- Carmel-by-the-Sea
The best dog-friendly camping near Carmel-by-the-Sea
95% (4K) • 259 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carmel-by-the-Sea
Terra Cultura
1. Terra Cultura
95%
(225)
28mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Our farm is nestled in the scenic hills of Aromas, CA, just 15 minutes away from the ocean. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip along California’s majestic coast, or looking to spend some time getting to know the lush landscape of the Central Coast, we welcome you with open arms!
We are a nonprofit educational eco-arts farm and your booking supports environmental stewardship and arts education for underserved communities. Thank you for your support!
We place the highest value on respect--for the land, and for the people, plants, and animals that call this area home. While you are here, please consider yourself a partner in stewarding this place.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$89
/ night
Redwood Paradise Camping
2. Redwood Paradise Camping
91%
(283)
38mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
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!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$105
/ night
Masoods Lodge
3. Masoods Lodge
100%
(2)
41mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Masoods Lodge, located in the beautiful redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains! Perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful spot to relax close to nature. The year-round ideal climate makes this charming, enchanted property the perfect weekend getaway.
Enjoy peace and quiet with great views from furnished individual cottages surrounded by redwood trees and sparkling mountain stream providing a full nature experience. Sit out and enjoy the stars at night. This property offers an abundance of fern and wildflowers showcasing their natural beauty.
Masoods lodge has a "log cabin feel", with a stylish flair, and features wood paneling, open beam ceilings, and cozy fireplaces. Imagine relaxing on your private deck, enjoying a BBQ with family and friends, surrounded by redwood trees, either in sunny summers or during cold winters.
All large units – living room, bedroom, kitchen - that accommodate from two to four persons. All units come with a fireplace and electric heat, and are completely equipped for your every need. Also included are spacious single rooms with morning coffee, a microwave oven, and a small refrigerator, with complete privacy.
Planning a wedding, retreat, family reunion, or another special event? Masoods lodge can host your next event. The possibilities are endless. If you have an idea to host your next event and would like to utilize the lodge, we would love to help coordinate and host your event!
The lodge is a 30-minute drive away from Santa Cruz beaches, a 45-minute drive from Silicon Valley, and a one-hour drive from San Francisco. There are many hiking trails, parks, and attractions close by.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$149
/ night
Either Way Hideaway
4. Either Way Hideaway
100%
(1)
44mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 1 site · Lodging
Relax and enjoy riverside views in our tranquil Santa Cruz Mountains guesthouse. Cozy up by the fire pit with a glass of local wine, or visit nearby wineries just a short drive away. Hike Big Basin, Castle Rock, and Henry Cowell State Parks.
Close to historic downtown Boulder Creek and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, this guesthouse is the perfect base for exploring Santa Cruz County. Immerse yourself in nature while staying connected and comfortable. Either way, you’ll enjoy your stay!
SCC Permit #251382
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$192
/ night
Elkhorn Ranch
5. Elkhorn Ranch
96%
(339)
21mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Five minutes from the beach, Elkhorn Ranch is home to goats, sheep, wild chickens followed by their baby chicks, and a couple of cows, dogs, and sheep.
In addition to the animals there is a greenhouse and an acre of pumpkins, corn, and beans. A small fruit orchard borders the chicken coop.
Anybody who enjoys small farm life and activity will find this place enchanting. Norris and Roberta are incredible hosts and inclusive to any guests that want to participate in farm life.
Close to restaurants and the cute harbor town of Moss Landing, 30 minutes from Carmel and Santa Cruz, Elkhorn Ranch can be a place to relax or a gateway to explore Big Sur and all the amazing hidden gems of the Central California Coast.
After your stay here if you would like to continue your exploration of the coast, we have a partner who does surfing tours between Santa Cruz and San Francisco.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566796147238
Thanks and hope to see you soon!
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
from
$80
/ night
95% (4K) • 259 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carmel-by-the-Sea
Terra Cultura
1. Terra Cultura
95%
(225)
28mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Our farm is nestled in the scenic hills of Aromas, CA, just 15 minutes away from the ocean. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip along California’s majestic coast, or looking to spend some time getting to know the lush landscape of the Central Coast, we welcome you with open arms!
We are a nonprofit educational eco-arts farm and your booking supports environmental stewardship and arts education for underserved communities. Thank you for your support!
We place the highest value on respect--for the land, and for the people, plants, and animals that call this area home. While you are here, please consider yourself a partner in stewarding this place.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$89
/ night
Redwood Paradise Camping
2. Redwood Paradise Camping
91%
(283)
38mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
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!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$105
/ night
Masoods Lodge
3. Masoods Lodge
100%
(2)
41mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Masoods Lodge, located in the beautiful redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains! Perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful spot to relax close to nature. The year-round ideal climate makes this charming, enchanted property the perfect weekend getaway.
Enjoy peace and quiet with great views from furnished individual cottages surrounded by redwood trees and sparkling mountain stream providing a full nature experience. Sit out and enjoy the stars at night. This property offers an abundance of fern and wildflowers showcasing their natural beauty.
