The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Aptos, California

95% (4409 reviews)

Looking for a camping experience near Aptos, California with your furry friend? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 590 options specifically catering to pets in the Aptos area, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect campsite. Whether you prefer a rustic retreat or a more luxurious setup, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews), and Walden Ranch (418 reviews) for an idea of what to expect. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water, and partake in activities such as boating, wildlife watching, and swimming. Don't wait any longer to plan your perfect camping getaway with your furry companion!

Popular camping styles for Aptos

Top-rated campgrounds

The outdoor kitchen with Eagle’s Nest/Game Dome in the background

95% (4409 reviews)

Looking for a camping experience near Aptos, California with your furry friend? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 590 options specifically catering to pets in the Aptos area, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect campsite. Whether you prefer a rustic retreat or a more luxurious setup, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews), and Walden Ranch (418 reviews) for an idea of what to expect. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water, and partake in activities such as boating, wildlife watching, and swimming. Don't wait any longer to plan your perfect camping getaway with your furry companion!

Popular camping styles for Aptos

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

100%

(7)

6.2mi from Aptos · 3 sites · Lodging · Watsonville, CA

We only book one group at a time so whether you are a couple or a large group, you get the whole place to yourself. Located an hour drive from the bay area, Camp Cruz is a year-round glamping retreat in the redwoods ideal for people who want a private outdoor getaway without giving up basic living comforts. It is a perfect destination to unwind, recharge, and create special memories in nature. We offer guests 2 private bedrooms: the Raven’s Nest (an aircrete dome) and/or the Owl’s Nest (a yurt). More guests are welcome if you bring your own camping tents. There is a fully equipped covered kitchen with stove, fridge, barbecue grill, electric coffee maker, tables and chairs, and more. The kitchen also has a ping pong table. There is also a large geodome furnished as a game room with couches, a lounge area, pool table, foosball table, a stereo, games, and music equipment. There are clean composting toilets, hot showers, a propane fire pit, heaters for the cold, a hammock bungalow, a meditation pagoda, a deck overlooking a creek, and disc golf baskets. With a fair balance of sunlight and shade, we have a garden, kids outdoor play equipment, and lots of open space to spread out and relax. We run a nonprofit nature camp for underprivileged youth, and your stay supports our work.

2. Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

100%

(4)

7.7mi from Aptos · 1 site · Tent, RV · Los Gatos, CA

This is a great place to get away and come camp here in the Santa Cruz Mountains, a perfect location for tent camping or come park your trailer or Motorhome/Bus. We have great hiking in the near area and 5 miles away there is great mountain biking trails. A world renoun mountain bike spot with intermediate to experienced trails for riders of all levels. 5 miles down the road as well is buzzard lagoon and is a great Dirt biking/4-wheeling location. It is a fun spot for all off road inthusiast! Your camping site is on a flat plateu and is an ideal spot to park your trailer, motorhome or tent camp. With Complete privacy with views of the pacific ocean and South county's Monterey bay with a 180 degree view as well as San jose and Morgan Hill. For the wine inthusiast, Loma Prieta winery is 5.5 miles away along with Windy Oaks Winery that is 3.7 miles away that is located on the "Wine trail" that has alots of winerys to offer in a beautiful location. A Day of fun for the family at Gilroy Gardens that is 15.5 miles away. The beach is 30-40 minutes away with great surfing and body boarding up and down the coastline. We will see you soon!

3. Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

99%

(74)

38mi from Aptos · 5 sites · Lodging · Half Moon Bay, CA

On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunrises and sunset greet you in this fully equipped new 2023 Airstream. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, outside BBQ, outside griddle, A/C and fully stocked kitchen. Comes will full bathroom with shower. Truly a rare experience and located within 10 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.

