- Glamping with pets allowed
The best dog-friendly glamping sites near San Mateo
95% (1.8K) • 71 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near San Mateo
Venture Retreat Center, Pescadero
1. Venture Retreat Center, Pescadero
100%
(3)
24mi from San Mateo · 12 sites
Nestled among ancient redwoods at the end of our winding dirt road, and along the edge of Butano Creek, our Retreat Center is a hidden gem. Tucked away on a private acreage in the charming town of Pescadero, we're about an hours drive from our neighboring Bay Area cities, San Francisco, Palo Alto, and Santa Cruz. Venture is rooted in the 1960s counterculture movement, and we've long served as a haven for spiritual exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. Our special spot is a serene escape when you're seeking time to connect with your spiritual path, serenity and relaxation, or reconnection with nature.
Venture is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization. Our center is designed to welcome transformational personal growth and wellness groups, as well as other nonprofit groups, Companies and schools looking for a place to teach workshops and retreats.
Being that we are surrounded by nature, along with beautiful nooks and structures that invite people to unplug, put their phones down and tune into nature. The birdsongs, natural landscape, wildlife, creekside meadow, redwoods, willows and more, all lend towards diving deeper to connect on a deeper level.
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
Showers
Campfires
from
$127
/ night
Charming Hidden Cottage
2. Charming Hidden Cottage
28mi from San Mateo · 1 site
A home away from home, this hidden little gem is a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Still located conveniently close to businesses of all kinds, including multiple downtown areas, HWY 17 and 85, 1 mile from Netflix. We are constantly working on our cottage style gardens, so there will always be gardens to enjoy for you. If you are interested in trying any of our homegrown veggies or fruits, just let us know. We love sharing our bounty. :)
The space
An actual hidden cottage tucked into a space full of vegetable and flower gardens. A six-chicken coop also runs the length of one side of the yard. There's also a private patio area to relax and unwind. The cottage is cute and simple, with an attic-like staircase leading to the upstairs bedroom. Enjoy your privacy in this unique and quaint space.
P.S. This space may not be the best suited for elderly, disabled, or very young guests.
Guest access
The entire cottage is all yours, with a private entryway. We have an open patio area just outside the cottage with outdoor seating and tables. There is also a charcoal barbecue available upon request, as the hosts may be using it. It is a great spot to sit and unwind while watching and listening to the chickens, watching the sun set, and gazing. The garden area is shared with the hosts.
Other things to note
You, as our guest, always have privacy in the indoors of your space. The outside areas are mostly shared between my family, pets, and our guests, but the outdoor patio is all yours(we only access this when guests are present if we need to do some yard work). Enjoy yourselves, and be wary of doggies when pulling in the driveway!
It is an in-laws quarters type house and shares one wall with the main house of the property. The door that connects the homes is completely sealed off and inaccessible to both parties.
Please keep in mind that this is not a space suitable for very young, disabled, or elderly guests, due to the attic-like staircase mentioned above.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$181
/ night
Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills
3. Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills
100%
(4)
29mi from San Mateo · 1 site
Escape the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area with a stay at Patoonia, our charming mini silver home. Nestled just a 5-minute walk from the entrance of Upper Alum Rock Park and a 6-minute walk to the San Jose Country Club, this serene retreat offers the perfect blend of nature and convenience.
Patoonia provides all the comforts of home, allowing you to relax and unwind. You will find everything you need from a fully stocked kitchen, a bathroom with hot shower and flushable toilet, dining area, a separated bedroom space and plenty of cabinets for storage. Surrounded by the peaceful Alum Rock hills, you'll find tranquility among the beautiful country club homes, mature trees, and occasional wildlife, including visits from deer and fawns.
