Best Cabin Rentals in Big Sur, California 2025

With its redwood forests and secluded atmosphere, Big Sur is made for a cabin getaway. Yes, this rugged expanse of the Central California coast is known for its dramatic ocean scenery (must-sees include the Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park), but when Highway 1 veers away from the Pacific and slightly inland to follow the Big Sur River, a stretch of cabin resorts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds are nestled in the woods, where you can relax and stay comfortable after a day of hiking in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or tubing down the river. Most cabins are available year-round, many with plush amenities like full kitchens, queen-sized beds with linens, wood-burning stoves, wifi, and even hot tubs. While it might be colder and wetter in winter, it’s not as hard to snag a cabin reservation during this time. If you do have trouble, check out cabins in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Carmel Valley, north of Big Sur.

96% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

With its redwood forests and secluded atmosphere, Big Sur is made for a cabin getaway. Yes, this rugged expanse of the Central California coast is known for its dramatic ocean scenery (must-sees include the Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park), but when Highway 1 veers away from the Pacific and slightly inland to follow the Big Sur River, a stretch of cabin resorts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds are nestled in the woods, where you can relax and stay comfortable after a day of hiking in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or tubing down the river. Most cabins are available year-round, many with plush amenities like full kitchens, queen-sized beds with linens, wood-burning stoves, wifi, and even hot tubs. While it might be colder and wetter in winter, it’s not as hard to snag a cabin reservation during this time. If you do have trouble, check out cabins in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Carmel Valley, north of Big Sur.

96% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%

(720)

9 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA

DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.

2. Saddle Mountain Carmel

91%

(558)

41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carmel, CA

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, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING. We charge $15 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!

3. Nearby Getaway - Dogs Welcome!

96%

(189)

8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · San Juan Bautista, CA

Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Come to relax in peace and quiet, pleasant outdoor. A short drive away but far from troubles you've left behind! Relax and rejuvenate. The weather is always temperate, sometimes the evening marine layer lavishly blankets the rolling hills like cotton. Evening campfires are cozy and relaxing. Easy access to Highway 101 for "Nearby Getaways" or convenient stops along your travels. 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 to Fort Ord and Niscene Marks Redwoods, wine tasting and more. Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner. Simply ask for recommendations. Come to your "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 San Juan Bautista without commercialism! Well, we do have a gas station, a market, the active mission, of course, a step back in history, a few quaint restaurants, craft beer and local wines in our "one-horse" historical town. For the ultimate Nearby Getaway book the entire property and bring along your own selected guest list of friends or family. We invite private groups to exclusive use of the property for Getaways, family & friends picnics, celebrations, reunions, even weddings. Day use or overnite facilities. Groups of 1-100. NEWS FLASH: Skip the long stopover at urban EV charging stations. Charge your EV overnite! Special rates for stopover charging! Easy off and on to Highway 101, 129. 156 and on your way! 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. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! 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 20 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 composting style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity. Bunkhouse rustic 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 8 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."

4. Calla Lilly Cottage

5 sites · Lodging · Carmel, CA

You will surely be charmed as you enter the gates to a lovely private garden and home surrounded by Redwoods. The Calla Lilly is a one bedroom cottage with a sofa bed in the living room and can accommodate up to 4 people. Skylights in the living room and plenty of windows viewing the private garden and view of redwoods surrounding it will bring the sense of majestic nature and a smile to your heart. Stay warm with a wood burning stove and make a great dinner in a fully equipped kitchen or dine at any of our world renowned restaurants in either Carmel or Big Sur. You may want to stay in and relax, read, sit in the garden or go hiking, shopping, galleries, kayaking, horseback riding, or attend the any of the many wonderful events in Big Sur, Carmel, Monterey, Pacific Grove and more. Conveniently located halfway between Carmel & Big Sur you will surely enjoy a gorgeous drive along the spectacular Hwy 1 and then onto a serene and lovely forest road to arrive at this unique "Jewel in the Forest" nestled among the redwoods. We get plenty of sun most of the year even though we're in the forest. Close to amazing local hiking, shopping and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The area hosts many special events all year. Of course you may just want to relax and feel your connection to nature. There is also a lovely area open to all guests called "Carabella's Theatre" where you may enjoy painting, reading, playing music or just enjoying the peace. The entire property is also available for weddings, retreats and other gatherings. This property is owned by local artist Sofanya where you might find her working in her studio or gallery on the property. A small but adequate kitchen w small fridge next or to the side of the living room.

5. Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping

98%

(176)

