The best forest camping near San Ardo

·

Looking to go camping near San Ardo, California? Hipcamp has over 365 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking your RV, or staying in a cozy cabin, there's something for everyone. With an average price per night of $79 and options as low as $27, you can find a campsite that fits your budget. Check out the top campsites in the area with rave reviews, such as The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), Camp Arroyo Grande (508 reviews), and Cuyama Oaks Ranch (367 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like bringing your pets, access to cooking equipment, and the ability to have campfires. Plus, you can engage in fun activities like paddling, biking, and hiking. So pack your bags and get ready for an amazing camping experience in San Ardo, California!

97% (2.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

view from campsite facing the ocean

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(724)
33mi from San Ardo · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA
DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

3. Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

87%
(741)
31mi from San Ardo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Cambria, CA
We can accommodate tent campers or car campers. Each campsite fits 4-6 people. The price is $40/per person. Kids under 12 are free. Most campsites are accessible by car and all campsites are accessible by foot. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a traditional check in procedure. Campsites are first come first serve. Expect a "self-check in process" most of the time. However, there are sometimes people working onsite that you may run into, that are happy to help and lead you in the right direction. You choose your own campsite so plan to arrive early. You can park and walk around. There is signage that says "CAMP" with Arrows. BYO water. We have sulfur spring water. Great for your skin, not good to drink! There's a couple outhouses on the property. One in the main camp zone, one at the far north end of the lower Redwood campsite. You can also bring a shovel and take a walk if you're in the more remote campsites. We have a dumpster outside the gate for your garbage. IMPORTANT INFO Please don't mind our farm junk/tools as you enterGate 1! We are slowly working on clean up and relocation of materials from the entry road and away from view. Before you arrive, have knowledge of poison oak because it is a native plant. The main photos in the listing are taken from Hipcamp Scouts back in 2018 and they are featuring our Original campsite. This is located past the mineral baths. It's the furthest one to reach, and accessible by foot. I will update photos to depict all the campsites, but please share your photos with us on Instagram and tag @charanspringsfarm to help future campers get a view of what the sites look like with a tent set up! SULFUR MINERAL BATHS Include in your experience the use of our sulfur mineral baths. It's $10 per person. PLEASE BOOK THIS AS AN EXTRA AT CHECKOUT. The mineral baths are 2 funky vintage clawfoot tubs that are pictured in the actual listing.The photos show an accurate description of the Mineral Baths. They are not located in the main camp zone. Please call ahead to book your time slot and get directions to the mineral baths. PLEASE DO NOT BOOK IF: You are looking for "Glamping," (Glamour Camping). It's primitive camping on a private property with bonuses like the garden, rustic baths, and beautiful nature. This property has been a working farm for decades, which has struggled with hard times. If farm yards/junk piles make you uncomfortable or give you a creepy feeling, don't book because our boneyard is adjacent to the entry road and it can't be ignored. Thank you for reading this whole description and we hope you have a good experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Oak Serenity RV Spot

6. Oak Serenity RV Spot

37mi from San Ardo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Atascadero, CA
The property is nestled in very quiet part of Atascadero among hundreds of oak trees and nature. There are 5 acres of hills of oak trees, bay leaf and redwood trees frequented by the tree squirrels, deer and birds that live all over the property. There are 2 house is occupied on the property as well. Max the cat, chickens and a sweet lab named Maverick also occupy the property. The driveway is accessible for by car, truck, camper van, (Westie, or same type of camper van); tent campers are welcome too. It's not very easily accessible for very large trailers (more than 36 ft). The neighborhood is very quiet. Water, Wifi, and power are all available. There is no cleanout for sewer. Please let us know if you have any questions and we are happy to help! There are some great places to eat downtown as well as for libations. Atascadero City is only 3 miles away and Paso Robles wineries are only 10 minutes down the road; ask for suggestions and wineries Hope you enjoy your stay!
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night
40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

7. 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

97%
(1115)
43mi from San Ardo · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · Paicines, CA
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Vinyl Vineyards Glampground

