There are dump stations, and then there are dump stations with a million-dollar view. Let me tell you, when you find one of the latter, it almost makes the whole messy business of emptying the black tank feel… well, almost pleasant. High on a hill, nestled among fragrant Monterey pines and eucalyptus trees, you’ll find Monterey Veterans Memorial Park. This isn’t your typical roadside stop; this is a perch overlooking one of the most iconic coastlines in the entire country. From up here, you can catch glimpses of the sparkling Monterey Bay, and the air is filled with that incredible mix of pine and salt spray. For a city-run park, it’s a surprisingly scenic and tranquil spot to take care of one of an RVer’s most essential chores.
Getting there is part of the adventure. You’ll wind your way up through the hills just above the historic downtown, leaving the tourist bustle of Cannery Row far below. A word to the wise for those of us in bigger rigs: the park notes a length limit of around 30 feet for a reason. The loops can be a bit tight, and the roads have a bit of a grade to them. If you’re towing, I’d strongly recommend unhitching and scouting it out with your tow vehicle first, or at least having a good look on a satellite map. But the payoff for that careful approach is huge. You’re not just at a dump station; you’re at the doorstep of everything that makes this stretch of the California coast so magical.
The location is simply unbeatable for anyone exploring the Central Coast. You are minutes from the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, a place you could easily spend an entire day, mesmerized by sea otters and jellyfish. From the park, you can practically coast downhill to Fisherman’s Wharf for some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. It’s also the perfect jumping-off point for the legendary 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach, with its dramatic cypress trees and stunning ocean vistas. And, perhaps most importantly for the adventurous RVer, it’s a strategic last stop for services before you head south into the wild, majestic, and largely service-free coastline of Big Sur. Being able to empty your tanks, top off your fresh water, and then immediately hit the road toward those iconic cliffs is a major logistical win.
The dump station itself is a straightforward, single-lane setup. It’s part of the campground, but it’s accessible to non-campers for a fee. Last I checked, it was around $12, which you pay at a self-service kiosk. It’s always a good idea to have exact cash on hand for these kinds of municipal setups, though some are upgrading to cards. As with any public facility, rates can change, so a quick check of the city’s website or a call ahead is never a bad idea. Because it’s in a campground, timing is key. I try to arrive mid-morning, after the overnight campers have cleared out and before the new arrivals start rolling in for the afternoon. You’ll have a much more relaxed experience.
The amenities are what you’d expect from a well-run city park. The adjacent water spigot is a huge bonus, allowing you to get a good rinse of your gear and, more importantly, fill up your fresh water tank before you venture off the grid in Big Sur. They have restrooms and even coin-operated hot showers, which feel like absolute bliss after a few days of boondocking or dealing with that chilly coastal fog that can roll in. You’ll find plenty of bear-proof trash cans, which is great for getting rid of accumulated garbage. The whole park is pet-friendly, with plenty of pine-needle-strewn paths for a good leg stretch, just be sure to keep your furry co-pilot on a leash.
What you won’t find are the amenities of a full-fledged RV resort. There’s no propane filling, no laundry, and no hookups for electricity. This is a place for the essentials. You’ll need to stock up on fuel and propane down on the main drags like Munras Avenue before you head up the hill. But that’s a small trade-off for the convenience and the incredible setting. A crucial tip for anyone using the park, whether for dumping or camping: pack your leveling blocks. The sites and the lanes have a noticeable slope, and you’ll want to be nice and level while you’re handling the tanks. It just makes everything easier and ensures your tanks drain completely.
So, is it worth the stop? Absolutely. For a very reasonable fee, you’re not just getting a place to dump. You’re getting a stunning view, access to potable water, and a prime location that serves as a gateway to some of California’s most breathtaking scenery. It perfectly balances that line between necessity and experience. It turns a mundane task into a memorable part of your coastal journey. Just be mindful of your rig’s size, plan your arrival time, and bring some quarters for a hot shower. It’s a classic West Coast stop that proves even the most basic RV chores can be done in a beautiful place.
1200 Veterans Dr, Monterey, CA 93940
(831) 646-3865
Cost: $12
Category: Campground
Has Water
monterey.org/camping