- Bell Tent
The best bell tents near Santa Cruz
95% (138) • 5 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Cruz
Sacred Owl Land
1. Sacred Owl Land
100%
(27)
15mi from Santa Cruz · 3 sites
Welcome to Sacred Owl Land — A Sanctuary for the Soul
Tucked into the serene hills of California’s central coast, Sacred Owl Land is a sacred, off-grid retreat space designed for rest, renewal, and reconnection with nature. We invite you to unwind in one of our two thoughtfully crafted cabana stays, each offering comfort, privacy, and expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
Each cabana features:
A beautiful queen-size bed or california King bed, loft style
Private indoor sink and hot shower
French press with coffee & tea (the tea is harvested from our land) and basic utensils
Small fridge
Large windows for stargazing or sunset watching from bed
Access to a shared outdoor composting toilet
Guests staying in either cabana also enjoy access to beautiful shared spaces, including:
A hot tub under the stars
A communal fire pit
A BBQ area
A peaceful outdoor yoga deck with ocean views
Whether you're soaking in the tub, practicing morning yoga, or enjoying the stillness of the land, Sacred Owl Land offers a deeply nourishing experience for body and spirit. Located just 20 minutes from the beach and walking distance to a local winery, it's a perfect escape into simplicity and sacred beauty.
For movement and mindfulness, we offer both an outdoor yoga deck with ocean views and an indoor yoga shala for quiet practice or group sessions. Sacred Owl Land is ideal for retreating, gathering, or simply being.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby walking trails and scenic hikes. More details will be shared after
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
2. Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
100%
(31)
19mi from Santa Cruz · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Looking for a place to relax, recharge or explore surrounding areas of Santa Cruz and Monterey counties?
Vega Vortex is home to the Gaia Health Retreat and possesses vortex energy!
Expect a warm greeting upon arrival. To find us, an unmarked road, listed on maps as "Country Lane" (we call it Vega Vortex Rd). Parking is close to our Vega Vortex sign and a short walk to your tent. Filtered potable water, electricity, shower/toilet with an "on demand" hot/cold water are available. Instructions for use are available and should you need assistance - we are here for you!
Experience 2 campsites, BYOT (bring your own tent or rent one from us) or an onsite Bell tent. The Bell tent contains carpeted padded flooring, camp lights,
shelving, 2 cots with bedding, plus a memory foam camping mattress! The BYOT site's measurement is 10' x 10' . Both sites have shaded areas, and picnic tables. A shower and a compost toilet are available.
Enjoy a designated smoking/vaping spot, multiple benches, and swings, a "grounding" spot, birding, water fountains and art.
A no noise policy by the county occurs at 9 pm. Due to a high risk fire zone, no open fires. Due to the proximity of the tents right next to Vega Rd, sounds from vehicles can be heard. We are situated in a rural neighborhood setting, with sounds of sheep, goats, chickens, wild turkeys, dogs and many birds nestled between both counties. For enhanced protection we ask that a waiver be signed. Security cameras are on site. While respecting your privacy, we can be seen improving the property. The terrain is hilly and staying on paths limits poison oak exposure.
Vega Vortex has been called a Park and Machu Picchu due to the amphitheater landscaping of terracing. Practicing permaculture, a diversity of pollinating plants/ flowers, organic garden and art features exist. Minutes away from National Parks, the Mystery Spot, Santa Cruz Beach Board Walk, Roaring Camp Train, Monterey Bay Aquarium, National Steinbeck Center, Moss Landing, Elkhorn Slough/Canoe/Kayak, Estuaries (bird watching), golfing and multiple beaches.
