95% (3.8K) • 266 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near San Carlos
Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
1. Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
99%
(81)
12mi from San Carlos · 5 sites · Lodging
On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunrises and sunset greet you in this fully equipped new 2023 Airstream. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, outside BBQ, outside griddle, A/C and fully stocked kitchen. Comes will full bathroom with shower. Truly a rare experience and located within 10 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$299
/ night
Gro 4 Gold Plant Studio
2. Gro 4 Gold Plant Studio
95%
(50)
18mi from San Carlos · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Come visit a magical agricultural space enriched by our most precious natural resources: land, animals, love and beauty. Situated in the most desirable mild Mediterranean climate of Pescadero, where the Pacific Ocean breezes moderate temperatures, and nestled in a valley of the Santa Cruz Mountains, we're under an hour from Silicon Valley, San Francisco and Santa Cruz. Level pasture land, creek access, majestic trees. RV parking, tent or hammock camping, and lots of room for spreading out. Bike into Downtown Pescadero, walk to Harley Farms and visit the goats, hike Butano Canyon, and you are only 3.334 miles from Pescadero State Beach.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$105
/ night
Redwood Meadows
3. Redwood Meadows
100%
(2)
19mi from San Carlos · 1 site · RV
Redwood Meadows is at the cross roads of Highway 9 (Congress Springs) and Redwood Gulch. There are 10 acres of redwoods, meadows and fruit trees, plus two historic barns. A few miles from Saratoga are nearby towns of Los Gatos, Los Altos, Mountain View, Cupertino and Sunnyvale.
San Francisco is 45 - 60 minutes away.
Concert/Wineries:
This property is surrounded by multiple wineries, including world-class, Ridge Vineyards; concert venues such as Mountain Winery, Villa Montalvo, also music, wine tasting and picnic areas at Savannah Channelle Winery, and many more.
Dining/Shops
Excellent restaurants and bars/wine rooms, a coffee shop and stores are within four miles/10 minutes away located in the Village of Saratoga. There are two small shopping centers containing grocery, hardware, coffee, and pharmacy stores, plus banks and restaurants within 19 minutes in towns of Saratoga (Argonaut Center) and Los Altos.
Hiking/Climbing/Biking:
There are state and county parks nearby, such as Sanborn, Castle Rock, Stevens Creek, and Big Basin. Above the property on Skyline, there are 35 hiking and some biking trails.
Beaches:
Beaches in Santa Cruz, Pescadero, and Half Moon Bay are 29-36 miles away.
Notes:
While mostly peaceful and serene, there can be occasional noise from motoring enthusiasts on this scenic highway. Campers must be self-contained with their own toilet/bath facilities. Electricity and water are available, however there are no restrooms, nor sewage available except one small septic portal at an extra charge if needed.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$54
/ night
Either Way Hideaway
4. Either Way Hideaway
100%
(1)
23mi from San Carlos · 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
Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
5. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
100%
(10)
40mi from San Carlos · 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
95% (3.8K) • 266 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near San Carlos
Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
1. Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
99%
(81)
12mi from San Carlos · 5 sites · Lodging
On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunrises and sunset greet you in this fully equipped new 2023 Airstream. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, outside BBQ, outside griddle, A/C and fully stocked kitchen. Comes will full bathroom with shower. Truly a rare experience and located within 10 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$299
/ night
Gro 4 Gold Plant Studio
2. Gro 4 Gold Plant Studio
95%
(50)
18mi from San Carlos · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Come visit a magical agricultural space enriched by our most precious natural resources: land, animals, love and beauty. Situated in the most desirable mild Mediterranean climate of Pescadero, where the Pacific Ocean breezes moderate temperatures, and nestled in a valley of the Santa Cruz Mountains, we're under an hour from Silicon Valley, San Francisco and Santa Cruz. Level pasture land, creek access, majestic trees. RV parking, tent or hammock camping, and lots of room for spreading out. Bike into Downtown Pescadero, walk to Harley Farms and visit the goats, hike Butano Canyon, and you are only 3.334 miles from Pescadero State Beach.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$105
/ night
Redwood Meadows
3. Redwood Meadows
100%
(2)
19mi from San Carlos · 1 site · RV
Redwood Meadows is at the cross roads of Highway 9 (Congress Springs) and Redwood Gulch. There are 10 acres of redwoods, meadows and fruit trees, plus two historic barns. A few miles from Saratoga are nearby towns of Los Gatos, Los Altos, Mountain View, Cupertino and Sunnyvale.
San Francisco is 45 - 60 minutes away.
Concert/Wineries:
This property is surrounded by multiple wineries, including world-class, Ridge Vineyards; concert venues such as Mountain Winery, Villa Montalvo, also music, wine tasting and picnic areas at Savannah Channelle Winery, and many more.
Dining/Shops
Excellent restaurants and bars/wine rooms, a coffee shop and stores are within four miles/10 minutes away located in the Village of Saratoga. There are two small shopping centers containing grocery, hardware, coffee, and pharmacy stores, plus banks and restaurants within 19 minutes in towns of Saratoga (Argonaut Center) and Los Altos.
Hiking/Climbing/Biking:
There are state and county parks nearby, such as Sanborn, Castle Rock, Stevens Creek, and Big Basin. Above the property on Skyline, there are 35 hiking and some biking trails.
