95% (1.4K) • 79 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near San Francisco
Venture Retreat Center
1. Venture Retreat Center
100%
(2)
29mi from San Francisco · 12 sites · Tents, Lodging
Nestled among ancient redwoods at the end of winding Eden West Road, along the edge of Little Butano Creek, Venture is a NorCal hidden gem. Our roots are in the 1960s counterculture movement and we've long served as a haven for spiritual exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. Just an hour’s drive from San Francisco, San Jose, and Santa Cruz, our special spot is the most serene escape when you're seeking respite, relaxation, or reconnection with nature.
The campus offers a mix of dispersed charming cabins, a serene yurt, camping sites, and glamping tents. You can immerse yourself in the lush forest that surrounds us, soak up the sun, and explore creek-side beauty. Gather around the warmth of an evening fire or drum circle and enjoy the dusk and starshine coming on.
Just down the street is Pescadero proper. A sweet little spot (nine hundred strong) and California coast perfection. You'll find gorgeous scenery, local food and drink, neat landmarks, beautiful places to hike and explore, fun galleries, and really, really good people. Ask us for our favorite spots, we’re more than happy to share!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$207
/ night
Delta‘s best
2. Delta‘s best
92%
(6)
42mi from San Francisco · 1 site · Lodging
Experience a unique adventure as you take a floating car ride across the river to a secluded private island. Upon your arrival, you'll find a well-maintained property offering plenty of space for relaxation and recreation. This exclusive piece of land features a single site, ensuring your privacy and tranquility. Enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, kayaking, hunting, swimming, boating, and birdwatching. Unwind in a hammock underneath some trees, gather around a bonfire, or savor a barbecue while sharing laughter and good times with friends. Discover the perfect getaway where nature and relaxation come together!
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
$80
/ night
Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat
3. Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat
79%
(14)
47mi from San Francisco · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Nestled in the serene redwood forests of Gilroy, our 6-acre ranch offers an unforgettable escape into nature. Wake up to the soothing sounds of our rooster’s call and start your day with a sense of peace and excitement.
Our ranch is packed with fun-filled activities for all ages. Fly through the trees on our zipline, bounce away your stress on the trampoline, or challenge yourself with archery and axe throwing. Wander along our scenic hiking trails, follow the bubbling creek, and soak in breathtaking views from the mountaintop.
Animal lovers will be in heaven at our charming petting zoo, home to our friendly goat, sheep, kunekune pigs, chickens, ducks, and bunnies. Get up close and enjoy interacting with these adorable creatures.
As the day winds down, fire up the BBQ grill for a delicious outdoor meal, then gather around the campfire for a night of s’mores and stories under the stars. Our ranch offers incredible stargazing opportunities, with clear skies that often reveal the awe-inspiring Milky Way.
Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this unique experience will help you reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh forest air, and leave with unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and unlock your wild side on our one-of-a-kind ranch!
*All activities are free except zipline.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$63
/ night
Buddha Room RV glamping, Redwoods
4. Buddha Room RV glamping, Redwoods
100%
(1)
41mi from San Francisco · 1 site · Lodging
This is a peaceful space centrally located in Felton.
The Buddha room comes with an outdoor kitchen, a living room, and a shower under the Redwoods under covered patios and pergola. The entrance covered porch can sleep one (in the blow up bed) and is a reading/mediation nook and the 1/2 bath. This entrance has a smart lock code, that you will get in a message.
The room is attached to the house on the back end with your own entrance through (covered porch) and sleeps two in the cozy sofa bed. Sheets and pillows are stored in the sofa, lift up the long side and pull out the other to create a bed. You have shared use of the whole back property. The spa studio is locked and has a clientele booked during the day. But if not in use you can lounge in there if you ask or book some healing treatments. . The spa also uses the 1/2 bath on the covered porch. Melissa will give you times when you arrive.
Best Solo/Staycation trip
This property has been Melissa’s private practice for over two decades. Award-winning private day spa and the most unique experience you will find in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
This is going to be an amazing experience and could be life-changing.
Want to learn meditation 🧘
Yoga 🧘♂️
Get some body or energy work.
Get yourself in balance and on the right track. You can sign up for The Key To Life Is Balance course to have these tools after you check out.
You will have access to the Buddha Room at the back end of the house. With your own code entrance and room, you have a key. When you walk in, you are in the house's back porch with a breakfast nook and half bath.