As a gift for staying here, you may receive either a bottle of "structured" water, a healing tincture or salve, or a bottle of infused olive oil, curated from the Vega Vortex!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
May's Luxury Farmstays
3. May's Luxury Farmstays
96%
(126)
20mi from Santa Cruz · 5 sites
Relax and recharge at our retreat in Los Gatos. Whether you’re here to reconnect with nature, hike the trails, camp under the stars, or explore the Bay Area, Harlan’s Retreat, has everything for a worry-free stay! With nature trails on-site and the Saratoga Gap down the road, you won’t have to go far, For fun drive into the city. Come home and admire the amazing views from your secluded glamp-site with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and Silicon Valley 2,800 feet below.
This very private site offers breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay and the south bay. The views at night are transcendent. The Apple building and Moffet field are clearly visible. you look down from above the clouds to the valley floor 2,800 feet below.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
The Rainbow Junction
4. The Rainbow Junction
89%
(9)
42mi from Santa Cruz · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
The Rainbow Junction offers a unique camping experience at the intersection of Mines Road and HWY 130 in the San Antonio Valley. We operate a restaurant and we offer camping friendly meals for guests.
We love the wildness of this property and do not allow cars or vehicles beyond the parking lot. All of our sites are hike in sites. It's about a 1/4 mile hike on a small foot path. We have a wagon available for guests to use and we are happy to help you carry your things. We host a communal fire pit in the evenings, weather permitting, for all guests to enjoy, we do not allow open fires on the property. Cal Fire has requested that all campers get a permit, even to operate a gas stove. The permit is free and takes just a few minutes. https://permit.preventwildfiresca.org/
Please pack your trash, food scraps can be place in our compost but please be prepared to take all other items with you when you leave.
Our swimming pond is about a 3/4 mile hike through brush from the restaurant but is a great way to beat the heat during the day!
Campsites have a picnic table.
A dry toilet is a short walk from campsites and we equip sites with a water dispenser and a sealed container for trash. Water from our well is always available outside of the restaurant and bathrooms with running water are available during business hours.
There is a fire trail along one of our ridge lines that offers stunning views of the San Antonio Valley as well as our abundant wildlife. We sometimes host speakers and educational workshops and guests are always welcome to participate in events.
Campers, trailers, RVs and Vans are welcome to stay in our lot but we currently do not have hookups available.
Have a large group? We are happy to reserve group sites.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
95% (138) • 5 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Cruz
Sacred Owl Land
1. Sacred Owl Land
100%
(27)
15mi from Santa Cruz · 3 sites
Welcome to Sacred Owl Land — A Sanctuary for the Soul
Tucked into the serene hills of California’s central coast, Sacred Owl Land is a sacred, off-grid retreat space designed for rest, renewal, and reconnection with nature. We invite you to unwind in one of our two thoughtfully crafted cabana stays, each offering comfort, privacy, and expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
Each cabana features:
A beautiful queen-size bed or california King bed, loft style
Private indoor sink and hot shower
French press with coffee & tea (the tea is harvested from our land) and basic utensils
Small fridge
Large windows for stargazing or sunset watching from bed
Access to a shared outdoor composting toilet
Guests staying in either cabana also enjoy access to beautiful shared spaces, including:
A hot tub under the stars
A communal fire pit
A BBQ area
A peaceful outdoor yoga deck with ocean views
Whether you're soaking in the tub, practicing morning yoga, or enjoying the stillness of the land, Sacred Owl Land offers a deeply nourishing experience for body and spirit. Located just 20 minutes from the beach and walking distance to a local winery, it's a perfect escape into simplicity and sacred beauty.
For movement and mindfulness, we offer both an outdoor yoga deck with ocean views and an indoor yoga shala for quiet practice or group sessions. Sacred Owl Land is ideal for retreating, gathering, or simply being.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby walking trails and scenic hikes. More details will be shared after
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
2. Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
100%
(31)
19mi from Santa Cruz · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Looking for a place to relax, recharge or explore surrounding areas of Santa Cruz and Monterey counties?
Vega Vortex is home to the Gaia Health Retreat and possesses vortex energy!