Despite its secluded feel, Patoonia is only a 5-minute drive from various amenities, including cafes, delis, gyms, markets, libraries, restaurants, and highway 680. Enjoy 100% privacy while being close to both nature and the city.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$72
/ night
Masoods Lodge
4. Masoods Lodge
100%
(2)
32mi from San Mateo · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Masoods Lodge, located in the beautiful redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains! Perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful spot to relax close to nature. The year-round ideal climate makes this charming, enchanted property the perfect weekend getaway.
Enjoy peace and quiet with great views from furnished individual cottages surrounded by redwood trees and sparkling mountain stream providing a full nature experience. Sit out and enjoy the stars at night. This property offers an abundance of fern and wildflowers showcasing their natural beauty.
Masoods lodge has a "log cabin feel", with a stylish flair, and features wood paneling, open beam ceilings, and cozy fireplaces. Imagine relaxing on your private deck, enjoying a BBQ with family and friends, surrounded by redwood trees, either in sunny summers or during cold winters.
All large units – living room, bedroom, kitchen - that accommodate from two to four persons. All units come with a fireplace and electric heat, and are completely equipped for your every need. Also included are spacious single rooms with morning coffee, a microwave oven, and a small refrigerator, with complete privacy.
Planning a wedding, retreat, family reunion, or another special event? Masoods lodge can host your next event. The possibilities are endless. If you have an idea to host your next event and would like to utilize the lodge, we would love to help coordinate and host your event!
The lodge is a 30-minute drive away from Santa Cruz beaches, a 45-minute drive from Silicon Valley, and a one-hour drive from San Francisco. There are many hiking trails, parks, and attractions close by.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$149
/ night
Quail Ridge Farm
5. Quail Ridge Farm
33mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camping & RV Parking on a Working Farm Near Santa Cruz
Come camp on our peaceful working farm with easy access to incredible bike trails, beaches, and hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
We offer 3 spacious campsites where you can park your RV or camper van, or set up a tent. The sites are spread out with plenty of room for groups and families.
For a more comfortable stay, you can also rent our solar-powered Airstream Base Camp.
The property is a working farm with animals and a Christmas tree farm, and we’re currently planting olive trees and lavender fields. Guests are welcome to enjoy hikes directly on the property, including redwood forest trails and scenic views.
Interested in hosting a gathering? Ask us about renting the entire property for private events like birthday parties or group lunches, with the option to camp overnight.
Camp Details:
3 sites for RVs (various sizes) or tents
No hookups
Potable drinking water available for fill-ups
No electricity at campsites
Quiet, natural setting—perfect for unplugging
A great spot for campers looking for nature, space, and a relaxed farm atmosphere close to Santa Cruz.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$50
/ night
95% (1.8K) • 71 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near San Mateo
Venture Retreat Center, Pescadero
1. Venture Retreat Center, Pescadero
100%
(3)
24mi from San Mateo · 12 sites
Nestled among ancient redwoods at the end of our winding dirt road, and along the edge of Butano Creek, our Retreat Center is a hidden gem. Tucked away on a private acreage in the charming town of Pescadero, we're about an hours drive from our neighboring Bay Area cities, San Francisco, Palo Alto, and Santa Cruz. Venture is rooted in the 1960s counterculture movement, and we've long served as a haven for spiritual exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. Our special spot is a serene escape when you're seeking time to connect with your spiritual path, serenity and relaxation, or reconnection with nature.
Venture is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization. Our center is designed to welcome transformational personal growth and wellness groups, as well as other nonprofit groups, Companies and schools looking for a place to teach workshops and retreats.
Being that we are surrounded by nature, along with beautiful nooks and structures that invite people to unplug, put their phones down and tune into nature. The birdsongs, natural landscape, wildlife, creekside meadow, redwoods, willows and more, all lend towards diving deeper to connect on a deeper level.
