The best desert campgrounds in Central Coast

Looking to experience the beauty of the desert? Hipcamp has you covered with over 180 available options on California's Central Coast. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, we have the perfect accommodation for you. From cozy cabins to spacious RV sites, we offer a variety of options to suit your needs. One of our top campsites, Santa Cruz Bayview Retreat, has received rave reviews from 179 campers. With amenities like showers, trash disposal, and potable water, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And if you're looking for adventure, you're in luck. The desert terrain is perfect for wind sports and wildlife watching. So pack your bags and get ready for some fall fun in Central Coast!

96% (715)

Top-rated campgrounds near Central Coast

Looking to experience the beauty of the desert? Hipcamp has you covered with over 180 available options on California's Central Coast. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, we have the perfect accommodation for you. From cozy cabins to spacious RV sites, we offer a variety of options to suit your needs. One of our top campsites, Santa Cruz Bayview Retreat, has received rave reviews from 179 campers. With amenities like showers, trash disposal, and potable water, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And if you're looking for adventure, you're in luck. The desert terrain is perfect for wind sports and wildlife watching. So pack your bags and get ready for some fall fun in Central Coast!

96% (715)

Top-rated campgrounds near Central Coast

1. Gaia Farm Campground

96%

(97)

4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Goleta, CA

Situated on a private and peaceful non-profit farm on the Gaviota Coast, our campsites provide a unique camping experience for the whole family. The sites feature uninterrupted views of the coast, native chaparral hiking trails, and access to a farm tour (suggested donation of $25/person). Our farm raises animals such as cows, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, and more. We invite you to visit with the animals, hike our trails, and enjoy the natural beauty of our incredible land. Sites are primitive camping on gravel pads along our hiking trails. Approximately a five minute hike from parking. Water and composting toilets are provided.

2. Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

94%

(286)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Day Valley, CA

We created this space for everyone to enjoy.

3. Prospector Ranch

100%

(45)

5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Thousand Oaks, CA

Prospector Ranch which is an 1800's style ranch located right next door to the acre used for Hipcamping. The ranch is made up of their home and is also a venue for filming, photo shoots and small events. When not being used, camping guest are welcome to enjoy the area down around the authentic saloon, use the picnic area under large Oak trees and hike the property. We purchased the ranch 8 years ago and love being outside of the city in the mountains. Star gazing is a must when staying there! The camp site is NEXT DOOR to Prospector Ranch which is our 1800's style ranch tucked away in the Santa Monica mountains, close to beaches, vineyards, amazing hiking, biking to the beach and the city! The wide open empty lot looks out at the beautiful mountains. Enjoy stunning sun sets and Picnic under the grand Oak Trees at the ranch or maybe come by the saloon next door for a cold beverage if we are around. :-). We are happy to point you in the direction for what ever you want to do. There are so many things to do in Thousand Oaks!

4. Zava Ranch - Avocado & Lemon Grove

2 sites · Lodging · Somis, CA

A cozy stand-alone cottage (sleeps 2) and a guest house (sleeps 10) are situated in the heart of our 20-acre working lemon and avocado ranch in Somis (Ventura County) on California’s Central Coast. Wake to birdsong over the citrus groves, sip coffee on the patio, swing in a hammock, or hike up the hill to catch panoramic views of the California countryside and big-sky sunsets. Breathe in the fresh, citrus-blossom–infused air as you wander through palms, pines, and eucalyptus groves. Walk up the hill to take in the beautiful sunset over the rolling farmland. Pick your own lemons and cook in your fully equipped kitchen. We’re super friendly to kids, pets, and guests with limited mobility. Whether you’re looking for a farm stay, romantic getaway, family reunion, friends’ retreat, small group gathering, or a quiet place for reflection and self-care, this is your peaceful escape. Charming, relaxing, and comfortable — guests can explore most of the 20-acre orchard and the gated community, with plenty of opportunities for scenic hikes and bike rides. Owners/hosts live on the property. Distance to favorites • Ventura/Oxnard beaches – ~30 min • Shopping, restaurants, and attractions – 20–30 min • Conejo Valley / Santa Monica Mountains – ~30 min • Ventura, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Santa Paula – 20–30 min • Camarillo Premium Outlets – ~20 min • Ojai – 40–45 min • Los Angeles / LAX – ~1 hr • Santa Barbara – ~1 hr • Local wineries and farm stands – 10–25 min

5. Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

100%

(5)

