95% (3.8K) • 303 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Pacific Grove
The Campground At Chez Serendip
1. The Campground At Chez Serendip
32mi from Pacific Grove · 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
Terra Cultura
2. Terra Cultura
95%
(225)
25mi from Pacific Grove · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Our farm is nestled in the scenic hills of Aromas, CA, just 15 minutes away from the ocean. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip along California’s majestic coast, or looking to spend some time getting to know the lush landscape of the Central Coast, we welcome you with open arms!
We are a nonprofit educational eco-arts farm and your booking supports environmental stewardship and arts education for underserved communities. Thank you for your support!
We place the highest value on respect--for the land, and for the people, plants, and animals that call this area home. While you are here, please consider yourself a partner in stewarding this place.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$89
/ night
Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
3. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
100%
(10)
30mi from Pacific Grove · 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
Either Way Hideaway
4. Either Way Hideaway
100%
(1)
40mi from Pacific Grove · 1 site · Lodging
Relax and enjoy riverside views in our tranquil Santa Cruz Mountains guesthouse. Cozy up by the fire pit with a glass of local wine, or visit nearby wineries just a short drive away. Hike Big Basin, Castle Rock, and Henry Cowell State Parks.
Close to historic downtown Boulder Creek and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, this guesthouse is the perfect base for exploring Santa Cruz County. Immerse yourself in nature while staying connected and comfortable. Either way, you’ll enjoy your stay!
SCC Permit #251382
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$192
/ night
Redwood Paradise Camping
5. Redwood Paradise Camping
91%
(283)
33mi from Pacific Grove · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
PLEASE READ:
Hello all! If you're looking for some glamping with creature comforts, while just being 10 minutes away from restaurants. This is the place for you. We are a 5 acre property and home surrounded by tall redwood and oak trees. Very green and lots of shade. These are the amenities/facilities you will have free access to: Pool, Pool chairs and umbrellas, Deck area with sunset view, Trampolines, and hammocks.
There is not cooking allowed by or at any of the common areas, due to flies and critters. Cooking and eating is only allowed by your sites and not in any common areas: Hammocks, Trampolines, Pool Area, tables, sink, and deck please follow this rule because we want to prevent our shared areas to be fly and bug infested. We are still working on ridding the flies and cleaning. (please try to bring prepackaged food or something easy. If anything you can drive 10 minutes to nearby food and grocery). In the past we let people cook and eat around the pool but now our whole property is fly infested and I find scattered leftovers on the ground. Thanks for understanding.
THERE IS A 1-2 MINUTE HIKE TO THE CAMPSITES 1-5!
Poolside campsites are closer to the parking and are bigger.
CHECK OUT OUR NEW LODGING:
This property is my home that I live in with my 2 kids. It is a rustic and homey vibe, definitely not a hotel. We want you to come knowing what to expect. Our property offers a pool, and trampolines for the kids. We have a deck patio area that overlooks an amazing view of the redwood forest. Most of our guests are those that come from foreign countries and they all LOVE the property. I love leaving a great impression of our area.
CAMPGROUND GUIDELINES
Pack out your trash.
Rinse feet before using the pool.
No pool toys or floaties.
Always supervise kids.
Don’t sit on chair edges or pool cover box.
Use stumps or your own table for cooking (not ours).
Keep the area clean—no food scraps on the ground.
No dogs in the pool area; leashes and cleanup required.
No eating in rooms or cabin.
Check out on the deck.
No smoking (vapes only, away from common areas).
Propane grills only—no open flames or campfires.
Thanks for helping us keep this place awesome!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$105
/ night
95% (3.8K) • 303 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Pacific Grove
The Campground At Chez Serendip
1. The Campground At Chez Serendip
32mi from Pacific Grove · 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
Terra Cultura
2. Terra Cultura
95%
(225)
25mi from Pacific Grove · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Our farm is nestled in the scenic hills of Aromas, CA, just 15 minutes away from the ocean. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip along California’s majestic coast, or looking to spend some time getting to know the lush landscape of the Central Coast, we welcome you with open arms!
We are a nonprofit educational eco-arts farm and your booking supports environmental stewardship and arts education for underserved communities. Thank you for your support!
We place the highest value on respect--for the land, and for the people, plants, and animals that call this area home. While you are here, please consider yourself a partner in stewarding this place.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$89
/ night
Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
3. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
100%
(10)
30mi from Pacific Grove · 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
Either Way Hideaway
4. Either Way Hideaway
100%
(1)
40mi from Pacific Grove · 1 site · Lodging
Relax and enjoy riverside views in our tranquil Santa Cruz Mountains guesthouse. Cozy up by the fire pit with a glass of local wine, or visit nearby wineries just a short drive away. Hike Big Basin, Castle Rock, and Henry Cowell State Parks.