8. Vinyl Vineyards Glampground

97%
(712)
32mi from San Ardo · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Paso Robles, CA
Welcome to Vinyl Vineyards – a 120-acre private ranch, working vineyard, and boutique glampground tucked along the scenic Union Road Wine Trail in Paso Robles, California. Our 10-site glamping retreat blends rustic charm with refined adventure. Unplug, recharge, and reconnect—with nature, with wine, friends and family. Hike private trails through vineyard rows, oak forests, and wildflower fields. Cool off with afternoon breezes and cool Paso nights, greet our alpacas and chickens, or nap in a hammock with the scent of lavender in the air. The property features: 26 acres of producing vineyard Outdoor kitchens, BBQ grills, and communal fire pits Sunset hilltops and dark-sky stargazing Frisbee golf, garden rows, and peaceful picnic spots Alpacas (yes, you can meet them), chickens, and bees Pet-friendly vibes with plenty of space to roam Guests are invited to book a complimentary "Sip & Spin" wine tasting in our private cellar—where the vinyl spins and our award winning wine flows. And we also deliver to your site. We’re just 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles and within walking distance to local wineries. A 5-minute drive puts you at Sensorio Field of Light, Vina Robles Amphitheatre, and Paso’s golf courses. Or stay put—there’s magic in staying still.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$90
 / night
Wendee's Whimsical Campsite

11. Wendee's Whimsical Campsite

99%
(152)
40mi from San Ardo · 1 site · Tent · Atascadero, CA
Nestled in the oak-studded hills of North West Atascadero a charming site awaits you...an unforgettable destination surprise. A charming old country road leads to a sole-campsite exclusively for you and friends/family. The bathroom is straight out of the Hobbit, equipped with hot/cold water, stall shower, fluffy white towels and camping supplies. The propane firepit is perfect for evening gatherings with your companions and marshmallow roasts (read: S'mores). (Sorry...no open wood fires) A hand-carved trail surrounds the area: complete with a suspension bridge, chicken coup, rocky bridge and fish pond. Additionally, we provide a sustainable eco-friendly environment for our guests: including trash, recycling and composting receptacles. Also wildlife galore: plenty of turkeys, deer, racoons and quail. The nights are dark but we provide flashlights...then turn the flashlights off for a dazzling evening of stargazing. Atascadero is the perfect base for discovering the Central Coast: wineries/tasting rooms, olive oil tasting, abundant trails for walking/hiking; golfing as well as exploring the beaches: Morro Bay, Avila Beach, Montana de Oro, and northward to Cambria, Cayucos, San Simeon and Big Sur. All of these attractions within a 30-mnute drive. Look forward to seeing you...
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$155
 / night
Imagine Family Farm

12. Imagine Family Farm

100%
(10)
34mi from San Ardo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Templeton, CA
Imagine Family Farm is a working farm tucked into the scenic hills of Templeton and only 20 minutes from Cambria, just off Highway 46 West, surrounded by world-class wineries. Owned by a chef and a winemaker, the farm is a true labor of love that blends a passion for food, wine, and the land. We grow a seasonal bounty of fruit—apples, peaches, apricots, plums, cherries, and berries—alongside lush, fragrant peony flowers that brighten the spring. Visitors are invited to stay and camp under the stars, with optional wine tastings and thoughtfully curated events that celebrate the flavors and rhythms of the Central Coast. Every harvest is guided by a deep respect for flavor, sustainability, and quality. Whether you’re here to pick fruit, sip wine, enjoy the blooms, or simply take in the peaceful beauty of the countryside, Imagine Family Farm offers an authentic experience—rooted in soil, seasoned with experience, and shared with heart.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
The Rock Loft

13. The Rock Loft

100%
(32)
27mi from San Ardo · 1 site · Lodging · Paso Robles, CA
This house is now 1 of 2 vacation rentals on the property. You will definitely notice the home's unique architecture as soon as you walk in. You will not find another home like this nor the massive 50 ft+ rock wall that provides cover to back side of the house.In 2016, after more than 50+ years operating as a working cattle ranch (Brookins Ranch) and a viewing attraction for Adelaida Wine Trail travelers, the property was unfortunately shut down and put up for sale.As a born and raised local, I had to purchase the property with the hopes of restoring it to its greatest and to allow others to enjoy what it has to offer. Since March 2017, my family and I have been working hard on the restoration - attempting to keep a lot of it's uniqueness while integrating modern technologies that will help expand the property's life. As such, we welcome you to come enjoy the experience as we continue to bring this property back to life!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$149
 / night
Oak Serenity