The bedroom door has its own lock and key, a sofa sleeper, a DVD screen TV with DVDs of 80s and 90s movies and sitcoms. Yoga and meditation DVDs and CDs with a CD player, and massage tools. Outdoor kitchen, living space, and outdoor shower. It’s like glamping but sleeping in a room. See the Spa‘s website for add-ons to spa packages.
The neighborhood has a park that is across the street, a great walking loop, and a pool. The pool is only open during the Summer and when a lifeguard is present. You will need me to walk you in. Just let me know if you want to float in our neighborhood pool.
Melissa may or may not greet you at arrival.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$153
/ night
Magical Forbes Island Large Groups!
5. Magical Forbes Island Large Groups!
100%
(6)
42mi from San Francisco · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Book our floating Forbes Island for your OffBeat, Off-Grid Experience!
This private, historic event venue accommodates 2 to 125 people with a few special on-board bedrooms, and plenty of camping at adjoining Willow Grove Ranch.
*This property appeals to the adventurous - guests must pay attention to transportation instructions and prepare to be off-grid during their stay.*
*DISCLAIMER*
Forbes Island is a ferry and boat-accessible destination! To drive, you must catch the Car Ferry in Oakley to transport you to the Island.
A Midday Car-Ferry Boat or Pre-Booked Passenger Boat is Required!
- Please Call Before Booking -
*This property has unique logistics. Please send a message to call and iron out all your details, before booking!*
---
The Forbes Island off-grid event venue and campground are at Bradford Island in the Sacramento River Delta. The floating barge is moored next to our private ranch, utilized for tent and RV camping for larger groups. We limit rentals to single groups for ultimate privacy in a natural setting. You and your guests enjoy the remote Sacramento River Delta wetlands while being only a short drive from the Bay Area. Guests have direct access to water sports and private docks.
*Note: Forbes Island requires passage via the Bradford Island car ferry (see schedule below), a personal watercraft, or a captained passenger ferry boat that must be booked in advance. Boat dock space is included.
History:
Forbes Thor Kiddoo came to San Francisco in 1959 after a stint in the Coast Guard. A carpenter and engineer, he developed a business constructing houseboats in Sausalito. Then, inspired by Jules Verne’s Captain Nemo and the movie version of “20,000 Leagues Under The Sea”, Forbes Kiddoo built himself an underwater home, complete with portholes for watching the fish swim past, a diving hatch and a grand bedroom suite fit for a captain of his private world. In the ’90s, Forbes added a 40-foot lighthouse and a white picket fence.
Today, a small group of committed friends has preserved and kept Forbes Island afloat for community events, opening it for all to experience and enjoy. Your rental helps us to maintain this totally unique, fabulous find into the future.
FAQ
Are day campers included in the total guest count, or does it only apply to overnight guests? All campers, whether they are staying overnight or not, must be included in the reservation.
Can additional guests be added after the initial booking? Yes, you can modify your trip to add more guests through the Hipcamp app, but you cannot exceed the maximum capacity.
---
Forbes Island is a historic architectural folly built on a floating barge, with indoor spaces above and below its deck. The venue is adjacent to private land available to add-on to your booking, for camping and RV parking. Guests may sleep in any of the following places on the property:
1. Top Deck: Open-Air Camping
2. Top Deck Tiki Room: Indoor room, no furnishings
3. Below Deck Bedroom 1: Full Bed with attached bathroom
4. Below Deck Bedroom 2: Queen Bed
5. Below Deck "Living Room" and Bar: Indoor room, no furnishings
6. Adjacent field available for tent and RV camping.
*Note: the barge has two functional bathrooms with toilet and sink that uses non-potable water, no showers onboard.
Provided Aboard:
Refrigerator
Grill on Deck
Electrical Power
Starlink Wifi
BYO:
Drinking Water
Provisions
Musical Instruments
Sunscreen
---
BRADFORD ISLAND FERRY: https://bradfordisland.com/wp-...
Round-Trip (car) Ferry Ticket $15.50: Purchase ferry tickets at this Oakley Valero Station https://goo.gl/maps/FHpr8VUvj8...
Ferry Schedule:
MONDAY – FRIDAY RUNS: 9 am to 5 pm (RUNS ON THE HOUR EXCEPT AT 12 NOON)
SATURDAY RUNS: 8 am, 9 am, 10 am, 11 am & 12 NOON
SUNDAY RUNS: 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm
Be sure to be there at least 5 minutes early because Delta Time has its own way of doing things!
*NOTE: if you miss the last ferry of the day, you are staying for another night!