Close to historic downtown Boulder Creek and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, this guesthouse is the perfect base for exploring Santa Cruz County. Immerse yourself in nature while staying connected and comfortable. Either way, you’ll enjoy your stay!
SCC Permit #251382
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$192
/ night
Redwood Paradise Camping
5. Redwood Paradise Camping
91%
(283)
33mi from Pacific Grove · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
PLEASE READ:
Hello all! If you're looking for some glamping with creature comforts, while just being 10 minutes away from restaurants. This is the place for you. We are a 5 acre property and home surrounded by tall redwood and oak trees. Very green and lots of shade. These are the amenities/facilities you will have free access to: Pool, Pool chairs and umbrellas, Deck area with sunset view, Trampolines, and hammocks.
There is not cooking allowed by or at any of the common areas, due to flies and critters. Cooking and eating is only allowed by your sites and not in any common areas: Hammocks, Trampolines, Pool Area, tables, sink, and deck please follow this rule because we want to prevent our shared areas to be fly and bug infested. We are still working on ridding the flies and cleaning. (please try to bring prepackaged food or something easy. If anything you can drive 10 minutes to nearby food and grocery). In the past we let people cook and eat around the pool but now our whole property is fly infested and I find scattered leftovers on the ground. Thanks for understanding.
THERE IS A 1-2 MINUTE HIKE TO THE CAMPSITES 1-5!
Poolside campsites are closer to the parking and are bigger.
CHECK OUT OUR NEW LODGING:
This property is my home that I live in with my 2 kids. It is a rustic and homey vibe, definitely not a hotel. We want you to come knowing what to expect. Our property offers a pool, and trampolines for the kids. We have a deck patio area that overlooks an amazing view of the redwood forest. Most of our guests are those that come from foreign countries and they all LOVE the property. I love leaving a great impression of our area.
CAMPGROUND GUIDELINES
Pack out your trash.
Rinse feet before using the pool.
No pool toys or floaties.
Always supervise kids.
Don’t sit on chair edges or pool cover box.
Use stumps or your own table for cooking (not ours).
Keep the area clean—no food scraps on the ground.
No dogs in the pool area; leashes and cleanup required.
No eating in rooms or cabin.
Check out on the deck.
No smoking (vapes only, away from common areas).
Propane grills only—no open flames or campfires.
Thanks for helping us keep this place awesome!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$105
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Emily
2 weeks ago
With pets
This little cabin was great for a cozy way to spend time outside. Even though it rained our whole trip and we weren't able to go hiking as planned, we were able to enjoy sitting next to redwood trees and the creek next to the warm fire. The space is well-equipped, with a little kitchen including a fridge and coffee machine and bathroom with a large shower. Hopefully we'll be back to use the hot tub next time!
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.
See more
T
Tiansong
October 2025
Tent
Thanks Ruth and her family for offering us a great camping experience!
See more
Sophia
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Ruth and Marshall were both great hosts! They were responsive to messages prior to arrival and were friendly and accommodating during our visit. When booking, I wondered if the pool would be visible from our campsite, but I was glad to find that it was very nice and private (a bit removed from the common areas and surrounded by trees). We loved the zipline and hammocks.
See more
A
Adeline
September 2025
Tent
What a lovely camp site! We were in the Redwood Paradise Campsite #1 (not by the pool) and it was amazing. Secluded and right in the lush redwoods. Definitely a bit of a hike from the car camping so wouldn’t recommend for anyone unable to trek their gear to their site, but it was worth it for the lovely spot. Ruth & Marshall were so welcoming and kind, serving delicious coffee every morning and Marshall played beautiful piano which was a nice touch. The pool is not heated but we didn’t mind it was a nice cold plunge at the end of a hot sweaty day. Shower and flushing toilet was nice to have; don’t expect anything extravagant but it was just fine for the weekend - much nicer than state park bathrooms/showers. Overall would 100% recommend and return!
See more
S
Shefali
September 2025
Tent
Beautiful site! Drive down is relaxing and the peace and quiet is something you can’t beat! There is an enjoyable common area with very nicely placed hammocks that allow you to observe the redwoods and enjoy what they offer! Would recommend this spot!
