Beach camping in California Coast

Pick your camping spot along some 800 miles of Pacific coastline, from Crescent City to San Diego.

93% (983 reviews)

United States
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California
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California Coast

93% (983 reviews)

Popular camping styles for California Coast

Community favorites in and near California Coast

Public campgrounds in and near California Coast

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(4)

China Camp Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

96%

(35)

Arroyo Seco Campground

38 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

100%

(12)

Lupine Camps

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Manresa State Beach

100%

(16)

Bay Camps

14 sites · RVs, Tents In Manresa State Beach

98%

(884)

Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground

174 sites · RVs, Tents In Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

100%

(7)

Seacliff State Beach Campground

35 sites In Seacliff State Beach

95%

(51)

Sunset Campground

85 sites · RVs, Tents In Sunset State Beach

93%

(41)

Andrew Molera Trail Camp

24 sites In Andrew Molera State Park

Right after the storm passed through. The pelicans were going nuts!

99%

(69)

New Brighton Campground

109 sites · RVs, Tents In New Brighton State Beach

One of the Redwood sites in the morning light.

99%

(108)

Limekiln Campground

28 sites · RVs, Tents In Limekiln State Park

The primitive campsites are just about everything a campsite needs - table, grilll, fire pit, shade, wildlife, conveniently located near the I5 for those trips throughout California as a stopover

100%

(3)

Medeiros Campground

1 site In San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

98%

(132)

Kirk Creek Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

Stories from the community

Jorie

5 days ago

1 night at The Yard!

I loved their camper! Very comfortable and they are very hospitable and welcoming. Highly recommend and would definitely stay with them again!

1 night at Beach RV Pleasure Point

Clean, relatively quiet for being on Portola, great location. Check it out.

Weekend Trip to The Hill Fort - Camelot

I enjoyed my stay! The birds are noisy but entertaining, and the land in that area is just beautiful. Michael was a kind and friendly host, and it was a great staging spot for a day at Pinnacles. Just what I was looking for!

Weekend Trip to Grey Oaks 2

Super Private and Quiet Spot, Zak’s son gave us really good directions and helped us out plenty, overall had a great time was well worth it :)

Weekend Trip to Beach RV Pleasure Point

It's a parkinglot for campers, nearby the hotspots of Pleasure Point. Friendly manager and all was clean and available.

3 nights at dabudage Big Sur

My friends and I absolutely loved staying on Gene’s land! The view of the ocean and mountains was beautiful and the sound of the creek was so lovely at night. The outdoor shower was really relaxing as well! Would definitely stay here again. :)

Weekend Trip to Redwood Basin

What a magical place and set up that created a trip memory for a lifetime for us, a group of adults. Getting there was already beautifully surrounded by redwoods and upon arriving who could’ve thought it got even better. A weekend paradise. Everything we saw was as pictured. Indoors were very clean, with towels for everyone. Outdoor kitchen has everything we needed for cooking from tools to spices. Going to town was a very quick easy drive. Evening around the bonfire set the mood for a great bonding time. Waking up to the beautiful trees and birdsongs was a treat. We didn’t use the tub so can’t comment on that. Shower in the shipping container had hot water and good water pressure. Communication with Chief was straight forward and easy- very responsive and timely. Thank you for sharing this place with us!

2 nights at dabudage Big Sur

Upon arrival, Gene showed us around a bit and wanted us to take advantage of what they had to offer here. This property is something else. We were lucky to be the only campers during our visit. Felt relatively secluded besides the few cars driving through the 1. You can tell that this property is a place of community and full of love for the environment. Stoked to come back again one day!

Weekend Trip to Redwood Basin

From the moment we arrived we knew we had found a slice of paradise. Nestled in the heart of nature, the surroundings were absolutely breathtaking—towering redwood trees, birdsong in the morning and scattered showers. The accommodations were equally amazing—clean, cozy, and thoughtfully set up with everything we could possibly need. Every detail felt intentional, creating the perfect balance between comfort and rustic charm. You can tell the owner truly cares about the land and the experience of their guests. The outdoor tub was a highlight! laura was absolutely wonderful. Kind, welcoming, and genuinely passionate to ensure our stay was perfect. We left feeling refreshed and are already planning our return. If you're looking for a beautiful, soulful escape into nature with incredible an incredible host - peaceful vibes, this is the place. Simply perfect.

1 night at The Hill Fort - Camelot

Funky place. But I like it. Know what you’re getting into, chickens, dogs and lots of peacocks. Michael is a great guy and keeps an eclectic place. It’s probably not for everybody but if your open to it, it can be cool.

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

Remote camping off the California Coast. Tent sites overlook a babbling brook and a quick hike to the beach.

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

Gene's camp was fantastic. Hop, skip, and a jump from anything in lower Big Sur. All the amenities and the sounds of the creek were ama to fall asleep to. Big shoutout to Nacho the cat for keeping us company all weekend. Would definitely recommend and hope to come back.