1 site · Tent, RV · Los Gatos, CA

This is a great place to get away and come camp here in the Santa Cruz Mountains, a perfect location for tent camping or come park your trailer or Motorhome/Bus. We have great hiking in the near area and 5 miles away there is great mountain biking trails. A world renoun mountain bike spot with intermediate to experienced trails for riders of all levels. 5 miles down the road as well is buzzard lagoon and is a great Dirt biking/4-wheeling location. It is a fun spot for all off road inthusiast! Your camping site is on a flat plateu and is an ideal spot to park your trailer, motorhome or tent camp. With Complete privacy with views of the pacific ocean and South county's Monterey bay with a 180 degree view as well as San jose and Morgan Hill. For the wine inthusiast, Loma Prieta winery is 5.5 miles away along with Windy Oaks Winery that is 3.7 miles away that is located on the "Wine trail" that has alots of winerys to offer in a beautiful location. A Day of fun for the family at Gilroy Gardens that is 15.5 miles away. The beach is 30-40 minutes away with great surfing and body boarding up and down the coastline. We will see you soon!

6. Heavenly Views

100%

(5)

1 site · Lodging · Lockwood, CA

Rural Southern Monterey County hilltop with 360° views of the surrounding valley. To the west is an unobstructed view of the Los Padres National forest, sunsets over the coast ridge from Junipero Serra peak to the north and Rocky Butte to the south. To the east is Williams Hill BLM area, with clear views of the sunrise. To the southeast is Lake San Antonio. Nacimiento Lake is a beautiful 45 minute drive to the south. Although the dirt access road can be a little dusty and bumpy for a sports car, in the 35 years I've been here it has always been accessible for a 2 wheel drive vehicle. The property is at the end of the road. No traffic, no noise, only views of the surrounding area. If you are interested in night skies, the milky way is a constant. After winter rains, everything is green and wild flowers are abundant. Stay and enjoy the vistas or travel relatively short distances for hiking in the Los Padres forest, drive CA HWY 1, visit Paso Robles wineries, boat or fish at Lake San Antonio or Lake Nacimiento. Nearby Williams Hill BLM area for hunting, shooting or ATV riding. For hunters and fisherman, Ft Hunter Liggett is to the immediate west. Occasional weekend's be entertained by military training and occasional aircraft, helicopters and planes. It is so quiet that you can hear vehicles passing several miles away on Jolon Rd in the valley below. Visitors travel to Morro bay, Avila beach to the south or Big Sur and Monterey Bay to the north. Motorcycle enthusiasts can enjoy 100's of miles of uncrowded country roads. Host is an avid motorcyclist and will provide enough helpful guidance for all levels of riding. Corbin saddle in Hollister is a great destination for lunch and a custom made seat by appointment. Getaway to the central coast of California and leave the city behind. San Francisco is a bit over 2 hours to the north and LA about 4 hours to the south. Owner has intimate knowledge of way to many destinations.

7. Santa Cruz Bayview Retreat

94%

(293)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Day Valley, CA

Experience everything the Bay Area has to offer from this mountain top site. Roughly 50 minutes to any city in the Bay Area, this site is ideal for any person looking for an adventurous getaway retreat.   The Serenity and privacy make this an uncommon, yet ideal romantic place to stay. This site is sheltered by the manzanitas and pines of this chaparral community. Adventure seekers will find paradise here!  Mount Madonna Park with miles of trails is 20 minutes down the road. You can dump your septic there as well!  Horseback riding rentals are located near the park as well as an archery range.  Demonstration forest is 15 minutes down the road, with miles of mountain biking. Spend a day at one of the beaches in Santa Cruz, Capitola, Aptos, Rio Del Mar, Davenport, Half Moon Bay, Monterey, or Carmel and return to your private oasis. Or Explore Silicon Valley from this centrally located parcel. Kim Son Meditation Center and Mount Madonna Center are approximately 15 minutes away. There are also wonderful wineries throughout the mountains here. The trip to the site will begin with a three mile drive on a private dirt road.  Being on the very top of a mountain brings more seasonality than the surrounding cities.   Please be prepared for any kind of extreme weather. Summer: Shade is highly recommended it can get into triple digits. *Spring/fall: Temperatures are generally mild but high winds are possible. *Winter: Typically cold and windy. *During rainy/muddy conditions 4x4/AWD is highly recommended.  It is possible for it to get windy, foggy, rainy, hot and sunny, and even sometimes snowy. Please note: the nearest grocer is 30 minutes from this site. Emergency supplies are available for delivery to your campsite. Cell phone reception is good on most carriers.  Pets are allowed.  Enjoy your time howling at the moon, star gazing, bird watching/wildlife viewing, or relaxing with your favorite libation. Don't forget your camera! Since this is our first year renting our land we have found that August is a high wasp season time in the mountains. We are doing everything humanly possible to hunt down each and every Wasp for your enjoyment. With this in mind we ask you use the provided bug repellent, keep the lid to the trash closed, and do not pour grease anywhere you do not want wasps.

