Camping near Day Valley

·

Looking for the best camping near Day Valley? The area features dozens of top-rated campgrounds and places to park your RV for the night, many within a short distance of California hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Whether you want a pet-friendly campsite or a family cabin rental with wifi, check out campsite photos, tips, and reviews from other outdoor enthusiasts to plan your next camping trip near Day Valley.

96% (7.1K) 2,047 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Day Valley

Fern Ridge Camper

1. Fern Ridge Camper

98%
(150)
1.5mi from Day Valley · 1 site
Come and camp like its 1949 in our retro Boles Aero trailer at Fern Ridge Camper. Much like Airstream, Boles Aero was building top of the line campers out of aircraft grade aluminum; providing chill vibes and highly functional spaces. Come enjoy our blast from the past in our completely original Boles Aero trailer. Apart from the camper itself, which sleeps two comfortably, our site comes equipped with outdoor dining, string lights, and a fire pit to enjoy the stars. Situated at the front of our property, the camper provides a private feel, while still being conveniently located. 10 minutes from town, 15 minutes from the closest beach, and 30 minutes from the beach boardwalk our site is close enough to all Santa Cruz has to offer, while secluded enough to enjoy the natural spaces unique to the Santa Cruz mountains.
Toilets
Campfires
Wifi
Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

2. Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

99%
(315)
1.5mi from Day Valley · 1 site
Nestled in a canopy of redwoods, less than 10 miles from the beach sits a private and cozy campground. Fern Ridge Flats combines the best of Santa Cruz county. Abundant trees and misty mornings await you at our property in Aptos. Equipped with electricity, water, and a picnic table for your convenience. There are trails on the land for you to explore, animals, and nature to dive into. *************** Smoking and the use of drugs are strictly prohibited. This is a safe and quiet neighborhood with many families including my own. Please do not request to book if you have the intention of partying or using illegal substances. If these rules are violated, local authorities will be called and you will be removed from the campsite. *************** The campsite is less than a 5 minute walk from the parking spot but is relatively steep. Although it is paved it is not recommended for anyone with mobility issues. *************** As an added precaution to protect the lush landscape, the firepit at the campsite utilizes clean burning propane. We chose a burner that closely replicates the size and heat of a wood to enhance our campers' experience.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
Leafy Lanes Tree House (“Fort”)

3. Leafy Lanes Tree House (“Fort”)

100%
(14)
2.9mi from Day Valley · 1 site
Cozy Retreat Among the Trees in the Santa Cruz Mountains Escape to nature for a stay in our rustic and comfy ‘tree house’ nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Features: •Unique, elevated cabin offering stunning views and the serenity of the redwood trees •Spacious deck for enjoying morning coffee or sunset views •Small kitchen, cozy living space, with comfortable twin (trifold) beds in the loft for a peaceful stay •WiFi for adventure planning (or work from the woods) Cyclist's Dream Location: •Situated extremely close to world-renowned redwood cycling trails, there are routes for all levels of rider from gentle forest roads to challenging mountain climbs Adventure Awaits: •The beauty of the Redwoods will surround you, and provide the perfect backdrop for your outdoor recreation actives whether it’s hiking, nature walks, cycling, bird-watching, etc. •Relaxing, recharging, and reconnecting with nature is almost effortless with lovely parks located nearby •The pleasures of stargazing (without all the light-pollution that’s so common in cities) can be a memorable experience, so don’t forget to turn your eyes to the skies after dark… and listening to the peaceful sounds of the forest can be really special. About: The area of Eureka Canyon Road and Highland Way is charming and quiet. A location surrounded by forest and quite close to some of the best cycling on the West Coast. The property itself is nestled adjacent to pristine Corralitos Creek with its serene sounds of flowing water and steelhead trout. The trees that tower all around have a quiet presence, and you’ll often be aware of the gentle murmur of the breeze through their leaves and branches. This is an ideal place to rest after a day of exploring, sightseeing, or simply experiencing everything the Santa Cruz Mountains and nearby town offer. The Tree House or "Wood Tent": This little home in the trees is unique and can be considered an alternative to camping. Features that combine both “tiny cabin" and "camping", there are plenty of the amenities that will make it feel like a comfy getaway spot. A ladder leads to loft which houses twin mattress.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

4. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

100%
(2)
State park 3.9mi from Day Valley · 2 sites
Behold natural wonders aplenty in the Forest of Nisene Marks.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Seacliff State Beach

