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The best camping near Fremont Peak State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Fremont Peak adventure.

87% (13 reviews)
87% (13 reviews)

Wanna see forever? This is the spot for it—across the Monterey Bay and into the universe.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Fremont Peak State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Fremont Peak State Park

92%
(316)

SMR Carmel Camping

34 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents89 acres ¡ Del Rey Oaks, CA
Welcome to Saddle Mountain Ranch, 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, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING. Our glamping stays are NOT pet-friendly aside from one of our luxury tents. We charge $5 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets. On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct). 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, Foosball 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!
from 
$70
 / night
97%
(416)

Redwood Retreat: Camping & Cooking

5 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres ¡ Watsonville, CA
Located on 16 acres, Redwood Retreat is nestled among majestic redwood trees. We have a cottage, a tent cabin with queen bed, and two camping sites for up to 4. Sites 1 & 2 combine nicely for a group of up to 8 and site 3 can accommodate a group of up to 6. Enjoy the owls, doves, hummingbirds, and salamanders. Corralitos is ideal for biking, hiking (unfortunately, the terrain on our property is NOT hikeable), wine tasting, and the beach is 30 minutes away. We are equi-distant between Monterey and Santa Cruz (also approximately 30 minutes but depends on traffic) for all of your more "touristy" desires. Under 2 hours to San Francisco. We will send a very comprehensive list of recommendations for things to do, places to go, and things to see & do in the Santa Cruz/Monterey area when you book, as well as specific directions to get here. PLUS, chef Mima has a host of things to offer in terms of culinary temptations like a whole line of SENSATIONAL SKILLETS. Menus are sent when you book. Why not line up a COOKING CLASS ($85. per person plus ingredients) for a 3 hour class and DINING ON THE DECK with your new culinary creation. Scroll to bottom of photo gallery for latest photos. Ask for the current list of classes. Mima spent 6 years at renowned Chez Panisse restaurant before starting a career as a caterer in the food industry. SEE EXTRAS! Imagine a peaceful, serene neck of the woods with NO WIFI. Feel the restorative power of nature building resilience and buffering tomorrow’s stress. Welcome to Redwood Retreat. in the mountains above the sweet town of Corralitos, approximately a half hour to either Santa Cruz or Monterey and 20 minutes to nearest beach. If you are the type of camper that likes to play music or be loud, this is not the camp for you. This is a refuge from that. When multiple sites are reserved, this spot is perfect for family vacations, company retreats, small celebrations etc. It is strongly recommended that you book all three sites if you wish to entertain. No amplified noise. A noise curfew is in effect from 10:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. for anything but talking. Sound carries and we must respect neighbors and other campers.THX!
from 
$75
 / night
86%
(2491)

The Enchanted Forest Retreat

54 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents45 acres ¡ Los Gatos, CA
Welcome to the Enchanted Forest Retreat! We are a meditation retreat center with 45 acres of some of the most gorgeous redwoods in the Santa Cruz mountains to enjoy hiking, creeks and small water fall exploration, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, star gazing, relaxation, meditation and more. Our campground has running water from a natural spring, Men and Women's Restrooms each with 2 toilets and 1 hot water shower, laundry shed with sink and hot water, and an outdoor amphitheater, (the kitchen and washer/dryer is Staff Only not for campers). We have meditation teaching at the amphitheater and campers are welcomed to attend for free. 4-6 guests maximum with 1 car included in the nightly rate. Each additional vehicle is $15 per day and will be added at checkout once you add the correct number of vehicles you will be bringing. You can bring a maximum of 2 cars. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a trash service on site, we require all campers to PACK OUT THEIR GARBAGE with them! Pets are $10 per day, 1 pet per group ONLY. Please add this as an extra at the time of booking, you will see the option to add extras once you begin the checkout process. Dogs must be on leash at all times! Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. No drugs of any kind including marijuana allowed. No loud music allowed. This is a private property so no visitors are allowed, only paid guests. Our onsite staff will go around and enforce the rules. NOTICE REGARDING RVs and TRAILERS: While we can not offer hookups, theoretically we have no problem with RVs, the road is steep in a couple of places getting down to the campground and VERY narrow in one spot (10ft). If you feel you're willing to take this risk (we won't be held liable), you're welcome to reach out to us and we can see if the site is good for RV/trailers. Only sites 8, 12 and 5 are good for trailers. No vehicle can drive into Site 7, 9, 10 and 11 (the parking area is separate). Other sites may be ok with small trailers. Check with the host. Any trailer larger than 20ft, take your own risk, there is a narrow point only 9ft wide.
from 
$80
 / night
94%
(153)

