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The best waterfall camping near Carmel-by-the-Sea

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for all things camping! Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a novice adventurer, we've got you covered. With over 50 options near Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, specifically tailored for waterfall lovers like you, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), DABUDAGE (367 reviews), and Grey Oaks (178 reviews) for a guaranteed amazing experience. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like pets, potable water, and cooking equipment. And if you're up for some adventure, take a dip in the swimming holes, go whitewater paddling, or even try your hand at snow sports. With an average price per night of $80 and options as low as $45, there's no excuse not to embark on your camping adventure today!

95% (783)

Top-rated campgrounds near Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • Some of the gorgeous flowers found on the property.
  • Private tent site.
  • Some of the gorgeous flowers found on the property.

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(725)
47mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
  • Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
  • Spacious outdoor kitchen
  • Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

2. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

100%
(10)
35mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 3 sites · Lodging
We only book one group at a time so whether you are a couple or a large group, you get the whole place privately to yourself. Our home is a short distance away in case you need anything. Located an hour drive from the bay area, Camp Cruz is a year-round glamping retreat in the redwoods ideal for people who want a private outdoor getaway in the forest without giving up basic living comforts. It is a perfect destination to unwind, recharge, and create special memories in nature. We are also only 30 minutes from Monterey/Santa Cruz for guests who want to enjoy the coastal cities. We offer guests 2 private bedrooms: the Raven’s Nest (an aircrete dome) and/or the Owl’s Nest (a yurt). More guests are welcome if you bring your own camping tents. There is a fully equipped covered kitchen with stove, fridge, barbecue grill, electric coffee maker, tables and chairs, and more. The kitchen also has a ping pong table. There is also a large geodome furnished as a game room with couches, a lounge area, pool table, foosball table, a stereo, games, and music equipment. There are clean composting toilets, hot showers, a propane fire pit, heaters for the cold, a hammock bungalow, a meditation pagoda, a deck overlooking a creek, and disc golf baskets. With a fair balance of sunlight and shade, we have a garden, some outdoor play equipment, and lots of open space to spread out and relax. Free wifi is available. We run a nonprofit outdoor education camp for underprivileged youth, and your stay supports our work. Winter lodging.... It can get seasonably cold in the Santa Cruz Mountains during the winter. If visiting in the winter, rest assured we have everything covered to enjoy your stay. We have propane heaters in all main spaces for your comfort. If the power goes out, we have a standby generator that will power up camp provided we are home to turn it on. We have a woodstoves in the Owl's Nest and Eagle's Nest. We provide a fire starter log for each woodstove for each night of your stay, and guests are responsible for bringing firewood to keep the woodstoves going for continued warmth throughout each evening.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$250
 / night
  • Outhouses and washing station. Updated pics coming soon.
  • Grey Oaks
  • Outhouses and washing station. Updated pics coming soon.

3. Grey Oaks

99%
(468)
27mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 8 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, ice chests on request, 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. 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. Eucalyptus, oak, and/or pine firewood is provided free for you during your stay with us. 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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$110
 / night
  • Los Padres National Forest
  • View from the trail at Arroyo Seco
  • Los Padres National Forest

4. Los Padres National Forest

95%
(452)
762 sites · Mission Canyon, California
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
  • Andrew Molera State Park
  • Andrew Molera State Park
  • Andrew Molera State Park

5. Andrew Molera State Park

93%
(41)
24 sites · Carmel Valley Village, California
Surfers love this secluded beach when they want to get away from summer crowds.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
  • Oak tree with sunset shining through.
  • Our driveway with some sun magic happening
  • Oak tree with sunset shining through.

6. Grey Oaks 2

98%
(62)
27mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 3 sites · Tents
This is great option for those who like to bring all their own gear to camp, and don’t need or want all the extras. Our new Primitive Adventures campsites are located on an established 5-star property. It’s a peaceful, secluded and private country estate. The 20 acre property starts out flat and then gentle to moderate sloped hillside with coastal live oak trees, eucalyptus trees, pine trees, meadows and many interesting landscape features nestled between the vast farmlands of North Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties. We are 15 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The weather is usually mild here and we have cool evenings. We do get days that are in the 90s sometimes in the summer and early fall, but we also have lots of shade with all the trees. There is wildlife like deer, turkeys and owls and so much more. We have horses and a donkey, separate from the campsites, so no flies or smell from them. We provide one hot water shower and there are 3 outhouse style toilets on the grounds. 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. You may forage for plentiful eucalyptus and oak firewood for free, or pre-cut pine is available for purchase. Most of our weekends are fully booked at our Rustic Campsites already, so here is another chance to have yourself a weekend camping trip at our new Primitive Adventures campsites. We hope to see you soon! :)
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from 
$75
 / night
  • Orion Observatory
  • Orion Observatory
  • Orion Observatory