1 night at dabudage Big Sur

Great getaway. Highly recommend. Such a whimsical place. Amazing views. 100/100

1 night at San Juan Bautista Dog Friendly

Nancy was very communicative through the whole process. Her property is so relaxing and peaceful. We have a 30 ft class A and parked at the 50 amp site. We didnt have to do a lot of leveling. Since we were the only campers there, she allowed our dogs to run freely. Her land is entirely fenced. The pups loved it as much as we did. Bring some carrots to feed Hannah and Daisy (horse and donkey). They are very sweet. If you dont have any carrots, Nancy has treats on the table by the fence where instructions are posted on how to feed them. We will definitely visit again.

2 nights at Beach RV Pleasure Point

The location is great for exploring Santa Cruz and the surrounding area. The actual sites are not very large and right next to each other, since it is in am urban environment. So if you are looking for a place to stay and stay at the campsite I probably wouldn't recommend it. But if you just want to eat and sleep here and go exploring it's great.

Weekend Trip to Beach RV Pleasure Point

Convenient location, that’ is across from a beautiful lagoon. quick communication when I went to book

Maureen

April 2025

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

We loved this place! We only stayed on night along our drive home. Really nice coming from the north even though Hwy 1 north of the property was closed. A beautiful/ kinda scary drive but if you go slow, it’s an experience. Reminded me of the road to Hana! lol! You gotta be into rustic vibes. Epic view, full moon rise. Creek side fire. We are it up! The redwood Gazebo is up a steep hill. We backpacked up with our sleeping bags, pillows and other little essentials. We wish we would have done all our business down low before we hiked up. I’d bring a couple libations and snacks. Chilling up in the perch is epic! We will be back!!

4 nights at San Juan Bautista Dog Friendly

We really enjoyed our four nights at Mi Querida ranch. It was so beautiful and peaceful. It is close to a lot of pretty places. We loved giving carrots to Daisy the donkey and Hannah the horse. We had a wild turkey staying in a pine tree near our campsite. What a charming place and Nancy is a very nice host.

Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur

We camped here for a night in a tent. The place has all the facilities mentioned including hot water, kitchenette and a shower. Some of the camping sites were a little overgrown (but still flat) but the ones by the river are definitely very nice! The steam flows through the property and sounds so peaceful. The beach is right opposite the property and is a very short walk. The host seemed pretty helpful and has done a good job maintaining all the provided facilities. I would definitely recommend camping here!

Weekend Trip to Beach RV Pleasure Point

the site was perfect, staff friendly, and great location.

3 top beach campgrounds in California Coast

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dabudage Big Sur

9 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · 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. *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 is a small communal guest kitchen, 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 previous structures. It is in the process of rebuilding. Children are welcome. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Dogs are welcome off-leash. 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. You can also visit our site on the web at dabugage dot com for more info

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(164)

San Juan Bautista Dog Friendly

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · 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, Fisherman's Whart, 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."

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(117)

Redwood Basin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Soquel, CA

Family-owned since the 1960's my parents chose this ridgetop location on 10 acres for its beauty, serenity, bio-diversity, and amazing peaceful healing energy. The main house is called Rainbow Ridge where a double rainbow appears across the skyline on occasion. We have decided to share this land with conscious folks who want to retreat to the woods from the hustle and bustle but be close to all the action and have all the creature comforts of home with a camping vibe. We have one private site with a glamorous A Frame cabin and a modern tiny home and a tiny retro trailer. The site comes as one single package and is exclusive to you and your group! Nestled on its own private 3-acre redwood and oak forest, leading down to a creek. The site is located just 4 miles (10 min drive ) from Soquel Village and just 5 miles from the beach at Capitola. The site offers: - A 20ft modern container home with one queen sofa bed, large screen with Apple TV, kitchen, patio, fridge, microwave, cooktop, shower, and toilet. - A custom, outdoor kitchen, and bar for entertaining with gas BBQ, fridge freezer, sink with hot and cold filtered water, Sonos sound system. - Large gas fire pit and seating area. - One A Frame eco cabin with option for one king size day bed OR two singles, A twin mattress can also fit in the cabin when in the two singles configuration. The cabin has electricity, fan and heating for colder nights. - One very cute retro airstream style 1950's trailer with a twin bed for a couple or one person. - Space for 1-2 additional tents. For groups of 8 or more and special events please contact us so we can discuss the possibilities. - Onsite you should find all the basic amenities from home including all bedding, towels, kitchenware, cooking utensils, dining ware, herbs and spices, cleaning products, gas for the BBQ and fire pit is included etc. There are a few things you should bring: Food, drinks, ice and fun! The site looks down into a private and secluded redwood and oak forest with trails for small hikes into the redwood fairy circles or all the way down to the creek. The glamping site is on a sunny flat area surrounded by steep terrain up to a ridgeline and down to the creek. The creek is accessible although the final route requires a rope down so may not be suitable for everyone. Within 15-20 min drive you will find almost all major attractions in the Santa Cruz area including The Mistery Spot, Nisene Marks State Forest, Capitola Pier, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and many famous surf breaks from Capitola to The Point, The Hook, Steamer Lane and many more., as well as many amazing mountain bike trails. There are also several Santa Cruz Mountain wineries to explore in a 3- 5 mile radius. Further afield you will find Monterey Bay Aquarium and the coastal beaches north up to San Francisco Bay ( 1 hour 30 mins north) and down to Big Sur about 1 hour 20 mins south. We ask all our visitors to be respectful of the environment, our wildlife, and our neighbors. Please drive slowly and respect the quiet times: between 9.30 pm and 8.30 am. We check all our guests in and provide a quick tour. We can offer a number of additional amenities and services including shopping, stocking up on your favorite supplies, catering, romantic packages and special picnics on the Rainbow Ridge, and much more, so please just ask about all the possibilities.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