Toilets
Wifi
from
$350
/ night
95% (1.4K) • 79 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near San Francisco
Venture Retreat Center
1. Venture Retreat Center
100%
(2)
29mi from San Francisco · 12 sites · Tents, Lodging
Nestled among ancient redwoods at the end of winding Eden West Road, along the edge of Little Butano Creek, Venture is a NorCal hidden gem. Our roots are in the 1960s counterculture movement and we've long served as a haven for spiritual exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. Just an hour’s drive from San Francisco, San Jose, and Santa Cruz, our special spot is the most serene escape when you're seeking respite, relaxation, or reconnection with nature.
The campus offers a mix of dispersed charming cabins, a serene yurt, camping sites, and glamping tents. You can immerse yourself in the lush forest that surrounds us, soak up the sun, and explore creek-side beauty. Gather around the warmth of an evening fire or drum circle and enjoy the dusk and starshine coming on.
Just down the street is Pescadero proper. A sweet little spot (nine hundred strong) and California coast perfection. You'll find gorgeous scenery, local food and drink, neat landmarks, beautiful places to hike and explore, fun galleries, and really, really good people. Ask us for our favorite spots, we’re more than happy to share!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$207
/ night
Delta‘s best
2. Delta‘s best
92%
(6)
42mi from San Francisco · 1 site · Lodging
Experience a unique adventure as you take a floating car ride across the river to a secluded private island. Upon your arrival, you'll find a well-maintained property offering plenty of space for relaxation and recreation. This exclusive piece of land features a single site, ensuring your privacy and tranquility. Enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, kayaking, hunting, swimming, boating, and birdwatching. Unwind in a hammock underneath some trees, gather around a bonfire, or savor a barbecue while sharing laughter and good times with friends. Discover the perfect getaway where nature and relaxation come together!
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
$80
/ night
Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat
3. Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat
79%
(14)
47mi from San Francisco · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Nestled in the serene redwood forests of Gilroy, our 6-acre ranch offers an unforgettable escape into nature. Wake up to the soothing sounds of our rooster’s call and start your day with a sense of peace and excitement.
Our ranch is packed with fun-filled activities for all ages. Fly through the trees on our zipline, bounce away your stress on the trampoline, or challenge yourself with archery and axe throwing. Wander along our scenic hiking trails, follow the bubbling creek, and soak in breathtaking views from the mountaintop.
Animal lovers will be in heaven at our charming petting zoo, home to our friendly goat, sheep, kunekune pigs, chickens, ducks, and bunnies. Get up close and enjoy interacting with these adorable creatures.
As the day winds down, fire up the BBQ grill for a delicious outdoor meal, then gather around the campfire for a night of s’mores and stories under the stars. Our ranch offers incredible stargazing opportunities, with clear skies that often reveal the awe-inspiring Milky Way.
Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this unique experience will help you reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh forest air, and leave with unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and unlock your wild side on our one-of-a-kind ranch!
*All activities are free except zipline.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$63
/ night
Buddha Room RV glamping, Redwoods
4. Buddha Room RV glamping, Redwoods
100%
(1)
41mi from San Francisco · 1 site · Lodging
This is a peaceful space centrally located in Felton.
The Buddha room comes with an outdoor kitchen, a living room, and a shower under the Redwoods under covered patios and pergola. The entrance covered porch can sleep one (in the blow up bed) and is a reading/mediation nook and the 1/2 bath. This entrance has a smart lock code, that you will get in a message.
The room is attached to the house on the back end with your own entrance through (covered porch) and sleeps two in the cozy sofa bed. Sheets and pillows are stored in the sofa, lift up the long side and pull out the other to create a bed. You have shared use of the whole back property. The spa studio is locked and has a clientele booked during the day. But if not in use you can lounge in there if you ask or book some healing treatments. . The spa also uses the 1/2 bath on the covered porch. Melissa will give you times when you arrive.
Best Solo/Staycation trip
This property has been Melissa’s private practice for over two decades. Award-winning private day spa and the most unique experience you will find in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
This is going to be an amazing experience and could be life-changing.
Want to learn meditation 🧘
Yoga 🧘♂️
Get some body or energy work.
Get yourself in balance and on the right track. You can sign up for The Key To Life Is Balance course to have these tools after you check out.
You will have access to the Buddha Room at the back end of the house. With your own code entrance and room, you have a key. When you walk in, you are in the house's back porch with a breakfast nook and half bath.
