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Camping near Santa Cruz, California
Redwoods and crashing waves are the backdrop of this seaside city by the mountains.
- Santa Cruz
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Lupin Lodge
53 sites · Lodging110 acres · Los Gatos, Santa Clara
Experience the Joy
“One of the great pleasures of life.” “The freedom to be me.” “The total sensations of sun, air and water.” “Surprisingly relaxing.” “No more soggy swimsuits.” “A direct connection with nature.” “Rearranges the gender-power equation.” “An invaluable reality check.” “The feeling of total acceptance.” “A truly spiritual experience.” Going nude in natural circumstances elicits a spectrum of responses as varied as the increasing number of people who also enjoy nudity in a social context.
The wider American culture is basically shame-based, vacillating between puritanism and pornography in its attitude towards the nude human form. But there exists a joyous parallel universe, largely unknown and thus unavailable to the general public until the Internet emerged. Sadly, it is still a rare bookstore which stocks, much less displays, any of the long published guides to nude recreation.
This web guide is an introduction to an emerging paradigm which not only accepts the whole human body as natural but also celebrates it as the uniquely individual gift of life it is. You won’t find a lot of nude pictures in this site because it is not intended to serve voyeurism. It is designed to help all who are open to experiencing themselves as nature created us, especially nervous first-timers.
Introducing Lupin
Sited on 110 wooded acres in the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains, Lupin is a special blend of private nature park, destination resort, recreational/athletic/fitness/social club, mountain campground, art gallery/clubhouse/restaurant, spontaneous retreat, small conference center and certified massage school.
Open daily year-round, Lupin can be experienced as a one-day excursion, a weekend getaway, home-base for a Bay Area vacation or a short-term residence during massage training. It is conveniently located between Los Gatos and Santa Cruz only minutes from San Jose International Airport.
Lupin nurtures mind, body and spirit. Members and guests may choose to read, relax, hike, swim, float, soak, chat, play, lounge, snack, sunbathe, exercise, meditate, dine, learn, dance, camp, picnic, stargaze, snooze, volunteer, create, recreate or otherwise enjoy a variety of family-style entertainment and group activities.
Who Visits Lupin and Why?
Transcending differences of age, origin, appearance, career and gender, many people of wide diversity experience personal acceptance, psychic freedom and social harmony at Lupin. A recent profile reveals our clientele to be productive citizens, thoughtful guests and intelligent free spirits, i.e., pleasant, good neighbors. Generally well-informed and well-traveled, they tend to be friendly, fun-loving and inclusive, yet respectful of any individual’s desire for privacy or solitude.
People’s reasons for visiting Lupin vary by individual. Many just seek a relaxing, natural break from stressful careers. Some, perhaps new to the Bay Area, come to meet new friends, while others become regular members to enjoy the familiar company of kindred souls. To the athletically inclined, Lupin offers the best nude volleyball in the Bay Area. Some members rarely miss a liberating opportunity to dance nude. Families enjoy Lupin because it appeals to inner children of all ages and offers choices of things to do both together and separately. For some individuals simply visiting Lupin provides an uplifting spiritual experience.
What’s It All About?
Social nudity is initially about improving a life-long relationship with one’s own quite unique body, the only possession on earth truly worth having, whatever shape it’s in. Simple “body acceptance” is the healthy, wholesome, inclusive, life-affirming, unifying theme. A rare experience of unselfconscious relaxation and universal acceptance of human reality is often a surprising bonus to the newly initiated.
Besides being personally liberating, experiencing social nudity is also both humanizing and equalizing. Without clothing’s message-laden facade people tend to accept one another as the special, sometimes fragile being each truly is. Mutual vulnerability promotes mutual respect, honesty and trust. Civilized behavior and open communications seem only natural within such a disarming context. (For better results our world leaders should try negotiations in a hot tub.)
Differentiating Nudity and Sexuality
An absence of sexual pressure is fundamental to the naturist experience at Lupin, which has served thousands of families since its founding in 1936. Club rules, naturist values and common sense define a clear difference between sexual behavior (excluded by consensus in all public areas) and nudity (encouraged everywhere on the grounds).
Such an ethic of confining all sexuality to “consenting adults in private” helps defuse sexual tension, as does an explicit non-harassment policy, which is enforced. Thus, public or predatory sexual conduct of any sort is quite rare (and, if illegal, also subject to prosecution). Gawkers may be asked to leave and not return.