14. Oak Serenity

100%
(2)
37mi from San Ardo · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Atascadero, CA
The property is nestled in very quiet part of Atascadero among hundreds of oak trees and nature. There are 5 acres of hills of oak trees, bay leaf trees, frequented by the tree squirrels, deer and birds that live all over the property. The house is occupied and there are chickens and a sweet lab named Maverick. The driveway is easy to get in and out of for a car, truck, camper van, Westie (or same type of camper van); tent campers are welcome too. It's not very easily accessible for large trailers. The neighborhood is very quiet. Water is available by hose by the garage (it's not filtered) and if you have a pet 100% needs to be leashed and please pick up their poop. There's been mountain lion sightings within the last few years. There is no bathroom/cleanout, power or cell service/WIFI. You will be completely disconnected here. Please let us know if you have any questions and we are happy to help! There are some great places to eat downtown as well as for libations. Paso Robles wineries are only 10 minutes down the road; ask for suggestions and winery 2 for 1 tastings. Hope you enjoy your stay!
Pets
Water Hookup
Potable water
from 
$60
 / night
Glen Oaks Big Sur

15. Glen Oaks Big Sur

39mi from San Ardo · 91 sites · Big Sur, CA
Glen Oaks Big Sur stands out as a unique destination that beautifully marries modern design with rustic charm, all while embracing eco-friendly principles. Originally built in 1957, this lodge has been thoughtfully reimagined to reflect a fresh, green sensibility that honors its natural surroundings. The renovation draws inspiration from the original adobe walls, which are celebrated for their ability to keep the heat out and retain warmth. The lodge now features sustainable materials such as recycled stone, Peroba wood, bamboo, and organic cotton, creating a healthy and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy walk-in showers that evoke the feeling of showering in the forest, complemented by stylish chrome and porcelain fixtures that add a contemporary touch. Whether you're returning from a hike or relaxing in your room, the vibrant colors and warmth of nature are always within reach. Cozy up under the luxurious natural wool blankets from Pendleton Woolen Mills, or indulge in the comfort of Coyuchi organic-cotton bedding and feather duvets. Glen Oaks Big Sur is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience that connects you to the beauty of the great outdoors while providing modern comforts.

Looking to go camping near San Ardo, California? Hipcamp has over 365 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking your RV, or staying in a cozy cabin, there's something for everyone. With an average price per night of $79 and options as low as $27, you can find a campsite that fits your budget. Check out the top campsites in the area with rave reviews, such as The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), Camp Arroyo Grande (508 reviews), and Cuyama Oaks Ranch (367 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like bringing your pets, access to cooking equipment, and the ability to have campfires. Plus, you can engage in fun activities like paddling, biking, and hiking. So pack your bags and get ready for an amazing camping experience in San Ardo, California!

97% (2.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

view from campsite facing the ocean

1. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(724)
33mi from San Ardo · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · CA
DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage. *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Children are welcome. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. *YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED Requests are usually checked once daily.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

3. Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

87%
(741)
31mi from San Ardo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Cambria, CA
We can accommodate tent campers or car campers. Each campsite fits 4-6 people. The price is $40/per person. Kids under 12 are free. Most campsites are accessible by car and all campsites are accessible by foot. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a traditional check in procedure. Campsites are first come first serve. Expect a "self-check in process" most of the time. However, there are sometimes people working onsite that you may run into, that are happy to help and lead you in the right direction. You choose your own campsite so plan to arrive early. You can park and walk around. There is signage that says "CAMP" with Arrows. BYO water. We have sulfur spring water. Great for your skin, not good to drink! There's a couple outhouses on the property. One in the main camp zone, one at the far north end of the lower Redwood campsite. You can also bring a shovel and take a walk if you're in the more remote campsites. We have a dumpster outside the gate for your garbage. IMPORTANT INFO Please don't mind our farm junk/tools as you enterGate 1! We are slowly working on clean up and relocation of materials from the entry road and away from view. Before you arrive, have knowledge of poison oak because it is a native plant. The main photos in the listing are taken from Hipcamp Scouts back in 2018 and they are featuring our Original campsite. This is located past the mineral baths. It's the furthest one to reach, and accessible by foot. I will update photos to depict all the campsites, but please share your photos with us on Instagram and tag @charanspringsfarm to help future campers get a view of what the sites look like with a tent set up! SULFUR MINERAL BATHS Include in your experience the use of our sulfur mineral baths. It's $10 per person. PLEASE BOOK THIS AS AN EXTRA AT CHECKOUT. The mineral baths are 2 funky vintage clawfoot tubs that are pictured in the actual listing.The photos show an accurate description of the Mineral Baths. They are not located in the main camp zone. Please call ahead to book your time slot and get directions to the mineral baths. PLEASE DO NOT BOOK IF: You are looking for "Glamping," (Glamour Camping). It's primitive camping on a private property with bonuses like the garden, rustic baths, and beautiful nature. This property has been a working farm for decades, which has struggled with hard times. If farm yards/junk piles make you uncomfortable or give you a creepy feeling, don't book because our boneyard is adjacent to the entry road and it can't be ignored. Thank you for reading this whole description and we hope you have a good experience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Oak Serenity RV Spot

