The best star host campgrounds near Hollister, California

Looking for a camping experience near Hollister, California? Hipcamp has over 1,300 options for you to choose from! Whether you're into wildlife watching, biking, or wind sports, there's a campsite perfect for your preferred activities. And don't worry about missing out on the essentials – popular amenities like pets, campfires, and potable water are available. Want to know where other campers love to stay? Check out the top-rated campsites: The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews), and Walden Ranch (418 reviews). With an average nightly price of $70 and options as low as $25, camping near Hollister, California has never been more accessible.

99% (2.8K) • 79 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hollister

Looking for a camping experience near Hollister, California? Hipcamp has over 1,300 options for you to choose from! Whether you're into wildlife watching, biking, or wind sports, there's a campsite perfect for your preferred activities. And don't worry about missing out on the essentials – popular amenities like pets, campfires, and potable water are available. Want to know where other campers love to stay? Check out the top-rated campsites: The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews), and Walden Ranch (418 reviews). With an average nightly price of $70 and options as low as $25, camping near Hollister, California has never been more accessible.

99% (2.8K) • 79 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hollister

1. 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

97%

(1117)

25mi from Hollister · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

35 miles to Pinnacles, and only 6 miles to Panoche Valley, a globally important migratory bird routes! Dark Skies at night for galaxy cruising and plenty of oak trees for cool shade. Warm sunny days and cool nights. Amazing and invigorating fall weather! Bring warm clothes and throws to wrap in while sitting by a roaring fire under dark skies streaming planets and galaxies. For daytime, dress in layers. In the oak studded world of the Diablo Mountain Range, the ocean influence sends gentle breezes winding their way through the oaks, offering days of dappled sunshine and nights crisp and cool. Use this as a home base and spend days at Pinnacles, Monterey, Carmel, the Central Valley, and so on or...you can rest and relax the world away, this is a place to regain your balance. Come with your cares leave clear and regenerated. A place to sing and dance, to talk late into the night as the night sky brims over with stars, and the campfire slowly dies. Perfect for group gatherings, and can accommodate your large party as easily and comfortably as we accommodate families, singles, and couples. What we provide is: outdoor hot shower, flush toilet, clean clear water from faucets, and at your campsite, a fire pit and grill to cook on, picnic table with benches, and the blue oak savanna. Firewood for $15/bundle, fire starters -first two free in the winter then $0.50/each. Our firewood is sustainably harvested from downed trees and branches. We sell it for a neighbor. No healthy live trees are harmed in order to produce firewood. No native trees are felled in order to plant fast growing hardwood for fire or anything else! Pitch your tent or park your camper amid the ancient Blue Oaks of California. Warm yourself by your campfire as you drink in the dark skies. Shake the dust off your work worn spirit. Let the celebration begin. Dance to the music in your heart sing along with the songs of the ancients. Regenerate. Breathe and hear yourself breathe. A safe place in the shade of the blue oaks. It's time to take time. Time to play and enjoy with friends and family. A place to bask in opulent starlight and absorb the sounds of darkness. Brought to you by wildfarmers/spif, an IRS designated 501c3 public charity.

2. Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

100%

(8)

34mi from Hollister · 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.

3. Camp Jaron

99%

(38)

41mi from Hollister · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Completely private 19 acres to explore while only being 10 min from downtown Los Gatos (FYI has great cell reception). Plenty of flat empty land to pitch tents. There is a compost toilet and an outdoor shower with cold water. There is plenty of room to explore, half of the property is pretty dense wilderness but the main half has hammocks, slack line, fire pit, bbq, tables, etc. *FYI due to the steep driveway (see pic) the property is only accessible by AWD or 4-wheel drive SUV or truck; cars, vans, or RVs will not be able to make it (if you are not sure please ask before booking).

4. Fern Ridge Camper

99%

(135)

29mi from Hollister · 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.

5. Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping

98%

(176)

32mi from Hollister · 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

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Enjoying being outdoors with the family at campsite 3

L

Loizos

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

A Nice, quiet and remote campsite with dark skies. I had a great view of the Dec 13, 2025 Geminid meteor shower, with over 100 observed in a couple of hrs Site has clean restroom and the host is super nice and accommodating !

