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Camping on California's Central Coast

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California's Central Coast covers 230 miles of Pacific coastline north of Los Angeles and south of San Francisco. With temperate weather year-round and easy ocean access, this is an extremely popular destination! Call ahead when planning your camping locations to make reservations whenever possible.

Pismo Beach, near San Luis Obispo at the midpoint of the Central Coast, provides plenty of adventure options. Camp on the state beach or rent an ATV and hit the dunes. For a slightly quieter experience, head just 30 minutes north to reach Morro Bay. Bring binoculars; this area's excellent for Hipcampers who enjoy birdwatching.

The gorgeous Big Sur area is a bit further north, just south of Monterey Bay. You'll find excellent hiking options here, ranging from easy sightseeing strolls to challenging treks. Two of the best trails are both accessible from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The McWay Waterfall Trail offers Big Sur's most spectacular view; the Ewoldsen Trail takes you through breathtaking Redwood groves.

Manresa State Beach Campground near Santa Cruz offers about 60 first-come, first-served tent sites. Here you get both beach access and a phenomenal view of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Manresa's also a solid choice if you enjoy fishing. Bass, perch, flounder, and halibut all swim in Monterey Bay.

94% (8.3K) 2,263 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Central Coast

Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

1. Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

94%
(366)
Day Valley, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We created this space for everyone to enjoy.
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Water hookup
The Secret Gardens by the Bay

2. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

99%
(517)
Watsonville, CA · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
✨ The Secret Gardens ✨ Once upon a time, hidden just beyond the whispers of the ocean breeze, there was a secret place where roses stretched toward the sky, dahlias painted the land with color, and lavender cascaded like purple waterfalls. No one quite knew how to find it—until they stumbled upon it. Here, hearts opened with ease, carried by birdsong, the sway of ancient oaks, the fragrance of woodsmoke, and the laughter that seemed to live in the very air. The Secret Gardens unfurls across 11 acres of enchanted redwoods and noble oaks, where each campsite bears a name drawn straight from the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Guests often tell us: “One night is never enough.” And indeed, when you step out of your car, words and pictures fail—there is only the Wow. In true secret-garden spirit, we share just enough glimpses to spark curiosity. The real magic is revealed only when you arrive. Just one mile from Seascape Beach and a short stroll to Seascape Village—with its quaint cafés, market, spa, and more—our haven balances wild wonder with simple comforts. 🌿 The Realms of the Secret Gardens 🌲 Tulgey Woods Nestled beneath towering redwoods, this woodland hosts RV and tent sites, along with Dodo’s Glamp and the Secret Wagon. Here you’ll find showers, bathrooms, a communal kitchen, a campfire circle, and outdoor dining spaces. It’s perfect for families, car campers, and adventurers with roomy tents. ♟️ Chessboard Land Where play and comfort intertwine: cabins, a communal lounge, a sprawling kitchen, living-wall showers, cozy firepits, and even a projector screen for starlit cinema nights. This is the social heart of the gardens. 🐇 Rabbit Holes (open late spring through summer) Two primitive hideaways—Tweedledee and Tweedledum—await in the wilder reaches of the land. Here, no cars intrude; instead, we whisk your belongings by ATV to these tucked-away forest nooks. 🌸 Private Group Groves Three secluded enclaves designed for gatherings, each with its own bathroom, shower, grill, and sink: • Cheshire Grove • The Horseshoe • Wonderland ⸻ 🌟 What Awaits You • Check out our offering on experiences such as Walking tour with the alpacas and Llamas, Sunset ATV Tour with the land owner, petting zoo, etc.
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Electrical hookup
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Saddle Mountain Carmel

3. Saddle Mountain Carmel

92%
(712)
Carmel, CA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Saddle Mountain, RV and Campground! We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life. Please note, all our sites are pet friendly, but there are additional fees and size limitations depending on the type of site. Please add to the reservation or message us. On site seasonally heated pool (Memorial Day weekend in May through October). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation* On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, ping pong table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months. We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests. Thank you!
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Full hookups
Los Padres National Forest

