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The best river, stream, or creek camping in Bay Area

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a riverside adventure in the beautiful Bay Area, we've got you covered. With over 270 options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or parking your RV, we have accommodations to suit your needs. Plus, our top campsites like Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews), The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), and The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews) are sure to impress. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, toilets, and potable water, and indulge in activities such as boating, snow sports, and wind sports. And the best part? You can experience all of this starting at just $40 a night, with an average price of $80 per night. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the stunning rivers of the Bay Area!

93% (1.7K) 918 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Bay Area

Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

1. Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

96%
(85)
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.
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Picnic table
Estero San Antonio Wonderland

2. Estero San Antonio Wonderland

97%
(798)
Petaluma, CA · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Enjoy access to our open pastures for picnics and educational self guided and in-person guided tours. At check-in, we will provide you with arrival instructions, guiding you towards a few special places around the ranch and nearby areas to learn about our watershed, our farming practices and regenerative agriculture. We also offer a variety of grass-finished beef, lamb, pork, eggs, and vegetables grown and raised right here on the ranch at our farm shop. The fees listed on this site are for the educational tours. By supporting us through our educational tours you also reserve a camping spot for FREE if you wish to stay with us overnight and enjoy your agricultural products from the farm. Primitive sites are back-to-basics: no hookups, no structures, no potable water. There is non-potable water available for washing—please bring your own drinking water. A shared composting toilet is available to all campers. Winds can be strong in spring and summer, but sites are placed on the leeward side for protection. Fires are permitted when conditions allow—check with us on arrival. We’re just 10 minutes from Tomales, 15 from Valley Ford, and 3.5 miles from Dillon Beach. Bring a kayak or canoe and paddle from camp to the Pacific via the Estero. Primitive and RV Sites with sweeping views of West Marin pastureland at True Grass Farms, a working ranch along the Estero San Antonio. Our campsites are well spaced for privacy and quiet, surrounded by birdsong, grazing animals, and the rhythms of ranch life. Each primitive site overlooks the Estero and is near a mowed grass road for easy access. It’s peaceful here at night—other campers may be nearby, but you’ll feel immersed in nature. Looking for more comfort? We offer two RV sites: The Heron’s Nest is a cozy trailer tucked under a large willow, just 10 feet from the water. It includes a queen bed, kitchenette, indoor composting toilet, outdoor shower, firepit, and direct Estero access—perfect for two guests. The Badger’s Den is a private full trailer with a queen bed, kitchen, dining area, indoor shower, and composting toilet—plus a private wood fired sauna, firepit, and peaceful surroundings. We care deeply for this land and invite guests who feel the same. Visit True Grass Farms online to learn more.
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Redwood Paradise Camping

3. Redwood Paradise Camping

91%
(325)
CA · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging
PLEASE READ DESCRIPTION: 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 (kids only), and hammocks. Our check in window is strict: 3-6pm. Only later check in is allowed if discussed previously with host. There is no 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). THERE IS A 2-3 MINUTE HIKE TO THE CAMPSITES 1-5! Poolside campsites are closer to the parking and are bigger. 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 at the deck. -No smoking (vapes only, away from common areas). -Propane grills only: no open flames or campfires or charcoal. Thanks for helping us keep this place awesome!
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Golden Gate National Recreation Area

4. Golden Gate National Recreation Area

97%
(78)
National park in California · 17 sites
Hike in Muir Woods or rattle the bars at Alcatraz with a visit to the City by the Bay.
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Picnic table
Brannan Island State Recreation Area

5. Brannan Island State Recreation Area

77%
(12)
State park in California · 184 sites
Check out an a-maze-ing labyrinth of waterways in between two of California's largest cities.
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Delta Shores Resort & Marina

6. Delta Shores Resort & Marina

93%
(70)
Isleton, CA · 86 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to riverside bliss at Delta Shores Resort & Marina, a 20‑acre riverfront retreat nestled on the Sacramento River Delta in Isleton, CA. With a private 23-slip marina, sparkling pool & spa (both are currently closed for renovations) , disc-golf, clubhouse perfect for family fun, this is comfort-meets-adventure from dawn till dusk. Bring your boat—or borrow one—cast a line from our fishing jetty, glide into calm waters, then gather around the poolside terrace or challenge friends to disc-golf at sunset. Shared amenities include: Full-service private marina, boat mooring & launch ramp Swimming pool & spa with sun deck (currently closed for renovations) Disc golf, playground, tether ball, volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, activity center + clubhouse. Clean restrooms & hot showers, laundry, 24‑hr security
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"Mi Querida" -Peaceful, Comfortable, Convenient- Family/Pet Friendly