Though people who meet at Lupin may often form close friendships and sometimes develop intimate relationships, just being nude at Lupin clearly does not signify sexual availability. In addition to being in bad taste, unwelcome sexual solicitations (especially from a new acquaintance) would be considered harassment and are grounds for expulsion.
Rediscovering Eden
Being clothes-free in a natural setting may theoretically reactivate some long-dormant genetic memory of a primordial existence well before smelly animal skins and scratchy fig leaves became fashion edicts to our ancestors. (Couldn’t an Eden “au naturel” be reflected in our DNA, as well as in our creation myths? After all, we humans survived tribally nude for a much longer time than the few centuries we’ve lived compulsively clothed.)
In plain fact, it just feels sensuously good and intrinsically wholesome to accept ourselves so completely and to experience nature and other people on an entirely “as is” basis. It’s refreshing. It’s relaxing. It’s liberating to mind, body and spirit. It’s just so completely natural.
Have you ever wondered what you might be missing by always remaining confined within a body-alienated society’s compulsory cover-up? In the final analysis, nude recreation has to be experienced to be believed. Try it, you’ll probably like it. No body’s perfect. Come as you are.
Still Nervous About a First-Time Nude Experience?
If you were typically raised (religiously indoctrinated?) within a patriarchal, judgmental, censorial, body-shaming culture (or if you’re among the 80% of Americans who have not yet experienced the enlightening joys of coed skinny dipping), then even the thought of social nudity may stir strong feelings and induce strange images much different from the truly relaxing nature of the experience. Some nervousness is common for almost everyone before taking the first plunge. (Acclimatization rarely takes more than an hour for even the most modest.)
Anxiety, guilt, self-rejection, embarrassment or fear of sexual arousal are not uncommon reactions stemming from the unnatural repressiveness of society’s widely enforced nudity taboo. If these negative responses in any part describe your feelings, then a thorough reading of this site (including Lupin’s expected behavior standards) is suggested before attempting a personal visit to Lupin or any other naturist locale.
A Network Node for Nude Recreation
An adventuresome 20% of experiential North Americans (and a far higher percentage of blase Europeans) are seeking out nude recreation and clothing-optional getaways in growing numbers as a matter of leisure choice. Many now vacation only where they can avoid the need to bring a swim suit.
Besides introducing Lupin and exploring social nudity, this site also links to many other naturist related web sites, including clubs, resorts and organizations around the world which support or offer wholesome nude recreation. Reciprocal links with appropriate sites are welcome.
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The Enchanted Forest Retreat
53 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents45 acres · Los Gatos, Santa Cruz
Welcome to the Enchanted Forest Retreat!
We are a meditation retreat center with 45 acres of some of the most gorgeous redwoods in the Santa Cruz mountains to enjoy hiking, creeks and small water fall exploration, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, star gazing, relaxation, meditation and more.
We have 18 campsites, 3 Glamping Tents, 2 Tiny Houses and 2 Guest Suites in the house.
Our campground has running water from a natural spring, Men and Women's Restrooms each with 2 toilets and 1 hot water shower and plugs for charging phones, laundry shed with sink and hot water, one shared BBQ grill by the fence up above the creek, and an outdoor amphitheater.
25 minutes to Silicon Valley - 25 minutes to Santa Cruz Boardwalk we're centrally located in the south bay. Dogs and kids are welcome - dogs must be picked up after and kept on a leash if other campers are present.
Please note: This is camping - there may be bugs, critters, dirt, unpredictable weather (pack for the cold, just in case - we get surprise fog often!), early sunrise, no cell data, etc etc. It's not the Hilton - but it is gorgeous. ;)
Shopping such as Safeway, Costco and the big box stores are 20 minutes away in Soquel; however, we have a charming little market (Summit Center) 3.5 miles away that has a great selection of groceries, drinks and hot foods, etc.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we'll help however we can!
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SMR Carmel Camping
24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents89 acres · Carmel By The Sea, Monterey
Welcome to Saddle Mountain Ranch, RV and Campground!
We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life.
On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
*Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation*
On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, Foosball table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months.
We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests.
Thank you!