Silicon Valley View

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents20 acres ¡ Day Valley, CA
We created this space for everyone to enjoy.
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$60
 / night
95%
(160)

Elkhorn Ranch

6 sites ¡ RVs, Tents11 acres ¡ CA
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.
from 
$75
 / night
98%
(152)

Aromas Hills

2 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents5 acres ¡ Aromas, CA
The property is nestled in the scenic hills of Aromas, CA, just 15 minutes away from the ocean. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip along California’s majestic coast, or looking to spend some time getting to know the lush landscape of the Central Coast, we welcome you with open arms!There's no need to pitch camp with our spacious, sun-drenched Yurt! Settle in, and relax on our beautiful 5.5 acre rustic farmstead, nestled in the cozy hills of Aromas, CA! We are just minutes away from Highway 101, but far enough away to enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside. Our property features sweeping majestic views toward the coast of Monterey and down toward Big Sur. The land features walking trails up toward a beautiful oak grove at the ridge of the property, and down the other side into several acres of wilderness. We are located about 15 minutes from the ocean at Moss Landing, and 30 to 45 minutes away from Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel and Santa Cruz.Our furnished private Yurt features fantastic picturesque views of the hillside and farm, as well as our budding food forest on the uphill side. The yurt features plenty of space for a party of four, a queen-sized bed, a comfy couch to spread out on, and an optional full airbed if you need extra sleeping accommodations. There is a propane heater available for chilly nights, and a fan for the warm summer days.The yurt features a full private kitchen, as well as a large communal fire pit and grill, and a picnic table which can comfortably seat 4.  We have a composting toilet for guest use, an outdoor sink, and a guest shower facility with plenty of hot water and pressure, all within steps of the yurt.Whether you’re passing through on a road trip along California’s majestic landscape, or looking to spend some time getting to know the lush landscape of the Central Coast, we welcome you with open arms!PLEASE NOTE:We are a nonprofit educational eco-arts farm and your booking supports environmental stewardship and arts education for underserved communities. Thank you for your support!Our farm features a tent site in addition to the yurt. The bathroom and fire pit are shared amenities. We encourage social distancing during use of these amenities. All common spaces are disinfected daily. Respect: We place the highest value on respect--for the land, and for the people, plants, and animals that call this area home. While you are here, please consider yourself a partner in stewarding this place. Strict Quiet Hours: Please be very conscientious of our neighbors --no loud noise or music after 10pm.Strict Fire Safety Rules: Campfires must be attended at all times, and extinguished fully with water provided. Smoking: No smoking inside the yurt. Dogs/Pets: Several friendly dogs live on the property. Please let us know ahead of time if you intend to bring dogs. Dogs need to be leashed and supervised at all times. Our property is not fully fenced, and there are sensitive habitats. Parking is limited. Please let us know if you are arriving in more than one vehicle.Our whole property is on a slope with dirt paths --wear good walking shoes!If you have made it this far, then I trust you have read and understand our yurt! Please mention "Farm Art Community" in your request to ensure a very quick acceptance of your booking. Thanks!
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$89
 / night
95%
(225)