7. "Mi Querida" -Peaceful, Comfortable, Convenient- Family/Pet Friendly

98%
(206)
San Juan Bautista, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The "Nearby Getaway" to relax and unwind. Instant relief from stress and overcrowding. A calm, private NEARBY RETREAT for people and pets to enjoy a stress-free holiday. Choose your accommodations: Tent, RV, Trailer, Sprinter, Car, Camper, SprinterVan. Or, Rustic “indoor camping style” Bunkhouse accommodations available. Safe, serene rural setting with full fencing so your kids and pets can run free and relax. Bring your BBQ fixings, kick back, and spend quality time outdoors with your favorite companions. Family. Friends. Dogs OK. Cats OK. Rabbits, chickens, small goats, lambs, parrots and pot belly pigs OK. Games provided: horseshoes, corn hole, darts, lawn dice, and more. Quiet activities encouraged. Beautiful 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 hoard. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! Wildlife abounds. Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Easy off and on to Highways 101, 129, 152, 156 and easy access to Highway 1. Charge your EV overnite! Nearby attractions include whale watching, Elkhorn Slough Safaris, fishing, Monterey Zoo, world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pebble Beach, Carmel, Big Sur, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and miles of beaches, redwoods, miles of bike trails from the new Coastline Trail, Redwoods, wine tasting and more. Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner and animal lover! Simply ask for recommendations. Bring your pet to the "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great sky views, and pleasant country walks, or step back in time to the Mission-era town of History - San Juan Bautista! As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."
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Unhitched Snug Harbor RV Park & Marina

8. Unhitched Snug Harbor RV Park & Marina

95%
(20)
Walnut Grove, CA · 48 sites · RVs, Lodging
Snug Harbor RV Park & Marina is officially joining the Unhitched family! Unhitched Management is stepping in to lead operations for this beloved sanctuary. Located along the peaceful waters of the Sacramento River Delta in Walnut Grove, CA, this is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking both relaxation and adventure. Please excuse our dust, both online and onsite, as Unhitched Management works to make Snug Harbor better than ever. We can’t wait to welcome you back to the water! We’re bringing our Safe, Clean, and Friendly promise to life with enhanced standards and a renewed focus on building a real community. - Restrooms - 30-AMP/50-AMP - Inns - Cornhole/Horseshoes - Docks - Tent - Fishing - Lake Access - Big Rig Friendly
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Under the Coastal Redwoods

9. Under the Coastal Redwoods

100%
(1)
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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Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

10. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

98%
(51)
State park in California · 107 sites
Big trees keep on growing in this famed Northern California treasure.
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Castle Rock State Park

11. Castle Rock State Park

93%
(22)
State park in California · 52 sites
Hikers and climbers love Castle Rock State Park.
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Potable water
Portola Redwoods State Park

12. Portola Redwoods State Park

97%
(73)
State park in California · 59 sites
Explore the otherworldly beauty of old-growth redwoods—a tranquil sanctuary and ideal getaway.
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The Meadows at Isleton

13. The Meadows at Isleton

95%
(1530)
Isleton, CA · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Once agricultural land, this property sat largely untouched for over 25 years—quietly preserving its natural beauty in the heart of the California Delta. Over time, it was thoughtfully reimagined into what is now The Meadows at Isleton—a peaceful retreat designed for those who want to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the Delta in its most authentic form. From breathtaking sunrises to glowing sunsets, The Meadows offers a calm and open atmosphere, paired with a central location to everything the California River Delta has to offer. Whether you're here for wine tasting, boating, fishing, or simply exploring the character-filled nearby towns, there’s something for everyone. Bring your tent, trailer, or motorhome and settle into spacious campsites designed for privacy and comfort. The property is dog-friendly and perfect for unwinding under wide-open skies. Take in picturesque views of surrounding farmland and vineyards as the sun sets, or spend your days exploring the area. Stroll through historic downtown Isleton and discover charming local spots like Manny’s Barzzeria, Mc Broodery’s, Pineapples, and Peter’s Steak House. Don’t miss DeJack’s country store—it truly has a bit of everything. Enjoy fishing at nearby public docks, kayaking through the Delta waterways, or head to Sherman Island for world-class wind and kite surfing. With year-round festivals and a small-town population of just around 800, Isleton offers a genuine escape from city life—and The Meadows puts you right at the center of it all.
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Grey Oaks

