The best dog-friendly RV parks 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.

93% (5.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near 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.

93% (5.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Central Coast

1. BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

97%

(209)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Santa Cruz, CA

Purchased from the original owner in 1998. Doug has been clearing and improving the ranch for over 20 years. After surviving the CZU Fire in the summer of 2020, the clearing is continuing and the green growth is thriving all over the ranch. Come revive and energize your soul as you experience the the magic of this private redwood forest. Feel the soothing sound and atmosphere of the pristine creek and its' endless flow as it meanders through the ranch. The seclusion and calmness of this place is addicting! PITCH YOUR TENT UNDER THE MAJESTIC REDWOODS ON THE OLDTIMERS SKID LANDING AND ENJOY THE PRIVACY, SERENITY AND THE SOUNDS OF NATURE ALL AROUND YOU. EASY WALKING ON OUR PRIVATE LOGGING ROADS. SEE THE RESULTS OF THE CZU FIRE AS YOUR HIKE DOWN TO THE PRISTINE AND BEAUTIFUL YEAR ROUND CREEK THAT RUNS THOUGH THE RANCH.

2. Rancho de Granville

92%

(87)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Oak View, CA

Midway between the ocean and Ojai, the ranch is 7 acres with plenty of trees, shade and grass. A sandy yard, a tent spot with privacy near San Antonio Creek ! Challenge a friend to game of horseshoes or darts. Your neighbors are the friendly horses and the curious chickens! This was the original stage coach stop between Ventura and the small community of Ojai . The old bunkhouse and barn remain! Please plan to arrive before 8pm.

3. Atascadero’s hidden gem

99%

(63)

1 site · RV · Atascadero, CA

We have a horse, chickens, goats and pet sheep. There are lots of fruit trees, over 100 oak trees, a secret cave, and an old barn. At night you’ll hear crickets while you enjoy the fresh air. There is a large camping area for you and you’re welcome to visit the farm animals. There is also a kennel available if you bring your dog. The camping spot is flat. You’ll drive up a small hill and then arrive Learn more about this land: Shaded private getaway, close to the highway but quiet. Area is on a small hill with a nice view. We are 20 minutes from San Luis Obispo, 8 minutes from Paso Robles, and 25 minutes from Morro Bay. Lots of hiking with wine and beer tasting nearby. We are close to the Midstate Fair, and about 15 minutes from Vina Robles.

4. Monthly Creekside RV Site

1 site · RV · Arroyo Grande, CA

Creekside RV Site in Lopez Canyon – STARLINK Internet Enjoy a beautiful, serene creekside RV spot with hookups and high-quality Starlink internet included. The location has a good phone signal and a peaceful natural setting. Site Features • 30 AMP electric service • Non-potable water • Wastewater disposal • Onsite parking for one additional vehicle Lease Details • Month-to-month lease • Long-term stays welcome • Rental application and proof of income required Ideal For • Vans or small camper trailers (Rig must be moved uphill to access dump station or in case of creek flooding) • Maximum of two adults • Well-behaved pets considered Extras • Additional indoor storage area and workshop available for an extra fee Location • 30 minutes to Arroyo Grande Village • 35 minutes to San Luis Obispo Experience quiet canyon living with reliable internet and everything you need for a comfortable stay at Creekside RV Site in Lopez Canyon.

5. Masoods Lodge

100%

(2)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Boulder Creek, CA

Masoods Lodge, located in the beautiful redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains! Perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful spot to relax close to nature. The year-round ideal climate makes this charming, enchanted property the perfect weekend getaway. Enjoy peace and quiet with great views from furnished individual cottages surrounded by redwood trees and sparkling mountain stream providing a full nature experience. Sit out and enjoy the stars at night. This property offers an abundance of fern and wildflowers showcasing their natural beauty. Masoods lodge has a "log cabin feel", with a stylish flair, and features wood paneling, open beam ceilings, and cozy fireplaces. Imagine relaxing on your private deck, enjoying a BBQ with family and friends, surrounded by redwood trees, either in sunny summers or during cold winters. All large units – living room, bedroom, kitchen - that accommodate from two to four persons. All units come with a ﬁreplace and electric heat, and are completely equipped for your every need. Also included are spacious single rooms with morning coffee, a microwave oven, and a small refrigerator, with complete privacy. Planning a wedding, retreat, family reunion, or another special event? Masoods lodge can host your next event. The possibilities are endless. If you have an idea to host your next event and would like to utilize the lodge, we would love to help coordinate and host your event! The lodge is a 30-minute drive away from Santa Cruz beaches, a 45-minute drive from Silicon Valley, and a one-hour drive from San Francisco. There are many hiking trails, parks, and attractions close by.

Public campgrounds in and near Central Coast

92%

(60)

Oceano Campground

74 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pismo Beach State Beach

95%

(37)

North Beach Campground

174 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pismo Beach State Beach

Hi Mountain Campground

11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Los Padres National Forest

100%

(9)

Santa Margarita Lake Recreation Area

57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Santa Margarita Lake

We arrived with heavy rain and dark clouds overhead but as we settled in it resolved to an incredible sunset. We can't wait to come back.

93%

(74)

Islay Creek Campground

55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Montaña de Oro State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

R

Rebecca

2 days ago

24 ft Class C

1 night at Atascadero’s hidden gem

A serene view of farmland with city lights in the distance. Climb a short hill and you're visiting horses, sheep and chickens. A great getaway.