8. Vineyard View NoFuss

7 sites · Tents, RVs · San Miguel, CA

Vineyard view dry camping minutes away from Lake San Antonio with access to stocked reservoir. A perfect spot for wildflower triathalon campers. Access to porta potty and potential for guided pig hunting with reservation.

Camper favorites in and near Central Coast

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Zava Ranch - Avocado & Lemon Grove

2 sites · Lodging · Somis, CA

A cozy stand-alone cottage (sleeps 2) and a guest house (sleeps 10) are situated in the heart of our 20-acre working lemon and avocado ranch in Somis (Ventura County) on California’s Central Coast. Wake to birdsong over the citrus groves, sip coffee on the patio, swing in a hammock, or hike up the hill to catch panoramic views of the California countryside and big-sky sunsets. Breathe in the fresh, citrus-blossom–infused air as you wander through palms, pines, and eucalyptus groves. Walk up the hill to take in the beautiful sunset over the rolling farmland. Pick your own lemons and cook in your fully equipped kitchen. We’re super friendly to kids, pets, and guests with limited mobility. Whether you’re looking for a farm stay, romantic getaway, family reunion, friends’ retreat, small group gathering, or a quiet place for reflection and self-care, this is your peaceful escape. Charming, relaxing, and comfortable — guests can explore most of the 20-acre orchard and the gated community, with plenty of opportunities for scenic hikes and bike rides. Owners/hosts live on the property. Distance to favorites • Ventura/Oxnard beaches – ~30 min • Shopping, restaurants, and attractions – 20–30 min • Conejo Valley / Santa Monica Mountains – ~30 min • Ventura, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Santa Paula – 20–30 min • Camarillo Premium Outlets – ~20 min • Ojai – 40–45 min • Los Angeles / LAX – ~1 hr • Santa Barbara – ~1 hr • Local wineries and farm stands – 10–25 min

Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

100%

(5)

1 site · Tent, RV · Los Gatos, CA

This is a great place to get away and come camp here in the Santa Cruz Mountains, a perfect location for tent camping or come park your trailer or Motorhome/Bus. We have great hiking in the near area and 5 miles away there is great mountain biking trails. A world renoun mountain bike spot with intermediate to experienced trails for riders of all levels. 5 miles down the road as well is buzzard lagoon and is a great Dirt biking/4-wheeling location. It is a fun spot for all off road inthusiast! Your camping site is on a flat plateu and is an ideal spot to park your trailer, motorhome or tent camp. With Complete privacy with views of the pacific ocean and South county's Monterey bay with a 180 degree view as well as San jose and Morgan Hill. For the wine inthusiast, Loma Prieta winery is 5.5 miles away along with Windy Oaks Winery that is 3.7 miles away that is located on the "Wine trail" that has alots of winerys to offer in a beautiful location. A Day of fun for the family at Gilroy Gardens that is 15.5 miles away. The beach is 30-40 minutes away with great surfing and body boarding up and down the coastline. We will see you soon!

Heavenly Views

100%

(5)

1 site · Lodging · Lockwood, CA

Rural Southern Monterey County hilltop with 360° views of the surrounding valley. To the west is an unobstructed view of the Los Padres National forest, sunsets over the coast ridge from Junipero Serra peak to the north and Rocky Butte to the south. To the east is Williams Hill BLM area, with clear views of the sunrise. To the southeast is Lake San Antonio. Nacimiento Lake is a beautiful 45 minute drive to the south. Although the dirt access road can be a little dusty and bumpy for a sports car, in the 35 years I've been here it has always been accessible for a 2 wheel drive vehicle. The property is at the end of the road. No traffic, no noise, only views of the surrounding area. If you are interested in night skies, the milky way is a constant. After winter rains, everything is green and wild flowers are abundant. Stay and enjoy the vistas or travel relatively short distances for hiking in the Los Padres forest, drive CA HWY 1, visit Paso Robles wineries, boat or fish at Lake San Antonio or Lake Nacimiento. Nearby Williams Hill BLM area for hunting, shooting or ATV riding. For hunters and fisherman, Ft Hunter Liggett is to the immediate west. Occasional weekend's be entertained by military training and occasional aircraft, helicopters and planes. It is so quiet that you can hear vehicles passing several miles away on Jolon Rd in the valley below. Visitors travel to Morro bay, Avila beach to the south or Big Sur and Monterey Bay to the north. Motorcycle enthusiasts can enjoy 100's of miles of uncrowded country roads. Host is an avid motorcyclist and will provide enough helpful guidance for all levels of riding. Corbin saddle in Hollister is a great destination for lunch and a custom made seat by appointment. Getaway to the central coast of California and leave the city behind. San Francisco is a bit over 2 hours to the north and LA about 4 hours to the south. Owner has intimate knowledge of way to many destinations.