Beaches:
Beaches in Santa Cruz, Pescadero, and Half Moon Bay are 29-36 miles away.
Notes:
While mostly peaceful and serene, there can be occasional noise from motoring enthusiasts on this scenic highway. Campers must be self-contained with their own toilet/bath facilities. Electricity and water are available, however there are no restrooms, nor sewage available except one small septic portal at an extra charge if needed.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$54
/ night
Either Way Hideaway
4. Either Way Hideaway
100%
(1)
23mi from San Carlos · 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
Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
5. Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat
100%
(10)
40mi from San Carlos · 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
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!
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Bill
3 weeks ago
With pets
Loved this spot and lowkey don’t want to publicize it. But credit where credit is due. Best hipcamp ever. Props to the host Deano.
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A
Aimee
3 weeks ago
Tent
Great property. Great host family. Lovely experience.
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Alison
November 2025
With pets
This site is absolutely beautiful! The view is gorgeous. The Airstream is comfortably outfitted. The hosts are lovely and communicative. My Labrador and I had a great stay!
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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.
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I
Inna
November 2025
With pets
Just the most perfect escape. Location 10/10. Communication 10/10. We loved it!
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A
Andrew
November 2025
2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
Incredible location and views, would definitely go back. The airstream was great and Deano was super helpful with all instructions / logistics.
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F
Fiona
November 2025
Group trip
We loved camping at Camp Cruz! We had a wonderful weekend in the peaceful woods and were able to spend amazing quality time together <3. This property was incredible in ways we couldn't have imagined! Thank you for having us for Renee's 30th birthday.
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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!!
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Da Da
November 2025
With pets
Amazing place, the most amazing views - truly took our breath away. We will be coming back for sure!
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K
Kathleen
September 2025
4 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
A Truly Memorable Stay.
This was a wonderful experience. The quiet and calm made it incredibly relaxing—even our dog was completely at ease.
On our first day, we were lucky enough to watch humpback whales and sea lions hunting just off the coast. They were so close, we could easily see them from the cliff's edge. We were thrilled to see them return on two other afternoons during our stay. Wildlife was abundant throughout—hawks, a mother coyote, and even a golden eagle made appearances.
Please remember to be respectful during your time in nature. These incredible animals depend on us to make the right choices and give them the space and peace they need.
The nights were cool and rainy, but our Airstream was warm and cozy, offering the perfect shelter and adding to the charm of the trip.
Our host, Dean, was fantastic—quick to respond to any questions while still giving us the privacy we were looking for.
All in all, this was one of the best vacation experiences we've had in a long time.
Highly recommend!
See moreL
Lissa
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
First impression?…. Speechless! You are greated with a smile from heaven just as soon as you turn off the road onto the parking area behind the trailer. The sun glistening off both the ocean and the airstream itself was simply breathtaking.
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Patrick
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
Loved the location and the Arrowstream had all the amenities needed for our stay. The host was great and made our stay special. Thank you.
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R
Rob
September 2025
5 ft Class B
Lovely wooded spot in close proximity to lots of hiking trails, a year round creek for exploring, wine tasting, and Saratoga Village. Good spot for camping light. Hwy 9 curves around the camping portion of the property so expect vehicle noise. It didn't prevent us from enjoying the place and at night there is hardly any traffic so sleeping was fine. There is a hose near the camp area that makes for good hand washing and outdoor showers. Shannon was truly the best host ever and really enhanced our stay with her generosity. Very thankful for her.
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Cindy
August 2025
With kids
This is a really cool place and the kids had tons of fun. So much to explore for them - they loved the variety. It was a great joy to see them covered in mud and laughing loudly in the middle of the trees. The facilities are very functional and convenient. We don’t have to pack much and it is a very smooth camping experience. It is definitely on the pricier side; we will come back with a larger group to optimize the experience next time! Thank you for having us!
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C
Crisanta
August 2025
With pets
Deano was fantastic! He walked me through how to use the Airstream and made sure I felt completely comfortable with everything. Whenever we had questions, he responded quickly—even after hours—which we truly appreciated. The view was stunning, and our dogs loved exploring the area. The Airstream itself was spotless, well-kept, and surprisingly comfortable—it really felt like a home away from home. We highly recommend staying here and are already looking forward to our next trip!
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S
Sarah
August 2025
With pets
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Sunrise. The views were absolutely amazing and provided a background for much needed relaxation. The Airstream is well appointed and so comfortable for sleeping and listening to the waves crash.
We stayed for 4 days and would love to come back!
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A
Adam
August 2025
2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
The views from this place are incredible. The Airstream is well stocked and makes the stay feel very luxurious even though you are camping. Deano himself is a great host and made sure we had everything we needed to have a great time. Cannot recommend this place enough, and plan to book it again in the future
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Matthew
August 2025
2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream
This really may be the best spot on planet earth. The airstream was so comfortable, amenities were great, and the location truly cannot be beat. Deano was a great host, I wouldn't hesitate to stay again.
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Shivata
August 2025
With kids
Our glamping stay was absolutely wonderful! The place was serene and peaceful, with the meditation area being my personal favorite spot to unwind. The host was amazing—warm, attentive, and thoughtful, with a personal touch to every detail. We felt so well taken care of and truly relaxed. We loved every moment of our stay and would definitely recommend it to friends and family.
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