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

Feel free to use the firepit, yard, propane bbq, and picnic table.

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. Airstream Glamping in Santa Cruz

100%

(4)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Santa Cruz, CA

Escape to the Heart of Santa Cruz! Welcome to your home away from home! Nestled in a the charming and convenient midtown residential neighborhood, our 2017 22FB Airstream Bambi Sport offers a unique and cozy glamping experience on a multigenerational property. Perfect for families, couples, or friends, this stylish Airstream can comfortably sleep up to 4 guests, with additional tent space available for those who want to embrace the great outdoors. Your Space Includes: Airstream Comfort: Enjoy the modern amenities of our fully equipped Airstream, featuring a queen-sized bed and a convertible dinette for extra sleeping space. Outdoor Oasis: Relax on the lush turf lawn, gather around the high-quality fire-pit for evening s’mores, and enjoy meals at the picnic table. 2017 22’ Airstream Bambi Sport has a bathroom with separate toilet and shower (not a “wet bath”). Small kitchen, a full bed (54x84”), and a dining area that converts into a second twin bed (38x74”) if desired. You can store bikes in the secure garage, and park your vehicle off street (with a security camera). BBQ & Chill: Fire up the propane BBQ for a delicious outdoor cookout under the Santa Cruz sun. Parking: Off-street parking is available for your convenience, along with secure bike storage for cycling enthusiasts. Pet-Friendly Environment: Our friendly resident dogs are here to greet you, making it a perfect retreat for pet lovers. Just let us know if you’re bringing your furry friends along! Explore Santa Cruz: Located just a short drive from the beach, hiking trails, and local attractions, you’ll have easy access to all the best that Santa Cruz has to offer. Whether you’re looking to surf, hike, or simply unwind, our property is the ideal base for your adventures. Book Your Stay: Experience the charm of Santa Cruz from the comfort of our Airstream Bambi. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a fun trip with friends, you’ll create lasting memories in this unique setting. We can’t wait to host you!

2. 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!

3. Coyote Mynt Ranch, Paso Robles

89%

(198)

8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Lake Nacimiento, CA

Our 42 acres is located at the beginning of the award winning Adelaide Wine trail in Paso Robles. Our ranch was once home to a horse boarding and breeding ranch which bred Paso Fino horses, known for their beautiful gait. Having been a horse ranch, it left us with some nice trails that you can enjoy during your stay. We have some nice uphill walks to view your local surroundings while sitting to enjoy a glass of wine or you morning cup of coffee/tea. We are on a well out here so at times you may get a sulphur/mineral smell to the water. Please bring your own drinking/cooking water. It is safe to shower, my hair feels so much thicker! On the ranch you will see that we have 2 donkeys, Desi (black) and Lucy (light grey). Along with our donkeys we have to friendly goats, Fiona (brown) and Sadie (white), they love carrots. but please stick to one carrot a day each, we don't want to over feed them. We also have chickens which means have farm fresh eggs. $5 for 1/2 dozen. Up on the hill you will see Connie a cow and her buddy Samuel, the bull. they love carrots but please do not go into their pasture. She'll think you're bringing food and gets very dangerously excited. Please feel free to walk the property and become one with nature while observing the local indigenous floral and fauna.

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. 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.

Stories from the community

J

Josephine

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Airstream Glamping in Santa Cruz

Great lodging. Cozy and fun. Andrew and his family super friendly. Great communication. The complimentary snacks and drinks were above and beyond what you find in any Airbnb! Didn’t use the firepit but looks inviting.

