The best star host campgrounds near Del Monte Forest, California

Looking for a camping experience near Del Monte Forest, California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 420 options available, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking your RV, or staying in a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has got you covered. Plus, with top campsites like The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), Terminal 4 (387 reviews), and Santa Cruz's Rudy Ranch (145 reviews), you can trust that you'll have a great camping experience. Enjoy popular activities like whitewater paddling, swimming, and hiking, and take advantage of amenities such as pet-friendly spaces, campfires, and showers. With an average price per night of $80 and options as low as $25, camping with Hipcamp is not only convenient, but also affordable.

99% (2.3K) • 75 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Del Monte Forest

Looking for a camping experience near Del Monte Forest, California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 420 options available, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking your RV, or staying in a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has got you covered. Plus, with top campsites like The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), Terminal 4 (387 reviews), and Santa Cruz's Rudy Ranch (145 reviews), you can trust that you'll have a great camping experience. Enjoy popular activities like whitewater paddling, swimming, and hiking, and take advantage of amenities such as pet-friendly spaces, campfires, and showers. With an average price per night of $80 and options as low as $25, camping with Hipcamp is not only convenient, but also affordable.

99% (2.3K) • 75 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Del Monte Forest

1. Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

100%

(8)

37mi from Del Monte Forest · 1 site · Lodging

Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this serene retreat is surrounded by natural beauty and offers the perfect escape into nature. Conveniently located between Downtown Los Gatos and Downtown Santa Cruz—just 25 minutes from each—you’ll have easy access to the best of both mountain charm and coastal energy. Outdoor enthusiasts will love being just minutes from the renowned mountain biking trails of Demonstration Forest, scenic hiking routes, and the beloved Summit Store for local provisions. Note that no open fires are allowed by our county but guests are allowed to have a gas or propane stove for cooking. Water is 125' front tent. Toilet is 100' front tent. Power plug is 140' from tent to charge your phone, etc. This time of year, please consider this COLD CAMPING. Our tent has 4 extra blankets but you should be prepared to keep yourself warm and prepared for winter weather. The river near the tent is rushing so if you enjoy the sound of rain on the tent roof or a rushing river, please come see our tent. In January, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in Henry Cowell Redwoods, walking along West Cliff Drive, and visiting Natural Bridges State Beach. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is open year-round, offering a chance to experience it with fewer crowds and more deals. You can also visit local attractions like the Mystery Spot, the Santa Cruz Wharf, and the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Shadowbrook Restaurant, Located in charming Capitola, 4-miles south of Santa Cruz, the world-famous Shadowbrook opened in October of 1947 with the theme of Romance in Dining. Shadowbrook today is not only the most romantic place to dine in northern California but was designated as one of the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in all of America by the 5 million voters of Open Table.

2. Fern Ridge Camper

99%

(135)

30mi from Del Monte Forest · 1 site · Lodging

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.

3. Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

100%

(23)

25mi from Del Monte Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Looking for a place to relax, recharge or explore surrounding areas of Santa Cruz and Monterey counties? Vega Vortex is home to the Gaia Health Retreat and possesses vortex energy! Expect a warm greeting upon arrival. To find us, an unmarked road, listed on maps as "Country Lane" (we call it Vega Vortex Rd). Parking is close to our Vega Vortex sign and a short walk to your tent. Filtered potable water, electricity, shower/toilet with an "on demand" hot/cold water are available. Instructions for use are available and should you need assistance - we are here for you! Experience 2 campsites, BYOT (bring your own tent or rent one from us) or an onsite Bell tent. The Bell tent contains carpeted padded flooring, camp lights, shelving, 2 cots with bedding, plus a memory foam camping mattress! The BYOT site's measurement is 10' x 10' . Both sites have shaded areas, and picnic tables. A shower and a compost toilet are available. Enjoy a designated smoking/vaping spot, multiple benches, and swings, a "grounding" spot, birding, water fountains and art. A no noise policy by the county occurs at 9 pm. Due to a high risk fire zone, no open fires. Due to the proximity of the tents right next to Vega Rd, sounds from vehicles can be heard. We are situated in a rural neighborhood setting, with sounds of sheep, goats, chickens, wild turkeys, dogs and many birds nestled between both counties. For enhanced protection we ask that a waiver be signed. Security cameras are on site. While respecting your privacy, we can be seen improving the property. The terrain is hilly and staying on paths limits poison oak exposure. Vega Vortex has been called a Park and Machu Picchu due to the amphitheater landscaping of terracing. Practicing permaculture, a diversity of pollinating plants/ flowers, organic garden and art features exist. Minutes away from National Parks, the Mystery Spot, Santa Cruz Beach Board Walk, Roaring Camp Train, Monterey Bay Aquarium, National Steinbeck Center, Moss Landing, Elkhorn Slough/Canoe/Kayak, Estuaries (bird watching), golfing and multiple beaches. As a gift for staying here, you may receive either a bottle of "structured" water, a healing tincture or salve, or a bottle of infused olive oil, curated from the Vega Vortex!

4. Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping

98%

(176)

17mi from Del Monte Forest · 38 sites · Lodging

The Camp was started in 1925 by Mrs. Douglas as a girls camp to teach young girls the beautiful wonders of the outdoors including horseback riding, swimming, archery, and camping. She felt that boys had plenty of opportunity to explore Mother Nature but at the time, girls had no such camp to attend. This 115 acre, beautiful, rolling hills ranch has been a camp ever since and now offers camping for the young and old, girls and boys, families and singles…. You name it… a camp for everyone. Located on 115 acres historic boys and girls summer camp complete with pool, tennis, and hiking in Carmel Valley, CA. Re-connect to nature and nostalgia! There is plenty to do at the Camp as well as surrounding areas. 2.5 miles from Carmel Village known for its many wine tasting rooms, restaurants and galleries. 14.5 miles inland from Carmel by-the-sea and Carmel Beach. Perfect locations for day excursion to Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur. Individual Glamping sessions are available on select dates. Breakfast included in the stay. Length of stay may be required. We highly recommend you stay for more than one day as it is difficult to take part in all activities when at the camp for only one day. Imagine! your own private off the grid cabin where you can enjoy tent camping without the hassle of setting up a tent. Numerous activities for you to take advantage of or simple step outside your cabin and wonder on our 115 acres and connect to nature. Welcome to The Camp. CABINS Solstice and Sunrise cabins recently re-built cabins have one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) and are located near a shared communal bathhouses. Sunset village cabins have access to a bathhouse with designated full baths with private shower and bathroom for each cabin. Each cabin has power and one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) Like tent camping without the hassle of having to set up a tent. You bring your sleeping bag, bedding and towels. Or we can provide you with a bedding/towel pack for an extra cost. POWER All cabins and bathhouses have power Wi-Fi Free wi-fi in central camp not at cabins. FOOD and DRINK 2024 Glamping Includes breakfast. Lunch and Dinner optional at an additional cost. ACTIVITIES Self guided activities include: Pool, pool deck, basketball half court, tennis courts, yard games, hiking trails and many areas to connect to nature. Guided activities: Hosted campfire nightly, Yoga, Archery and Tie Dye sessions available on Saturday. (holiday weekends additional sessions available) FIRE No individual fires. We do offer hosted campfires nightly. DOG Two dogs are welcome per cabin $50 per dog. MUSIC No speakers, amplification or radios. Acoustic instruments are allowed. RESERVATIONS Glamping weekends may require multiple night stays. Check-in is between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. We will send you an email prior to arrival with additional information. Please note Hipcamp site assignments do not correspond to the actual cabin you will be assigned. Our Camp cabin names and assignments are a little different. If you are reserving multiple cabins please let us know so we can try and assign you near each other. Parking is a short walk away from the Cabins. The Camp is private property and for registered guests only. Gate is closed 9PM-7PM. Campers are free to come and go as these please between 7AM-PM, but all Campers must be back onsite before 9PM. WHAT TO BRING: Sleeping Bag or bedding or rent linen pack Towels and Toiletries Flashlight Water Bottle

5. Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

100%

(6)

34mi from Del Monte Forest · 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. We will see you soon!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Making + drinking afternoon tea while others nap

Z

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Fern Ridge Camper

The camper was cute, peaceful, and cozy! The view of the stars were so clear and the atmosphere was perfect for a short getaway! Matt is the most accommodating host and even went out of his way to grab us lamps for extra light!

