The best star host campgrounds near Portola Valley, California

Looking to go camping near Portola Valley, California? Hipcamp has over 530 options available in that area, so you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. With options as low as $25 per night and an average price of $85 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out some of the top-rated campsites, like Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews), The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), and The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and potable water, and engage in activities such as climbing, whitewater paddling, and hiking. Start planning your camping trip now!

99% (2.6K) • 74 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Portola Valley

Looking to go camping near Portola Valley, California? Hipcamp has over 530 options available in that area, so you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. With options as low as $25 per night and an average price of $85 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out some of the top-rated campsites, like Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews), The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), and The Meadows at Isleton (514 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and potable water, and engage in activities such as climbing, whitewater paddling, and hiking. Start planning your camping trip now!

99% (2.6K) • 74 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Portola Valley

1. Windsor Family Farm

100%

(748)

41mi from Portola Valley · 2 sites · Lodging

We are a small farm in Silicon Valley. We are basically a petting zoo and kid-friendly destination! You can stay in our "Flying Pig" cabin (sleeps up to 5), or our "Room with a view of a Ewe" (sleeps 3)....or bring friends 'n' family - and reserve both :-) Please PLEASE read further for more information! and read again just before you come :-) The guest restroom (outside entry in the main house) is shared with other guests. I clean it every day, between every group or guest. We have bikes for kids, playhouses, playground, so many kid activities....and of course, animals galore!! You can feed or pet many of them. Relax, the place is yours! One mile away is Harvey Bear County Park, with trails for bikes, horses or walking. We are 5 minutes from the Gilroy Outlets, yet a world away from the hustle and bustle! Come, relax and enjoy nature! Enjoy Gilroy Gardens (seasonally) or go hiking at a nearby State or County Park. Or just relax at the Farm. We will make this a special day for you! Let us know if you are celebrating an event * CHECK-IN is after 4:00pm and please give us a 30 min heads-up before your arrival. CHECK OUT is 10am, unless previous arrangements have been made. Please be as specific as you can regarding your arrival time (so I can make the temp in there as comfortable as possible, turn on lights as needed, etc.) ** We are a "Bed and Breakfast"; most days we have other day-guests and events here, so please respect the arrival and check-out times. If you stay 2 nights, please be aware that you most likely won't have the whole farm to yourselves during the day. This is an animal farm. If you love new animal experiences, this is the place for you! If you are scared of or allergic to cats or dogs, this might not be the place for you! If you can't handle new smells and sounds, this might not be the place for you. You will feed and enjoy the animals; please respect their space, no chasing and no going into their enclosures. There is dirt, dust and various country critters. We love Country Life!! If you are adventurous and love animals and want a unique experience, come check us out! Restroom available in the main house (short walk from the cabin). Small fridge and microwave next to the restroom. There is no kitchen/oven/stove available. Gas Fire pit available ; there is no BBQ. We are exceptionally cautious with camp fires. If it is particularly hot and windy, there will be no fires. We now have a gas fire pit where you can create smores or just enjoy the campfire ambiance. Price is $175 for the Flying Pig (up to 5 total). Another option (as an add-on): you can pitch a tent for $45. "The Flying Pig" has a queen bed, bunk beds twin size, and a loft with a twin mattress, all bedding included. You are not just paying for a place to sleep; you are paying for an experience and the enjoyment of our property :-). We serve a continental breakfast (free) or hot breakfast ($35/cabin) between 8-9am. (we can accommodate vegetarian and dairy free diets; let us know before you come). We provide bedding and towels. There is A/C and a plug-in heater in The Flying Pig. Please do not bring additional things to plug in except for chargers for phone/electronic devices. We are approximately 1 1/2 hours south of San Francisco, 30 min south of San Jose (without traffic). Gilroy Gardens is 15 min away; Harvey Bear County park is 1 mile away; Monterey and Santa Cruz and the Pinnacles National Park are approximately 1 hour away. We recommend bringing dinner or eating before arrival to maximize your evening. Contact us for more info. If you want to celebrate a birthday and bring friends for the evening, there is an additional fee for parties. (Please contact us about this). If you want to bring a few friends just to enjoy the evening, we now have that as an add-on. SPECIAL PACKAGES :-). Must be PRE-ordered and paid thru Hipcamp or upon arrival ~ *smore's kit (Everything -- including use of our gas fire pit -- that you will need to create amazing roasted marshmallows and smores sandwiches!) $20 *Child Birthday package: small gift and special treat $10 *use of fire pit (propane expense) $10

2. Nearby Getaway - Dogs Welcome!

96%

(189)

