Skip to content
4.5(377 reviews)

Manresa Uplands State Beach Campground

205 Manresa Uplands Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076, United States

Plain-text version · San Jose (plain text)

Recommended Camping Products

Mardingtop 70L Military Internal Frame Backpack for Hunting,Camping,Hiking Rucksack Backpacking Backpack with Rain Cover
Mardingtop 70L Military Internal Frame Backpack for Hunting,Camping,Hiking Rucksack Backpacking Backpack with Rain Cover

Material:This 70L internal frame backpack is made of 600D Polyester,YKK Zipper,Rain cover included. Customizable Comfort:As a military tactical backpack has multi-position torso adjustment, Adjustable Padded sternum strap and hip belt , Breathable mesh bearing system design mean this hiking backpack can comfortably fit men, women of different body sizes. Large Capacity:4272 Cubic Inches,This Large molle hiking backpack with multi-compartment and pockets,The main compartment has a grid zipper bag, a water bladder compartment, and two inner pockets,can provides ample room for your outdoor essentials,and the molle system allows you to attach other hiking gears to the pack

Buy Now on Amazon
Coleman Sundome Camping Tent with Rainfly, 2/3/4/6 Person Tent Sets Up in 10 Mins, Weatherproof Shelter for Camping, Festivals, Backyard, Sleepovers, & More
Coleman Sundome Camping Tent with Rainfly, 2/3/4/6 Person Tent Sets Up in 10 Mins, Weatherproof Shelter for Camping, Festivals, Backyard, Sleepovers, & More

WEATHERTEC PROTECTION — Tub-style floor, welded corners, inverted seams and taped rainfly work together to keep water out and help block wind and rain for a reliable, weatherproof shelter.. SETS UP IN MINUTES — Snag-free continuous pole sleeves and pre-attached poles let you pitch the tent in about 10 minutes — ideal for camping, festivals, backyard getaways and sleepovers.. WELL-VENTILATED COMFORT — Two large windows and a ground vent promote airflow to reduce condensation; roomy interior and generous center height provide improved headroom and sleeping comfort.

Buy Now on Amazon
304 Stainless Steel Camping Cookware Set - Mess Kit with Pots, Pans, Kettle, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons for 2 People, Perfect for Camping, Picnic, RVs
304 Stainless Steel Camping Cookware Set - Mess Kit with Pots, Pans, Kettle, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons for 2 People, Perfect for Camping, Picnic, RVs

MONEY-SAVING &DURABLE:17pcs Portable camping cookware set Includes 1 x stainless steel pots, 1 x stainless steel pan, 1 x stainless steel kettle, 2 x stainless steel plates, 2 x stainless steel cups ,1 x dishcloth ,2 x Cutlery set (foldable Knives, foldable spoons and foldable forks) , 1 x Mesh Carrying Bag . Portable Camping mess kit, perfect for your outdoor adventures!. FOOD-GRADE STAINLESS STEEL: This camping cooking set is made of high-quality, food-grade stainless steel, ensuring you can cook your meals with peace of mind.this camping cooking equipment is built to last and can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Its compact design makes it designed specifically for backpacking, camping, and other outdoor activities.. EASY TO CARRY, EASY-TO-CLEAN: This Camping pots and pans set is designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts, with its sturdy construction and easy-to-clean design.With its lightweight design and compact size, it's easy to carry and allows you to cook up a storm wherever you go. This set is also very easy to assemble, making it perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a hassle-free camping experience.

Buy Now on Amazon
Funnymoom 14 Piece Camp Cooking Set, Stainless Steel Camping Cookware with Pot and Pan Kit 2 Set Stainless Steel Cups Plates Forks Knives Spoons for Camping, Backpacking, Outdoor Cooking and Picnic
Funnymoom 14 Piece Camp Cooking Set, Stainless Steel Camping Cookware with Pot and Pan Kit 2 Set Stainless Steel Cups Plates Forks Knives Spoons for Camping, Backpacking, Outdoor Cooking and Picnic

Camping Cookware Set: 14 piece camping cookware set includes: 2 pots, 1 frying pan, 1 plate, 2 reel edge plates, 2 cups, 2 sets of cutlery (2 forks, 2 knives, 2 spoons) for every cooking, flipping, boiling or frying need for 1-2 people. Product size: The total weight of the tableware is only 1.85 LBS /0.84 kg, the package size is 9X6.2X3.4 inches, the length of the knife, fork and spoon when unfolded is 6.1 inches, suitable for adult use, and the portable and compact size is suitable for backpacking and traditional camping. Durable and easy to clean: Made of quality non toxic materials, the plate set is made of 410 stainless steel, the tableware is made of 304 stainless steel and resistant to high temperature and freezing, the structure is strong, smooth and bright, easy to clean and durable. Perfect for picnics, backpacking, hiking

Buy Now on Amazon
Sleeping Bags for Adults Backpacking Lightweight Waterproof- Cold Weather Sleeping Bag for Girls Boys Mens for Warm Camping Hiking Outdoor Travel Hunting with Compression Bags(Navy Blue)
Sleeping Bags for Adults Backpacking Lightweight Waterproof- Cold Weather Sleeping Bag for Girls Boys Mens for Warm Camping Hiking Outdoor Travel Hunting with Compression Bags(Navy Blue)

PLENTY OF ROOM. Comfortably fits most campers up to 5 FEET, 11 INCH tall. SEZE: 31.5 by 86.6 inches (W x D). Our sleeping bag can be used in 3 seasons with a design temperature of 50℉- 68℉(10℃-20℃). Recommended limit temperature: 41℉-77℉. GOOD QUALITY WITH AFFORDABLE PRICE. The stitching and material feels neat and comfotable. Outer Cover Material: Polyester, Waterproof and Breathable Fabrics; Lining Material: Pongee; Fill-Material: hollow cotton. WARM AND SKIN-FRIENDLY. A THOUGHT OUT DESIGN. Drawstring allows you to tighten hood and KEEP YOU HEAD NICE AND WARM. The idea of having a zipper at the foot to allow more warm or cool air to enter or exit the bag in different times of the season