7. Orion Observatory

80%
(5)
42mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 1 site · Tent
Orion Camp Observatory Perched above Boulder Creek in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Orion Camp Observatory is a sanctuary for nature lovers, stargazers, and off-grid adventurers. With sweeping views, private swimming holes, and the sound of the forest all around, it offers a rare chance to connect deeply with the land. Just a short drive from town — but a world away from the noise. 🌲 Whether you’re looking for a stunning, peaceful location to pitch a tent for the night or a jump-off point for exploring Big Basin, Castle Rock, or the surrounding redwood trails, Orion Camp can be what you make it. 🌿 For those interested in going deeper, we also offer classes and consulting in cannabis cultivation — from beginner gardening basics to advanced horticulture methods. These experiences are by inquiry only and provide a private way to learn hands-on skills in a professional and supportive setting. ⚡ Beyond the plants, Orion Camp is being built as a living classroom for sustainability and decentralized living. We’re integrating solar, wind, and off-grid systems that demonstrate what’s possible for the future of self-reliance. We’re also actively seeking relationships with tiny home and ADU companies, using units on-site as both offices and showcases for a future brokerage or dealership. 💧 Now is the time to visit. The rainy season is on the horizon — which means spectacular waterfalls on the property — but also more challenging roads. A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended. In some cases, you may be able to park partway up the ridge and hike in, and we can help arrange transport when needed. ✨ Above all, Orion Camp Observatory is a place of peace, reflection, and healing. Come to disconnect, recharge, and reconnect with what really matters — beneath the stars, by the creek, and within the stillness of the mountains.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$32
 / night
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

8. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

99%
(67)
2 sites · Carmel Valley Village, California
Watch McWay Falls tumble into the ocean at this compact Big Sur park.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
  • Not pictured: the goofy sea lion who was bobbing up and down in the water at sunset.
  • There are many amazing waterfalls throughout the Ventana wilderness so be sure to travel a bit off the beaten path to find the real hidden gems.
  • Not pictured: the goofy sea lion who was bobbing up and down in the water at sunset.

9. Limekiln State Park

99%
(108)
28 sites · Pine Canyon, California
A perfect intro to Big Sur, Limekiln serves up peaceful walks, crashing surf, and scenic camping "from the Redwoods to the Sea."
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
  • Big Basin Redwoods State Park
  • Big Basin Redwoods State Park
  • Big Basin Redwoods State Park

10. 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

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for all things camping! Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a novice adventurer, we've got you covered. With over 50 options near Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, specifically tailored for waterfall lovers like you, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), DABUDAGE (367 reviews), and Grey Oaks (178 reviews) for a guaranteed amazing experience. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like pets, potable water, and cooking equipment. And if you're up for some adventure, take a dip in the swimming holes, go whitewater paddling, or even try your hand at snow sports. With an average price per night of $80 and options as low as $45, there's no excuse not to embark on your camping adventure today!

95% (783)

Top-rated campgrounds near Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • Some of the gorgeous flowers found on the property.
  • Private tent site.
  • Some of the gorgeous flowers found on the property.

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(725)
47mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
  • Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
  • Spacious outdoor kitchen
  • Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

2. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

100%
(10)
35mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 3 sites · Lodging
We only book one group at a time so whether you are a couple or a large group, you get the whole place privately to yourself. Our home is a short distance away in case you need anything. Located an hour drive from the bay area, Camp Cruz is a year-round glamping retreat in the redwoods ideal for people who want a private outdoor getaway in the forest without giving up basic living comforts. It is a perfect destination to unwind, recharge, and create special memories in nature. We are also only 30 minutes from Monterey/Santa Cruz for guests who want to enjoy the coastal cities. We offer guests 2 private bedrooms: the Raven’s Nest (an aircrete dome) and/or the Owl’s Nest (a yurt). More guests are welcome if you bring your own camping tents. There is a fully equipped covered kitchen with stove, fridge, barbecue grill, electric coffee maker, tables and chairs, and more. The kitchen also has a ping pong table. There is also a large geodome furnished as a game room with couches, a lounge area, pool table, foosball table, a stereo, games, and music equipment. There are clean composting toilets, hot showers, a propane fire pit, heaters for the cold, a hammock bungalow, a meditation pagoda, a deck overlooking a creek, and disc golf baskets. With a fair balance of sunlight and shade, we have a garden, some outdoor play equipment, and lots of open space to spread out and relax. Free wifi is available. We run a nonprofit outdoor education camp for underprivileged youth, and your stay supports our work. Winter lodging.... It can get seasonably cold in the Santa Cruz Mountains during the winter. If visiting in the winter, rest assured we have everything covered to enjoy your stay. We have propane heaters in all main spaces for your comfort. If the power goes out, we have a standby generator that will power up camp provided we are home to turn it on. We have a woodstoves in the Owl's Nest and Eagle's Nest. We provide a fire starter log for each woodstove for each night of your stay, and guests are responsible for bringing firewood to keep the woodstoves going for continued warmth throughout each evening.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$250
 / night
  • Outhouses and washing station. Updated pics coming soon.
  • Grey Oaks
  • Outhouses and washing station. Updated pics coming soon.