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
Showers
Campfires
from
$127
/ night
Charming Hidden Cottage
2. Charming Hidden Cottage
28mi from San Mateo · 1 site
A home away from home, this hidden little gem is a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Still located conveniently close to businesses of all kinds, including multiple downtown areas, HWY 17 and 85, 1 mile from Netflix. We are constantly working on our cottage style gardens, so there will always be gardens to enjoy for you. If you are interested in trying any of our homegrown veggies or fruits, just let us know. We love sharing our bounty. :)
The space
An actual hidden cottage tucked into a space full of vegetable and flower gardens. A six-chicken coop also runs the length of one side of the yard. There's also a private patio area to relax and unwind. The cottage is cute and simple, with an attic-like staircase leading to the upstairs bedroom. Enjoy your privacy in this unique and quaint space.
P.S. This space may not be the best suited for elderly, disabled, or very young guests.
Guest access
The entire cottage is all yours, with a private entryway. We have an open patio area just outside the cottage with outdoor seating and tables. There is also a charcoal barbecue available upon request, as the hosts may be using it. It is a great spot to sit and unwind while watching and listening to the chickens, watching the sun set, and gazing. The garden area is shared with the hosts.
Other things to note
You, as our guest, always have privacy in the indoors of your space. The outside areas are mostly shared between my family, pets, and our guests, but the outdoor patio is all yours(we only access this when guests are present if we need to do some yard work). Enjoy yourselves, and be wary of doggies when pulling in the driveway!
It is an in-laws quarters type house and shares one wall with the main house of the property. The door that connects the homes is completely sealed off and inaccessible to both parties.
Please keep in mind that this is not a space suitable for very young, disabled, or elderly guests, due to the attic-like staircase mentioned above.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$181
/ night
Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills
3. Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills
100%
(4)
29mi from San Mateo · 1 site
Escape the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area with a stay at Patoonia, our charming mini silver home. Nestled just a 5-minute walk from the entrance of Upper Alum Rock Park and a 6-minute walk to the San Jose Country Club, this serene retreat offers the perfect blend of nature and convenience.
Patoonia provides all the comforts of home, allowing you to relax and unwind. You will find everything you need from a fully stocked kitchen, a bathroom with hot shower and flushable toilet, dining area, a separated bedroom space and plenty of cabinets for storage. Surrounded by the peaceful Alum Rock hills, you'll find tranquility among the beautiful country club homes, mature trees, and occasional wildlife, including visits from deer and fawns.
Despite its secluded feel, Patoonia is only a 5-minute drive from various amenities, including cafes, delis, gyms, markets, libraries, restaurants, and highway 680. Enjoy 100% privacy while being close to both nature and the city.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$72
/ night
Masoods Lodge
4. Masoods Lodge
100%
(2)
32mi from San Mateo · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Masoods Lodge, located in the beautiful redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains! Perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful spot to relax close to nature. The year-round ideal climate makes this charming, enchanted property the perfect weekend getaway.
Enjoy peace and quiet with great views from furnished individual cottages surrounded by redwood trees and sparkling mountain stream providing a full nature experience. Sit out and enjoy the stars at night. This property offers an abundance of fern and wildflowers showcasing their natural beauty.
Masoods lodge has a "log cabin feel", with a stylish flair, and features wood paneling, open beam ceilings, and cozy fireplaces. Imagine relaxing on your private deck, enjoying a BBQ with family and friends, surrounded by redwood trees, either in sunny summers or during cold winters.
All large units – living room, bedroom, kitchen - that accommodate from two to four persons. All units come with a fireplace and electric heat, and are completely equipped for your every need. Also included are spacious single rooms with morning coffee, a microwave oven, and a small refrigerator, with complete privacy.
Planning a wedding, retreat, family reunion, or another special event? Masoods lodge can host your next event. The possibilities are endless. If you have an idea to host your next event and would like to utilize the lodge, we would love to help coordinate and host your event!
