Redwood Camping in Bay Area, CA: 12 Best Redwood Campgrounds in Bay Area

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to destination for camping in the Bay Area! Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the majestic redwoods or explore the stunning coastal landscapes, we've got you covered with over 78 options for camping in the Bay Area. From the tranquil Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews) to the enchanting Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews) and the historic Swallowtail Historic Art Studio (252 reviews), you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. With popular amenities like toilets, pet-friendly accommodations, and showers, your camping experience will be comfortable and convenient. Plus, with activities like hiking, snow sports, and wildlife watching, there's never a dull moment. And the best part? You can enjoy all of this starting at just $50 per night, with an average price of $90 per night. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in the Bay Area!

99% (372)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to destination for camping in the Bay Area! Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the majestic redwoods or explore the stunning coastal landscapes, we've got you covered with over 78 options for camping in the Bay Area. From the tranquil Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews) to the enchanting Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews) and the historic Swallowtail Historic Art Studio (252 reviews), you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. With popular amenities like toilets, pet-friendly accommodations, and showers, your camping experience will be comfortable and convenient. Plus, with activities like hiking, snow sports, and wildlife watching, there's never a dull moment. And the best part? You can enjoy all of this starting at just $50 per night, with an average price of $90 per night. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in the Bay Area!

99% (372)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Salmon Creek Ranch

97%

(3542)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bodega Bay, CA

Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.

2. Swallowtail Historic Art Studio

97%

(333)

4 sites · Lodging · Petaluma, CA

Antique Indonesian teakwood cottage, private deck with hot tub and very special, large, artistic bathroom/sitting room, private for cottage guests only.. Beautifully rural, yet just 6 minutes from historic downtown Petaluma and fine restaurants and shops. A short trip to the Pacific coast and the fabulous Pt. Reyes National Seashore, Tomales and Bodega Bays and towns, excellent vineyards and breweries, and San Francisco! WE FOLLOW THE CLEANING AND DISINFECTING GUIDELINES ISSUED BY AIRBNB. The space The antique Indonesian cottage is made of beautifully hand carved and hand colored teak wood, and is quiet, cozy and romantic with lovely views. It abuts a large private deck and hot tub. Just a few steps across the deck is the very large, luxurious, art filled, centrally heated private bathroom and sitting area. The cottage itself is unheated although there is a premium electric mattress pad with separate controls on the California King bed. That and the hot tub make for cozy sleeping on chilly winter nights Guest access Aside from the private deck, hot tub and bathroom/sitting room (with 6' tub and shower), guests can access 2.5 peaceful acres, woods and fields and Helen Putnam Regional Park one mile down the road for spectacular hiking. Other things to note In the 1970's this property was Swallowtail Studios, a famous glass blowers cooperative. The Grateful Dead played in the barn and hung out here...their manager lived just down the road. The barn is redwood, quite large and beautiful, with stained glass windows."

3. Redwood Paradise Camping

91%

(283)

15 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA

PLEASE READ: Hello all! If you're looking for some glamping with creature comforts, while just being 10 minutes away from restaurants. This is the place for you. We are a 5 acre property and home surrounded by tall redwood and oak trees. Very green and lots of shade. These are the amenities/facilities you will have free access to: Pool, Pool chairs and umbrellas, Deck area with sunset view, Trampolines, and hammocks. There is not cooking allowed by or at any of the common areas, due to flies and critters. Cooking and eating is only allowed by your sites and not in any common areas: Hammocks, Trampolines, Pool Area, tables, sink, and deck please follow this rule because we want to prevent our shared areas to be fly and bug infested. We are still working on ridding the flies and cleaning. (please try to bring prepackaged food or something easy. If anything you can drive 10 minutes to nearby food and grocery). In the past we let people cook and eat around the pool but now our whole property is fly infested and I find scattered leftovers on the ground. Thanks for understanding. THERE IS A 1-2 MINUTE HIKE TO THE CAMPSITES 1-5! Poolside campsites are closer to the parking and are bigger. CHECK OUT OUR NEW LODGING: This property is my home that I live in with my 2 kids. It is a rustic and homey vibe, definitely not a hotel. We want you to come knowing what to expect. Our property offers a pool, and trampolines for the kids. We have a deck patio area that overlooks an amazing view of the redwood forest. Most of our guests are those that come from foreign countries and they all LOVE the property. I love leaving a great impression of our area. CAMPGROUND GUIDELINES Pack out your trash. Rinse feet before using the pool. No pool toys or floaties. Always supervise kids. Don’t sit on chair edges or pool cover box. Use stumps or your own table for cooking (not ours). Keep the area clean—no food scraps on the ground. No dogs in the pool area; leashes and cleanup required. No eating in rooms or cabin. Check out on the deck. No smoking (vapes only, away from common areas). Propane grills only—no open flames or campfires. Thanks for helping us keep this place awesome!

4. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

98%

(362)

274 sites · Boulder Creek, California

Soak up the shade of old growth redwood trees & take some selfies with banana slugs!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Mount Tamalpais State Park

96%

(207)

50 sites · Stinson Beach, California

See redwoods, trail run, and climb the Bay Area’s second tallest peak.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Redwoods Mountain Getaway

97%

(150)

2 sites · Lodging · Ben Lomond, CA

Our property sits on 2 acres of pristine mix of redwoods, madrone, and oak trees. Amazing valley views, gate access from yard to hiking trails, and very quiet at night. Neighborhood overview Felton/Santa Cruz is full of things to do:The Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad is a 3 ft narrow-gauge tourist railroad.Henry Cowell State Park, most famous for the 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees.Mystery Spot: Experience gravity-defying demonstrations on the short but steep uphill walk.Garden of Eden: Secret swimming hole with lots of fun boulders to jump off and swim around. We will fill you in on how to get there.Cruise on bikes down West Cliff DriveHang out at beach and relax..And of course, world famous surfing in Santa Cruz. We have a two-night minimum on weekends.

7. Santa Cruz's Rudy Ranch

95%

(197)

10 sites · Lodging · Boulder Creek, CA

Are you looking for a serene getaway surrounded by the majestic redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains? Our rental is perfect for adults seeking tranquility in a peaceful setting. Our peaceful eight-acre parcel is 13 miles from Santa Cruz, CA, and within walking distance of downtown Boulder Creek. While we enjoy the liveliness of children, we've decided to host mature guests in our quiet neighborhood for a restful retreat. Before booking, please review all the information we provide to avoid any confusion upon your arrival. Have a fantastic time at our place, whether you're Gen X or Z, we dig all Hippies! Pool area officially opens May 27th!

8. Waldhaus Redwood Retreat

100%

(19)

1 site · Lodging · La Honda, CA

Tucked away in the Portola Redwoods, you will find your very own bohemian grove. Designed by prominent architect in San Francisco, your will find 4 comfortable cabins, modern open kitchen and spa-like bathrooms. Less than an hour away from the Silicon Valley, this is our weekend sanctuary. Like John Muir once said - “Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.”

9. Redwood Rain Forest Camp

94%

(17)

16 sites · Boulder Creek, CA

Redwood Rain Forest Camp is Easterseals Camp Harmon. For more that 50 years it has been a magical place for people with special needs to experience the wonder of camp. During our off season we invite you to enjoy the beauty and wonder of a rain forest. Winters in the redwoods are a fantastic time to really experience nature. Even during the rain one can hike and see the amazing forest in action.

10. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

100%

(2)

2 sites · Aptos, California

Behold natural wonders aplenty in the Forest of Nisene Marks.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

11. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

98%

(50)

107 sites · Felton, California

Big trees keep on growing in this famed Northern California treasure.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

12. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park

98%

(42)

54 sites · Deer Park, California

Escape to the woods in the heart of the Napa Valley wine country.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

13. Castle Rock State Park

93%

(22)

52 sites · Saratoga, California

Hikers and climbers love Castle Rock State Park.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

14. Portola Redwoods State Park

97%

(72)

59 sites · La Honda, California

Explore the otherworldly beauty of old-growth redwoods—a tranquil sanctuary and ideal getaway.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

15. Samuel P. Taylor State Park

94%

(167)

68 sites · Lagunitas Forest Knolls, California

Romp in an untouched wilderness where ancient trees guide your explorations.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

16. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

87%

(23)

99 sites · Kenwood, California

Hiking, rock climbing, and family adventures in the California wilderness

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Camper favorites in and near Bay Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Redwoods Mountain Getaway

97%

(150)

2 sites · Lodging · Ben Lomond, CA

Our property sits on 2 acres of pristine mix of redwoods, madrone, and oak trees. Amazing valley views, gate access from yard to hiking trails, and very quiet at night. Neighborhood overview Felton/Santa Cruz is full of things to do:The Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad is a 3 ft narrow-gauge tourist railroad.Henry Cowell State Park, most famous for the 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees.Mystery Spot: Experience gravity-defying demonstrations on the short but steep uphill walk.Garden of Eden: Secret swimming hole with lots of fun boulders to jump off and swim around. We will fill you in on how to get there.Cruise on bikes down West Cliff DriveHang out at beach and relax..And of course, world famous surfing in Santa Cruz. We have a two-night minimum on weekends.