3. Grey Oaks

99%
(468)
27mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 8 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, ice chests on request, 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. 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. Eucalyptus, oak, and/or pine firewood is provided free for you during your stay with us. 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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$110
 / night
  • Los Padres National Forest
  • View from the trail at Arroyo Seco
  • Los Padres National Forest

4. Los Padres National Forest

95%
(452)
762 sites · Mission Canyon, California
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
  • Andrew Molera State Park
  • Andrew Molera State Park
  • Andrew Molera State Park

5. Andrew Molera State Park

93%
(41)
24 sites · Carmel Valley Village, California
Surfers love this secluded beach when they want to get away from summer crowds.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
  • Oak tree with sunset shining through.
  • Our driveway with some sun magic happening
  • Oak tree with sunset shining through.

6. Grey Oaks 2

98%
(62)
27mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 3 sites · Tents
This is great option for those who like to bring all their own gear to camp, and don’t need or want all the extras. Our new Primitive Adventures campsites are located on an established 5-star property. It’s a peaceful, secluded and private country estate. The 20 acre property starts out flat and then gentle to moderate sloped hillside with coastal live oak trees, eucalyptus trees, pine trees, meadows and many interesting landscape features nestled between the vast farmlands of North Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties. We are 15 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The weather is usually mild here and we have cool evenings. We do get days that are in the 90s sometimes in the summer and early fall, but we also have lots of shade with all the trees. There is wildlife like deer, turkeys and owls and so much more. We have horses and a donkey, separate from the campsites, so no flies or smell from them. We provide one hot water shower and there are 3 outhouse style toilets on the grounds. 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. You may forage for plentiful eucalyptus and oak firewood for free, or pre-cut pine is available for purchase. Most of our weekends are fully booked at our Rustic Campsites already, so here is another chance to have yourself a weekend camping trip at our new Primitive Adventures campsites. We hope to see you soon! :)
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from 
$75
 / night
  • Orion Observatory
  • Orion Observatory
  • Orion Observatory

7. Orion Observatory

80%
(5)
42mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 1 site · Tent
Orion Camp Observatory Perched above Boulder Creek in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Orion Camp Observatory is a sanctuary for nature lovers, stargazers, and off-grid adventurers. With sweeping views, private swimming holes, and the sound of the forest all around, it offers a rare chance to connect deeply with the land. Just a short drive from town — but a world away from the noise. 🌲 Whether you’re looking for a stunning, peaceful location to pitch a tent for the night or a jump-off point for exploring Big Basin, Castle Rock, or the surrounding redwood trails, Orion Camp can be what you make it. 🌿 For those interested in going deeper, we also offer classes and consulting in cannabis cultivation — from beginner gardening basics to advanced horticulture methods. These experiences are by inquiry only and provide a private way to learn hands-on skills in a professional and supportive setting. ⚡ Beyond the plants, Orion Camp is being built as a living classroom for sustainability and decentralized living. We’re integrating solar, wind, and off-grid systems that demonstrate what’s possible for the future of self-reliance. We’re also actively seeking relationships with tiny home and ADU companies, using units on-site as both offices and showcases for a future brokerage or dealership. 💧 Now is the time to visit. The rainy season is on the horizon — which means spectacular waterfalls on the property — but also more challenging roads. A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended. In some cases, you may be able to park partway up the ridge and hike in, and we can help arrange transport when needed. ✨ Above all, Orion Camp Observatory is a place of peace, reflection, and healing. Come to disconnect, recharge, and reconnect with what really matters — beneath the stars, by the creek, and within the stillness of the mountains.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$32
 / night
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

8. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

99%
(67)
2 sites · Carmel Valley Village, California
Watch McWay Falls tumble into the ocean at this compact Big Sur park.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
  • Not pictured: the goofy sea lion who was bobbing up and down in the water at sunset.
  • There are many amazing waterfalls throughout the Ventana wilderness so be sure to travel a bit off the beaten path to find the real hidden gems.
  • Not pictured: the goofy sea lion who was bobbing up and down in the water at sunset.