The bedroom door has its own lock and key, a sofa sleeper, a DVD screen TV with DVDs of 80s and 90s movies and sitcoms. Yoga and meditation DVDs and CDs with a CD player, and massage tools. Outdoor kitchen, living space, and outdoor shower. It’s like glamping but sleeping in a room. See the Spa‘s website for add-ons to spa packages.
The neighborhood has a park that is across the street, a great walking loop, and a pool. The pool is only open during the Summer and when a lifeguard is present. You will need me to walk you in. Just let me know if you want to float in our neighborhood pool.
Melissa may or may not greet you at arrival.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$153
/ night
Magical Forbes Island Large Groups!
5. Magical Forbes Island Large Groups!
100%
(6)
42mi from San Francisco · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Book our floating Forbes Island for your OffBeat, Off-Grid Experience!
This private, historic event venue accommodates 2 to 125 people with a few special on-board bedrooms, and plenty of camping at adjoining Willow Grove Ranch.
*This property appeals to the adventurous - guests must pay attention to transportation instructions and prepare to be off-grid during their stay.*
*DISCLAIMER*
Forbes Island is a ferry and boat-accessible destination! To drive, you must catch the Car Ferry in Oakley to transport you to the Island.
A Midday Car-Ferry Boat or Pre-Booked Passenger Boat is Required!
- Please Call Before Booking -
*This property has unique logistics. Please send a message to call and iron out all your details, before booking!*
---
The Forbes Island off-grid event venue and campground are at Bradford Island in the Sacramento River Delta. The floating barge is moored next to our private ranch, utilized for tent and RV camping for larger groups. We limit rentals to single groups for ultimate privacy in a natural setting. You and your guests enjoy the remote Sacramento River Delta wetlands while being only a short drive from the Bay Area. Guests have direct access to water sports and private docks.
*Note: Forbes Island requires passage via the Bradford Island car ferry (see schedule below), a personal watercraft, or a captained passenger ferry boat that must be booked in advance. Boat dock space is included.
History:
Forbes Thor Kiddoo came to San Francisco in 1959 after a stint in the Coast Guard. A carpenter and engineer, he developed a business constructing houseboats in Sausalito. Then, inspired by Jules Verne’s Captain Nemo and the movie version of “20,000 Leagues Under The Sea”, Forbes Kiddoo built himself an underwater home, complete with portholes for watching the fish swim past, a diving hatch and a grand bedroom suite fit for a captain of his private world. In the ’90s, Forbes added a 40-foot lighthouse and a white picket fence.
Today, a small group of committed friends has preserved and kept Forbes Island afloat for community events, opening it for all to experience and enjoy. Your rental helps us to maintain this totally unique, fabulous find into the future.
FAQ
Are day campers included in the total guest count, or does it only apply to overnight guests? All campers, whether they are staying overnight or not, must be included in the reservation.
Can additional guests be added after the initial booking? Yes, you can modify your trip to add more guests through the Hipcamp app, but you cannot exceed the maximum capacity.
---
Forbes Island is a historic architectural folly built on a floating barge, with indoor spaces above and below its deck. The venue is adjacent to private land available to add-on to your booking, for camping and RV parking. Guests may sleep in any of the following places on the property:
1. Top Deck: Open-Air Camping
2. Top Deck Tiki Room: Indoor room, no furnishings
3. Below Deck Bedroom 1: Full Bed with attached bathroom
4. Below Deck Bedroom 2: Queen Bed
5. Below Deck "Living Room" and Bar: Indoor room, no furnishings
6. Adjacent field available for tent and RV camping.
*Note: the barge has two functional bathrooms with toilet and sink that uses non-potable water, no showers onboard.
Provided Aboard:
Refrigerator
Grill on Deck
Electrical Power
Starlink Wifi
BYO:
Drinking Water
Provisions
Musical Instruments
Sunscreen
---
BRADFORD ISLAND FERRY: https://bradfordisland.com/wp-...
Round-Trip (car) Ferry Ticket $15.50: Purchase ferry tickets at this Oakley Valero Station https://goo.gl/maps/FHpr8VUvj8...
Ferry Schedule:
MONDAY – FRIDAY RUNS: 9 am to 5 pm (RUNS ON THE HOUR EXCEPT AT 12 NOON)
SATURDAY RUNS: 8 am, 9 am, 10 am, 11 am & 12 NOON
SUNDAY RUNS: 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm
Be sure to be there at least 5 minutes early because Delta Time has its own way of doing things!
*NOTE: if you miss the last ferry of the day, you are staying for another night!