Masoods lodge has a "log cabin feel", with a stylish flair, and features wood paneling, open beam ceilings, and cozy fireplaces. Imagine relaxing on your private deck, enjoying a BBQ with family and friends, surrounded by redwood trees, either in sunny summers or during cold winters.
All large units – living room, bedroom, kitchen - that accommodate from two to four persons. All units come with a fireplace and electric heat, and are completely equipped for your every need. Also included are spacious single rooms with morning coffee, a microwave oven, and a small refrigerator, with complete privacy.
Planning a wedding, retreat, family reunion, or another special event? Masoods lodge can host your next event. The possibilities are endless. If you have an idea to host your next event and would like to utilize the lodge, we would love to help coordinate and host your event!
The lodge is a 30-minute drive away from Santa Cruz beaches, a 45-minute drive from Silicon Valley, and a one-hour drive from San Francisco. There are many hiking trails, parks, and attractions close by.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$149
/ night
Either Way Hideaway
4. Either Way Hideaway
100%
(1)
44mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 1 site · Lodging
Relax and enjoy riverside views in our tranquil Santa Cruz Mountains guesthouse. Cozy up by the fire pit with a glass of local wine, or visit nearby wineries just a short drive away. Hike Big Basin, Castle Rock, and Henry Cowell State Parks.
Close to historic downtown Boulder Creek and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, this guesthouse is the perfect base for exploring Santa Cruz County. Immerse yourself in nature while staying connected and comfortable. Either way, you’ll enjoy your stay!
SCC Permit #251382
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$192
/ night
Elkhorn Ranch
5. Elkhorn Ranch
96%
(339)
21mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Five minutes from the beach, Elkhorn Ranch is home to goats, sheep, wild chickens followed by their baby chicks, and a couple of cows, dogs, and sheep.
In addition to the animals there is a greenhouse and an acre of pumpkins, corn, and beans. A small fruit orchard borders the chicken coop.
Anybody who enjoys small farm life and activity will find this place enchanting. Norris and Roberta are incredible hosts and inclusive to any guests that want to participate in farm life.
Close to restaurants and the cute harbor town of Moss Landing, 30 minutes from Carmel and Santa Cruz, Elkhorn Ranch can be a place to relax or a gateway to explore Big Sur and all the amazing hidden gems of the Central California Coast.
After your stay here if you would like to continue your exploration of the coast, we have a partner who does surfing tours between Santa Cruz and San Francisco.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566796147238
Thanks and hope to see you soon!
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
from
$80
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Emily
1 week ago
With pets
This little cabin was great for a cozy way to spend time outside. Even though it rained our whole trip and we weren't able to go hiking as planned, we were able to enjoy sitting next to redwood trees and the creek next to the warm fire. The space is well-equipped, with a little kitchen including a fridge and coffee machine and bathroom with a large shower. Hopefully we'll be back to use the hot tub next time!
See more
S
Shari
October 2025
Tent
With pets
This was my second time camping on Norris and Roberta’s land. They are both so welcoming, and I just love all their goats and sheep and chickens…and the new baby llama! My campsite was very private, making it easy for me to walk my dogs. This is my go-to HipCamp when I am in the area.
See more
T
Tiansong
October 2025
Tent
Thanks Ruth and her family for offering us a great camping experience!
See more
Sophia
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
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.
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P
Patrick
October 2025
Tent
This place was so much fun. Great people to hang out with and the animals are so friendly.
See moreB
Beth
September 2025
13 ft Class C
With kids
Norris and Roberta were so welcoming and awesome. Our 6yr old LOVED all the animals and it was an easy trip into Moss Landing and Monterey!
See moreJ
Justin
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Norris and Roberta were the friendliest host. Our family had such a wonderful time at their site, exploring the farm. They welcomed us as if we were old friends and gave took our kids around to hang out with their animals, pick fresh fruits, and run around the property. Our kids loved their dogs too! Norris and Roberta took extra effort to make sure we were comfortable, which we greatly appreciated. The campsite we used was shaded and peaceful with plenty of space for a 6 person tent. Folding tables were available too. The communal fire-pit was nice with some mood string lighting around the area, and Norris/Roberta spent extra time making sure our kids were having fun. So grateful to them for opening up their home and hosting us!
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K
Kristen
September 2025
Tent
Loved this place!! Will definitely be back :) the hosts were so friendly and welcoming too
See more
A
Adeline
September 2025
Tent
What a lovely camp site! We were in the Redwood Paradise Campsite #1 (not by the pool) and it was amazing. Secluded and right in the lush redwoods. Definitely a bit of a hike from the car camping so wouldn’t recommend for anyone unable to trek their gear to their site, but it was worth it for the lovely spot. Ruth & Marshall were so welcoming and kind, serving delicious coffee every morning and Marshall played beautiful piano which was a nice touch. The pool is not heated but we didn’t mind it was a nice cold plunge at the end of a hot sweaty day. Shower and flushing toilet was nice to have; don’t expect anything extravagant but it was just fine for the weekend - much nicer than state park bathrooms/showers. Overall would 100% recommend and return!