5. Seacliff State Beach

100%
(7)
State park 4.8mi from Day Valley · 35 sites
Yeah, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is just up the coast, but you may not want to leave this sandy haven home to a WWI-era tanker.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

6. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

100%
(16)
3.1mi from Day Valley · 3 sites
Please note 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. Prices fluctuate based on group size. Our home is nearby on the land 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's 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 beaches and coastal cities. We offer guests 2 private bedrooms: the Raven’s Nest (an aircrete dome) and the Owl’s Nest (a yurt). Larger groups are welcome, and should bring camping gear such as tents and sleeping bags for extra people. We have plenty of great camping spots! There is a fully equipped kitchen with stove, fridge, barbecue grill, electric coffee maker, tables and chairs, and more. The kitchen also has a ping pong table. There is a large geodome furnished as a game room with couches, a lounge area, pool table, foosball table, a bluetooth speaker, games, and music equipment. There are clean composting toilets, hot showers, a wood-burning fire pit, heaters for the cold, a hammock bungalow, a meditation pagoda, a deck overlooking a creek, and disc golf baskets. Guests are responsible for bringing their own firewood or may purchase firewood from us under "EXTRAS". With a fair balance of sunlight and shade, we have a garden and lots of open space to spread out and relax. Free wifi is available. We run a nonprofit outdoor education camp for underprivileged youth, so your stay supports our work to get youth outdoors. 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 for warmth and 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 woodstoves in the Owl's Nest and Eagle's Nest. We provide fire starters for the woodstoves; guests are responsible for bringing firewood to keep the woodstoves going or purcchasing it from us under "EXTRAS".
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Shiima koh

7. Shiima koh

92%
(137)
4mi from Day Valley · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Shííma koh is a beautiful space nestled in the Aptos hills. We are 15 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from town, all whilst being surrounded by redwoods. It’s a quiet place with a beautiful view of the valley and natural spring water. We are a family with a few dogs and livestock who live here. And welcome you to our home.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

8. Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

94%
(326)
4.3mi from Day Valley · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We created this space for everyone to enjoy.
Pets
Toilets
Water hookup
Santa Cruz Bayview Retreat

9. Santa Cruz Bayview Retreat

94%
(293)
4.3mi from Day Valley · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
New Brighton State Beach

10. New Brighton State Beach

99%
(70)
State park 5.5mi from Day Valley · 110 sites
Wake up to stunning views of Monterey Bay in New Brighton, one of California's best beaches.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Manresa State Beach

11. Manresa State Beach

95%
(39)
State park 7.3mi from Day Valley · 121 sites
Enjoy ocean views and camp on the bluffs above a scenic stretch of beach popular with surfers.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sunset State Beach

12. Sunset State Beach

95%
(53)
State park 10mi from Day Valley · 86 sites
Sweeping views of sand and sea plus a glider port (!) to launch your non-motorized craft.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

13. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

98%
(51)
State park 12mi from Day Valley · 107 sites
Big trees keep on growing in this famed Northern California treasure.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

14. Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

100%
(18)
4.6mi from Day Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV
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. When in route once you get off the paved road from north or south stay on the dirt road for 15-20 more minutes. The location is very private it is on its own parcel with a gate. If you leave the property please be mindful of staying off of other private properties. We will see you soon!
Pets
Campfires
Camp Rewilding

15. Camp Rewilding

94%
(42)
4.8mi from Day Valley · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to a peaceful private campsite in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Mt. Madonna County Park. Surrounded by trees and nature, our sites offer a quiet and secluded place to relax, watch the stars, and enjoy evenings around the fire pit. Guests love the privacy, wildlife sightings, and beautiful mountain setting. Whether you’re exploring nearby hiking trails, visiting Gilroy Gardens, or taking a scenic drive to Santa Cruz, this is the perfect base for an outdoor getaway. Amenities include picnic tables, fire pits, and a clean pit toilet to make your rustic camping experience comfortable. Please note: the final few miles to camp are on a rustic mountain road with uneven terrain. The drive is part of the adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Sacred Owl Land