J

Jasmine

December 2025

16 ft car

With kids

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

Wow! What a treat. The Creek Site is private, quiet, and so peaceful. We travel with a little one, and we felt safe and comfortable the whole time. The short hike from the site to the creek was the perfect challenge for the kiddo's little legs. We were immersed in nature and lulled to sleep by the sound of the creek below, but the property was also just a short drive to nearby amenities and attractions. (We couldn't miss the steam train in Felton.) Doug was very communicative and friendly. We will definitely come back.

H

Heather

November 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

Great secluded spot in the redwoods! You’ll have the nice cleared wooded area to yourselves. We stayed at campsite 1 up top. Campsite 2 is about a mile down the dirt road closer to the creek. It’s a nice hike down and gets pretty steep at the end. There are no toilets, but well water. We had no problem driving our 2 wheel drive camper van there. Just the camping we like. Beautiful woodsy area and just us! Nice hosts, we’ll be back!

S

Sarah

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

This is our second time to this beautiful property and we will return again. Doug and Denise are both very warm and welcoming. They are the perfect combination of offering help if needed but also giving us our space. The property is just beautiful with a river you can walk to and so many varieties of mushrooms. Don’t forget to look out for the banana slugs!

l

ly

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rancho de Granville

Catherine was such a wonderful host. She made sure we were comfortable and let our kids explore her ranch. Our kids loved the horses. It was really quiet at night. We will come back.

C

Cheryl

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

The site is beautiful, private and secluded. We loved the creekside location with the small little trail. Great place for dogs and very serene.

K

Kerri

October 2025

18 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Atascadero’s hidden gem

This is my 2nd stay at this hipcamp. i took a friend this time - we both had 18' camper vans and the site was spacious enough for us to manuever and park in flat spots. It was peaceful, clean and felt safe. I would recommend this site and plan to stay here again.

M

Mackenzie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

We stayed at the Creek Site and it was perfect for my partner, pup and me. Doug and Denise were both super welcoming and took us down to the site as it is away from their home. It’s a short hike down to the creek, and worth it! It’s so magical down there. As far as location, it’s in the mountains and close to both the ocean and Santa Cruz. Great spot and would go again! As expected, totally off the grid – no cell service.

Taylor

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Atascadero’s hidden gem

Perfect quiet spot to land while attending an event in the area! Barb was friendly and accommodating. The spot was nice and flat with hookups. My dog and I enjoyed visiting with the animals on the property!

Anna

September 2025

25 ft campervan

Group trip

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

This site was a surprise-it was very isolated, peaceful and nature-filled. It has no amenities- so be sure you have a toilet, water and lots of lights! Luckily we came prepared and it was very serene. The creek sounds were lovely, although it was a bit of a steep hike to get to it. We loved that the site was all our own, there were very few bugs and it was the retreat we needed.

A

Ann Marie

September 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

A beautiful, quiet space! It felt safe and was very private. Doug was super helpful when I arrived. The road in is rough but doable for 2-wheel drive.

Tara

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Atascadero’s hidden gem

Great shady spot in the oak forest of north Atascadero. We're road cyclists, and this area is prime cycling territory. Spent 5 wonderful days riding all over the area, even to coast twice. This spot is close to everything the Central Coast has to offer. And you have it all to yourself! No noisy neighbors, only farm animals, deer, crickets & lots of birds. Water & electric hookups were great, plus being able to dump gray water down the hill helped extend our stay. No issues manuevering our 25' TT into the site. Much better choice than any of the overpriced, party atmosphere RV resorts in the area!

Ben

September 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Atascadero’s hidden gem

Great little camp site. The kids enjoyed seeing all the animals.

Daniel

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rancho de Granville

Has a really nice time camping at The Ford. The site is large and has lots of shaded, usable space. Tons of greenery and birds. It is close to a road and cars can be loud at night. Bring white noise or earplugs. The chickens were really fun to have nearby, and the frogs and crickets go crazy at night. Bugs are present, but not aggressive. Had a really nice stay.

M

Marquita

August 2025

15 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Rancho de Granville

Perfect little camp. Nice location close Ojai and Ventura. Also near the Ojai - Ventura Bike Path, great for biking and walking/running. If wildfire conditions weren’t so bad we could have enjoyed a camp fire. Friendly horses and a dog. A rooster will wake you up in the early morning. I would visit here again.

s

shannie

August 2025

10 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Rancho de Granville

Catherine was a lovely host! We stayed at the Ford tractor, which was beside a clear creek with tons of wild watercress. The sound of crickets and frogs at night was so soothing. Just to note: expect cell service to be limited, although we didn't mind unplugging for a few days. Will definitely be coming back!

M

Molly

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

Beautiful and so quiet! Only thing that was challenging was the no toilets. I hope the plan for the space is to eventually add a portable toilet at least cus that was a little more rustic than I prepared myself for. Still, super lovely property and we had a great time.

Jessica

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rancho de Granville

Catherine was warm and hospitable. She let our little ones help with the chickens and the horses. They loved visiting the creek too! It was a special weekend.

J

Juliette and

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

We had an amazing weekend in the peace of the woods and dipping in the creek! This spot is a real gem, the hosts are so nice and welcoming. Great place to spend some time outside with kids! We will be back!