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Camp Carmel Valley
31 sites · Lodging112 acres · Carmel Valley, Monterey
The Camp was started in 1925 by Mrs. Douglas as a girls camp to teach young girls the beautiful wonders of the outdoors including horseback riding, swimming, archery, and camping. She felt that boys had plenty of opportunity to explore Mother Nature but at the time, girls had no such camp to attend. This 115 acre, beautiful, rolling hills ranch has been a camp ever since and now offers camping for the young and old, girls and boys, families and singles…. You name it… a camp for everyone.
Located on 115 acres historic boys and girls summer camp complete with pool, tennis, and hiking in Carmel Valley, CA.
Re-connect to nature and nostalgia!
There is plenty to do at the Camp as well as surrounding areas.
2.5 miles from Carmel Village known for its many wine tasting rooms, restaurants and galleries.
14.5 miles inland from Carmel by-the-sea and Carmel Beach.
Perfect locations for day excursion to Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur.
Camp sessions are Thursday-Saturday nights.
MEALS AND ACTIVITIES ARE INCLUDED IN YOUR STAY.
This listing is available for 3 night stays.
For other dates look at our other listings which require two stays.
We highly recommend you stay for more than one day as it is difficult to take part in all activities when at the camp for only one day.
Imagine! your own private off the grid cabin where you can enjoy tent camping without the hassle of setting up a tent.
Gourmet meals prepared for you by a chef.
Numerous activities for you to take advantage of or simple step outside your cabin and wonder on our 115 acres and connect to nature.
Welcome to The Camp.
CABINS
Sunset cabins recently re-built cabins have two queen mattress (max 4 ppl) and are located near a shared bathhouses.
Sunset village has
cabins have access to a bathhouse with designated full baths with
private shower and bathroom for each cabin.
Like tent camping without the hassle of having to set up a tent.
You bring your sleeping bag, bedding and towels.
No electricity or plumbing in the cabins.
We provide a battery lantern so bring your flashlight.
POWER
Cabins are off the grid.
No power or
Wi-Fi.
Bathhouses have power and plumbing.
FOOD and DRINK
New for 2021 meals are included!
Starting with Dinner on arrival day and finishing with breakfast on departure day.
Three meals per day will be provided for multiple day stays.
Farm to Table cuisine ranging from breakfast sandwiches, fried chicken to premium vegetarian.
Our chef can accommodate most food allergies.
ACTIVITIES
Self guided activities include:
Pool, pool deck, basketball half court, tennis courts,
yard games,
hiking trails and many areas to connect to nature.
Guided activities: Hosted campfire on Friday and Saturdays with smores,
supervised
use of the archery range with sign up (archery is offered in the afternoon on Saturday the last sign up is 5:15PM),
Tie Dying is offered Saturday mornings and Yoga is offered on most Saturdays and schedule is subject to change.
Highly recommend multiple night stays to participate in activities.
In addition to all this there are additional activities like black smith classes or boot camp workouts at an additional cost available.
FIRE
No individual fires. We do offer hosted campfires for on Friday and Saturday nights.
DOG
Two dogs are welcome per cabin $50 per dog.
MUSIC
No speakers, amplification or radios.
Acoustic instruments are allowed.
RESERVATIONS
Camp sessions are a required two-night stay Thursday-Saturday Night.
Check-in is between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
We will send you an email prior to arrival with additional information.
Please note Hipcamp site assignments do not correspond to the actual cabin you will be assigned.
Our Camp cabin names and assignments are a little different.
If you are reserving multiple cabins please let us know so we can try and assign you near each other.
Parking is a short walk away from the Cabins.
The Camp is private property and for registered guests only.
Gate is closed 9PM-7PM.
Campers are free to come and go as these please between 7AM-PM, but all Campers must be back onsite before 9PM.
WHAT TO BRING:
Sleeping Bag or bedding
Towels and Toiletries
Flashlight
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The Meadows at Isleton
20 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Isleton, Sacramento
Once an asparagus farm for Heinz, the property was left neglected for over 25 years.
They started to convert the land to a lavender farm when they realized that there was more that they should do to enjoy their journey, hence; they incorporated the camping to share this beautiful location with others. From majestic sunrises to magnificent sunsets, The Meadows offers not only a calm and relaxing atmosphere gained from the Lavenders growing, but also provides a central location to all of the California River Delta venues and experiences. From local wine tasting to boating, fishing or just enjoying the nearby collectic towns, The Meadows....along with Michael and Terri....offer the best of the region.