16. Sacred Owl Land

100%
(42)
4.8mi from Day Valley · 4 sites
Welcome to Sacred Owl Land — A Sanctuary for the Soul Tucked into the serene hills of California’s central coast, Sacred Owl Land is a sacred, off-grid retreat space designed for rest, renewal, and reconnection with nature. We invite you to unwind in one of our two thoughtfully crafted cabana stays, each offering comfort, privacy, and expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Each cabana features: A beautiful queen-size bed or california King bed, loft style Private indoor sink and hot shower French press with coffee & tea (the tea is harvested from our land) and basic utensils Small fridge Large windows for stargazing or sunset watching from bed Access to a shared outdoor composting toilet Guests staying in either cabana also enjoy access to beautiful shared spaces, including: A hot tub under the stars A communal fire pit A BBQ area A peaceful outdoor yoga deck with ocean views Whether you're soaking in the tub, practicing morning yoga, or enjoying the stillness of the land, Sacred Owl Land offers a deeply nourishing experience for body and spirit. Located just 20 minutes from the beach and walking distance to a local winery, it's a perfect escape into simplicity and sacred beauty. For movement and mindfulness, we offer both an outdoor yoga deck with ocean views and an indoor yoga shala for quiet practice or group sessions. Sacred Owl Land is ideal for retreating, gathering, or simply being. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby walking trails and scenic hikes. More details will be shared after
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
The Secret Gardens by the Bay

17. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

99%
(416)
4.9mi from Day Valley · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
✨ The Secret Gardens ✨ Once upon a time, hidden just beyond the whispers of the ocean breeze, there was a secret place where roses stretched toward the sky, dahlias painted the land with color, and lavender cascaded like purple waterfalls. No one quite knew how to find it—until they stumbled upon it. Here, hearts opened with ease, carried by birdsong, the sway of ancient oaks, the fragrance of woodsmoke, and the laughter that seemed to live in the very air. The Secret Gardens unfurls across 11 acres of enchanted redwoods and noble oaks, where each campsite bears a name drawn straight from the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Guests often tell us: “One night is never enough.” And indeed, when you step out of your car, words and pictures fail—there is only the Wow. In true secret-garden spirit, we share just enough glimpses to spark curiosity. The real magic is revealed only when you arrive. Just one mile from Seascape Beach and a short stroll to Seascape Village—with its quaint cafés, market, spa, and more—our haven balances wild wonder with simple comforts. 🌿 The Realms of the Secret Gardens 🌲 Tulgey Woods Nestled beneath towering redwoods, this woodland hosts RV and tent sites, along with Dodo’s Glamp and the Secret Wagon. Here you’ll find showers, bathrooms, a communal kitchen, a campfire circle, and outdoor dining spaces. It’s perfect for families, car campers, and adventurers with roomy tents. ♟️ Chessboard Land Where play and comfort intertwine: cabins, a communal lounge, a sprawling kitchen, living-wall showers, cozy firepits, and even a projector screen for starlit cinema nights. This is the social heart of the gardens. 🐇 Rabbit Holes (open late spring through summer) Two primitive hideaways—Tweedledee and Tweedledum—await in the wilder reaches of the land. Here, no cars intrude; instead, we whisk your belongings by ATV to these tucked-away forest nooks. 🌸 Private Group Groves Three secluded enclaves designed for gatherings, each with its own bathroom, shower, grill, and sink: • Cheshire Grove • The Horseshoe • Wonderland ⸻ 🌟 What Awaits You • Check out our offering on experiences such as Walking tour with the alpacas and Llamas, Sunset ATV Tour with the land owner, petting zoo, etc.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Yurt In The Redwoods

18. Yurt In The Redwoods

100%
(12)
5.9mi from Day Valley · 1 site
Escape to the quiet beauty of the redwoods. This cozy yurt sits along a private road deep in the forest, offering an immersive nature experience while remaining easily accessible. The yurt is rustic but features many comforts, including a full-size bed, bathroom, shower with hot water, kitchenette with a stove top and mini fridge, heaters, and cozy furnishings. Step outside and you’ll be surrounded by towering redwoods and abundant wildlife. It’s common to spot banana slugs, deer, newts, lizards, wild turkeys, foxes, and occasionally bobcats, mountain lions or giant salamanders. At night you will hear owls calling or frogs singing. The area is peaceful and secluded, with only a handful of neighbors passing along the road. Guests are welcome to wander the shared road or the loop trail around our small property. Take in the forest views, and enjoy the quiet rhythms of the woods. If you’re looking for a simple, nature-filled getaway—perfect for slowing down and listening to the forest at night—this redwood retreat is a special place to unplug. A quick note on pets: We love dogs and we hope you'll bring them along, but please do not leave your pups unattended at the yurt. We recommend contacting these local pet boarding facilities in advance if you plan to be out without your pups. Summit Veterinary Hospital: https://summitvethospital.com/boarding-faqs Bed & Biscuits: http://www.bedandbiscuits.com
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Redwood Basin