4. The Cottage Barn

13mi from Aptos · 1 site · Lodging · Felton, CA

Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic Los Gatos Mountain retreat in nature. Set above the clouds with expansive views, privacy, cozy fireplace, & quiet setting. Can accommodate 4 people with a queen bed in the loft & full-size sleeper sofa. Extra bedding is included when booked for 4 guests, no extra fee for up to 4 guests. The loft is standing height & very cozy. Located in a rural mountain setting away from it all. Beautiful vineyard & mountain views, spectacular sunsets & stargazing at night. Full kitchen, bathroom with soaking tub & shower, washer & dryer, living room with sleeper sofa, and loft bedroom with queen bed. Perched amongst a vineyard with fabulous views and stargazing. The cottage is a private space situated on our property in the Los Gatos Mountains. Please be aware that we are located in a rural Mountain setting and are away from most stores and other resources. The journey is not for the faint of heart, although the reward upon arrival is breathtaking. Arrival prior to Sunset is *highly* recommended for ease of access. We are a fully operational vineyard. As tempting as sampling the grapes may be, please resist picking the grapes. This takes away from our crop and can impact the plant. We utilize minimally invasive practices for optimal fruit quality, which in turn means every grape matters. Please do not pick the grapes, thank you! We are located in a rural mountain setting. Please allow additional time to access the property. During heavy storms and heat waves, we do experience power outages. We will be sure to work with you in unique situations such as this, so you are comfortable. We have several candles as well as a few flashlights on hand in case of a power outage. We are happy to build a fire for you if you don't know how, and can give you some basic tips to keep it going. Please note we are a fully operational farm in a rural setting. This can lead to forest critters visiting the space. Please be aware and conscious of your food scraps, and please do not leave doors open to help avoid pests.

5. BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

97%

(206)

16mi from Aptos · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Santa Cruz, CA

Purchased from the original owner in 1998. Doug has been clearing and improving the ranch for over 20 years. After surviving the CZU Fire in the summer of 2020, the clearing is continuing and the green growth is thriving all over the ranch. Come revive and energize your soul as you experience the the magic of this private redwood forest. Feel the soothing sound and atmosphere of the pristine creek and its' endless flow as it meanders through the ranch. The seclusion and calmness of this place is addicting! PITCH YOUR TENT UNDER THE MAJESTIC REDWOODS ON THE OLDTIMERS SKID LANDING AND ENJOY THE PRIVACY, SERENITY AND THE SOUNDS OF NATURE ALL AROUND YOU. EASY WALKING ON OUR PRIVATE LOGGING ROADS. SEE THE RESULTS OF THE CZU FIRE AS YOUR HIKE DOWN TO THE PRISTINE AND BEAUTIFUL YEAR ROUND CREEK THAT RUNS THOUGH THE RANCH.

Stories from the community

I

Ian

2 weeks ago

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

Beautiful spot. Definitely off grid - the last 3ish miles of the road are pretty gnarly but we saw Priuses at the top and we were just fine in our 2wd camper.

C

Cheryl

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

The site is beautiful, private and secluded. We loved the creekside location with the small little trail. Great place for dogs and very serene.

M

Mackenzie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

We stayed at the Creek Site and it was perfect for my partner, pup and me. Doug and Denise were both super welcoming and took us down to the site as it is away from their home. It’s a short hike down to the creek, and worth it! It’s so magical down there. As far as location, it’s in the mountains and close to both the ocean and Santa Cruz. Great spot and would go again! As expected, totally off the grid – no cell service.

Anna

September 2025

25 ft campervan

Group trip

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

This site was a surprise-it was very isolated, peaceful and nature-filled. It has no amenities- so be sure you have a toilet, water and lots of lights! Luckily we came prepared and it was very serene. The creek sounds were lovely, although it was a bit of a steep hike to get to it. We loved that the site was all our own, there were very few bugs and it was the retreat we needed.

A

Ann Marie

September 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

A beautiful, quiet space! It felt safe and was very private. Doug was super helpful when I arrived. The road in is rough but doable for 2-wheel drive.

K

Kathleen

September 2025

4 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

A Truly Memorable Stay. This was a wonderful experience. The quiet and calm made it incredibly relaxing—even our dog was completely at ease. On our first day, we were lucky enough to watch humpback whales and sea lions hunting just off the coast. They were so close, we could easily see them from the cliff's edge. We were thrilled to see them return on two other afternoons during our stay. Wildlife was abundant throughout—hawks, a mother coyote, and even a golden eagle made appearances. Please remember to be respectful during your time in nature. These incredible animals depend on us to make the right choices and give them the space and peace they need. The nights were cool and rainy, but our Airstream was warm and cozy, offering the perfect shelter and adding to the charm of the trip. Our host, Dean, was fantastic—quick to respond to any questions while still giving us the privacy we were looking for. All in all, this was one of the best vacation experiences we've had in a long time. Highly recommend!

L

Lissa

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

First impression?…. Speechless! You are greated with a smile from heaven just as soon as you turn off the road onto the parking area behind the trailer. The sun glistening off both the ocean and the airstream itself was simply breathtaking.

