95% (4.4K) • 408 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Hayward
Santa Cruz Mountain Camping
1. Santa Cruz Mountain Camping
100%
(8)
37mi from Hayward · 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.
Any Super Bowl Fans!!! Feb 8 at Levi's Stadium. Levi's is a 35 minute drive from tent.
Any FIFA World Cup Soccer Fans!!! Games at Levi's Stadium on Jun 13, 16, 19, 22, 25 and July 1. Levi's Stadium in 35 minute drive from tent.
Check Levi's Stadium for all events you might have intertest in such as concerts, sporting events, etc.
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.
Toilets
Potable water
from
$55
/ night
Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
2. Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
99%
(81)
25mi from Hayward · 5 sites · Lodging
On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunrises and sunset greet you in this fully equipped new 2023 Airstream. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, outside BBQ, outside griddle, A/C and fully stocked kitchen. Comes will full bathroom with shower. Truly a rare experience and located within 10 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$299
/ night
Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
3. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
100%
(10)
43mi from Hayward · 3 sites · Lodging
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. Our home is a short distance away 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 is 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 coastal cities. We offer guests 2 private bedrooms: the Raven’s Nest (an aircrete dome) and/or the Owl’s Nest (a yurt). More guests are welcome if you bring your own camping tents. There is a fully equipped covered kitchen with stove, fridge, barbecue grill, electric coffee maker, tables and chairs, and more. The kitchen also has a ping pong table. There is also a large geodome furnished as a game room with couches, a lounge area, pool table, foosball table, a stereo, games, and music equipment. There are clean composting toilets, hot showers, a propane fire pit, heaters for the cold, a hammock bungalow, a meditation pagoda, a deck overlooking a creek, and disc golf baskets. With a fair balance of sunlight and shade, we have a garden, some outdoor play equipment, and lots of open space to spread out and relax. Free wifi is available. We run a nonprofit outdoor education camp for underprivileged youth, and your stay supports our work.
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 in all main spaces for your 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 a woodstoves in the Owl's Nest and Eagle's Nest. We provide a fire starter log for each woodstove for each night of your stay, and guests are responsible for bringing firewood to keep the woodstoves going for continued warmth throughout each evening.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$250
/ night
The Campground At Chez Serendip
4. The Campground At Chez Serendip
38mi from Hayward · 1 site · Tent, RV
Beneath mature oak trees and surrounded by towering redwoods, the Campground at Chez Serendip offers a peaceful, spacious place to land in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This flat, unpaved lot sits within a six-acre creative and land-stewarded sanctuary designed for campers who value quiet, nature, and room to breathe.
The site accommodates up to 10 tents or up to 3 RVs, trailers, or fifth wheels (maximum length 30’). The ground is level with generous spacing between setups, making it ideal for groups traveling together or those seeking a private, uncrowded camping experience.
Guests enjoy direct access to Glenwood Preserve and Redwood Glen hiking trails, with miles of forest paths just beyond the property. Despite the secluded feel, Chez Serendip is minutes from Highway 17 and downtown Scotts Valley, and only 15 minutes from Santa Cruz beaches. Hosts can also help coordinate optional beach picnic experiences for guests who want a simple, relaxed coastal day.
Amenities & Utilities
- Power hookups included
- Water available for an additional fee
- Septic dump access available (portable RV dump tank required; not provided)
- On-site host
Chez Serendip is an equestrian-friendly property and can accommodate travelers arriving with horses by prior arrangement. The land is home to a small herd, and equine experiences such as gentle encounters, groundwork, arena riding, or trail rides may be available depending on season and conditions.
The property also features the Lotus Dome, a stunning 36-foot geodesic dome tucked into the redwoods. The Dome is available for hourly or daily rental (separately) and is ideal for movement, meditation, sound experiences, workshops, or creative practice.
This is a pet-friendly and kid-friendly campground, assuming dogs are comfortable around other dogs, animals, and children. Dogs must remain on leash or a lead line at all times due to shared land use and resident animals.
After booking, guests may explore a range of optional add-on experiences, including massage therapy, equine encounters, sound bowls in the Dome, guided creative sessions, and private meals in the garden.
Chez Serendip is not just a place to camp. It’s a place to rest, create, and reconnect—with nature, creativity, and a slower rhythm beneath the redwoods.
Potable water
Picnic table
Full hookups
from
$81
/ night
Masoods Lodge
5. Masoods Lodge
100%
(2)
35mi from Hayward · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$149
/ night
95% (4.4K) • 408 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Hayward
Santa Cruz Mountain Camping
1. Santa Cruz Mountain Camping
100%
(8)
37mi from Hayward · 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.