See more
S
Shefali
September 2025
Tent
Beautiful site! Drive down is relaxing and the peace and quiet is something you can’t beat! There is an enjoyable common area with very nicely placed hammocks that allow you to observe the redwoods and enjoy what they offer! Would recommend this spot!
See moreC
Crystal
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Elkhorn Ranch HIP Camp is absolutely a hidden gem for families especially if kids are wild about animals. My children came home with stories about goats, lamas, sheep, cows, dogs, cats, and even the friendly farm dogs who take their sheep-protecting duties seriously (but only bark at night because those coyotes are out there somewhere, plotting a sheep heist!). During the day, those dogs were like gentle, furry tour guides, happy to let my kids snuggle and play.
The children hit the jackpot when the owner's grandkids showed up. They roamed from hay to sunflower patch, chasing each other in farm freedom. The owner, a super helpful and kind Jamaican gentleman, even made us feel like part of the family.
You can zip over to Moss Landing for some beach fun, and the apple farms in Watsonville or Salinas are just up the road, so picking fresh apples was the icing on our farm-fresh cake. We also took the Ottertunity to kayak in Elkhorn Slough to see the sea otters.
Our only “complaint” (if you can call it one) was a little nighttime puppy concert. The dogs only bark when the sheep need guarding, and it felt reassuring, like farm security on furry paws. I was annoyed at first because I was tired. Then he stopped and I was mostly reassured that there were not coyotes around us.
We’ll be back for more s’mores, sunflower selfies, and sheep serenades.
See morea
april
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Very nice host. Calm environment and fun for the kids.
See more
Naomi
September 2025
16 ft car
With kids
Very welcoming hosts and spacious camping area. Has everything you need clean outhouse, warm water to wash dishes, and communal fire pit. The animals were friendly and fun to have around. Thanks Norris and Roberta!
See moreA
Adam
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Ruth and Marshall are amazing hosts! Very accommodating. They have created quite the camping experience that was perfect for my family. Great balance of being out in nature but having facilities and community activities nearby. The pool was pristine and such a relief for when it became hot in the afternoon. Daughter enjoyed the trampolines as well. We all took a nap on the hammocks. The live classical piano music with coffee on the deck was an unexpected but welcomed treat. We read and were prepared for the hike to campsite 5 with all of our belongings. It was made easier with a wagon we brought but they also provide a wheelbarrow. “Hiking in” is often a requirement to get into nature that we welcomed but there are closer campsites if you’re not up for that. The bugs are also a part of camping but we came prepared with spray etc. The stars at night were amazing and all the sounds of wildlife. One deer joined us briefly. Any store you need is just half an hour away for example when the camp stove I bought was defective and I needed to quick replace it. Overall we had the best time and hope to come back again!
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D
Dalton
September 2025
Tent
With pets
The Host was super friendly and helpful and the area was super beautiful and amazing Forrest
See moreJ
Jack
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Incredible property and such welcoming hosts! We had a great time
See moreC
Cheyenne
September 2025
Tent
With kids
We had an exceptional experience camping at Ruth’s place. From the rich aroma of morning Peruvian coffee to refreshing last-minute swims in the pristine pool, every detail was thoughtfully curated. Marshal’s eclectic and phenomenal piano repertoire was the perfect finishing touch to an already unforgettable stay. This is truly a special place, and we look forward to returning.
See moreC
Corianne
September 2025
Tent
With kids
We love camping here! It was our second time and our kids can't wait to come back next year. We love all the animals, super friendly people, nice camp sites, camp fires and the location: perfect to explore Elkhorn slough and the coast.
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G
Gabriel
August 2025
Tent
Absolutely incredible. Beautiful, stunning site with massive gorgeous redwoods as soon as you come in. Very amenable and kind host who made us delicisious Peruvian coffee in the morning! Beautiful sunset and views from deck on house open to guests at campsite, and super nice to have a pool available. Quiet sites with no loud talking/drinking etc. Definitely recommend for families, couples, or friends seeking a quiet and peaceful getaway with amenities.
Only note is that there were a bit more bees/flies than one might typically expect camping at our site, which were slightly annoying getting into food, but that's nature and can't really be helped! (and might be a site specific thing, probably) Really wasn't a big deal, just beware in case you have a bee allergy.
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Jeannette
August 2025
Tent
Myself and my Adult daughter stayed 2 nights , it was a Mom and daughter weekend. We had no difficulty finding the location. Having a shower, bathroom and pool was a plus especially during the unuasl heat we had over the Labor Day weekend. And it just a short drive to the beach and shopping. Im glad we packed very light because even though the walk to our site was not very long it is a bit up and down and having to make too many trips back and fourth to the car would have been exhausting. I would'nt recommend some sites for anyone with walking disabilities or balance issues. Keep that in mind. It is noted in the description as well. Everything was mostly as described and Ruth and her family are gracious hosts. They open their home to campers and its visible that they do enjoy their position. We very much enjoyed Marshall's piano talent and the amazing coffee in the am's. Thank you for having us. It was a very nice change of scenery.
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