50mi from Portola Valley · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Come to relax in peace and quiet, pleasant outdoor. A short drive away but far from troubles you've left behind! Relax and rejuvenate. The weather is always temperate, sometimes the evening marine layer lavishly blankets the rolling hills like cotton. Evening campfires are cozy and relaxing. Easy access to Highway 101 for "Nearby Getaways" or convenient stops along your travels. Nearby attractions include whale watching, Elkhorn Slough Safaris, fishing, Monterey Zoo, world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pebble Beach, Carmel, Big Sur, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and miles of beaches, redwoods, miles of bike trails from the new Coastline Trail to Fort Ord and Niscene Marks Redwoods, wine tasting and more. Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner. Simply ask for recommendations. Come to your "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great sky views, and pleasant country walks, or step back in time to the Mission-era town of San Juan Bautista without commercialism! Well, we do have a gas station, a market, the active mission, of course, a step back in history, a few quaint restaurants, craft beer and local wines in our "one-horse" historical town. For the ultimate Nearby Getaway book the entire property and bring along your own selected guest list of friends or family. We invite private groups to exclusive use of the property for Getaways, family & friends picnics, celebrations, reunions, even weddings. Day use or overnite facilities. Groups of 1-100. NEWS FLASH: Skip the long stopover at urban EV charging stations. Charge your EV overnite! Special rates for stopover charging! Easy off and on to Highway 101, 129. 156 and on your way! Learn more about this land: This is a large flat site with rolling hills, lovely rural views, rolling oak studded pastureland, open views, lovely sunsets and beautiful mornings. Very quiet, private, peaceful and serene. Afternoon breezes while red tailed hawks ride the thermals, and woodpeckers work on their treasure hoarde. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! Wildlife abounds. Easy access from Highway 101, yet private and secluded. Historic San Juan Bautista Mission and town nearby. Monterey/Carmel 30 minutes. Santa Cruz/Beaches 20 minutes. Hollister, Salinas, or Gilroy 20 minutes. Site will accommodate RV, Sprintervan, or trailer 50/30/20 amp service. Tents welcome too! Water. Ranch "outhouse" with flushable composting style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity. Bunkhouse rustic accommodations available. Contact Host for details. Tent and Car Top Tent sites also available. Contact Host for details. Beautiful peaceful historic San Juan Bautista. Quaint historic mission town nearby with restaurants. Hiking trails nearby Horseback riding woods & beach. Equine Facilities available. 20 min to beach or redwoods. Beautiful rural area. Weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life; event camp; event site. Family groups and events always welcome! Call for more information. NOTE: This property is located in a very private country area. It is approximately 8 minutes from the small historic town of San Juan Bautista. We meet our first time guests at the Park & Ride as a welcome courtesy so you can easily follow us in and around the potholes on our rural roads! Let us know if we can assist you with any special interests or attractions in the Monterey Bay and Central Coast Area. As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."

3. Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

99%

(81)

9.2mi from Portola Valley · 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.

4. Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

100%

(8)

24mi from Portola Valley · 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.

5. Fern Ridge Camper

99%

(135)

31mi from Portola Valley · 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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Nancy

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

Hostess Kim has a large collection of children’s playground toys and critters galore. They all enjoyed our twin girls’ attentions. Nice fire ring and comfy cabin with an effective space heater. Then, in the AM you get a beautiful farm breakfast made by Kim. I highly recommend this experience, even in the rain.

Annelise

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

This was my family's second time visiting, this time with 1 year old twins, so it was a special and new kind of experience for all of us. It was their first time seeing farm animals and getting to feed them was of course the highlight. Kim makes everything so easy, we just showed up and had a great time! There is even a swing set that soothed one kid that was not so happy at one point. Hard to beat such an amenity when you need it! We really enjoyed the fresh eggs for breakfast and our campfire time with the smoores kit that we ordered as Extras. The gas powered fire pit couldn't be easier to operate, and there was room for two pack and plays in the cabin. It was toasty warm even mid Winter. 10/10, we will be back!

E

Erica

2 weeks ago

With kids

2 nights at Windsor Family Farm

Kim is fantastic! Not only is the room, clean, cozy, and has everything I needed, but Kam is also a wonderful host that provides all of the comforts. My son enjoys the large backyard and animals to feed. Kim is very attentive and asks if you want to participate in the feeding. This is our second time back at the farm, and we already have another trip planned in the summer. This is the perfect getaway to get kids off their screens !

Bill

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

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.

K

Kelsey

December 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

Kim was an amazing host for our visit. My kids had a really great time playing with all of the different animals. My son's favorite was feeding the sheep. My daughter loved collecting eggs from the hens. The pictures don't do this place justice, it was a fantastic treat for all of us.

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!

Alison

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

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!

N

Nina

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

We had such a fun stay at the Room with a View of a Ewe! Kim the host was extremely welcoming and friendly - she showed us around the farm and we got to feed the chickens, ducks, sheep, goats, bunnies, and alpacas. It was a hit with our toddler. The cabin was comfortable and warm overnight, and the breakfast and s’mores kit were an added bonus. Thanks Kim!

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.

I

Inna

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

Just the most perfect escape. Location 10/10. Communication 10/10. We loved it!

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.

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!

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!!

G

Ginamarie

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

This was a great location and Kim is so nice with the littles. We had a lovely time.

D

Da Da

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

Amazing place, the most amazing views - truly took our breath away. We will be coming back for sure!

S

Sarah

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

This was our second time staying at Kim’s farm and it was just as fun this time around. Our 3 year old had been talking about it non stop since our last visit, so we came back. The animals are always fun, but it is Kim’s hospitality that always stands out the most. Couldn’t recommend more!

L

LOU

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

Yet another wonderful stay hosted by Kim. Second time back here and we enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. Perfect farmstay for a family!

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!