J

Joy

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

Beautiful! Veronica was a wonderful host. Very welcoming and gracious. There is no service in the area and Veronica was kind enough to let us use her phone to get in touch with the rest of our group to give some updated instructions/directions. The grounds are well-maintained and the sites were big enough to accommodate big groups with multiple cars. Our group had a mix of car and tent campers and it was big enough to accommodate us all comfortably. Also, the sunset view is absolutely stunning! Looking forward to our next trip back here. Thanks, Veronica!

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!

Megan

November 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

Really lovely site and very kind host. It took us an hour to get to Pinnacles, so not quite as close as we thought - but a really beautiful stay. Fair warning - the directions are a little tricky and there isn’t any cell coverage. Would recommend taking a peak at you map before you lose coverage :)

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.

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!

Ivy

October 2025

15 ft campervan

1 night at 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

We absolutely loved our stay here! Veronica is such a warm and accommodating host who went out of her way to make us feel welcome. The property itself is stunning, a beautiful non-profit space that feels like you have traveled far away to a peaceful savannah desert. We had the best time sitting around a bonfire with Veronica under a million stars, truly unforgettable. The location is perfect, close to Pinnacles National Park but feels worlds away from everything. Totally worth the drive, and we will definitely be back again!

a

alejandrina

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Camp Jaron

Great stay! The host provided clear and accurate info for accessing the property and using all the amenities. This is an excellent spot for families, swings, zip line, ropes, beautiful views, fire pits, BBQ, lounge chairs, and picnic tables. The place is spacious and peaceful. Just note that a 4x4 vehicle is definitely needed to get there. Would stay again!

Shm

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

Beautiful and friendly!! Thank you so much for having me and for being so kind Its a bit hard to navigate to since you are likely to lose signal but the directions provided were perfect and its absolutely worth the trip !!

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!

K

Kate

October 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

The land here is so lovely and we had a great time camping and marveling at the starry night sky. My kids loved the goats and the wild bunnies. Veronica was a great host, very approachable and responsive. We hope to be back soon!

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.

Julian

October 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Camp Jaron

Camp Jaron is a very quiet spot close to downtown Los Gatos. Pros: Hot shower, composting toilet, and mostly private (The neighbor's house has a direct line of sight on the main campsite area — further down the hill is more private) Neutral: Rough road to access property, 4x4/clearance required as described. Cons: Limited level ground for parking rig, I had to park directly under large branches which I try to avoid whenever possible, would recommend packing leveling blocks. Limited level & cleared space for tents — Expect overgrowth / leaves / mulch / poison oak.

J

Josh

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

Wonderful site and Veronica was so wonderful and friendly! Would highly recommended

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.

T

Tamara

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

My group of 9 loved our stay at Song of the Ancients. Our site (#4) provided plenty of space for our 4 cars and teardrop trailer. It was also situated away from the other sites so it felt slightly larger and more private. Upon arrival we almost considered moving to site #3 due to it being located on the very end. However, site #3 partially sits on a slope that leads to small hill, which would be perfect for tents and stargazing, but site #4 ended up being a better fit for us and our sleeping set ups. Sites #1 and #2 were also nice and they seemed to offer the most shade. They're also closer to each other and might be more ideal for a large group that is interested in booking both of them together. Site #4 is nearest to the bathroom, but just know that people from the other sites will walk through your camp to get to it. It wasn't a big deal for us as everyone was super friendly, but we could tell they felt a bit awkward each time they passed through. There may have been another path to access it, but I don't think it was clearly marked. Veronica was a lovely and gracious host, and she went above and beyond to ensure we had plenty of wood during our stay. We especially enjoyed learning about her non-profit and the important work they do for surrounding communities and the revitalization of the California Blue Oak. Song of the Ancients is a beautiful place to camp, and we all left with a deeper appreciation for its landscape. My friends and I look forward to returning.

C

Carl

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

My stay at Veronica's campsite was unforgettable. If you're looking for a spot to see some amazing stars, this is it. I was blown away by how clear the sky was—you can see everything out here with zero city lights, except when the moon is high and bright. But what really makes this place special is the host, Veronica. She's just awesome—so friendly and welcoming from the second I got there. And she knows SO much about the land! It was super cool to hear her talk about the history, the blue oaks, and everything. You can tell she really cares about the place. It’s way more than just a campsite; it’s a whole vibe. Definitely book this place, you won't regret it! Already looking forward to the next trip, next time we can plant wildflowers. Highly, highly recommend!

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.