Fort Ord National Monument

Fort Ord National Monument is a sprawling natural reserve located on the Monterey Peninsula in Central California. Covering an area of about 14,658 acres, it offers a diverse range of recreational activities and stunning landscapes for all to enjoy.

The historical significance of Fort Ord dates back to 1917 when it was established as a military base to train soldiers for World War I. Over the years, it served as a training ground for numerous military conflicts and played a crucial role in shaping the nation's military capabilities. Notably, during World War II, it became the largest horse-mounted cavalry post in the United States.

Today, the Fort Ord National Monument has transitioned from its military past into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a network of over 86 miles of trails, where visitors can explore the picturesque landscapes on foot, bike, or horseback. The trails wind through oak woodlands, maritime chaparral, and rolling hills, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding areas. For those interested in bird-watching, the monument is home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered California least tern and Western snowy plover.

Some notable attractions within the monument include the Badger Hills, a rugged area with rocky outcrops and diverse wildlife, and the Fort Ord Dunes State Park, featuring a pristine sandy beach and extensive sand dunes. The sandy beach offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, while the dunes can be explored through hiking or sandboarding.

Additionally, adjacent to the monument is the city of Monterey, renowned for its charming coastal town vibes and historic sites. Visitors can explore the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, which houses hundreds of marine species, including sea otters, penguins, and sharks. The historic Cannery Row offers delightful shopping and dining experiences, with quaint shops and waterfront restaurants.

In summary, Fort Ord National Monument presents a unique blend of natural beauty and military history. Its trails, diverse ecosystems, and stunning vistas make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, while nearby attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row provide additional entertainment options.

Fort Ord National Monument is located in the scenic Central California region of the state. Situated on the picturesque Monterey Bay, the monument spans over 14,000 acres of diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches to rugged mountains. Nestled between the vibrant cities of Monterey and Salinas, this historical site offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by the rich biodiversity of the region. Its strategic proximity to major urban centers allows for easy access and exploration, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Address & Contact

Sorry we don't have an address for this park on file yet.
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Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Ord National Monument for pleasant weather and outdoor activities would be from June to September. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 68°F to 71°F, with average minimum temperatures ranging from 52°F to 56°F. The average monthly precipitation is quite low during these months.

Campsites within or near Fort Ord National Monument

Laguna Seca

The campground is located 8.8 mi from Salinas, CA.
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Monterey County Fairgrounds RV

The campground is located 1.8 mi from Monterey, CA.
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Veterans Memorial Park

The campground is located 0.9 mi from Monterey, CA.
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Monterey Pines RV Military

The campground is located 2.0 mi from Monterey, CA.
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Can Am Circle - Laguna Seca RA

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Potable Water: Yes

Chaparral - Laguna Seca RA

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Hotels within or near Fort Ord National Monument

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Howard Johnson by Wyndham Salinas

A stay at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Salinas places you in the heart of Salinas, within a 15-minute walk of National Steinbeck Center and Aguila Cultural Center. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 131 John Street, Salinas, California 93901
Web: Link

Good Nite Inn Salinas

Located in Salinas, Good Nite Inn Salinas is within a 5-minute drive of Salinas Fairways Golf Course and California Rodeo Grounds. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff, and laundry facilities. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 545 Work St, Salinas, California 93901
Web: Link

Steinbeck Lodge

Located in Salinas, Steinbeck Lodge is within a 15-minute walk of National Steinbeck Center and Aguila Cultural Center. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 109 John St, Salinas, California 93901
Web: Link

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA

With a stay at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA in Marina, you'll be by the ocean, just a 5-minute walk from Marina State Beach and 5 minutes by foot from Monterey Bay. Featured amenities include express check-out, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3280 Dunes Drive, Marina, California 93933
Web: Link

Courtyard by Marriott Salinas Monterey

When you stay at Courtyard by Marriott Salinas Monterey in Salinas, you'll be in the business district, within a 5-minute drive of Boronda Adobe History Center and Salinas Sports Complex. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 17225 El Rancho Way, Salinas, California 93907
Web: Link

Residence Inn by Marriott Salinas Monterey

Located in Salinas, Residence Inn by Marriott Salinas Monterey is in the business district, within a 5-minute drive of Boronda Adobe History Center and Salinas Sports Complex. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Salinas? This hotel features 294 square feet (26 square meters) of event facilities. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 17215 El Rancho Way, Salinas, California 93907
Web: Link

Hampton Inn & Suites Salinas

Located in Salinas, Hampton Inn & Suites Salinas is within a 5-minute drive of Aguila Cultural Center and First Mayor's House. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Salinas? This hotel has facilities measuring 1000 square feet (93 square meters), including a meeting room. Guests may use a roundtrip airport shuttle for a surcharge, and free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 523 Work Street, Salinas, California 93901
Web: Link

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

A stay at Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey places you in the heart of Marina, within a 10-minute walk of Marina State Beach and Monterey Bay. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 100 Reservation Rd, Marina, California 93933
Web: Link

Traveler's Hotel

With a stay at Traveler's Hotel in Salinas, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of National Steinbeck Center and Aguila Cultural Center.
Address: 16 1/2 E Gabilin Street, Salinas, California 93901
Web: Link

River Rd. Mansion

Located in Salinas, River Rd. Mansion is within a 5-minute drive of The Farm and Toro County Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 100 River Rd, Salinas, California 93908
Web: Link