Santa Cruz's Rudy Ranch

95%

(197)

10 sites · Lodging · Boulder Creek, CA

Are you looking for a serene getaway surrounded by the majestic redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains? Our rental is perfect for adults seeking tranquility in a peaceful setting. Our peaceful eight-acre parcel is 13 miles from Santa Cruz, CA, and within walking distance of downtown Boulder Creek. While we enjoy the liveliness of children, we've decided to host mature guests in our quiet neighborhood for a restful retreat. Before booking, please review all the information we provide to avoid any confusion upon your arrival. Have a fantastic time at our place, whether you're Gen X or Z, we dig all Hippies! Pool area officially opens May 27th!

Waldhaus Redwood Retreat

100%

(19)

1 site · Lodging · La Honda, CA

Tucked away in the Portola Redwoods, you will find your very own bohemian grove. Designed by prominent architect in San Francisco, your will find 4 comfortable cabins, modern open kitchen and spa-like bathrooms. Less than an hour away from the Silicon Valley, this is our weekend sanctuary. Like John Muir once said - “Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.”

Redwood Rain Forest Camp

94%

(17)

16 sites · Boulder Creek, CA

Redwood Rain Forest Camp is Easterseals Camp Harmon. For more that 50 years it has been a magical place for people with special needs to experience the wonder of camp. During our off season we invite you to enjoy the beauty and wonder of a rain forest. Winters in the redwoods are a fantastic time to really experience nature. Even during the rain one can hike and see the amazing forest in action.

Public campgrounds in and near Bay Area

100%

(4)

Frank Valley Group Horse Campground

1 site · in Mount Tamalpais State Park

100%

(15)

Alice Eastwood Group Campground

2 sites · in Mount Tamalpais State Park

88%

(21)

Bootjack Campground

15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mount Tamalpais State Park

94%

(48)

Pantoll Campground

16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mount Tamalpais State Park

97%

(119)

Steep Ravine Cabins and Campground

16 sites · in Mount Tamalpais State Park

94%

(8)

Madrone Cabins

4 sites · in Samuel P. Taylor State Park

morning views, this is a nice go-to place to get away from it all just outside the city.

95%

(119)

Camp Taylor Area

58 sites · Tents, RVs · in Samuel P. Taylor State Park

92%

(39)

Devil's Gulch Group Campground

3 sites · in Samuel P. Taylor State Park

97%

(72)

Portola Redwoods Campground

57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Portola Redwoods State Park

On the Saratoga Gap Trail returning from the Castle Rock Trail Camp

97%

(16)

Castle Rock Trail Camp

40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Castle Rock State Park

83%

(6)

Waterman Gap Trail Camp

12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Castle Rock State Park

87%

(23)

Sugarloaf Ridge Campground

99 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

Stories from the community

L

Lyderic

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

This was our second time at the treehouse and it did not disappoint. From the surrounding forest and trails to the cozy amenities and feel of the treehouse, this cannot be beat. We can't wait to continue coming again in the future!

Eavan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Beautiful campsite. We stayed at Redwood #1 and it was very shady and secluded. We were able to see other camp sites and campers in the distance but it was spacious and clean. Would recommend!

J

Jess

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Swallowtail Historic Art Studio

We had a wonderful stay and would recommend anyone stay here!

A

Amanda

November 2025

2 nights at Swallowtail Historic Art Studio

Bill’s land was one of the best hip camps I have ever stayed at! The Indonesian bedroom was so serene and I slept like a baby with the heated bed. The bathroom was so beautifully decorated with ornate paintings, little treasures, and the stained glass window was intricately stunning. The hot tub was a bonus and it was extremely close to the town of Petaluma and hiking trails. You definitely should stay here for a romantic getaway!

Maricris

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Loved this campsite! Surrounded by beautiful redwoods, quiet, and very peaceful.. Felt safe the whole time during my solo car-camping trip. Perfect place to relax, read by the fire, make coffee, and enjoy the quiet of nature. Would definitely come back!