P

Patrick

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

Loved the location and the Arrowstream had all the amenities needed for our stay. The host was great and made our stay special. Thank you.

C

Cindy

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

This is a really cool place and the kids had tons of fun. So much to explore for them - they loved the variety. It was a great joy to see them covered in mud and laughing loudly in the middle of the trees. The facilities are very functional and convenient. We don’t have to pack much and it is a very smooth camping experience. It is definitely on the pricier side; we will come back with a larger group to optimize the experience next time! Thank you for having us!

C

Crisanta

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

Deano was fantastic! He walked me through how to use the Airstream and made sure I felt completely comfortable with everything. Whenever we had questions, he responded quickly—even after hours—which we truly appreciated. The view was stunning, and our dogs loved exploring the area. The Airstream itself was spotless, well-kept, and surprisingly comfortable—it really felt like a home away from home. We highly recommend staying here and are already looking forward to our next trip!

Christopher

August 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

Super easy to find, the road was not terrible coming in from 17. Little chalkboard sign on the left “Panoramic View”. Absolutely great spot! Great view of Monterey Bay and the town below. Walk across the site and you’re looking at the South end of San Jose. Beware of thorns and mind the dust.

S

Sarah

August 2025

With pets

4 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Sunrise. The views were absolutely amazing and provided a background for much needed relaxation. The Airstream is well appointed and so comfortable for sleeping and listening to the waves crash. We stayed for 4 days and would love to come back!

A

Adam

August 2025

2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

The views from this place are incredible. The Airstream is well stocked and makes the stay feel very luxurious even though you are camping. Deano himself is a great host and made sure we had everything we needed to have a great time. Cannot recommend this place enough, and plan to book it again in the future

Matthew

August 2025

2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

This really may be the best spot on planet earth. The airstream was so comfortable, amenities were great, and the location truly cannot be beat. Deano was a great host, I wouldn't hesitate to stay again.

S

Shivata

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

Our glamping stay was absolutely wonderful! The place was serene and peaceful, with the meditation area being my personal favorite spot to unwind. The host was amazing—warm, attentive, and thoughtful, with a personal touch to every detail. We felt so well taken care of and truly relaxed. We loved every moment of our stay and would definitely recommend it to friends and family.

Lorena

August 2025

With pets

2 nights at Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

We had the most amazing stay! My son celebrated his 14 birthday with his closest friends. Our group of nine (plus a small dog) couldn’t have asked for a better setting. My son and his friends pitched a huge tent in the center of the property, my daughter and her friend stayed in and loved the adorable dome, and I enjoyed the cozy comfort of the yurt! Ismael was a wonderful host - even uncovered his drum set for them in the geo-dome! The entire property was perfect for our group - teens played pool, ping pong, grilled up great food. The outdoor kitchen was fully stocked too! It’s just a great place, but what really made the experience special was the way it brought everyone together - these young people got to hang out and make memories they’ll never forget. Ismael rocks, and we can’t wait to come back next year!

M

Molly

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

Beautiful and so quiet! Only thing that was challenging was the no toilets. I hope the plan for the space is to eventually add a portable toilet at least cus that was a little more rustic than I prepared myself for. Still, super lovely property and we had a great time.

J

Juliette and

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

We had an amazing weekend in the peace of the woods and dipping in the creek! This spot is a real gem, the hosts are so nice and welcoming. Great place to spend some time outside with kids! We will be back!

G

Gerald

July 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

It was a beautiful, peaceful and secluded site. It was easy to get to and the hosts were very hospitable.

G

Gabriela

July 2025

With pets

2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

We celebrated our first wedding anniversary here and couldn’t be happier with our stay. The views from all the sites are seriously gorgeous, and the airstream trailer we stayed in was clean, comfortable, and modern with plenty of amenities to make your stay easy. The trailer was well stocked with kitchen utensils, cookware, and toiletries. The bed was comfortable, warm, and the pillows were of high quality. The hosts were easy to reach and provided clear instructions on how to access the site and operate all the functions of the trailer. They were even kind enough to bring us a smores kit and extra propane for the fire pit. We couldn’t stop talking about how breathtaking the view above the Tunitas Creek Beach was, and were lucky enough to observe a beautiful sunset over the Pacific right from the driveway of our site. We can’t wait to come back for another stay!