Come watch us grow... camp on a working farm that includes honey bees, 11 chickens, 6 alpacas.
Bring your tent, trailer, or motor home to enjoy the heart of the California river delta. Each campsite is extra large for privacy and room to spread out. Dog-friendly.
Watch the sunset while enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards.
Walk the streets of our historic downtown and
visit the small shops and locally-owned restaurants-- Manny’s Barzzeria, Mc Broodery's, Pineapples, or Peters Steak House. Of course, don’t miss out on DeJacks our country store that stocks it all!! Spend the day at the public fishing docks, kayak for the day in the delta waters, or head over to Sherman Islands epic wind/kite surfing areas.
Local year-round festivals abound in the Delta and The Meadows is strategically located central to all. Our small town of 800 people will truly give you the feeling of being out of the big city!
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Mercey Hot Springs Resort
24 sites · RVs, Tents144 acres · South Dos Palos, Fresno
Mercey hot springs is an off grid natural hot springs oasis located in the Diablo range of Central California, 13 miles west of I-5. With 20 individual outdoor tubs, stunning natural surroundings, Mercey is a magical place for you to unwind, relax, heal and enjoy nature. You can hike and mountain bike in our quiet 144 acre property or just chill, observe the wildlife and birds that call Mercey home. Experience Tranquility at its best!
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$75
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Yosemite Westlake Camp
33 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Coulterville, Mariposa
Located on the John Muir Historic route to Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park is convenient to all things Yosemite.
Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
Coulterville was started as a gold-rush town. You can visit the museum and visitor center even try your hand at panning for gold.
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$48
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Cosumnes River Ranch
25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Plymouth, Amador
We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California.
As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed.
Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors.
Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit!
Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore.
Private and noise free. Porta potties on site.
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Wildhaven Sonoma Glamping
84 sites · Lodging10 acres · Healdsburg, Sonoma
Wildhaven Sonoma is the top-rated glamping spot in the Bay Area. Our glamping experience was designed to provide guests with comfort, warmth, and cleanliness, while still maintaining a close connection to Sonoma County’s stunning natural beauty.
Guests check in to extra-large, safari-style tent cabins with comfortable beds (with linens and heated mattress pads), electricity & heaters, WiFi, and all the furnishings needed for a memorable night outdoors. Outside the tent, guests have a personal fire pit, a covered porch with patio furniture, and a large picnic table. Those seeking more comfort and features can book tents with 2-person hammocks, festive string lights, and unobstructed views towards the Mayacamas mountains.
Then there are the amenities, which are not typically found at traditional campgrounds. These include a clean, updated bathroom building, hot showers, an outdoor kitchen with dish-washing sinks and gas BBQs, a store with local treats, and activities such as yoga classes, local wine tastings, and live music.
The highlight of the 10-acre property is the private river access for guests. Wildhaven’s section of the Russian River is calm yet clean and perfect for innertubes. Wildhaven is surrounded by vineyards on 3 sides and is in the middle of the famous Alexander Valley wine-growing region. When it's time to venture out, Wildhaven is just 5 miles from the charming small town of Healdsburg, with its picture-perfect town plaza filled with palm and redwood trees and surrounded by 30+ tasting rooms, book and cooking stores, and ice cream shops.
We hope you'll consider trying out a unique night of wine country glamping with us on the Russian River.
Please note there is a limit of 2 pets per tent. Please be sure to add pet fee in extras upon check out.
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Camp Nauvoo
24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents86 acres · Placerville, El Dorado
Camp Nauvoo was originally bought by the LDS church in the 1960's for a girl's camp. The camp was owned by the Boy Scouts from 2011-2015. The Rose family bought the property in 2016 with the intent to continue the tradition of tent camping as well as creating opportunities for exclusive events i.e., group/family reunions, weddings and corporate events.
We are a small privately owned small campground (20 sites only) located on the outskirts of Placerville. The property features 86.5 secluded Tahoe like acres with beautiful year-round Weber Creek. The camp sites are placed along the creek or the bluff overlooking the creek. We have traditional dirt camping, canvas tents on platforms, teepees and glamping tents for those that want the comforts of home. We are tent camping only with only one site that allows a small travel trailer or van. (#14) . We are dog friendly and allow dogs in all but 5 glamping sites. We do enforce camp rules especially our quiet time between 10 PM and 7 AM (please review).