Any Super Bowl Fans!!! Feb 8 at Levi's Stadium. Levi's is a 35 minute drive from tent.
Any FIFA World Cup Soccer Fans!!! Games at Levi's Stadium on Jun 13, 16, 19, 22, 25 and July 1. Levi's Stadium in 35 minute drive from tent.
Check Levi's Stadium for all events you might have intertest in such as concerts, sporting events, etc.
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.
Toilets
Potable water
from
$55
/ night
Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
2. Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
99%
(81)
25mi from Hayward · 5 sites · Lodging
On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunrises and sunset greet you in this fully equipped new 2023 Airstream. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, outside BBQ, outside griddle, A/C and fully stocked kitchen. Comes will full bathroom with shower. Truly a rare experience and located within 10 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$299
/ night
Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
3. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
100%
(10)
43mi from Hayward · 3 sites · Lodging
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. Our home is a short distance away 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 is 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 coastal cities. We offer guests 2 private bedrooms: the Raven’s Nest (an aircrete dome) and/or the Owl’s Nest (a yurt). More guests are welcome if you bring your own camping tents. There is a fully equipped covered kitchen with stove, fridge, barbecue grill, electric coffee maker, tables and chairs, and more. The kitchen also has a ping pong table. There is also a large geodome furnished as a game room with couches, a lounge area, pool table, foosball table, a stereo, games, and music equipment. There are clean composting toilets, hot showers, a propane fire pit, heaters for the cold, a hammock bungalow, a meditation pagoda, a deck overlooking a creek, and disc golf baskets. With a fair balance of sunlight and shade, we have a garden, some outdoor play equipment, and lots of open space to spread out and relax. Free wifi is available. We run a nonprofit outdoor education camp for underprivileged youth, and your stay supports our work.
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 in all main spaces for your 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 a woodstoves in the Owl's Nest and Eagle's Nest. We provide a fire starter log for each woodstove for each night of your stay, and guests are responsible for bringing firewood to keep the woodstoves going for continued warmth throughout each evening.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$250
/ night
The Campground At Chez Serendip
4. The Campground At Chez Serendip
38mi from Hayward · 1 site · Tent, RV
Beneath mature oak trees and surrounded by towering redwoods, the Campground at Chez Serendip offers a peaceful, spacious place to land in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This flat, unpaved lot sits within a six-acre creative and land-stewarded sanctuary designed for campers who value quiet, nature, and room to breathe.
The site accommodates up to 10 tents or up to 3 RVs, trailers, or fifth wheels (maximum length 30’). The ground is level with generous spacing between setups, making it ideal for groups traveling together or those seeking a private, uncrowded camping experience.
Guests enjoy direct access to Glenwood Preserve and Redwood Glen hiking trails, with miles of forest paths just beyond the property. Despite the secluded feel, Chez Serendip is minutes from Highway 17 and downtown Scotts Valley, and only 15 minutes from Santa Cruz beaches. Hosts can also help coordinate optional beach picnic experiences for guests who want a simple, relaxed coastal day.
Amenities & Utilities
- Power hookups included
- Water available for an additional fee
- Septic dump access available (portable RV dump tank required; not provided)
- On-site host
Chez Serendip is an equestrian-friendly property and can accommodate travelers arriving with horses by prior arrangement. The land is home to a small herd, and equine experiences such as gentle encounters, groundwork, arena riding, or trail rides may be available depending on season and conditions.
The property also features the Lotus Dome, a stunning 36-foot geodesic dome tucked into the redwoods. The Dome is available for hourly or daily rental (separately) and is ideal for movement, meditation, sound experiences, workshops, or creative practice.
This is a pet-friendly and kid-friendly campground, assuming dogs are comfortable around other dogs, animals, and children. Dogs must remain on leash or a lead line at all times due to shared land use and resident animals.
After booking, guests may explore a range of optional add-on experiences, including massage therapy, equine encounters, sound bowls in the Dome, guided creative sessions, and private meals in the garden.
Chez Serendip is not just a place to camp. It’s a place to rest, create, and reconnect—with nature, creativity, and a slower rhythm beneath the redwoods.
Potable water
Picnic table
Full hookups
from
$81
/ night
Masoods Lodge
5. Masoods Lodge
100%
(2)
35mi from Hayward · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$149
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Bill
3 weeks ago
With pets
Loved this spot and lowkey don’t want to publicize it. But credit where credit is due. Best hipcamp ever. Props to the host Deano.