The lodge is a 30-minute drive away from Santa Cruz beaches, a 45-minute drive from Silicon Valley, and a one-hour drive from San Francisco. There are many hiking trails, parks, and attractions close by.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$149
/ night
Quail Ridge Farm
5. Quail Ridge Farm
33mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camping & RV Parking on a Working Farm Near Santa Cruz
Come camp on our peaceful working farm with easy access to incredible bike trails, beaches, and hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
We offer 3 spacious campsites where you can park your RV or camper van, or set up a tent. The sites are spread out with plenty of room for groups and families.
For a more comfortable stay, you can also rent our solar-powered Airstream Base Camp.
The property is a working farm with animals and a Christmas tree farm, and we’re currently planting olive trees and lavender fields. Guests are welcome to enjoy hikes directly on the property, including redwood forest trails and scenic views.
Interested in hosting a gathering? Ask us about renting the entire property for private events like birthday parties or group lunches, with the option to camp overnight.
Camp Details:
3 sites for RVs (various sizes) or tents
No hookups
Potable drinking water available for fill-ups
No electricity at campsites
Quiet, natural setting—perfect for unplugging
A great spot for campers looking for nature, space, and a relaxed farm atmosphere close to Santa Cruz.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$50
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
E
Ende
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Venture Retreat Center, Pescadero
Would recommend the yurt! The outdoor shower was amazing
See more
M
Michael
June 2025
5 nights at Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills
Super kind host, great place to stay. Good price. Would stay again
See morem
mk
January 2025
Weekend Trip to Patoonia Glamping @ Alum Rock Hills
Patoonia is such a cute and cozy site. Warm bed, hot shower, and fully equipped kitchen! Faye did an amazing job with all the small details in the site (i.e. welcoming decorations, soaps, extra blankets, heaters, cooking supplies and seasonings, and even toothpastes! It is in a beautiful and quiet neighborhood near all the hot spots in SJ. Faye is an excellent host with lightning fast communication and was very kind. She reached out to make sure all my questions were asked and had everything I needed (even offered to lend stuff to me from her home).
See moreM
Megan
December 2024
With pets
Well, now I want an airstream, so thanks for that Patoonia 😆
Everything was exactly as pictured, it was not far from anything, but didn't feel like it was in the middle of San Jose either.
The host was very responsive, and the place had everything we needed.
See more
Annie
November 2024
With kids
We had such a wonderful time at Patoonia!! The camper is clean and well stocked with all the essentials. Bed was super comfortable and we got a great night sleep. The host is wonderful / so friendly and welcoming!
See more
The best dog-friendly glamping sites near San Mateo guide
Where to go
San Mateo Surrounds
For Bay Area nature excursions, check out Seal Point Park of Bair Island State Marine Park, renowned for kayaking and birdwatching. The closest mountain parks outside of San Mateo are the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve and Huddart Park in Woodside, both of which offer miles of forested hiking and mountain biking trails. RV campers can find RV parks with full hookups around San Mateo, as well as in nearby Redwood City and San Jose.
Half Moon Bay
Just 30 minutes from San Mateo, Half Moon Bay State Beach has four miles of coastline. This beach is popular with surfers, swimmers, beachcombers, and tide-poolers, many of whom stay at the tent and RV sites in the park’s Francis Beach area campground. Another solid beach camping site is the Sunset State Beach campground in Santa Cruz.
Santa Cruz Mountains
The Santa Cruz Mountains, to the east and southeast of San Mateo, are home to ancient redwoods and miles of peaceful forest trails with ferns, moss, and towering trees. Both Portola Redwoods State Park and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park have redwood groves to explore, while Memorial County Park and Butano State Park have campgrounds. Castle Rock State Park is another popular spot for hikers and rock climbers with its hike-in campsites.
When to go
Camping near San Mateo is possible year-round. Winter campers should prepare for rain and mildly cold temperatures, but this can also be a magical time to have parts of the beach or forest all to yourself. Summer is the busy season, so reserve well in advance. Spring visitors may be treated to powerful waterfalls and wildflowers in the area.