See moreA
Adam
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Ruth and Marshall are amazing hosts! Very accommodating. They have created quite the camping experience that was perfect for my family. Great balance of being out in nature but having facilities and community activities nearby. The pool was pristine and such a relief for when it became hot in the afternoon. Daughter enjoyed the trampolines as well. We all took a nap on the hammocks. The live classical piano music with coffee on the deck was an unexpected but welcomed treat. We read and were prepared for the hike to campsite 5 with all of our belongings. It was made easier with a wagon we brought but they also provide a wheelbarrow. “Hiking in” is often a requirement to get into nature that we welcomed but there are closer campsites if you’re not up for that. The bugs are also a part of camping but we came prepared with spray etc. The stars at night were amazing and all the sounds of wildlife. One deer joined us briefly. Any store you need is just half an hour away for example when the camp stove I bought was defective and I needed to quick replace it. Overall we had the best time and hope to come back again!
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D
Dalton
September 2025
Tent
With pets
The Host was super friendly and helpful and the area was super beautiful and amazing Forrest
See moreJ
Jack
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Incredible property and such welcoming hosts! We had a great time
See moreC
Cheyenne
September 2025
Tent
With kids
We had an exceptional experience camping at Ruth’s place. From the rich aroma of morning Peruvian coffee to refreshing last-minute swims in the pristine pool, every detail was thoughtfully curated. Marshal’s eclectic and phenomenal piano repertoire was the perfect finishing touch to an already unforgettable stay. This is truly a special place, and we look forward to returning.
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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G
Gabriel
August 2025
Tent
Absolutely incredible. Beautiful, stunning site with massive gorgeous redwoods as soon as you come in. Very amenable and kind host who made us delicisious Peruvian coffee in the morning! Beautiful sunset and views from deck on house open to guests at campsite, and super nice to have a pool available. Quiet sites with no loud talking/drinking etc. Definitely recommend for families, couples, or friends seeking a quiet and peaceful getaway with amenities.
Only note is that there were a bit more bees/flies than one might typically expect camping at our site, which were slightly annoying getting into food, but that's nature and can't really be helped! (and might be a site specific thing, probably) Really wasn't a big deal, just beware in case you have a bee allergy.
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Jeannette
August 2025
Tent
Myself and my Adult daughter stayed 2 nights , it was a Mom and daughter weekend. We had no difficulty finding the location. Having a shower, bathroom and pool was a plus especially during the unuasl heat we had over the Labor Day weekend. And it just a short drive to the beach and shopping. Im glad we packed very light because even though the walk to our site was not very long it is a bit up and down and having to make too many trips back and fourth to the car would have been exhausting. I would'nt recommend some sites for anyone with walking disabilities or balance issues. Keep that in mind. It is noted in the description as well. Everything was mostly as described and Ruth and her family are gracious hosts. They open their home to campers and its visible that they do enjoy their position. We very much enjoyed Marshall's piano talent and the amazing coffee in the am's. Thank you for having us. It was a very nice change of scenery.
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D
Dane
August 2025
Tent
Ruth's camp was located in the middle of the redwoods and was a joy to stay at. The pool was a great bonus and it was nice to have bathrooms and a shower.
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J
Jessi
August 2025
Tent
With kids
My kiddos loved the trampolines. Our camp spot was private and woodsy. Everyone was really kind and we had a wonderful time.
See more
E
Emily
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Camp sites were clean and quite. Hosts were great. Pool was nice to have a round. It is a little bit of a walk to the sites so pack light. Over all a nice trip
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Alexander
August 2025
Tent
Ruth’s site was wonderful! She was very accommodating and generous. The campsite itself was beautifully nestled in a redwood grove. In the morning, we were treated to a piano being played and some of the best coffee I’ve had in a while. I’d definitely come back again!
See moreP
Philioppa
August 2025
Tent
Friendly host that worked with flexibility in my arrival time. Showed me the camp area’s invited me up to their deck for sunset as well as coffee in the morning. Lovely people. Fun slightly funky. Retreat pool trampolines. And lovely quiet in the redwoods.
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C
Cole
August 2025
Tent
With pets
It was a beautiful piece of property, the redwoods on property did not disappoint. The hosts were very friendly and accommodating, with some excellent coffee being served in the morning.
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Dana
August 2025
Tent
With pets
The tent site was perfect for two small tents, and a small walk up a hill from the wonderful community kitchen and firepit. The kitchen had hot water and was stocked with smores supplies and coffee cups.
I felt very close to the hosts, which turned out fine. It's a small piece of property with large garden and animals, so it felt a bit like we were in their space. They, however, did not make me feel that way. Super friendly and even told us the history of the farm.
Conveniently close to the beach!
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