9. Limekiln State Park

99%
(108)
28 sites · Pine Canyon, California
A perfect intro to Big Sur, Limekiln serves up peaceful walks, crashing surf, and scenic camping "from the Redwoods to the Sea."
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
  • Big Basin Redwoods State Park
  • Big Basin Redwoods State Park
  • Big Basin Redwoods State Park

10. 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

Public campgrounds near Carmel-by-the-Sea

Pretty cool when you wake up and you are above the clouds...
83%
(3)

Bottchers Gap Campground

15mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest
Andrew Molera Trail Camp
93%
(41)

Andrew Molera Trail Camp

19mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 24 sites · in Andrew Molera State Park
China Camp Campground
100%
(4)

China Camp Campground

26mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest
White Oaks Campground

White Oaks Campground

27mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest
The iconic McWay cove. Campsite is just behind the trees up there. Amazing.
99%
(67)

Julia Pfeiffer Burns Campground

31mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 2 sites · in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
View from the trail at Arroyo Seco
96%
(35)

Arroyo Seco Campground

33mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest
Escondido Campground

Escondido Campground

37mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest
Memorial Campground

Memorial Campground

39mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest
One of the Redwood sites in the morning light.
99%
(108)

Limekiln Campground

44mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Limekiln State Park
Cabin #16, awesome to hear the creek on the other side of the trees but very very muddy. I think it was the combination of low ground and water access close by.
99%
(69)

Big Basin Tent Cabins

45mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 36 sites · in Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Hello world :)
99%
(57)

Sempervirens Campground

45mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Kirk Creek Campground
97%
(136)