Santa Cruz Bayview Retreat

94%

(293)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Day Valley, CA

Experience everything the Bay Area has to offer from this mountain top site. Roughly 50 minutes to any city in the Bay Area, this site is ideal for any person looking for an adventurous getaway retreat.   The Serenity and privacy make this an uncommon, yet ideal romantic place to stay. This site is sheltered by the manzanitas and pines of this chaparral community. Adventure seekers will find paradise here!  Mount Madonna Park with miles of trails is 20 minutes down the road. You can dump your septic there as well!  Horseback riding rentals are located near the park as well as an archery range.  Demonstration forest is 15 minutes down the road, with miles of mountain biking. Spend a day at one of the beaches in Santa Cruz, Capitola, Aptos, Rio Del Mar, Davenport, Half Moon Bay, Monterey, or Carmel and return to your private oasis. Or Explore Silicon Valley from this centrally located parcel. Kim Son Meditation Center and Mount Madonna Center are approximately 15 minutes away. There are also wonderful wineries throughout the mountains here. The trip to the site will begin with a three mile drive on a private dirt road.  Being on the very top of a mountain brings more seasonality than the surrounding cities.   Please be prepared for any kind of extreme weather. Summer: Shade is highly recommended it can get into triple digits. *Spring/fall: Temperatures are generally mild but high winds are possible. *Winter: Typically cold and windy. *During rainy/muddy conditions 4x4/AWD is highly recommended.  It is possible for it to get windy, foggy, rainy, hot and sunny, and even sometimes snowy. Please note: the nearest grocer is 30 minutes from this site. Emergency supplies are available for delivery to your campsite. Cell phone reception is good on most carriers.  Pets are allowed.  Enjoy your time howling at the moon, star gazing, bird watching/wildlife viewing, or relaxing with your favorite libation. Don't forget your camera! Since this is our first year renting our land we have found that August is a high wasp season time in the mountains. We are doing everything humanly possible to hunt down each and every Wasp for your enjoyment. With this in mind we ask you use the provided bug repellent, keep the lid to the trash closed, and do not pour grease anywhere you do not want wasps.

Vineyard View NoFuss

7 sites · Tents, RVs · San Miguel, CA

Vineyard view dry camping minutes away from Lake San Antonio with access to stocked reservoir. A perfect spot for wildflower triathalon campers. Access to porta potty and potential for guided pig hunting with reservation.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

L

Laura

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Gaia Farm Campground

Beautiful landscape, lots of cute animals, and goat soap! What’s not to like?

Alex

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Gaia Farm Campground

Our time spent at Gaia farm was phenomenal! The views, especially during sunrise and sunset, were spectacular! Amanda was extremely helpful and gracious towards us the entire stay. She was very responsive and went well out of her way to make sure that we were accommodated. I would absolutely go back and would recommend it to anyone looking for a unique stay along the California coast line!

M

Mike

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

Beautiful view at sunrise. Whether you come up from the Los Gatos or the Morgan Hill/Gilroy side, it will go off road but you just have to take it slow and the average car would do just fine. Great spot tho, perfect space for tent camping.

S

Samantha

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

Great hospitality! The site was well set up and had a great view. I loved the animals, especially the dogs I met! Also, I left with a dozen farm fresh eggs…I would definitely recommend.

A

Alison

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

I can’t wait to go back the views were beyond my wildest dreams

K

Kim

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

What an amazing place to camp. The views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking, especially at sunrise and sunset. The working farm adds such a unique touch I had a great time learning about the animals and even got to hold the baby goats! If you stay here, don’t miss the guided tour of the farm. It made the whole experience unforgettable.