K

Katy

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Airstream Glamping in Santa Cruz

I decided to try out this little Airstream as an alternative to a hotel during my recent trip returning my younger back up to UCSC. I think it was an excellent decision. Although I had almost no time to enjoy quiet time reading a book or hanging out, I still appreciated the convenience and comfort of the Airstream. The location is an incredibly easy on and off of the 1. The neighborhood is a pretty typical neighborhood with different age classes of families and individuals. On street parking for vehicle number two was easy and having a designated spot in the driveway was great. I loved the welcome and friendliness of Andrew and his family. I never felt uncomfortable or limited, just welcome to come and go as I felt and to strike up a conversation or not. The dogs were equally welcoming and very well behaved. The yard is a delight of raised gardens with sages and cosmos blooming, even at the end of the summer. I loved relaxing by the fire pit even if the unseasonably mid-90's degree weather made the thought of a fire too hot to bear. As a woman traveler, I felt safe here, from parking late at night and throughout the night. I rarely feel that same security at a hotel. At 5 foot 8 inches I could stand in the shower, had to bend my head to get all the way under the shower head and some elbows hit the sides but that's not a deal breaker. It's a small RV but it was cozy and for two people it was a nice fit. Finding some snacks and drinks in the fridge was a nice welcome.

Our rental car was fun in the canyons & on PCH!

M

Malcolm

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Prospector Ranch

We had a really nice time on the ranch! Team was communicative and answered all our questions, and the location is beautiful! A great place to get out of the city to appreciate nature without a crazy commute.

A

Al

August 2025

4 nights at Airstream Glamping in Santa Cruz

We had a great stay! Andy was a wonderful host who went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. Very good location, super cute backyard, quick to respond to messages, and the Airstream had everything we needed, including a great array of snacks and drinks! Would definitely stay there again next time we are up in Santa Cruz!

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P. David

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Coyote Mynt Ranch, Paso Robles

We had an excellent stay and was glad the fog rolled in to cool us off in the evening. The instructions made the whole process simple and pleasant. Would definitely go back if I was going to spend some time enjoying Paso Robles again. Easy straight shot to town and restaurants etc. the airstream was clean and had everything we needed.

M

Meredith

July 2025

With kids

1 night at Prospector Ranch

Fun, old-school Air Stream stay in a beautiful setting. Friendly hosts.

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

E

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.

Lush view from our Airstream into the 'Meadow' with firepit

Shelli-Anne

June 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Airstream Glamping in Santa Cruz

Wow! Wow! Wow! Staying in Andy and Tricia’s Airstream was like slipping into a luxuriously creamy, steel-wrapped hug. From the moment we arrived for our daughter’s UCSC graduation, we felt completely taken care of. These hosts have truly thought of everything—from blackout curtains and cloud-soft bedding to eco-chic Turkish towels. After the long drive up from Los Angeles, the thoughtfully stocked snack hamper and fridge was a welcome sight. They even had spare toothbrushes for us when we realized we’d forgotten ours. The kitchen is brilliantly appointed while the fire pit setup is next-level, complete with a dome, retractable prongs, and a s’mores box that would make any scout proud. Morning Nespresso? Check. Yeti tumblers? Nesting and delightful. Wi-Fi? Fast and reliable. Forgot your charger? They’ve got a spare. But what really makes this place shine is the heart behind it: an intergenerational family on the property, full of warmth, stories, and local know-how. We bonded over bikes and globe-trotting, and swooned over the handmade pottery by Andy's mum Cathy, who lives just out back. The three dogs and tabby cat are charming scene-stealers, always nearby if you’re up for a cuddle—or happy to let you be. For parents visiting UCSC (or anyone craving a slice of seriously stylish, soulful glamping), this place is a gem. We didn’t want to leave—and already are daydreaming about our return.

Clay

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Prospector Ranch

We had a great time in the “land yacht“. It was a fun throwback to the past. Very comfortable, clean and cozy. The secluded area was very relaxing and Meggan was an exquisite host.

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!

R

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!!

L

Lawrence

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Coyote Mynt Ranch, Paso Robles

We stayed in a charming recently renovated Airstream trailer located in a clearing in the low forest of the coastal range. Local wild life was abundant and dramatic ranging from ground squirrels and woodpeckers to deer and a red tail hawk. Mid April in the low 80s was pleasant~much lower starts to get “prepare for it” cold at night. Just north of loads of wineries. Expect tasting fees with 2-3 ~$60 bottle minimum purchases and you should have a good time. Lots to do in Paso Robles, just ask around.

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.

K

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.