14. Grey Oaks

99%
(501)
Aromas, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Grey Oaks' Rustic Campsites, are a boutique camping experience with real old-timey style. We have 2 RV/tent campsites and currently 2 tent-only sites for hipcamp use. Grey Oaks is located on 20 acres of land, with multiple interesting and cool landscape features, hot water shower, and animals up by the house (1/4 mile from the campsites) that you can interact with during your stay here. ( 2 pasture horses, 1 Donkey, 2 friendly dogs, and 1 awesome cat). At the campsites, we have picnic tables, fire pits, bbqs, chairs, and more. A clean and fresh well water hand/dishwashing station and two outhouses are conveniently located to the campsites. We provide one hot water shower and there are 3 outhouse style toilets on the grounds. We do not provide any soaps/shampoos/sponges, etc so pleas bring your own. There is NO running water at the sites so we suggest you bring your own drinking water. There will be limited water provided for hand/dish washing. We are a pack it in/pack it out campground so please, be mindful of waste as we ask that you take it out with you. We do not have dumpsters/trash service on site so please be mindful of this when packing and booking. Firewood will be provided at your site when you check in. We make a nightly run to check in and replenish and/or, you may message us up to 8pm if you'd like more. We will restock your wood rack the next day for those staying multiple nights. It really is a beautiful and wonderful property. There is wildlife, and it is private and peaceful. It is very dark at night and the view of the stars, moon, and planets is amazing. There is poison oak on the property so please be aware. We will show you what it looks like, so you can easily avoid it.
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Lupin Lodge

15. Lupin Lodge

94%
(478)
Los Gatos, CA · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Lupin Lodge is a family-friendly, clothing-optional destination resort located in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Our yurts are fully furnished with a queen-sized bed, heater, fan, electricity, and Wi-Fi. Alternatively, guests may choose to car camp or rent a campsite during their stay. Shared bathroom facilities, showers, and the Community Kitchen are located nearby and available to guests 24/7. Our property highlights include scenic hiking trails, our pool and hot tub area, sauna, tennis court, lounge area, and our Clubhouse Restaurant that serves Saturday night dinner. At Lupin, guests enjoy a quiet, comfortable escape into nature while remaining conveniently accessible by car, just 10 minutes from downtown Los Gatos.
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Sun, Soil & Summit

16. Sun, Soil & Summit

100%
(3)
Boulder Creek, CA · 4 sites
Flat tent site via "Michaels Summit Loop" with varying views of Castle Rock State Park Crags (Underworld Rock, Pyramid Rock etc). Skyline Ridge and Mt. Bielawski. Very unique features of old growth stumps, culls, spiral trees, and lightning survivors embrace this rare and private property bordering Castle Rocks beautiful and remote San Lorenzo Woods. Guests are strongly encouraged to utilize functioning GPS and mapping (Gaia GPS, Alltrails) prior to embarking on this hike as THE TRAIL IS APPROXIMATLEY 2.5 MILES to get to the property from parking near HWY 9. Of course all amenities are included and are easily accessed from the trail network. The high speed internet also reaches many of the sites through WiFi access.
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Double Bear

17. Double Bear

100%
(26)
Lexington Hills, CA · 4 sites
Double Bear is a rugged three yurt glamping escape in the Santa Cruz Mountains, a secluded setting on a 1.5 mile mountain dirt road among towering redwoods with sweeping views, just 30 minutes from Silicon Valley. It is designed for those who appreciate quiet beauty, a touch of adventure, and the feeling of being truly off the map without being far from it. Our camp features three sleeping yurts, a spacious shared kitchen yurt, and a bathhouse, all thoughtfully placed to let the landscape take center stage. The yurts, up to 30 feet in diameter, offer a unique sense of space and comfort in a natural setting. Soak in the hot tub beneath the trees, enjoy dinner on the pavilion terrace, gather around the fire, or wander the woods at your own pace. Privacy Up the hill sits a separate art house that is occasionally rented, while the owner lives about 10 minutes down the road and is available if needed. You also have the option to book the entire camp, three yurts with 16 plus beds, along with the kitchen yurt and bathhouse, for your group. Hiking / Biking The land is steep, rugged, and spans 83 acres of private forest. You are free to explore and discover hidden corners of the property. You may come across some remarkable surprises along the way. Getting around takes effort, and that is part of the experience. Surrounding area • Two highly rated wineries within a 10 minute drive • Groceries, breakfast, lunch, and dinner options about 15 minutes away • Castle Rock State Park and Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve approximately 20 minutes away Getting here is part of the adventure Double Bear is about a 30 minute drive from Los Gatos. The final stretch is a 1.2 mile drive up a steep dirt road, crossing Bear Creek and winding through the mountains. The road is suitable for 2WD vehicles, just be comfortable driving on dirt roads. Wi Fi Once you arrive, you will have access to reliable, low latency satellite Wi Fi around camp. Cell service can be limited, so we recommend downloading maps in advance. Our approach Double Bear is not built as a for profit venture, but as a place to share the land and its experience. We are just getting started, and your feedback is truly appreciated as we continue shaping it.
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Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

18. Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

98%
(30)
Lexington Hills, CA · 1 site
Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this serene retreat is surrounded by natural beauty and offers the perfect escape into nature. Conveniently located between Downtown Los Gatos and Downtown Santa Cruz which is just 25 minutes from each. You’ll have easy access to the best of both mountain charm and coastal energy. Outdoor enthusiasts will love being just minutes from the renowned mountain biking trails of Demonstration Forest, scenic hiking routes, and the beloved Summit Store for local provisions. NOTE that NO open fires are allowed by our county but guests are allowed to have a gas or propane stove for cooking. Water is 125' front tent. Toilet is 100' front tent. Outhouse has a honeypot, hand washing station, mirror, hand soap and hand towel. Picnic table. Power plug is 140' from tent to charge your phone, etc. Tent does not leak. Pls disregard LOCATION Earth Map. It's incorrect. See the Google Map in pictures that is correct. This time of year, please consider this COLD CAMPING at night. The tent has 4 extra blankets but you should be prepared to keep yourself warm and prepared for winter weather. If you enjoy the sound of rain on the tent roof for just a little longer this season, please come see our tent. In July, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in Henry Cowell Redwoods, walking along West Cliff Drive, and visiting Natural Bridges State Beach. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is open year-round, offering a chance to experience it with fewer crowds and more deals. You can also visit local attractions like the Mystery Spot, the Santa Cruz Wharf, and the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Check Levi's Stadium for all events you might have intertest in such as concerts, sporting events, etc.
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BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

19. BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

97%
(241)
Santa Cruz, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Leafy Lanes Tree House (“Fort”)

20. Leafy Lanes Tree House (“Fort”)

100%
(24)
Watsonville, CA · 1 site
Cozy Retreat Among the Trees in the Santa Cruz Mountains Escape to nature for a stay in our rustic and comfy ‘tree house’ nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Features: •Unique, elevated cabin offering stunning views and the serenity of the redwood trees •Spacious deck for enjoying morning coffee or sunset views •Small kitchen, cozy living space, with comfortable twin (trifold) beds in the loft for a peaceful stay •WiFi for adventure planning (or work from the woods) Cyclist's Dream Location: •Situated extremely close to world-renowned redwood cycling trails, there are routes for all levels of rider from gentle forest roads to challenging mountain climbs Adventure Awaits: •The beauty of the Redwoods will surround you, and provide the perfect backdrop for your outdoor recreation actives whether it’s hiking, nature walks, cycling, bird-watching, etc. •Relaxing, recharging, and reconnecting with nature is almost effortless with lovely parks located nearby •The pleasures of stargazing (without all the light-pollution that’s so common in cities) can be a memorable experience, so don’t forget to turn your eyes to the skies after dark… and listening to the peaceful sounds of the forest can be really special. About: The area of Eureka Canyon Road and Highland Way is charming and quiet. A location surrounded by forest and quite close to some of the best cycling on the West Coast. The property itself is nestled adjacent to pristine Corralitos Creek with its serene sounds of flowing water and steelhead trout. The trees that tower all around have a quiet presence, and you’ll often be aware of the gentle murmur of the breeze through their leaves and branches. This is an ideal place to rest after a day of exploring, sightseeing, or simply experiencing everything the Santa Cruz Mountains and nearby town offer. The Tree House or "Wood Tent": This little home in the trees is unique and can be considered an alternative to camping. Features that combine both “tiny cabin" and "camping", there are plenty of the amenities that will make it feel like a comfy getaway spot. A ladder leads to loft which houses twin mattress.
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