C

Chuck

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Heavenly Views

My sons and I had an incredible experience on Stephan’s property. We intentionally avoid the hustle and bustle of the campsites in the parks and this property was exactly the solitude we were looking for. A beautiful setting to make family memories. Great spot!

A

Alaina

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

I loved everything about this stay! The amazing views, warm hospitality and fun farm visit made this a treasured day for us. Ocean views, chaparral in the air, amazing stargazing landscape and friendly hosts. We even left with some farm-fresh bacon and sausage. Many thanks, we can't wait to visit again. Cheers!

I

Ian

October 2025

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

Beautiful spot. Definitely off grid - the last 3ish miles of the road are pretty gnarly but we saw Priuses at the top and we were just fine in our 2wd camper.

E

Emily

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Gaia Farm Campground

We loved this camp site! The host, Amanda, was super welcoming and made us feel comfortable upon arrival. Amanda and her family are located on what is truly the most magical pocket of the Gaviota coast. At night, the stars are so bright it feels like you're in your very own planetarium. We even saw an insane comet (fireball??!) in the sky during our last night!!! Even though other people were staying near us, we never felt overcrowded. Amanda was super considerate in spacing out her guests so that we each felt like we were enjoying the coast all to ourselves. Would 100% recommend this site and we hope to come back again soon!

B

Becca

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

We loved camping on Amanda's land! The campsite was just stunning. All of the farm animals were so sweet and Amanda was so lovely to introduce us to them! Overall perfect experience, we are excited to come back again. Thank you!

M

Mike

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

Amanda‘s place is wonderful, incredible hospitality, and views of the ocean and mountains. I can’t say enough, how much I enjoy the serenity and peacefulness of this property.

S

Sam

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

Amazing spot to stay, amazing hosts. Couldn’t recommend staying here enough. It’s spacious, beautiful, and you have to get a tour of the wonderful farm! Angela and Tracy are so sweet and welcoming, definitely check out their awesome soaps, lotions, and meat products! Will be back soon :)

M

Mads

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Gaia Farm Campground

We had a great stay at Amanda's place. The view was amazing and the whole place seemed very peaceful with beautiful nature all around. Would definitely want to come back.

Gabrielle

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

Such a beautiful location and gracious hosts! Definitely will be back!

R

Rachel

September 2025

2 nights at Heavenly Views

We had an amazing stay here! We were traveling back to Southern California from San Francisco and found ourselves needing to stop soon, but didn't prefer a motel in King City. We're so happy we found Stephan and his beautiful setup not far off the 101, west of King City. The RV was spotless, cozy, and perfectly set up for a comfortable getaway. The views are absolutely stunning — both during the day and especially at night with a sky full of stars right outside the door. Stargazing in front of the fire pit was the highlight of our trip! The host went above and beyond with his hospitality. We had forgotten groceries for breakfast, and he kindly provided us with organic free range eggs, ham, and even fresh fruit so we didn’t have to stress. Cooking and eating outside while enjoying the scenery was such a highlight. Between the peaceful setting, the fire pit for evenings under the stars, and the thoughtful touches from the host, this was one of the best camping experiences we’ve had. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a mix of relaxation, comfort, and nature.

Max

September 2025

10 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

Loved this site! All the sites are wonderful and perfect for a nice night or weekend under the stars. Quiet, clean, and great views.

Max

September 2025

10 ft pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

Beautiful spot, super host, and safe clean camp. One of my top go-to get away weekend locations!

A

Andrew

September 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

The view was absolutely stunning, and the weather couldn’t have been better. The drive there was very scenic, which made the trip even more enjoyable. The atmosphere at the campsite was peaceful and relaxing. Honestly, the only downside was that the trip felt over too quickly — I could have stayed much longer! 10/10 would recommend, and I’ll definitely be coming back.

Lillian

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Gaia Farm Campground

As others mentioned- Amanda is such an incredible host! I came with my husband, 3.5 yo toddler, and 1 yo son within about 24 hours of booking for a late summer overnight camping trip! They both LOVED it - spectacular surroundings with the walk (try to pack wisely and strategize your trips from your car to site 😅) The winds were definitely kind of intense for our tent (I highly recommend everyone to strap their tents down and be prepared in case you bring a burner for food)🙏 from sunset to late night, but aside that, we certainly appreciated the gravel/rocks for our tent set up and the fantastic view. The farm tour was incredible and educational; we’ve been on farm tours but this felt so personal, special, and heartwarming to our family. Thank you so much Amanda and Gaia farm!