R

Robert

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Salmon Creek Ranch

Gorgeous property, great hosts, authentic experience. Many banana slug were spotted

Looking down upon Redwood Campsite #3. Note tent deck on right.

m

michelle

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Loved camping in the redwood groves! We had a large group and the hosts were super accommodating to help us get the right setup for our party. A couple of things to note: 1 - the redwood grove campsites ABSOLUTELY require a 4WD or AWD. there is a very bumping/steep road that descends down into the meadow. 2 - the creekside campsites are essentially just parking areas for an RV. we were so lucky that the creek was low so we were able to cross by foot and enjoy the rest of the property on the other side. 3 - don't skip the redwood walking trails on the property!! super beautiful and green area. lots of banana slugs and newts to spot. bonus activity: spot the laurel bay leaf trees! 4 - there is a LOT of poison ivy around the creekside camping sites. make sure your party knows what it looks like, bring cortisone as backup, and do your best to avoid brushing against the edge of the campsite! (worst case, soap and water will help)

m

michelle

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Loved camping in the redwood groves! We had a large group and the hosts were super accommodating to help us get the right setup for our party. A couple of things to note: 1 - the redwood grove campsites ABSOLUTELY require a 4WD or AWD. there is a very bumping/steep road that descends down into the meadow. 2 - the creekside campsites are essentially just parking areas for an RV. we were so lucky that the creek was low so we were able to cross by foot and enjoy the rest of the property on the other side. 3 - don't skip the redwood walking trails on the property!! super beautiful and green area. lots of banana slugs and newts to spot. bonus activity: spot the laurel bay leaf trees! 4 - there is a LOT of poison ivy around the creekside camping sites. make sure your party knows what it looks like, bring cortisone as backup, and do your best to avoid brushing against the edge of the campsite! (worst case, soap and water will help)

A

Andrea

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Salmon Creek Ranch

The treehouse is a dream! We had a lovely time. It was quiet and gorgeous.

G

Gladys

November 2025

17 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Salmon Creek Ranch

I had a great time camping at Creekside Camp #1. We had a tent and a rooftop tent set-up. The site is right next to the entrance / gate and next to the round, which made it easily accessible and non-4WD or AWD friendly. The road is relatively quiet with minimal cars driving through. The site is next to site #2, but appreciate that there were trees separating the two sites. You do have to walk through campsite #2 to go get to the toilet. The creek had minimal water and there was a designated crossing area that was marked with signs. We enjoyed walking through all the trails in the property with our dog. The mercantile had a lot selection and the meat quality is very good.

D

DONNA

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Lovely campsite in the trees and meadow. Nice platform for your tent and campfire ring and picnic table. Get the fresh duck eggs and cooked them over the campfire - wonderful!

E

Ed

November 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Beautiful, peaceful spot. John and Leslie are terrific hosts. Lots of hiking trails. Goats, ducks, and Salukis, oh my!

K

Kimbel

October 2025

1 night at Salmon Creek Ranch

Fab elevated 360 view of redwood forest, excellent craftsmanship throughout. A must experience!

A

Amanda

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Redwoods Mountain Getaway

Amazing views. Quiet, peaceful setting. The outdoor shower was amazing! Bring headlamps for the short walk to the bathroom at night.

B

Blair

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Salmon Creek Ranch

If you’re looking for serenity and quiet while camping on a beautiful property, Redwood Camp #1 at Salmon Creek Ranch is it. The campsite is perfectly nestled among the redwoods, just steps away from a peaceful meadow — offering tons of privacy and a truly magical setting. We went when it was raining a bit, so an AWD was definitely helpful for getting to the site. Upon arriving at the ranch, we were welcomed by the cows they raise, and as we pulled into the visitor parking area to meet Lesley, we were greeted by friendly geese and goats — such a charming start to our stay! The porta-potty was spotless, and we loved that we could purchase ranch-raised meats right from their mercantile — the ground beef, NY steaks, and skirt steaks all we can't wait to try! Although we only stayed one night, we already can’t wait to go back. This place has quickly become our new favorite camping spot. Thank you, Lesley and John, for sharing your stunning property with us!

W

William

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Salmon Creek Ranch

Incredible property. The AWD vehicle was definitely necessary. We cooked a steak from the ranch over the campfire, very cool and delicious experience!

Amber

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Salmon Creek Ranch

John was extremely accommodating and friendly! The treehouse is so well made and peaceful. It's only a 10 minute drive into Bodega Bay.

T

Tiansong

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Redwood Paradise Camping

Thanks Ruth and her family for offering us a great camping experience!

Sophia

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Redwood Paradise Camping

Ruth and Marshall were both great hosts! They were responsive to messages prior to arrival and were friendly and accommodating during our visit. When booking, I wondered if the pool would be visible from our campsite, but I was glad to find that it was very nice and private (a bit removed from the common areas and surrounded by trees). We loved the zipline and hammocks.

Andrew

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Group trip

2 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Clean, quiet campground. Very friendly, communicative staff. We stayed in the Creekside spots. Sites were flat. Easy access to the creek, but you can only see the creek from Creekside #3. I also recommend the duck eggs and goat sausage from the mercantile!