6. Oak Serenity RV Spot

37mi from San Ardo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Atascadero, CA
The property is nestled in very quiet part of Atascadero among hundreds of oak trees and nature. There are 5 acres of hills of oak trees, bay leaf and redwood trees frequented by the tree squirrels, deer and birds that live all over the property. There are 2 house is occupied on the property as well. Max the cat, chickens and a sweet lab named Maverick also occupy the property. The driveway is accessible for by car, truck, camper van, (Westie, or same type of camper van); tent campers are welcome too. It's not very easily accessible for very large trailers (more than 36 ft). The neighborhood is very quiet. Water, Wifi, and power are all available. There is no cleanout for sewer. Please let us know if you have any questions and we are happy to help! There are some great places to eat downtown as well as for libations. Atascadero City is only 3 miles away and Paso Robles wineries are only 10 minutes down the road; ask for suggestions and wineries Hope you enjoy your stay!
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night
40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

7. 40min to Pinn/Song of the Ancients

97%
(1115)
43mi from San Ardo · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · Paicines, CA
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Vinyl Vineyards Glampground

8. Vinyl Vineyards Glampground

97%
(712)
32mi from San Ardo · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Paso Robles, CA
Welcome to Vinyl Vineyards – a 120-acre private ranch, working vineyard, and boutique glampground tucked along the scenic Union Road Wine Trail in Paso Robles, California. Our 10-site glamping retreat blends rustic charm with refined adventure. Unplug, recharge, and reconnect—with nature, with wine, friends and family. Hike private trails through vineyard rows, oak forests, and wildflower fields. Cool off with afternoon breezes and cool Paso nights, greet our alpacas and chickens, or nap in a hammock with the scent of lavender in the air. The property features: 26 acres of producing vineyard Outdoor kitchens, BBQ grills, and communal fire pits Sunset hilltops and dark-sky stargazing Frisbee golf, garden rows, and peaceful picnic spots Alpacas (yes, you can meet them), chickens, and bees Pet-friendly vibes with plenty of space to roam Guests are invited to book a complimentary "Sip & Spin" wine tasting in our private cellar—where the vinyl spins and our award winning wine flows. And we also deliver to your site. We’re just 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles and within walking distance to local wineries. A 5-minute drive puts you at Sensorio Field of Light, Vina Robles Amphitheatre, and Paso’s golf courses. Or stay put—there’s magic in staying still.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$90
 / night
Wendee's Whimsical Campsite

11. Wendee's Whimsical Campsite

99%
(152)
40mi from San Ardo · 1 site · Tent · Atascadero, CA
Nestled in the oak-studded hills of North West Atascadero a charming site awaits you...an unforgettable destination surprise. A charming old country road leads to a sole-campsite exclusively for you and friends/family. The bathroom is straight out of the Hobbit, equipped with hot/cold water, stall shower, fluffy white towels and camping supplies. The propane firepit is perfect for evening gatherings with your companions and marshmallow roasts (read: S'mores). (Sorry...no open wood fires) A hand-carved trail surrounds the area: complete with a suspension bridge, chicken coup, rocky bridge and fish pond. Additionally, we provide a sustainable eco-friendly environment for our guests: including trash, recycling and composting receptacles. Also wildlife galore: plenty of turkeys, deer, racoons and quail. The nights are dark but we provide flashlights...then turn the flashlights off for a dazzling evening of stargazing. Atascadero is the perfect base for discovering the Central Coast: wineries/tasting rooms, olive oil tasting, abundant trails for walking/hiking; golfing as well as exploring the beaches: Morro Bay, Avila Beach, Montana de Oro, and northward to Cambria, Cayucos, San Simeon and Big Sur. All of these attractions within a 30-mnute drive. Look forward to seeing you...
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$155
 / night
Imagine Family Farm