See more
Alison
November 2025
With pets
This site is absolutely beautiful! The view is gorgeous. The Airstream is comfortably outfitted. The hosts are lovely and communicative. My Labrador and I had a great stay!
See more
J
Janice and Gary
November 2025
2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
It’s very special, quiet, and peaceful. Very small make sure you like each other. Definitely going to return.
See more
I
Inna
November 2025
With pets
Just the most perfect escape. Location 10/10. Communication 10/10. We loved it!
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A
Andrew
November 2025
2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
Incredible location and views, would definitely go back. The airstream was great and Deano was super helpful with all instructions / logistics.
See more
F
Fiona
November 2025
Group trip
We loved camping at Camp Cruz! We had a wonderful weekend in the peaceful woods and were able to spend amazing quality time together <3. This property was incredible in ways we couldn't have imagined! Thank you for having us for Renee's 30th birthday.
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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.
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Douglas
November 2025
2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
Absolutely stunnigly beautiful! Bad storm epic moved in overnight cut our stay short! Will be back!!
See moreD
Da Da
November 2025
With pets
Amazing place, the most amazing views - truly took our breath away. We will be coming back for sure!
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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.
See moreJ
Jeff
October 2025
With pets
Easy in, easy out. Bedroom was made nicely. Property manager was very kind.
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Lisa
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Santa Cruz Mountain Camping
Very clean site with a beautiful view. Instructions were clear making it easy to find. One of the best hipcamp sites I've stayed at so far.
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Bethany
September 2025
With pets
This is a great getaway for anyone looking for a peaceful private retreat! The land has some beautiful views and the glamping setup is clean and simple! Shelly is also a very welcoming host, she came down to the campsite to check on me and we ended up chatting for a long time.
This little hideaway in the mountains is a place I’d love to come back to! Bonus - I saw deer on my drive out two mornings in a row!
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K
Kathleen
September 2025
4 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
A Truly Memorable Stay.
This was a wonderful experience. The quiet and calm made it incredibly relaxing—even our dog was completely at ease.
On our first day, we were lucky enough to watch humpback whales and sea lions hunting just off the coast. They were so close, we could easily see them from the cliff's edge. We were thrilled to see them return on two other afternoons during our stay. Wildlife was abundant throughout—hawks, a mother coyote, and even a golden eagle made appearances.
Please remember to be respectful during your time in nature. These incredible animals depend on us to make the right choices and give them the space and peace they need.
The nights were cool and rainy, but our Airstream was warm and cozy, offering the perfect shelter and adding to the charm of the trip.
Our host, Dean, was fantastic—quick to respond to any questions while still giving us the privacy we were looking for.
All in all, this was one of the best vacation experiences we've had in a long time.
Highly recommend!
See moreL
Lissa
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
First impression?…. Speechless! You are greated with a smile from heaven just as soon as you turn off the road onto the parking area behind the trailer. The sun glistening off both the ocean and the airstream itself was simply breathtaking.
See moreP
Patrick
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
Loved the location and the Arrowstream had all the amenities needed for our stay. The host was great and made our stay special. Thank you.
See moreC
Cindy
August 2025
With kids
This is a really cool place and the kids had tons of fun. So much to explore for them - they loved the variety. It was a great joy to see them covered in mud and laughing loudly in the middle of the trees. The facilities are very functional and convenient. We don’t have to pack much and it is a very smooth camping experience. It is definitely on the pricier side; we will come back with a larger group to optimize the experience next time! Thank you for having us!
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C
Crisanta
August 2025
With pets
Deano was fantastic! He walked me through how to use the Airstream and made sure I felt completely comfortable with everything. Whenever we had questions, he responded quickly—even after hours—which we truly appreciated. The view was stunning, and our dogs loved exploring the area. The Airstream itself was spotless, well-kept, and surprisingly comfortable—it really felt like a home away from home. We highly recommend staying here and are already looking forward to our next trip!
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S
Sarah
August 2025
With pets
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Sunrise. The views were absolutely amazing and provided a background for much needed relaxation. The Airstream is well appointed and so comfortable for sleeping and listening to the waves crash.
We stayed for 4 days and would love to come back!
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A
Adam
August 2025
2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
The views from this place are incredible. The Airstream is well stocked and makes the stay feel very luxurious even though you are camping. Deano himself is a great host and made sure we had everything we needed to have a great time. Cannot recommend this place enough, and plan to book it again in the future
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