38 sites · Lodging · Carmel Valley, CA

The Camp was started in 1925 by Mrs. Douglas as a girls camp to teach young girls the beautiful wonders of the outdoors including horseback riding, swimming, archery, and camping. She felt that boys had plenty of opportunity to explore Mother Nature but at the time, girls had no such camp to attend. This 115 acre, beautiful, rolling hills ranch has been a camp ever since and now offers camping for the young and old, girls and boys, families and singles…. You name it… a camp for everyone. Located on 115 acres historic boys and girls summer camp complete with pool, tennis, and hiking in Carmel Valley, CA. Re-connect to nature and nostalgia! There is plenty to do at the Camp as well as surrounding areas. 2.5 miles from Carmel Village known for its many wine tasting rooms, restaurants and galleries. 14.5 miles inland from Carmel by-the-sea and Carmel Beach. Perfect locations for day excursion to Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur. Individual Glamping sessions are available on select dates. Breakfast included in the stay. Length of stay may be required. We highly recommend you stay for more than one day as it is difficult to take part in all activities when at the camp for only one day. Imagine! your own private off the grid cabin where you can enjoy tent camping without the hassle of setting up a tent. Numerous activities for you to take advantage of or simple step outside your cabin and wonder on our 115 acres and connect to nature. Welcome to The Camp. CABINS Solstice and Sunrise cabins recently re-built cabins have one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) and are located near a shared communal bathhouses. Sunset village cabins have access to a bathhouse with designated full baths with private shower and bathroom for each cabin. Each cabin has power and one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) Like tent camping without the hassle of having to set up a tent. You bring your sleeping bag, bedding and towels. Or we can provide you with a bedding/towel pack for an extra cost. POWER All cabins and bathhouses have power Wi-Fi Free wi-fi in central camp not at cabins. FOOD and DRINK 2024 Glamping Includes breakfast. Lunch and Dinner optional at an additional cost. ACTIVITIES Self guided activities include: Pool, pool deck, basketball half court, tennis courts, yard games, hiking trails and many areas to connect to nature. Guided activities: Hosted campfire nightly, Yoga, Archery and Tie Dye sessions available on Saturday. (holiday weekends additional sessions available) FIRE No individual fires. We do offer hosted campfires nightly. DOG Two dogs are welcome per cabin $50 per dog. MUSIC No speakers, amplification or radios. Acoustic instruments are allowed. RESERVATIONS Glamping weekends may require multiple night stays. Check-in is between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. We will send you an email prior to arrival with additional information. Please note Hipcamp site assignments do not correspond to the actual cabin you will be assigned. Our Camp cabin names and assignments are a little different. If you are reserving multiple cabins please let us know so we can try and assign you near each other. Parking is a short walk away from the Cabins. The Camp is private property and for registered guests only. Gate is closed 9PM-7PM. Campers are free to come and go as these please between 7AM-PM, but all Campers must be back onsite before 9PM. WHAT TO BRING: Sleeping Bag or bedding or rent linen pack Towels and Toiletries Flashlight Water Bottle

6. Cabin Chic A&B C-sites

3 sites · Lodging · Hollister, CA

Cabin Chic A, B & C Sites — Hollister, California Hosted by Alesia · 3 private sites · 40 acres Nestled on a peaceful 40-acre ranch near Hollister, Cabin Chic A, B & C Sites offer a blend of comfort and countryside charm just under an hour from Pinnacles National Park. Guests can choose from two stylish 400 sq ft cabins or a dry camping site, each offering space, privacy, and beautiful views. Each cabin features a queen bedroom, a bunk room, and an open living area that extends onto a spacious deck. Modern comforts include flush toilets, hot showers, a full kitchen, and Starlink internet. The property is pet-friendly and fully fenced for safety and peace of mind. Enjoy scenic views of olive groves, vineyards, and a pond while spotting longhorns, horses, ducks, and local wildlife. The open night skies make for incredible stargazing. Located just 25 minutes from Pinnacles National Park, the property is also close to Hollister Hills for off-roading, local vineyards, and charming small-town dining. Perfect for families or small groups, this serene getaway combines rustic tranquility with cabin comfort — an ideal retreat for nature lovers and weekend adventurers.

Stories from the community

Please read the written description prior to booking

M

Madeline

July 2025

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

Dabudage Campsite was pure magic. The views alone are worth the trip—breathtaking ocean vistas that make you pause and soak it all in. It’s just remote enough to disconnect from the outside world (no cell service!) and reconnect with each other, which made it the perfect romantic escape. The site itself is thoughtfully set up. Our cabana was cozy and charming, and the grounds had everything we needed: a well-stocked communal kitchen with cookware, private poopers, multiple fire pits, and the cutest shower you’ll ever see. Every detail felt intentional and inviting. We also loved the vibe—peaceful, friendly, and full of good energy. Our neighbors were kind and respectful, which added to the sense of community without ever feeling crowded. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a peaceful reset, or just want to fall asleep to the sound of the ocean, Dabudage is the spot. Can’t wait to come back.

H

Haley

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Saddle Mountain Carmel

Beautiful setting, cabin was great, great for kids, just wish the pool was a little warmer!

S

Skyler

July 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Loved the cabana, great shower/ bath with hot water. Kitchen was a game changer! Beautiful views and wildflowers

C

Cameron

June 2025

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

We loved the cabana and the property all together. Everyone was friendly, including a kitten that followed us down to the beach and back. We saw sea otters in the ocean, a short walk from camp across a cute log bridge under Route 1. Amazing view of the stars at night and several fire pits. There were two clean kitchens with everything we needed for cooking and cleaning dishes. Highly recommend!

M

Mohammad

April 2025

With kids

3 nights at Saddle Mountain Carmel

We loved the vibe and how friendly the personnel were. The facility was well organized and clean and the trail was outstanding. Highly recommended !

M

Mischelle

March 2025

Group trip

1 night at Saddle Mountain Carmel

This was the best little cabin glamping ever. 5 of us ate, played games, slept well and relaxed in the hills of Carmel. We had no neighbors which made it feel like our own little mountain paradise. Clean public bathrooms, our cabin was so cozy too. Early morning rain made sleeping quite delightful. We’ll be back

A

Andrew

February 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Saddle Mountain Carmel

We had great! Very comfortable my daughter and I. We will definitely stay again

S

Sahir

January 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Saddle Mountain Carmel

Great place stayed with family. I recommend. Beautiful fire pit where the whole family could sit and enjoy. Nice property with lots of places to stay for different types of needs.

L

Lawrence

January 2025

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Great and cozy lil spot. The hammock surprised me and they even provided extra blankets! It was a short walk to the beach and it was even enjoyable just to explore the area around the campsite. Great place to disconnect (easy to do when there's no signal).