Toilets
Wifi
from
$350
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
V
Vuthy
October 2025
Group trip
Owner was vey nice and helping us with are stay ? Will definitely come back
See more
B
Bryn
September 2025
Group trip
Very unique and special stay, we had a great time. Would recommend!
See more
K
Kelsey
September 2025
With kids
Kids had a wonderful time and the space was really beautiful, relaxing, and fun! Thank you so much
See more
M
Melissa
August 2025
With kids
Peaceful stay surrounded by redwood trees. The boys (7 year olds) had a lovely time! Thanks
See more
s
stephanie
August 2025
With pets
We had so much fun. It was nice to see all the animals and many fun things to do.
See more
l
li
July 2025
With kids
We had a wonderful time glamping here! Big thanks to Joe, the ranch owner, for his warm hospitality. Both the adults and our 4 yr old kid loved this place! For a family like ours who’s a bit too lazy to pitch our own tent but still wants to experience camping, this was the perfect outdoor getaway. The tent was incredibly clean and spacious. Joe also has so many exciting plans and ideas for this site — we can’t wait to see how it evolves. We’ll definitely be back!
See more
A
Audrey
May 2025
Group trip
Looking for a unique spot to host an event? Look no further! From the historic lighthouse to tiki bar to literal pirates (!) onboard, your guests will love the friendly hospitality and beautiful sparsely populated island
See more
Yadira
May 2025
With kids
We loved staying on Jamie's land! It was a wonderful get away that started with a cool ferry ride. He truly thought of everything with access to an out side grill, wood for buring, pots pans/ bowls and plates even extra toothpaste and tooth brushes which was needed b/c we forgot ours. So thanks Jamie! The lights at night were both practical and beautiful. It made the night feel like a "fairy land" as my daughter put it. It made it easy to locate the RV in the dark and trees / tables without needing a light. It was awesome! Thank you! We can't wait to plan another trip here!
See more
E
Emily
May 2025
With kids
What a beautiful property! Misthaven was a great choice for our 3 year old, he loved watching the animals and exploring the surroundings. The glamping tent was roomy and comfortable, and while we agreed it could use extra blankets on a cold night, was a big step up from tent camping. Communication was good and our host was super friendly and helpful. We'd love to return!
See more
Collin
April 2025
Weekend Trip to Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat
Wide open space nestled in the redwoods. The property is clean and organized which is a big plus. Highly recommend.
See more
Jason
April 2025
With kids
Great private campsite, Jamie is awesome and responds very quick and is very accommodating to special requests. Took a boy scout troop there and had a great time canoeing, fishing, and even swimming. The RV is a nice extra, and is clean. Falling asleep to the sound of crickets and frogs was an added bonus. Well worth the effort to get there. This campsite was perfect for our troop adventure!
See moreE
Erik
November 2024
With kids
Jamie goes above and beyond to keep his guests happy.The location is very quiet and just a good place to relax.
See more
The best dog-friendly glamping near San Francisco guide
Where to go
North Bay
Take the Golden Gate Bridge across the San Francisco Bay and you’ll find yourself in the North Bay, known for beautiful beaches, cute towns, and two of California’s most lauded wine regions: the Napa Valley and Sonoma County. You'll find fantastic camping options across the region, from the redwood forests of Mount Tamalpais State Park to secluded Angel Island State Park, which you can only reach by taking a boat or ferry across the San Francisco Bay.
East Bay
While many people associate the East Bay with Oakland, you won't need to go far to get out into beautiful natural areas, either for the day or for a few nights. Great options with campgrounds include Mount Diablo State Park, where you can take in beautiful views of the region, and Anthony Chabot Regional Park, just east of San Leandro.
Along the Pacific Ocean
Some of California's most inviting stretches of coastline are within a short jaunt of San Francisco, from the dramatic cliffs of Point Reyes National Seashore in the North Bay to the sandy shores of Half Moon Bay, south of San Francisco. While many of the camping options in this area are on private land, some state-run parks, such as Salt Point State Park, have campgrounds.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Part of the longer Pacific Coast mountain range, the Santa Cruz Mountains are great for hiking and backpacking. Both Castle Rock State Park and Portola Redwoods State Park have backcountry trail camping options, and Portola also has a group drive-in family campground. Sanborn County State Park is another good option, with both RV and hike-in campgrounds.
When to go
San Francisco's weather is notoriously idiosyncratic, so no matter when you visit, it's good to wear layers and be prepared for the possibility of rainfall. While early summer can get a lot of fog, things usually clear up by late August and stay warm well into early October. If you’re planning to camp in the area, you’ll find pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds after the Labor Day weekend.