliage. Summer brings intense heat that makes those river swimming holes irresistible refuges. Pack layers and be prepared – mountain weather has a mind of its own, and conditions can shift from sunny to misty in moments.
ElevationPerched at 1,200 feet above sea level, the campground offers a sweet spot where mountain air mingles with coastal influences, creating an ideal climate for year-round camping adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryTucked into a protective hillside embrace, Arroyo Seco unfolds beneath a canopy of majestic oaks and native shrubs. The namesake Arroyo Seco River winds through the landscape, creating peaceful pools and babbling riffles that serve as both playground and sanctuary. Small lakes dot the terrain like nature's mirrors, reflecting the surrounding greenery. Come spring, carpets of purple lupines paint the meadows, while autumn brings its own spectacular show as the deciduous trees burst into flame-colored glory.
Geological RegionSet within California's westernmost national forest, this hillside haven offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater. Ancient oaks spread their gnarled branches overhead while native shrubs create natural privacy between sites. The Arroyo Seco River carves its patient path alongside the campground, its waters telling stories of the dramatic Ventana Wilderness peaks that rise majestically in the distance. This unique position creates a microclimate where coastal fog meets mountain air, nurturing a diverse ecosystem found nowhere else.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome sites are fully accessible, with level terrain and close proximity to amenities like restrooms and water spigots.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating both single and double-family occupancy. One group site can host up to 50 people and 10 vehicles.
Sites 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 CampsitesPrimitive sites offer more space and quiet; standard sites have closer access to bathrooms and amenities.
Best CampsitesSite 027 is described as the best site in the campground for views and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes modern, primitive, and group sites spread across loops.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. However, weekends and holidays require prior reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fee is $10 per site and forfeits the first night’s recreation use fee for late cancellations. No refunds for cancellations made on the day of arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
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.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the main attractions. The 15.5-mile Santa Lucia Trail is popular for its scenic beauty. 'The Santa Lucia trail hike and Arroyo Seco river made the whole trip worth it,' said one camper. Trails vary in difficulty, with the Indian Road Gorge loop being a favorite for its wildflowers and views.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the nearby small lake and Arroyo Seco River, with bass and catfish being the most common catches. A fishing license is required for visitors over 16 years old.Swimming
The Arroyo Seco River and nearby small lake offer swimming opportunities. 'The river was fantastic - so beautiful!' noted one visitor. However, water levels depend on seasonal rains.Biking
The campground provides biking trails suitable for all skill levels. 'Some great hikes/bike rides right from the campsite,' one user highlighted.Boating
Small non-motorized boating is allowed on the lake near the group campsites.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching and wildlife observation are popular activities. 'We heard and saw a lot of wildlife: screech owl, grey fox, possum, woodpeckers, jays, and grey squirrels,' a camper noted.Beach activities
The Arroyo Seco River features sandy areas suitable for beach activities like sunbathing and picnicking.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited, but the campground remains open year-round, offering a quiet and less crowded experience.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible in the Arroyo Seco River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits when fire restrictions are not in effect.
- Quiet hours start at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsSwift river currents in spring, poison oak along trails, and overcrowding during peak times can present challenges.
Active alertsSome reviews note broken water systems and occasional fire restrictions.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available on-site, but some users mentioned inadequate trash disposal at the day-use areas, leading to littering issues.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to the Arroyo Seco River with small lakes nearby.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noise disruptions, lack of water and working bathrooms, overcrowding, and overly strict camp hosts.
HostHosts frequently described as friendly but strict on rule enforcement.
Campground Map
47600 ARROYO SECO ROAD
Driving directionsComing from the south on Highway 101 to Greenfield, take the first exit (Arroyo Seco) into town. Turn left on Elm Street and go west to Arroyo Seco Road and turn left. Arroyo Seco Road dead-ends at the campground. Coming from the north on Highway 101, just past Soledad, turn west onto Arroyo Seco Road and continue to the campground.
Roads are paved throughout the campground. The road to get from Arroyo Seco to Big Sur is approximately 70 miles long and very curvy, which takes about two hours of driving.Nearby places
Monterey (50 miles), Pinnacles National Monument (30 miles)
Camper Reviews
4.1
164 reviews
Arroyo Seco is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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 164 reviews
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 164 reviewsShow more
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 164 reviewsShow more
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 164 reviewsShow more
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 164 reviewsCamper 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 164 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 012: Spacious and close to restrooms.
Site 033: Convenient location but lacks shade.
Site 007: Great for wildlife viewing and stargazing.
Primitive sites like 036: Quiet and secluded, ideal for...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
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 164 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, but leash rules apply. Some users expressed frustration with unrestrained dogs near their sites.
Based on 164 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025