We’ve been told that we have a “family camp” vibe. We are a great place for families wanting a safe environment for their kids but also several group sites for those that want to hang out together with multiple families. We are also a great base site for those wilderness enthusiasts with access to all the El Dorado National Forest including Desolation but want a hot shower at the end of the day.
We have a lodge that is stocked with games and a ping pong table. The lodge has a microwave, Keurig machine and a hot water kettle for those hot drinks (BYO Cups).We have several tables set up for those that want to eat inside as well as multiple picnic tables along the side of the lodge with overhead protection. We have electricity at the at the lodge for small appliances and charging phones. We have a compressor on site to blow up your air mattresses or float toys. We’ve been told that our bathrooms are the “cleanest” ever and have changing tables and diaper pails. We offer nice flushing toilets and hot showers!
For outdoor activities we have basketball, volleyball, pickleball and cornhole not to mention the playground with swing sets, seesaw and tractor play. We have hiking trails throughout the property. Our highlight is a camp fire bowl with bench seating with a stage to display camper talent which is perfect for the evening fire and roasting s’mores (bring the fixings).
The creek starts out in spring looking like a rushing river featuring many fishing and swimming holes. As the summer progresses the water level falls but is still great for water play and fishing.
We have propane BBQs (we provide the propane for BBQs) located throughout the property. We also have a propane grill and charcoal BBQ located in the common area for all to use. There is a dutch oven pit also in the fire bowl area.
We do not allow wood fires at the individual sites but each site has a propane firepit for ambiance (not cooking) that requires you to purchase a 20 lb. propane cannister on site (add in extras) or pay cash on site.
No internet service. There is limited internet only available for purchases at the setore.
We require a 3 night minimum for the major holidays - Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day. We do not do checkins on Sunday but do allow camping over Sunday night. We do exclusive events so you may need to explore multiple weekends to find the right reservation.
We are located in the foothills so we are a short hop to many local attractions that include river rafting, gold mines, wineries and historical towns with great eating establishments. Tahoe is less than an hour away and there a many hiking trails within 20-30 minutes.
We have a limited number of items to rent i.e, tents, cots, camp stoves, etc. We also have a small store on site for those items you forgot and a good selection of ice cream. We take venmo or cash.
CHECKIN IS BETWEEN 4 AND 8. IF YOU ARE COMING FROM THE BAY ALLOW 4 HOURS - YOU MUST LEAVE BY 3:00 IN ORDER TO ARRIVE DURING CHECKIN. IF YOU GET DELAYED, FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF THE OTHER CAMPERS YOU MAY CONSIDER WAITING AND ARRIVING THE NEXT MORNING. THERE ARE NO CHECKINS AFTER 9:00.
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Granite Mountain Resort
30 sites · RVs10 acres · Oakhurst, Madera
Welcome to Granite Mountain Resort, an RV park and event center located in the heart of the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains, just minutes from Yosemite National Park. Our property offers options for all types of travelers, including RV sites, private Airbnb rooms, and an event center and meeting space for gatherings of all kinds.
Our 30 RV sites offer a comfortable camping experience for those seeking a convenient and hassle-free stay. Our RV park is ideally situated for easy access to Bass Lake, Yosemite National Park, and the endless recreational opportunities within the Sierra National Forest, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
For those traveling from Los Angeles, we’re approximately a 4-hour drive away, while San Francisco is just a 3.5-hour drive away. If you’re visiting Yosemite National Park, we’re just minutes away from the southern entrance, making us an ideal base for exploring the park and its many natural wonders.
If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Yosemite International Airport in Fresno, which is just an hour’s drive away. From the airport, simply take CA-41 N to reach our resort.
Our property is located in Oakhurst, a charming town in the Sierra Nevada foothills. You can explore downtown Oakhurst and its quaint shops and restaurants, or head to nearby Bass Lake for swimming, boating, and fishing. Our area is abundant with opportunities for hiking and site-seeing, making it a nature-lover’s paradise.
If you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of the area, Yosemite National Park is just a short drive away. Take a scenic drive through the park, hike to stunning waterfalls, or marvel at the giant sequoias. Other nearby attractions include the Sierra National Forest, Nelder Grove, and the Sugar Pine Railroad.