WindTree

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents64 acres ¡ Los Gatos, CA
WindTree is an awesome retreat perched high on top of the Santa Cruz Mountains in California, over looking the entire Monterey Bay and Santa Clara Valley. WindTree is sacred land used by many over the past 30 years for retreat and ceremony. It has also been a working "Wwoof" -ing farm for volunteers from all over the world to come and learn about organic gardening in a fun, beautiful, nurturing community restoring our sense of interrelatedness and encouraging planetary sustainability by our choices and concerns for the wellness of the environment. You can make your experience apart of this community or enjoy a quiet private camp site away from any activities. We are off the grid with solar power and our own well. We have small organic gardens with chickens and goats. You will love it up here under the stars. Note: RV's over 21 feet will have difficulties on our driveway.
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$60
 / night
99%
(109)

Mission Ranch "Mi Querida"

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ CA
Annular Eclipse Saturday, October 14, 2023 Nearby SF Bay Area viewing 9:20am PDT (16:20 UDT) The New Moon—on October 14—will coincide with the Great American Annular Eclipse, providing a fantastic opportunity to observe the “Ring of Fire” – an incredible thin ring of sunlight that is visible around the moon during this phenomenon. The Nearby Second Best viewing opportunity is a quick and easy 60 minute drive from the SF Bay Area. At Mi Querida we will be viewing a 80% Annular Eclipse on Saturday morning 9:20am, while live streaming the full path of the eclipse from Mexico through Texas, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada and Oregon. Your booking includes a pair of safe solar viewing “eclipse glasses” for your safety. NEWS FLASH: Charge your EV on-site while watching the eclipse! Come to your "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great Annular Eclipse views. Book today. Space is limited. Contact Host for Special Daytime Eclipse Viewing rate. Learn more about this land: This is a large flat site with rolling hills, lovely rural views, rolling oak studded pastureland, open views, lovely sunsets and beautiful mornings. Very quiet, private, peaceful and serene. Afternoon breezes while red tailed hawks ride the thermals, and woodpeckers work on their treasure hoarde. Wildlife abounds. Easy access from Highway 101, yet private and secluded. Historic San Juan Bautista Mission and town nearby. Monterey/Carmel 30 minutes. Santa Cruz/Beaches 30 minutes. Hollister, Salinas, or Gilroy 20 minutes. Site will accommodate RV, Sprintervan, or trailer 50/30/20 amp service. Tents welcome too! Water. Ranch "outhouse" with flushable RV style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity. Bunkhouse accommodations available. Contact Host for details. Tent and Car Top Tent sites also available. Contact Host for details. Beautiful peaceful historic San Juan Bautista. Quaint historic mission town nearby with restaurants. Hiking trails nearby Horseback riding woods & beach. Equine Facilities available. 20 min to beach or redwoods. Beautiful rural area. Weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life; event camp; event site. Family groups and events always welcome! Call for more information. NOTE: This property is located in a very private country area. It is approximately 10 minutes from the small historic town of San Juan Bautista. We meet our first time guests at the Park & Ride as a welcome courtesy so you can easily follow us in and around the potholes on our rural roads! Let us know if we can assist you with any special interests or attractions in the Monterey Bay and Central Coast Area. As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."
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$115
 / night
100%
(129)

Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

2 sites ¡ Tents9 acres ¡ Aptos, CA
Nestled in a canopy of redwoods, less than 10 miles from the beach sits a private and cozy campground. Fern Ridge Flats combines the best of Santa Cruz county. Abundant trees and misty mornings await you at our property in Aptos. Equipped with electricity, water, and a picnic table for your convenience. There are trails on the land for you to explore, animals, and nature to dive into. *************** Smoking and the use of drugs are strictly prohibited. This is a safe and quiet neighborhood with many families including my own. Please do not request to book if you have the intention of partying or using illegal substances. If these rules are violated, local authorities will be called and you will be removed from the campsite. *************** The campsite is less than a 5 minute walk from the parking spot but is relatively steep. Although it is paved it is not recommended for anyone with mobility issues. *************** As an added precaution to protect the lush landscape, the firepit at the campsite utilizes clean burning propane. We chose a burner that closely replicates the size and heat of a wood to enhance our campers' experience.
from 
$65
 / night
100%
(26)