J

Jared

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

Mona and Thaddeus were wonderful hosts. I had a really relaxing time there and would be happy to go back

G

Gabby

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

Exuberant hosts, beautiful land, well tended, amazing amenities. Highly recommend!

A

Alix

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

Thaddeus and Mona were the most gracious and lovely hosts!! I never remember to review places, but am making a review because of how wonderful our stay was. The location is gorgeous, truly a fairy land! We brought our own tent and the site was clean and well made, nice and level with partition walls for privacy. They had motion sensing lights and rope lights to be able to see at night for our set up which was great! The bathroom and shower was spotless and functional, there was a thoughtful outlet to charge devices near the campsite as well as filter drinking water! We didn’t get a chance to check out the rest of the property the next morning, but can’t wait to go back to experience the many swings on the property. There are sheep and pigs in the field across the road as well, so cute! There is a big of vehicle noise due to the road but it didn’t bother us at all. Highly recommend this site!!

J

Joshua

November 2025

2 nights at Fern Ridge Camper

Had an amazing time in this camper. Matt was very communicative and compensated when he addressed a minor issue before we even checked in! It was amazing being able to see the stars and wake up to the sunlight through the camper. The campfire was in a perfect spot to make s’mores. The portable bathroom was easy to use and we had a ton of privacy. Definitely would recommend.

P

Patrick

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

I stopped here on a trip between the central coast and the bay and I'm very glad that I did. The amenities are very well thought out and the location itself is beautiful. There is some road noise, but it didn't prevent me from sleeping and the hosts were kind enough to provide a pair of earplugs just in case. I would happily stay here again if I was passing through the area!

N

Noah

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

The tent and bed were very spacious. The view of the stars at night and the mountains in the mornings was beautiful. In November it was very cold at night as expected but it was much easier to stay comfortable and warm here than in a regular tent.

Franchesca

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Fern Ridge Camper

My wife and I had a great stay! It was very relaxing and private. We will definitely plan to stay again!

Chloe

November 2025

1 night at Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

Wonderful stay! They thought of everything, plus homemade gifts! What really nice people too! Thank you so much for taking care of me on your beautiful land!

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

Sarah

November 2025

16 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

Thaddeus and Mona are the sweetest and their place is amazing! It’s a beautiful property and you can tell they take pride in it and put a lot of work into the guest experience. They really wanted feedback on how to keep improving but honestly I had no complaints- between the homemade welcome gift, hot shower, beautiful gardens, affordable price point, and clear communication, my stay was perfect :)

F

Francesca

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

We loved staying at Vega Vortex! Thaddeus and Mona were so sweet, giving us a tour of the property upon arrival. The tent was spacious. The beds kept us very comfy and warm at night. The bathrooms were very clean and well maintained. The property is beautiful!

L

Luke

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Fern Ridge Camper

Matt's camper was the best experience! I had such a wonderful night with my partner after a great dinner at the local park spot. We kept our night at the fire telling stories of our trip. Thank you Matt and hip camp for the greatest end of summer beginning of fall experience!

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.

Pei

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

My friend and I stayed at the Bell Tent for one night. The site was so clean, cozy and inviting. Thaddeus and Mona were awesome hosts. They were warm and communicative and you could tell that they put a lot of thoughts and love into the camp site to make it as homey as possible. Highly recommend!

S

Sophia

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

cute stay. it was clean and easy to get to for the weekend visiting santa cruz.

Erin

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Fern Ridge Camper

Matt’s place is the perfect getaway! This is our second time visiting and we hope to come back again 🫶

J

Jeff

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

Easy in, easy out. Bedroom was made nicely. Property manager was very kind.

A

Alex

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

Thaddeus and Mona were great hosts and amazing folks. The garden and beautifully terraced hillside are expertly done and the amenities are top-tier— One of the best camping shower experiences ever. Woke up feeling refreshed and at ease. Thank you Mona and Thaddeus!

Sasha

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Fern Ridge Camper

Great spot for a short stay in Aptos. So beautiful and pretty close to everything. I had been camping at the city park but decided to treat myself on my last night. Really glad I did.