95%

(445)

Los Padres National Forest

Mission Canyon, California

97%

(36)

Manresa State Beach

La Selva Beach, California

98%

(884)

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Carmel Valley Village, California

Pajaro Dunes, California

93%

(41)

Andrew Molera State Park

Carmel Valley Village, California

99%

(69)

New Brighton State Beach

Pine Canyon, California

San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

88%

(15)

San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

Santa Nella, California

Other options in and near California Coast

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Fernwood Resort

24 sites1 acre · Big Sur, CA

Fernwood Resort stands out as a unique all-purpose facility nestled within a stunning redwood forest, offering a diverse range of accommodations and amenities for every type of traveler. Our property features a cozy 12-unit motel, charming Forest and Meadow View cabins, and a delightful Redwood Bar & Grill. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of our General Store & Espresso Bar, as well as a welcoming tavern. For those seeking outdoor adventure, our 60-unit campground is perfect for large RVs up to 30 feet and includes tent cabins situated along the picturesque banks of the Big Sur River. We also offer Adventure Tents for glamping enthusiasts, providing a luxurious camping experience. Stay connected with our Calendar of Events, where you can find information about weekend music, festivals, and various activities. Fernwood Campground is conveniently located adjacent to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, granting easy access to breathtaking hiking trails and a memorable winter camping experience. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, Fernwood Resort has something for everyone.

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Ventana Big Sur

2 sites1 acre · Big Sur, CA

Nestled at the edge of the continent, Ventana Big Sur offers a unique blend of luxury and nature, making it a premier destination for those seeking tranquility and inspiration. This stunning resort is surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the California coastline, where the sky, sea, mountains, and towering redwoods converge. For centuries, this captivating area has drawn artists and thinkers, and now it invites you to discover, disconnect, and create in its serene embrace. At Ventana Big Sur, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. The newly introduced Redwood Canyon Glampsites feature 15 safari-style canvas tents, each equipped with custom-designed plush mattresses and luxury hotel linens. Set within a sprawling 20-acre canyon, these glampsites provide a perfect setting to unwind by the fire pit, roast s’mores, and share stories under the stars, all while enjoying the refined experience of glamping. The resort elevates outdoor living with its elegant glamping Bath House, which boasts teak-enclosed showers, heated floors, marble vanities, and pristine restroom facilities. This is not just camping; it’s a luxurious escape into nature. With limited availability, reservations are typically booked about four months in advance, so plan your visit to experience the splendor

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Cotillion Gardens RV Park

2 sites30 acres · Felton, CA

Campers looking to explore the Santa Cruz Mountain redwoods can spend their nights at Cotillion Gardens RV Park, a rare spot bordering Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park off of Highway 9. Here, you’ll find an array of pet-friendly RV sites, San Lorenzo River-front camping cabins (bring your own bedding!), and four designated tent camping sites with wooden platforms, fire pits, and picnic tables. Take advantage of direct state park access to discover beautiful Redwood Grove Loop Trail and other hiking trails, home to some of California’s oldest redwood trees. RV sites can accommodate up to 6 guests in travel trailers, big rigs, and fifth-wheel trailers up to 36 feet, with options ranging from 30-amp electrical service to full hookups and sewer connections. Standout amenities include a heated swimming pool (May to October), laundry facilities, redwood forest horseshoe pits, and for the kids, a playground and clubhouse filled with games. Choose site #68 if you need pull-through access—also, look out for offseason discounts and even extended-stay RV sites.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Beach camping in California Coast guide

Overview

Looking to pitch your tent or park your RV while soaking up the sun on the California Coast? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 480 options available in California Coast, you'll find the perfect beachside campsite to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a secluded spot or a lively campground, we've got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like Jug Handle Creek Farm (1479 reviews), Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews), and SLO Country Camp (394 reviews) to see why they're so popular. And with amenities like potable water, trash disposal, and pet-friendly policies, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, with activities like fishing, whitewater paddling, and hiking nearby, you'll have plenty to keep you entertained during your beach camping adventure. So pack your sunscreen and get ready to experience the beauty of the California Coast.