Kirk Creek Campground

46mi from Carmel-by-the-Sea · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Private tent site.
R
RAJASHREE
3 weeks ago
Tent
Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur
I loved camping at Gene's land , highly recommend it. Great host and beautiful location close to the beach.
See more
Site 1
Avatar
Pamela
3 weeks ago
16 ft travel trailer
With kids
5 nights at Grey Oaks
Very pretty property with great hosts. We were not able to get in until very late and they very graciously accommodated us. They have water and wood that smells amazing when burned and a nice box of goodies including popcorn and colored fire packs. One note is the sites are next to each other and not visually separated, similar to state parks.
See more
View of RV/Tent Site #2. We have the picnic table and are adding it this week along with a fire pit/ring with cooking grate. You can choose how you want to park your RV or place your tent. It’s a pretty big space!
Avatar
John
November 2025
19 ft campervan
1 night at Grey Oaks
This is a nice woodsy site, with water and composting toilets available, plus tables, a fire pit and a barbecue — all the comforts of home!
See more
The outdoor kitchen with Eagle’s Nest/Game Dome in the background
F
Fiona
November 2025
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
We loved camping at Camp Cruz! We had a wonderful weekend in the peaceful woods and were able to spend amazing quality time together <3. This property was incredible in ways we couldn't have imagined! Thank you for having us for Renee's 30th birthday.
See more
Site 1
C
Canyon
November 2025
11 ft travel trailer
Weekend Trip to Grey Oaks
What a wonderful site and a great host. The area is lovely and well maintained and lots of thoughtful amenities, like the box of “things you forgot” and plenty of firewood. Zak was friendly and flexible. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and will definitely come back.
See more
dabudage Big Sur
H
Hayley
November 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur
We had an incredible few days on Gene’s land. A few highlights include a lovely outdoor kitchen, easy creek access and a nice grassy area for our tent.
See more
Site 1
T
Theodore
November 2025
17 ft campervan
Weekend Trip to Grey Oaks
Nice spot in oak trees with super helpful hosts, nice bonfire, outhouses clean
See more
Great spot for astrophotography
M
Matt
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Weekend Trip to Orion Observatory
I camped here one night on a clear night and loved the sunset and star gazing. You'll definitely need a decent off road capable vehicle with some clearance as the access road is a bit rough. My stock Audi q3 made it but it felt close to it's limits (or mine as a driver, I'm not sure). The site is about 1500ft of elevation so mostly out of the marine layer, but not completely - my gear was very dewy for part of the night. If you want a polished glamping site then this isn't for you, but if you want some excellent views and don't mind a mini adventure off-roading up past old weed farms, check it out. I'd go again.
See more
Site 1
M
Molly
October 2025
20 ft Class B
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Grey Oaks
Zaks land was great! Our spot was spacious and quiet.
See more
Site B shown with a small tent and chair set up.
A
Alexa
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Grey Oaks 2
We loved tent camping here! We enjoyed the privacy of Site B, as well as the clean outhouses and hot water shower. The hosts are communicative and friendly, and keep to themselves unless you request assistance. One thing to note is that site B is on an incline. The picnic area is relatively level and the tent spot is nice and flat, though still a bit slanted. Building a campfire was easy with wood and fire starters purchased from the host and delivered straight to the campsite. Spend the extra couple of dollars for the colorful fire packs! Overall, this was a great stay in a convenient location (easy driving distance from Monterey and Santa Cruz). Would definitely return!
See more
Orion Observatory
A
Alex
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Orion Observatory
Great little spot , we really enjoyed ourselves here. Josh was a big help with very detailed direction's on getting there .
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Private tent site.
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Gary
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur
Great location on North Hwy 1/Big Sur with a running creek 'soundtrack' in a great location especially when finding availability at the big (State or Nationals) Parks are sold out.
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Private tent site.
M
Matthew
September 2025
Tent
1 night at dabudage Big Sur
Easy to find, epic views, and very close to the beach.
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Now with glass doors Sep 25’
B
Bo
September 2025
1 night at dabudage Big Sur
My partner and I loved the redwood gazebo at Gene’s camp site. The view from the site is gorgeous. Gene is responsive and friendly. I would love to go back when possible - also highly recommend it to anyone looking for a calm and therapeutic experience.
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Orion Observatory
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Samir
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Weekend Trip to Orion Observatory
The coolest hipcamp I have stayed at thus far. Joshua gave very clear directions and was very helpful. The property is massive and views are extraordinary. Definitely need 4x4 with higher clearance, but the top is so worth it. Will be coming back when I am in the area again.
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View of RV/Tent Site #2. We have the picnic table and are adding it this week along with a fire pit/ring with cooking grate. You can choose how you want to park your RV or place your tent. It’s a pretty big space!
S
Seth
September 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Grey Oaks
The location was peaceful and surrounded by beautiful trees.
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Our campsite was the first on when you walk up the trail by the trash cans. We loved this spot because it’s shady all day, close to a fire pits, and not many people going by. And, we had these trees perfect for a hammock!
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Kelly
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur
Great location along the creek with easy access to beach! Quirky, unique spot that offers several campsites tucked along the creek and hillside. It’s first come, first serve, so recommend getting there early to scope out the best spot and get a parking spot. Kitchen and water available around property, although we brought our own stuff so didn’t use it. Fire pits are around but not at each site. Overall, we enjoyed our time and would come back! Couple things to note: - LOTS of dogs off leash, which is awesome, but if you don’t enjoy dogs or are looking for a pristine campground, this may not be your spot. - It’s unclear where to go when you arrive. We just walked up toward a group of structures and a woman who lives there came out and briefly explained we could basically just find any spot. There was no check-in so I’m not even sure how they account for people being there. Definitely follow their instruction to be there before dark as you’ll struggle to find where to go. - Some spots are up the hillside so if you have a lot of stuff, just be prepared for some exercise! - Very kid-friendly and it seems several kids live there. That said, they are out and about being kiddos throughout the day and into the evening so you’ll hear them! - Lots of raccoons! Make sure all your food is secure and trash put away before bed! Have fun!!
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Private tent site.
K
Kate
September 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to dabudage Big Sur
The reviews don’t lie — this land is magical, and we’re very grateful to have had the chance to experience it. Perks were the coolest cat ever living her best life and inspiring us to do the same, the hot shower, the short walk to the ocean, and the winding creek. Thanks to Gene and fam for sharing their space!
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View of RV/Tent Site #2. We have the picnic table and are adding it this week along with a fire pit/ring with cooking grate. You can choose how you want to park your RV or place your tent. It’s a pretty big space!
A
Amy
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Grey Oaks
I highly recommend Grey Oaks! The animals are so cute and friendly! We had a great time and plan to come back soon!!
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Private tent site.
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Bruce
September 2025
Tent
With pets
2 nights at dabudage Big Sur
Lovely people and a lovely place. Hope to return and camp again soon!
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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