12. Imagine Family Farm

100%
(10)
34mi from San Ardo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Templeton, CA
Imagine Family Farm is a working farm tucked into the scenic hills of Templeton and only 20 minutes from Cambria, just off Highway 46 West, surrounded by world-class wineries. Owned by a chef and a winemaker, the farm is a true labor of love that blends a passion for food, wine, and the land. We grow a seasonal bounty of fruit—apples, peaches, apricots, plums, cherries, and berries—alongside lush, fragrant peony flowers that brighten the spring. Visitors are invited to stay and camp under the stars, with optional wine tastings and thoughtfully curated events that celebrate the flavors and rhythms of the Central Coast. Every harvest is guided by a deep respect for flavor, sustainability, and quality. Whether you’re here to pick fruit, sip wine, enjoy the blooms, or simply take in the peaceful beauty of the countryside, Imagine Family Farm offers an authentic experience—rooted in soil, seasoned with experience, and shared with heart.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
The Rock Loft

13. The Rock Loft

100%
(32)
27mi from San Ardo · 1 site · Lodging · Paso Robles, CA
This house is now 1 of 2 vacation rentals on the property. You will definitely notice the home's unique architecture as soon as you walk in. You will not find another home like this nor the massive 50 ft+ rock wall that provides cover to back side of the house.In 2016, after more than 50+ years operating as a working cattle ranch (Brookins Ranch) and a viewing attraction for Adelaida Wine Trail travelers, the property was unfortunately shut down and put up for sale.As a born and raised local, I had to purchase the property with the hopes of restoring it to its greatest and to allow others to enjoy what it has to offer. Since March 2017, my family and I have been working hard on the restoration - attempting to keep a lot of it's uniqueness while integrating modern technologies that will help expand the property's life. As such, we welcome you to come enjoy the experience as we continue to bring this property back to life!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$149
 / night
Oak Serenity

14. Oak Serenity

100%
(2)
37mi from San Ardo · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Atascadero, CA
The property is nestled in very quiet part of Atascadero among hundreds of oak trees and nature. There are 5 acres of hills of oak trees, bay leaf trees, frequented by the tree squirrels, deer and birds that live all over the property. The house is occupied and there are chickens and a sweet lab named Maverick. The driveway is easy to get in and out of for a car, truck, camper van, Westie (or same type of camper van); tent campers are welcome too. It's not very easily accessible for large trailers. The neighborhood is very quiet. Water is available by hose by the garage (it's not filtered) and if you have a pet 100% needs to be leashed and please pick up their poop. There's been mountain lion sightings within the last few years. There is no bathroom/cleanout, power or cell service/WIFI. You will be completely disconnected here. Please let us know if you have any questions and we are happy to help! There are some great places to eat downtown as well as for libations. Paso Robles wineries are only 10 minutes down the road; ask for suggestions and winery 2 for 1 tastings. Hope you enjoy your stay!
Pets
Water Hookup
Potable water
from 
$60
 / night
Glen Oaks Big Sur

15. Glen Oaks Big Sur

39mi from San Ardo · 91 sites · Big Sur, CA
Glen Oaks Big Sur stands out as a unique destination that beautifully marries modern design with rustic charm, all while embracing eco-friendly principles. Originally built in 1957, this lodge has been thoughtfully reimagined to reflect a fresh, green sensibility that honors its natural surroundings. The renovation draws inspiration from the original adobe walls, which are celebrated for their ability to keep the heat out and retain warmth. The lodge now features sustainable materials such as recycled stone, Peroba wood, bamboo, and organic cotton, creating a healthy and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy walk-in showers that evoke the feeling of showering in the forest, complemented by stylish chrome and porcelain fixtures that add a contemporary touch. Whether you're returning from a hike or relaxing in your room, the vibrant colors and warmth of nature are always within reach. Cozy up under the luxurious natural wool blankets from Pendleton Woolen Mills, or indulge in the comfort of Coyuchi organic-cotton bedding and feather duvets. Glen Oaks Big Sur is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience that connects you to the beauty of the great outdoors while providing modern comforts.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field