The best dog-friendly glamping in Central Coast

California's Central Coast covers 230 miles of Pacific coastline north of Los Angeles and south of San Francisco. With temperate weather year-round and easy ocean access, this is an extremely popular destination! Call ahead when planning your camping locations to make reservations whenever possible.

Pismo Beach, near San Luis Obispo at the midpoint of the Central Coast, provides plenty of adventure options. Camp on the state beach or rent an ATV and hit the dunes. For a slightly quieter experience, head just 30 minutes north to reach Morro Bay. Bring binoculars; this area's excellent for Hipcampers who enjoy birdwatching.

The gorgeous Big Sur area is a bit further north, just south of Monterey Bay. You'll find excellent hiking options here, ranging from easy sightseeing strolls to challenging treks. Two of the best trails are both accessible from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The McWay Waterfall Trail offers Big Sur's most spectacular view; the Ewoldsen Trail takes you through breathtaking Redwood groves.

Manresa State Beach Campground near Santa Cruz offers about 60 first-come, first-served tent sites. Here you get both beach access and a phenomenal view of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Manresa's also a solid choice if you enjoy fishing. Bass, perch, flounder, and halibut all swim in Monterey Bay.

96% (4.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

California's Central Coast covers 230 miles of Pacific coastline north of Los Angeles and south of San Francisco. With temperate weather year-round and easy ocean access, this is an extremely popular destination! Call ahead when planning your camping locations to make reservations whenever possible.

Pismo Beach, near San Luis Obispo at the midpoint of the Central Coast, provides plenty of adventure options. Camp on the state beach or rent an ATV and hit the dunes. For a slightly quieter experience, head just 30 minutes north to reach Morro Bay. Bring binoculars; this area's excellent for Hipcampers who enjoy birdwatching.

The gorgeous Big Sur area is a bit further north, just south of Monterey Bay. You'll find excellent hiking options here, ranging from easy sightseeing strolls to challenging treks. Two of the best trails are both accessible from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The McWay Waterfall Trail offers Big Sur's most spectacular view; the Ewoldsen Trail takes you through breathtaking Redwood groves.

Manresa State Beach Campground near Santa Cruz offers about 60 first-come, first-served tent sites. Here you get both beach access and a phenomenal view of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Manresa's also a solid choice if you enjoy fishing. Bass, perch, flounder, and halibut all swim in Monterey Bay.

96% (4.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Imagine Family Farm

100%

(10)

4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Templeton, CA

Imagine Family Farm is a working farm tucked into the scenic hills of Templeton and only 20 minutes from Cambria, just off Highway 46 West, surrounded by world-class wineries. Owned by a chef and a winemaker, the farm is a true labor of love that blends a passion for food, wine, and the land. We grow a seasonal bounty of fruit—apples, peaches, apricots, plums, cherries, and berries—alongside lush, fragrant peony flowers that brighten the spring. Visitors are invited to stay and camp under the stars, with optional wine tastings and thoughtfully curated events that celebrate the flavors and rhythms of the Central Coast. Every harvest is guided by a deep respect for flavor, sustainability, and quality. Whether you’re here to pick fruit, sip wine, enjoy the blooms, or simply take in the peaceful beauty of the countryside, Imagine Family Farm offers an authentic experience—rooted in soil, seasoned with experience, and shared with heart.

2. 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.

3. Terra Cultura

95%

(225)

5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Aromas, CA

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.

4. Ocean Breeze

1 site · Lodging · Ventura, CA

WONDERFUL CALIFORNIA COASTAL LOCATIONS NEARBY Amazing location for ALL THE MOST LOVED SURFING, HIKING, BIKING,, ADVENTURE ENTHUSIAST, near Carpinteria and Santa Monica and OJAI! Camp anywhere you want at the nearby beaches and OJAI, Santa Monica Mountains and beyond! —why only camp at one place when you have hundreds of locations nearby to choose from!!! Then come home to a cozy living room and fireplace! And the King sized bed is aahhhmazing! Glamping can be fun, too!!! Enjoy the OCAEAN BREEZE!! And when the suns out PalmTree sunsets from your balcony! Aloha!

5. Organic farm and horse camp

74%

(34)

5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Los Osos, CA

We have a busy property. Organic farm, polo club, and lots of horses are boarded here. Camp somewhere on the property with your RV or tent. We have easy access to Morro Bay, Montana De Oro and wineries galore. Bring your horses, dogs, etc!! We have tent spots and a fully furnished toy hauler available. We have gates, and we have a general equine liability form for you to complete, and then we can give you the gate code. I have been here for 14 years. I have an organic farm, polo club, boarding stables, a few gypsy friends and 2 kids. If you are looking for a place to crash while enjoying San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay and Los Osos this is it!! If you want to learn to ride or play polo... that is my real job. Guests love it here: "My husband, friends, and our dogs spent Thanksgiving at Megan’s farm. Megan was welcoming, patient (I asked her a number of questions) and responsive - even on Thanksgiving evening. The property is in a GREAT location so close to SLO, Montaña de Oro, Morro Bay, wineries and so much more. (The weather prevented us from experiencing that and so much more but it’s easy to build a great trip when staying at Megan’s place.) It was a unique experience and if you enjoy or interested in horses - this is a great spot to stay."

Stories from the community

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!

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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.