4. Los Padres National Forest

95%
(463)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
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Emma Wood State Beach

5. Emma Wood State Beach

96%
(29)
State park in California · 93 sites
Fish, surf, and explore WWII ruins at this Southern California beach.
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Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

6. Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

97%
(86)
Ben Lomond, CA · 4 sites
For over 40 years, Sacred Earth has been cherished by many as an example of sustainable off-grid living immersed in nature. While it is just 12 minutes drive from the village of Ben Lomond, 30 from Santa Cruz beaches, and 90 minutes to Berkeley, this valley feels as though you are deep in the wilds, complete with old growth Redwoods you can stand inside and far- reaching majestic Madrones. The land is home to the headwaters of Love Creek, with springs to be found in fern gullies and gentle babbling brooks. The breathtaking ridgetop has expansive views down the San Lorenzo Valley southeast and westerly views to Ben Lomond Mountain, the final hill between this place and the Pacific. Don’t miss the sunrise with meandering mist rising off the valley. Large sites allow for family and group gatherings/activities, while small tucked in tent sites provide hidden nooks. Hiking trails (open in dry season only) encircle the land and allow for moderate walks throughout its mostly vertical terrain. What is truly dynamic about Sacred Earth is the sheer diversity of plant and animal species combined with its proximity to world-class surfing, sailing, scuba, mountain biking, hiking, birdwatching, etc. Make your stay in Santa Cruz Mountains at SER.
Toilets
Picnic table
Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

7. Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

89%
(131)
Los Gatos, CA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE READ FULLY AND COMPLETELY. Patchen Farm is a 6 acre, choose and cut Christmas tree farm. Since the farm is only open during the holiday season, in the off season you'll find a working farm (work being done, cars coming and going, etc.). THIS IS A NO FRILLS STAY. NO ATTENDANT ON SITE. NO NEED TO CHECK IN OR OUT. NO RESTROOM. Patchen is located only 10 mins from downtown Los Gatos in one direction and the Santa Cruz beach in the other direction. Perched at the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Patchen offers the scenic beauty of lush redwood forests and views of the surrounding area. There are several wonderful wineries within 5 miles and great hiking and biking trails. The one and only store in the mountains is the Summit Store and just 3 miles down Summit Road. They have plenty of the essentials plus an excellent deli, wine collection and coffee bar. NO CHECK IN OR CHECK OUT NECESSARY NO RESTROOM ON SITE NO ATTENDANT ON SITE WATER and POWER are marked with signs (EACH SERVICE IS $20 PER NIGHT) NO TRASH SHOULD BE LEFT AT THE PROPERTY Payment envelopes at red barn door or Venmo 408-605-1522 Zelle 408-605-1522 Water can be found near the giant wreath just inside entrance and on either end of the red barn. Power is 15 amp and can be found near the giant wreath just inside the entrance, mid-way up the parking lot on the in the wood chips and at the tiny red shack.
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Picnic table
Under the Coastal Redwoods

8. Under the Coastal Redwoods

100%
(3)
Aptos, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp and experience the towering canopies of a coastal redwood forest up close on a truly unique off-grid property. Our land is filled with redwoods, mossy trails, and massive ancient stumps shaped by natural knots and years of history, creating a peaceful, grounding place to reconnect with nature. We’re just 15 minutes from Aptos Village, with amazing restaurants, wineries, and the beaches of Rio Del Mar nearby, giving you the perfect balance of forest seclusion and easy coastal access. While you’re here, you can unwind in hammocks under the redwood canopy, gather around the gas fire pit for cozy evenings and stargazing, or rinse off in our handcrafted outdoor driftwood shower with hot water and beautiful views of the surrounding forest. This is a place to rest, explore, and feel fully immersed in both forest and coast, where redwoods, ocean air, and simple living come together. Would you like a foraging tour? Contact the host and book a time before your arrival. Seasonal farm-to-table vegetarian dinners are prepared by the hosts. To check availability and reserve a time, contact the hosts directly with at least one week’s notice.
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Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

9. Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

99%
(1250)
Gaviota, CA · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Howdy, campers, Welcome to our rustic resort. We look forward to hosting you. We place campers on a first come first serve bases. Larger groups and campers booking more than one night take priority. Feel free to ask any questions, we will get back to you ASAP. Answers to the most common questions below... Yes, we an outdoor shower at cactus flower beach (our version of a beach with cold dunk tubs, shade trees, day bed cabaña and lounge chairs for when it's hot.) Yes, you can use a propane camp stove or cook at our common area bbq in front of the barn where we light a real wood fire for campers to socialize with us, other campers and visit our speakeasy. Yes, we provide propane for the propane fire pits. Yes, your dog can run off-leash. Yes, each site has a picnic table, umbrella, propane fire pit. Most sites have a hammock and hammock stand. Please pack your trash out there is a dumpster at the front gate entrance/exit for your trash. You can support our farm by buying eggs, hats, stickers, and other items, all for sale in the barn. Sincerely, Sierra, Darin, and The Freedog Crew! By booking and agreeing to camp, you accept the waiver and release of liability, without a wet signature. The Entire Waiver can be found under the "Rules" section of our listing.
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Seacliff State Beach

10. Seacliff State Beach

100%
(7)
State park in California · 35 sites
Yeah, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is just up the coast, but you may not want to leave this sandy haven home to a WWI-era tanker.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Santa Margarita Lake

11. Santa Margarita Lake

100%
(9)
Park in California · 57 sites
Do a bit of hiking, fishing, or boat-in camping at this popular California lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hearst San Simeon State Park

12. Hearst San Simeon State Park

100%
(5)
State park in California · 4 sites
Hearst San Simeon State Park is one of the oldest units of the California State Park System. The coastal bluffs and promontories of the scenic park offer unobstructed views of the ocean and rocky shore. The park includes the Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve, the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Pa-nu Cultural Preserve which were established in 1990. A 3.3 mile trail runs through parts of the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Washburn Campground. The trail includes scenic overlooks, rest-stop benches and interpretive panels with information on wildlife and habitat. A portion of the trail along the seasonal wetland is wheelchair accessible. Santa Rosa Creek Preserve is an area which includes valuable riparian forests and coastal wetlands, that provide habitat for endangered Tidewater Goby. San Simeon Natural Preserve consists of vast wetlands, riparian areas, and several undisturbed native plant communities including unique mima mound topography. The Preserve is also the wintering site for monarch butterfly populations. The 13.7 acre Pa-nu Cultural Preserve contains the most significant archeological site within San Simeon State Park. The site has been dated to 5850 years before the present, and it contains significant evidence documenting prehistoric technology, subsistence practices and social organization over the course of several centuries.A unique opportunity to view northern elephant seals is available at the Elephant Seal Boardwalk in Hearst San Simeon State Park. This vantage point provides an ideal location to view these marine mammals from a safe distance.  Located around Point Piedras Blancas, the elephant seal rookery extends along 6 miles of the shoreline.  Elephant seals may be seen throughout the year. The largest populations and the most activity are during the months of late January, April and October.  Although elephant seals spend most of their lives in the open ocean, they arrive at the rookery to give birth, breed, molt and rest from long migrations in the ocean in search of food. The viewing areas are open to the public year round and are wheelchair accessible.  Docents are on site to answer questions. No reservations are required and there is no fee.  Restroom facilities are not available at this location.  The nearest restrooms are 4 miles south of the viewing areas at William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach.
New Brighton State Beach

13. New Brighton State Beach

99%
(70)
State park in California · 110 sites
Wake up to stunning views of Monterey Bay in New Brighton, one of California's best beaches.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Quail Ridge Farm