Tru-Love Acres

3 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents12 acres ¡ Watsonville, CA
Welcome to Tru-Love Ranch! A stones throw from local State Beaches and a central location for visiting Santa Cruz or Monterey. Camp on our viewing deck that overlooks the wetlands known as Harkin's Slough. It is a bird watchers retreat: we have seen just about everything from a finch to a family of osprey's on our property. There is a small plane airport across the way so those "birds" are fun to watch but can be a bit noisy on sunny weekend days. We are also 15 minutes away from Corralitos Wine Trail and the famous Corralitos Market.
from 
$75
 / night
99%
(77)

Brigadoon Glamp Site

4 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Watsonville, CA
Stay within minutes of Manresa, Sand Dollar, and Sunset State beaches. There are excellent biking and hiking opportunities on the Watsonville and Elkhorn sloughs, or commune with the redwoods in the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. The air is amazing here, between the salt sea and redwood forest. We welcome you to relax and refresh on the Monterey Bay coast.
from 
$85
 / night
93%
(75)

RedGrove

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents14 acres ¡ Watsonville, CA
The camp site is on the original logging road. Learn more about this land:So many activities within 20 miles! * View of Monterey Bay from the driveway* Next door to Mt Madonna Stables (Offering horse/pony parties, lessons, training and trail rides through Mt Madonna County Park) * Within walking distance of Mount Madonna County Park (Extensive 14-mile hiking/horseback riding trail system, one-mile self-guided nature trail around the ruins of Henry Miller's summer home, Endless Redwood trees, reservation for weddings and other special functions available and picnicking) * 1.5 miles from Mount Madonna Center (Yoga classes)  * 2.5 miles from the Tu Vien Kim Son Monastery * 5.1 miles from Gilroy Gardens Amusement Park  * 8.0 miles from Morgan Hill * 16 miles from The Mystery Spot (Santa Cruz) * 17 miles from Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk Amusement ParkAbout the site:*multiple car parking short distance from camping site*camp site surrounded by iconic redwoods*area is adjacent to horse paddocks *within sight, but not close to main houseAmenities are:*portable commode toilet*trash can*firepit
from 
$65
 / night

The best camping near Fremont Peak State Park guide

Overview

About

Astonishing, expansive views of Monterey Bay, the Santa Lucia Mountains, the Salinas Valley, the San Benito Valley—just wow.

You can drive the 11 miles from the Mission San Juan Bautista. From there, the hike isn't too tough to reach the summit. (But watch out for broken rocks during the final rock scramble.) Don't rush it—You're going to want some time to sit and take it all in.

Come back at night, since this California state park hosts the Fremont Peak Observatory. A 30-inch telescope is open to the public for special programs on certain nights (check first). Or bring your own telescope and gather round to view the heavens.

This mountaintop park also has camping and picnic facilities. You can choose from 25 campsites (we like the view from #8 the best). Be warned, though—the facilities are, well, let's call them rustic. This is a prime park to visit if you're looking for peace and quiet—Try to arrive during the daytime so your headlights don't disturb stargazers.

Notable campgrounds

  • Family Campsites: Ideal for a cozy family retreat amid the park's natural beauty.
  • Group Campsites: Perfect for larger gatherings seeking a communal outdoor experience.
  • Environmental Campsites: Connect with nature at these minimal-impact sites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book six months in advance to secure your preferred dates.
  • Be flexible with your travel dates to increase your chances of finding availability.
  • Check the park's reservation system regularly for cancellations.
  • Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations if the park is full.

When to go

The best time to visit Fremont Peak State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers clear skies for astronomy enthusiasts, though it can be warm. Winters are cooler and quieter, ideal for those seeking solitude.

Know before you go

  • Day use hours are from 8am to 30 minutes after sunset, offering ample time for exploration.
  • Bring your own wood for campfires; collecting natural materials is prohibited.
  • While dogs are welcome, they are not allowed on trails, ensuring wildlife protection.
  • Layered clothing is recommended due to changeable weather conditions.
  • Vehicle headlights after sunset can disrupt night vision, so arrive before dusk for astronomical programs.

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