19. Redwood Basin

99%
(140)
6mi from Day Valley · 1 site
Family-owned since the 1960's my parents chose this ridgetop location on 10 acres for its beauty, serenity, bio-diversity, and amazing peaceful healing energy. The main house is called Rainbow Ridge where a double rainbow appears across the skyline on occasion. We have decided to share this land with conscious folks who want to retreat to the woods from the hustle and bustle but be close to all the action and have all the creature comforts of home with a camping vibe. We have one private site with a glamorous A Frame cabin and a modern tiny home and a tiny retro trailer. The site comes as one single package and is exclusive to you and your group! Nestled on its own private 3-acre redwood and oak forest, leading down to a creek. The site is located just 4 miles (10 min drive ) from Soquel Village and just 5 miles from the beach at Capitola. The site offers: - A 20ft modern container home with one queen sofa bed, large screen with Apple TV, kitchen, patio, fridge, microwave, cooktop, shower, and toilet. - A custom, outdoor kitchen, and bar for entertaining with gas BBQ, fridge freezer, sink with hot and cold filtered water, Sonos sound system. - Large gas fire pit and seating area. - One A Frame eco cabin with option for one king size day bed OR two singles, A twin mattress can also fit in the cabin when in the two singles configuration. The cabin has electricity, fan and heating for colder nights. - One very cute retro airstream style 1950's trailer with a twin bed for a couple or one person. - Space for 1-2 additional tents. For groups of 8 or more and special events please contact us so we can discuss the possibilities. - Onsite you should find all the basic amenities from home including all bedding, towels, kitchenware, cooking utensils, dining ware, herbs and spices, cleaning products, gas for the BBQ and fire pit is included etc. There are a few things you should bring: Food, drinks, ice and fun! The site looks down into a private and secluded redwood and oak forest with trails for small hikes into the redwood fairy circles or all the way down to the creek. The glamping site is on a sunny flat area surrounded by steep terrain up to a ridgeline and down to the creek. The creek is accessible although the final route requires a rope down so may not be suitable for everyone. Within 15-20 min drive you will find almost all major attractions in the Santa Cruz area including The Mistery Spot, Nisene Marks State Forest, Capitola Pier, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and many famous surf breaks from Capitola to The Point, The Hook, Steamer Lane and many more., as well as many amazing mountain bike trails. There are also several Santa Cruz Mountain wineries to explore in a 3- 5 mile radius. Further afield you will find Monterey Bay Aquarium and the coastal beaches north up to San Francisco Bay ( 1 hour 30 mins north) and down to Big Sur about 1 hour 20 mins south. We ask all our visitors to be respectful of the environment, our wildlife, and our neighbors. Please drive slowly and respect the quiet times: between 9.30 pm and 8.30 am. We check all our guests in and provide a quick tour. We can offer a number of additional amenities and services including shopping, stocking up on your favorite supplies, catering, romantic packages and special picnics on the Rainbow Ridge, and much more, so please just ask about all the possibilities.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

20. Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

97%
(303)
6.6mi from Day Valley · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
We are currently offering one campsite with awesome views for self contained units only. Our property is an eight minute walk to the beach! We are pet friendly! Welcome to southern Santa Cruz County, home of some of the longest and most beautiful beaches in central California. Enjoy the peaceful view of 300 acres of strawberry fields across the valley. We are a small, working farm with vegetable and flower gardens, chickens and bees. There are many excellent places nearby to hike, walk, surf, swim, tide pool, kayak or just sit and enjoy the view. On site we have a basketball hoop, corn hole, lots of room for kites, frisbees etc. If we appear booked, please inquire anyway, we may have a site that can be opened. We can usually accommodate early and late check out, please inquire. Our campsite includes water and electric hookups. We welcome self contained units only e.g. Camper vans, RV’s, trailers etc. We do offer a port-a potty and sinks; no shower facilities; good cell service. We provide a fire pit, complimentary firewood, a picnic table and a couple of comfortable chairs. Our property is a great base camp for your Santa Cruz and Monterey County adventures! SFO is 90 minutes away depending on traffic. We regularly host international travelers and we are happy to help you get acquainted with your rig as you set out on your journey. We love to host guests and will happily provide you with information about things to do and see in on the central coast such as Point Lobos, Wilder Ranch, Sunset State Beach, Natural Bridges and more. There is a Dump station a few minutes down the road at the KOA (for a fee).
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Day Valley, CA trips