Matt

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Heavenly Views

Perfect weekend getaway spot. The view is absolutely beautiful and feels wonderfully remote. The camper was spotless and very comfortable, the grill outside and oven/stove inside made cooking easy no matter what weather you get, and we really appreciated the perfect fire starters that they prepared with the fire wood… no need to be a pro with fire pits. Everything was well thought out and taken care of. One of the highlights for us was stargazing. The host provided a telescope, and the sky here is unbelievably clear. Stars lit up the sky at night. The Milky Way was as incredible as I can remember ever seeing anywhere. The host is super friendly, helpful, and welcoming. You can tell they thought through every little thing you could need and then made sure it was there and easy to find. It definitely made it even more relaxing. When driving in, make sure to use the hosts directions since for the last sections the road is dirt and slight inclines. Research satellite view of the map ahead of time from Jolon Rd onward and you’ll be good. The road is definitely fine for two-wheel drive as long as it’s not pouring rain. I wouldn’t take a low ground clearance car… a bit tricky for a miata for example. We had no problem and way more clearance than needed with our 2wd RAV4 though. Between the comfort of the camper, the thoughtful amenities, the hospitality, and the night sky, this is easily one of my favorite camping spots now. We’ll definitely be back

M

Michael

August 2025

1 night at Heavenly Views

Great place to stay, King City is about 20 minutes away, came over from HWY 1 and i was looking for a nice quiet place. The place is wonderful and the night skies are amazing. But the nearest cold beer and groceries are in King city. The Host was great the AC running when i got their but was not needed that night as it gotten cool. The bed was awesome.Just bring your own beer and food before getting there. Will stay again when passing thru the central coast.

Host on Right welcoming dog friendly Hipcamp

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Tom

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Heavenly Views

This litte hidden Gem is at a mid point between San Francisco and Los Angeles 20 min South of King City off the 101 freeway on Jolon Rd. With a true 360 degree view on top of hill. The Lockwood valley has some of the best star gazing clear skies with little light pollution. The host Stephan, aka (Steve) was a hoot, super cool ole army fellow master meat cooker had smoked brisket that was amazing cheese and wine waiting in the fridge when I flew in and landed next to the trailer. Message him ahead before you fly in. The day was warm but the nights are cool so bring light coat or sweater. It is after all summer in coastal CA but the A/C worked well mid day and trailer was very clean and comfy. Trailer has a nice awing out front chairs on large gravel area with a fire pit and firewood so you dont have to bring your own logs. I will go back again thanks (Steve) keep up the great Hipcamp.....

Nick

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

Yurt was great! The overall area could use some love but we really enjoyed our time there. Great for anyone who can go with the flow

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Eva

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

The yurt was clean and cozy. The heater worked so well and I loved having a kitchenette. The bed was very comfortable! We love the yurt. It is obvious how much love and effort is poured into it. Thank you! We loved the alpacas, the evening fog in the Eucalyptus trees and the cat. We found the compost toilet to be more comfortable than we thought as well.

eevee

May 2025

2 nights at Terra Cultura

our anniversary! a sweet kitty cat welcomed us. we crunched through eucalyptus leaves and we're greeted by turkeys and jays and lizards. the yurt was so cozy and had all the comforts of home, but we could still hear the leaves rustling in the wind at night and needles pattering gently on the canvas roof. not a far drive from watsonville, good food there and great thrifting! a little further and you're at the beach! great location, magical sleeping arrangements! thanks Travis and Emory and the rest of the residents and staff 💜

L

Locksley

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

The yurt was well equipped and it was lovely hearing the sounds of the forest throughout the day/night. The shower gets nice and hot, and the view is amazing. We really appreciate the yurt upgrade we were given! It made the birthday weekend with my partner even more special. I highly recommend staying here.

Christi

May 2025

With pets

2 nights at Terra Cultura

Terra Cultura is a hidden gem. Copper (my dog) and I enjoyed our little adventure immensely. I loved hearing the wind move through the eucalyptus tress while in the yurt an identifying the various bird calls. I saw a great horned owl soaring through the trees and heard its song each night. Copper met his first alpaca! Emory and the other resident were lovely people and easy to chat with. I highly recommend a visit to Terra Cultura!

Amber

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

Chose this location as a midway point between Santa Cruz and Monterey. The Yurt was cozy and had everything we needed. Emory was very helpful and quick to respond to any of our needs. We enjoyed our stay!

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Ryan

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

Incredible spot with very nice hosts! The Yurts were STOCKED with games, cookware, and additional blankets and everything else one might need and not realize. We had the best time and will definitely be coming back!!

Dre

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

Terra Cultura was a lush and serene place to spend the weekend. Emory and Travis were warm, helpful, and responsive to our inquiries and needs. I highly recommend staying in the Skyline Yurt. It's simple and spacious with more amenities (running water, heat, good light) than I thought possible in a yurt.

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Kasey

March 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

The yurt had many more features than expected! The fridge, hot plate, and sink were a nice surprise and really added to the comfort of our stay. The property was beautiful and offered the perfect serene farm getaway.

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PRATEEK

February 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

We loved the Yurt and the overall experience! Will definitely do this again.

Adrienne

December 2024

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

We had a very relaxing stay. The property is well maintained and the yurt was very cozy and comfortable. The property is not really a hiking or camping vibe, but it has a beautiful view of the surrounding hills and trees. The compost toilet was not my favorite experience but it was clean. The yurt had everything we needed to cook and enjoy the space.