14. Quail Ridge Farm

100%
(24)
Los Gatos, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camping & RV Parking on a Working Farm Near Santa Cruz Come camp on our peaceful working farm with easy access to incredible bike trails, beaches, and hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We offer 3 spacious campsites where you can park your RV or camper van, or set up a tent. The sites are spread out with plenty of room for groups and families. For a more comfortable stay, you can also rent our solar-powered Airstream Base Camp. The property is a working farm with animals and a Christmas tree farm, and we’re currently planting olive trees and lavender fields. Guests are welcome to enjoy hikes directly on the property, including redwood forest trails and scenic views. Interested in hosting a gathering? Ask us about renting the entire property for private events like birthday parties or group lunches, with the option to camp overnight. Camp Details: 3 sites for RVs (various sizes) or tents No hookups Potable drinking water available for fill-ups No electricity at campsites Quiet, natural setting—perfect for unplugging A great spot for campers looking for nature, space, and a relaxed farm atmosphere close to Santa Cruz.
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Camp Rewilding

15. Camp Rewilding

94%
(58)
Morgan Hill, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Secluded private campsites for those willing to make the trek up the mountain. Guests love the privacy, wildlife sightings, and beautiful mountain setting. Whether you’re exploring nearby hiking trails, visiting Gilroy Gardens, or taking a scenic drive to Santa Cruz, this is the perfect base for an outdoor getaway. Amenities include picnic tables, fire pits, and a clean pit toilet to make your rustic camping experience comfortable. Please note: the final few miles to camp are on a rustic mountain road with uneven terrain. The drive is part of the adventure!
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Felton Open Space Camp Sites

16. Felton Open Space Camp Sites

95%
(666)
Felton, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Next to Historic Winery in the heart of Santa Cruz Mountains in the quaint town of Felton. Located between two state parks, Henry Cowell and Fall Creek. Just 6 miles, up in the mountains, from the Pacific Ocean and the Monterey Bay. Half a mile from the famous Roaring Camp Railway. Wine & Cider tasting next door at Hallcrest Vineyards; Dine in Felton, hiking, biking and local shops to explore. Please note when booking that each of the sites are limited up to 4 adults only. PET POLICY: Aggressive dogs, Pitbulls and pitbull mixes are not allowed. Rescue dogs that have issues with people or other dogs are not allowed. Children are welcome.
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Elkhorn Ranch

17. Elkhorn Ranch

96%
(388)
CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Five minutes from the beach, Elkhorn Ranch is home to goats, sheep, wild chickens followed by their baby chicks, and a couple of cows, dogs, and sheep. In addition to the animals there is a greenhouse and an acre of pumpkins, corn, and beans. A small fruit orchard borders the chicken coop. Anybody who enjoys small farm life and activity will find this place enchanting. Norris and Roberta are incredible hosts and inclusive to any guests that want to participate in farm life. Close to restaurants and the cute harbor town of Moss Landing, 30 minutes from Carmel and Santa Cruz, Elkhorn Ranch can be a place to relax or a gateway to explore Big Sur and all the amazing hidden gems of the Central California Coast. After your stay here if you would like to continue your exploration of the coast, we have a partner who does surfing tours between Santa Cruz and San Francisco. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566796147238 Thanks and hope to see you soon!
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Potable water
Arber-Moore's Ranch

18. Arber-Moore's Ranch

93%
(661)
Oak View, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful natural campsites in the Valley of the Moon (Ojai Valley). Our sites are within an eighth of a mile of walking, running, biking, and riding trails from Ojai to the beaches of Ventura. On many days you can experience Ojai’s famous pink moments. You can hike the trails above Ojai, boat, eat, or picnic at Lake Casitas. Travel to nearby Ventura to shop, fish the pier, or take a deep sea fishing charter or Island charter to Whale watch or fish around the Channel Islands. Please note the aerial view of the camping area recently placed by Hipcamp is NOT AT ALL REPRESENTATIVE of the current camping sites and shows a photo that is many years old when the site was merely land. That photo is without any of the existing amenities or improvements. The actual sites are all Larger than Federal Park and Statepark guidelines, with averages of 20'x30' for campsites and 20'x40' for a long RVCampsite. We have planted many young trees and continue to plant trees and native shrubs around and near the sites. We have picnic tables, table coverings, fire pits, and camping rugs/footprints. There is also an outdoor shower, a shower tent with hot water, and an upgraded porta-potty with a sink. Note: During times when high heat is predicted, we strongly recommend that our Hipcampers bring pop-up shade tents or canopies for their sites. The Hipcamp is adjacent to our working ranch, and any photos of old sheds, trucks, a wood lot, or other equipment are NOT on the Hipcamp, but you will drive past that property to get to the separate Hipcamp area. Wineries, Farmer's Markets, Craft Breweries, dispensaries, and more are within 10 to 15 minutes of our site. Our location allows moments when you may see Hawks, Owls, Geese, Swallows, Robins, Bluebirds, and more. We offer both tent and RV camping. The Majority of our Guests love it here: "Vivian and Dave were exceptional hosts! Easy to contact and find our way to their property. Also gave us a plethora of places to go and things to do in the Ojai area. The area was open and spacious, and many trees and upgrades were in the works to make future stays more user-friendly. Big pluses were the shower and toilet facilities—much appreciated !!"
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Electrical hookup
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Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

19. Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

98%
(441)
Santa Margarita, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Our ranch consists of 142 acres located at the top of East Cuesta Grade, elevation approximately 2100 ft. We are secluded and it feels like you're far away from city life yet San Luis Obispo is only a twenty minute drive away. We neighbor Los Padres National Forest which has several miles of hiking and biking trails. On our farm we have 10 sheep, 10 goats, 29 chickens, 2 pigs, 5 dogs and a cat. Interaction with farm animals is common place as most campsites are close to our animal pastures. Bee hives are located on the property as well. Honey, eggs and firewood are available for purchase. :)
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Campfires
The Hobbit Hideout

20. The Hobbit Hideout

96%
(341)
Watsonville, CA · 7 sites
This campground just got a major upgrade. This used to be called Feel Good Camp and now we dedicate it to the natural green building and clean living. There were many beautiful hands put their energies into each cobbin here and we built it with Love a lot of love and your comfort in mind! This property is best experienced by couples from Friday - Sunday and Familys during the week only. This allows for a fun environment for everyone and dedicated family time as well as quite time. We made our decision based on our love to create an inspiration for arts and creating beautiful buildings using materials that you can find around you such as pallets, clay, sands, straws, etc. Everything is made out of non toxic materials, we even made our own paint out of cooking flours! Being inside these cob buildings feels like being in the womb of Mother Earth: the scent, the calm, the grounding, etc. The woods come from one of our properties and we milled them ourselves. We upcycle almost everything: The tree barks, the branches, even the furnitures were secured from non-profit organizations. We'd like you to come to be inspired! One of the buildings is there as a demonstration site till its done and we'll have the cob builder to be there to show you around. Cob working party is held by a master cob builder. We made your Camping and Glamping experience easy. We provide clean showers, restrooms, toilet paper, paper towels, barbecue, fridge, freezer, popcorn kettles, , utensils, plates, bowls, mugs, coffee maker, pots and pans, cutleries, etc. Yes, there is hot water as well with no coins needed. The campground is located in a serene oak grove area of the property. Its a peaceful getaway with an abundance of bird varieties and occasional wild turkeys passing through. Take a stroll around our 5-acre property and catch a breathtaking sunset from the hillside. The amenities are: Outdoor kitchen, 2 fire pits, outdoor showers and bathrooms, electricity in each cobin, Board games, Yard Games, dog park and an outdoor library for little ones to grown ups. In Winter 2026 we'll add sauna and outdoor tubs for warm winter experience. Your parking spot is within a very short walking distance and there are wagons for you to use to haul your belongings to your camp site.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Frequently Asked Questions

Free camping on the Central Coast is limited, but there are some options. Most of the free camping spots are dispersed and primitive, so be prepared to follow Leave No Trace principles. Los Padres National Forest offers dispersed camping in certain areas, such as Nacimiento-Fergusson Road, which is popular for its views. In the Big Sur area, Prewitt Ridge is another option for free dispersed camping with incredible views of the coastline. Keep in mind that these sites are first-come, first-served and may have limited amenities. Always check the current regulations and restrictions before heading out.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field