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Finnon Lake Recreation Area
38 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Placerville, El Dorado
Campfire Ban in effect during extreme fire contions***********NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ALLOWED***** DINER CLOSED EFFECTIVE JULY 5TH***
**TRAILERS AND RVs
MUST USE ROCK CREEK ROAD**
From Sacramento on Hwy 50:
: At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile.
Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road.
Turn right onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Frank's Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. FRANK'S DINER IS CLOSED EFFECTIVE JULY 5TH.
Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe:
make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions.
Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area!
Our lovely lake offers serenity in a beautifully unique setting, nestled deep into the forest. Enjoy the scenic and exhilarating drive to our hidden gem along the South Fork of the American River- this is all for you to discover.
The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in most parts of California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky.
This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. The lake is managed by volunteers of the community for the benefit of the residents
The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website.
Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Frank's Diner.
Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking during your stay.
Potable water, picnic tables, campfire rings, and toilets on site. The property can not accommodate horses. 2 dogs per site limit.
Our property is located in Placerville, California. Placerville is a charming California gold rush town named after the placer gold deposits found in its riverbeds and hills in the late 1840s.
PLEASE NOTE, there is construction on the Mosquito Bridge. Expect delays, RVS/trailers must use Rock Creek Road (even if your GPS says Mosquito Road). Please message me with any questions.
Please see our website: finnonrecreationarea.com for full directions.
NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND ARE ALLOWED.
Smoking is only allowed in an enclosed vehicle.
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Camping near Santa Cruz guide
On the northern edge of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz is a city of ancient redwoods, surfing beaches, and coastal mountains. Here, Hipcampers can sleep under forest canopies or wake up to views of the Pacific Ocean. Santa Cruz rates among California's top surfing spots, with a shoreline that varies from sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs and tidal pools. Not far from downtown, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has amusement park rides and games for in-town thrills. Or you can stroll down the wharf to shop and dine on the water. You’ll find numerous recreational and wildlife viewing opportunities around the bay
Where to Go
Big Basin Redwoods
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is home to a 2,000-year-old Redwood named Mother of the Forest, which stands 300 feet tall. The protected groves of coast redwoods in Big Basin and neighboring Little Basin are among the state’s most magnificent—and resilient. Once recovered from wildfires and reopened to the public, these camps will again offer tent spots and cabins for rent.
Felton
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park covers 40 acres of old-growth redwood trees in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Henry Cowell boasts a popular swimming hole known as the Garden of Eden, as well as trails for hiking and horseback riding. Next door in Felton is Roaring Camp Railroads, where you can ride a steam locomotive through the forest.
Capitola
New Brighton State Beach sits on a bluff surrounded by eucalyptus trees. In addition to tent sites, the campground has RV sites with hookups, but trailers looking for an RV park should check Seacliff State Beach. Sunset State Beach Campground, which lies further south along Monterey Bay, overlooks a quiet, uncrowded beach near Pajaro Dunes. Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA isn't far if you're looking for family camping with lots of amenities.
Monterey
Follow Highway 1 around the bay all the way to Monterey, home to a state-of-the-art aquarium. En route, it’s worth a stop at Elkhorn Slough—part of the Moss Landing State Wildlife Area—where campers can rent a kayak and paddle among the sea otters.
When to Go
Summertime in Santa Cruz attracts crowds, and the beaches and campsites tend to fill up. Book ahead and plan your trip well ahead of time, or explore during the off-season. Autumn and spring are typically temperate, while cooler months may require preparations for rain. From December to February, thousands of monarch butterflies overwinter in Monarch Grove, a natural preserve at Natural Bridges State Beach where you can visit tidepools year-round.
Know Before You Go
- Some parks and forest trails may remain closed due to dangerous conditions or fire damage.
- Dogs are allowed in some campsites, picnic areas, and select trails in California state parks.
- Participate in the Crumb Clean Campaign to protect the marbled murrelet, an endangered seabird that nests in the forest canopy.
- Surfboards and equipment, including wetsuits, can be rented at Cowell Beach on the Santa Cruz Wharf.
- Felton features a historic downtown where campers can purchase provisions at a natural foods store, find delicious eats, and enjoy wine tasting and craft beers.
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Cities near Santa Cruz
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