Buy Now on Amazon
Pop Up Tents for Camping 4 Person Waterproof Popup Tent Camping Easy Up Camping Tents Instant Four Person Tent Easy
Pop Up Tents for Camping 4 Person Waterproof Popup Tent Camping Easy Up Camping Tents Instant Four Person Tent Easy

【Easy Setup】Instant pop-up tent with pre-assembled poles sets up in seconds, simply open the bag and let go,So easy and enjoyable and set up the tent. No need to waste nice camping time to set up tents,Even if it rains suddenly, you don’t have to be flustered.. 【Enjoy the Breeze】Mesh front & back doors provide enough air flow So that you can enjoy the breeze.closed with just the screen material, or sealed with the nylon door for total privacy,which is so convenient that you do not have to go outside to close the windows when raining.. 【4 Person Pop Up Tent】Spacious Interior: 9.2 x 6.6 feet floor; The pop-up tent fits for 3-4 people in sleeping bag or 2-3 people with lots of camping gears; Center Height: 4.3 feet. INCLUDES 8 x Tent Pegs for keeping tent steady, 4 x 3mm Wind Ropes.

Buy Now on Amazon

About This Campsite

Manresa Uplands State Beach Campground

Welcome to Manresa Uplands State Beach Campground, a serene camping destination ideal for families, beach lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Nestled along the Pacific Coast, this campground offers a tranquil escape with stunning ocean vistas, an expansive beach, and rich, diverse wildlife.

Tips and Considerations

  • Beach Access: Be prepared for a bit of a workout as you take a scenic 175-stair descent to reach the beach. It’s well worth it for the incredible views and serene atmosphere by the shoreline.
  • Wildlife Encounters: You'll find delight in spotting dolphins, otters, and a variety of wildlife including falcons, squirrels, and even coyotes during your stay. Remember to store your food securely as the squirrels are known to be quite sneaky!
  • Amenities: The campground features clean restrooms and quarter-operated hot showers, though the water temperature might be tepid. Don't forget to bring quarters or visit the nearby KOA campground store if you need change.
  • Privacy and Space: Some campsites offer more privacy and spectacular ocean views, especially spots like 13, 14, and 15. However, be aware that some sites are closely spaced and can feel crowded.
  • Parking and Transport: Consider bringing a wagon or cart. Parking isn't available directly at your campsite, requiring you to unload temporarily and park a short walk away.

Overall Thoughts

Manresa Uplands State Beach Campground is a beautiful and peaceful site perfect for those looking to experience the natural beauty of California’s coastline. While it does require a bit of effort to maneuver around, especially with its unique layout, the charm of ocean views, the calming beach, and the abundance of wildlife more than make up for it. Whether you’re planning surf camps or simply a relaxed family outing, this campground assures memorable experiences with its blend of nature and comfort.

Photos

Photos provided by Google

Reviews

Reviews provided by Google

Bianca Banuelos

06/03/2024

First time at this beach, and it was pretty awesome. The stairs to the beach from the parking are a workout, to be honest. I'm not sure if there's easier access to get down if you have elderly. Water is cold but not freezing. Love to see the shells, rocks, and seaweed wash up on the shore, reminds me of the beaches in Hawaii. Killer view from the benches at the top before going down those stairs. It's better than Sunset Beach, and I think we'll be going to Manresa a lot more often.

Alexandra Heidelbach

09/04/2024

Surf camp was fun. Lots of families. The squirrels will steal your food if you are not careful, cotton tails. I've dolphins and otters out in the water, too. Quarter operated hot showers great for saving water.

Stacey Szenda

01/16/2024

This beach is more expansive and quiet compared to other beaches. I love the extra layers of rough waves here as well. However, when the waves meet the sand they calm to the likeness of a lake in some areas. There are some people fishing off the coast here. And sunsets are breathtaking... NOTE: When driving here & parking in the parking lot, you will need to be able to walk down & "feel the burn" up 175 stairs to enjoy this beach.

Jochen Voelker

08/16/2024

Our favorite campsite on the Pacific Coast. No close road/traffic, thus very quiet, short walk to the beach and quite good restrooms, including showers fueled with quarters.

Ayesa Love

07/29/2023

Loved this place but bring a Wagon! Here are my pros and cons: Pros: Clean bathrooms and Showers. However, there is no change machine and it only takes quarters and hot water is more like Luke warm. There is a store at KOA campground up the road opened until 8pm if you need change, food or ice. Great ocean views if you get a site facing the ocean. I stayed in spot #14 one night and loved it. This place has Lots of wild life, falcons, rabbits, squirrels, coyotes. There’s also a private beach that’s about 5-10min walk. Also your pass gets you into other state beaches, I recommend Manresa Beach about a 5min drive up the road. Cons: Bring a wagon/cart! There is no parking at your site. I didn’t know that and it took about 4 trips to get all my stuff to my space lol. There is a parking lot to temporary unload but you leave your car overnight in the upper parking lot which is just a few minutes away from your camping site depending on where you are. Some sites are very close to each other or smaller than others. Spot #24 was not my fav, it was not private and had too many walkways where kids and people just walked through my site. Sites that face the ocean like #13, 14, 15 are more private but overall most spaces are crowded to each other. Also it gets really moist in the morning and night, so recommend to cover your tent with a tarp to prevent extra moisture. But even with these minor cons, I loved this campground. Beautiful views, great beaches, and lots of wild life. Will definitely come back:)