Expect a warm greeting upon arrival. To find us, an unmarked road, listed on maps as "Country Lane" (we call it Vega Vortex Rd). Parking is close to our Vega Vortex sign and a short walk to your tent. Filtered potable water, electricity, shower/toilet with an "on demand" hot/cold water are available. Instructions for use are available and should you need assistance - we are here for you!
Experience 2 campsites, BYOT (bring your own tent or rent one from us) or an onsite Bell tent. The Bell tent contains carpeted padded flooring, camp lights,
shelving, 2 cots with bedding, plus a memory foam camping mattress! The BYOT site's measurement is 10' x 10' . Both sites have shaded areas, and picnic tables. A shower and a compost toilet are available.
Enjoy a designated smoking/vaping spot, multiple benches, and swings, a "grounding" spot, birding, water fountains and art.
A no noise policy by the county occurs at 9 pm. Due to a high risk fire zone, no open fires. Due to the proximity of the tents right next to Vega Rd, sounds from vehicles can be heard. We are situated in a rural neighborhood setting, with sounds of sheep, goats, chickens, wild turkeys, dogs and many birds nestled between both counties. For enhanced protection we ask that a waiver be signed. Security cameras are on site. While respecting your privacy, we can be seen improving the property. The terrain is hilly and staying on paths limits poison oak exposure.
Vega Vortex has been called a Park and Machu Picchu due to the amphitheater landscaping of terracing. Practicing permaculture, a diversity of pollinating plants/ flowers, organic garden and art features exist. Minutes away from National Parks, the Mystery Spot, Santa Cruz Beach Board Walk, Roaring Camp Train, Monterey Bay Aquarium, National Steinbeck Center, Moss Landing, Elkhorn Slough/Canoe/Kayak, Estuaries (bird watching), golfing and multiple beaches.
As a gift for staying here, you may receive either a bottle of "structured" water, a healing tincture or salve, or a bottle of infused olive oil, curated from the Vega Vortex!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
May's Luxury Farmstays
3. May's Luxury Farmstays
96%
(126)
20mi from Santa Cruz · 5 sites
Relax and recharge at our retreat in Los Gatos. Whether you’re here to reconnect with nature, hike the trails, camp under the stars, or explore the Bay Area, Harlan’s Retreat, has everything for a worry-free stay! With nature trails on-site and the Saratoga Gap down the road, you won’t have to go far, For fun drive into the city. Come home and admire the amazing views from your secluded glamp-site with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and Silicon Valley 2,800 feet below.
This very private site offers breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay and the south bay. The views at night are transcendent. The Apple building and Moffet field are clearly visible. you look down from above the clouds to the valley floor 2,800 feet below.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
The Rainbow Junction
4. The Rainbow Junction
89%
(9)
42mi from Santa Cruz · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
The Rainbow Junction offers a unique camping experience at the intersection of Mines Road and HWY 130 in the San Antonio Valley. We operate a restaurant and we offer camping friendly meals for guests.
We love the wildness of this property and do not allow cars or vehicles beyond the parking lot. All of our sites are hike in sites. It's about a 1/4 mile hike on a small foot path. We have a wagon available for guests to use and we are happy to help you carry your things. We host a communal fire pit in the evenings, weather permitting, for all guests to enjoy, we do not allow open fires on the property. Cal Fire has requested that all campers get a permit, even to operate a gas stove. The permit is free and takes just a few minutes. https://permit.preventwildfiresca.org/
Please pack your trash, food scraps can be place in our compost but please be prepared to take all other items with you when you leave.
Our swimming pond is about a 3/4 mile hike through brush from the restaurant but is a great way to beat the heat during the day!
Campsites have a picnic table.
A dry toilet is a short walk from campsites and we equip sites with a water dispenser and a sealed container for trash. Water from our well is always available outside of the restaurant and bathrooms with running water are available during business hours.
There is a fire trail along one of our ridge lines that offers stunning views of the San Antonio Valley as well as our abundant wildlife. We sometimes host speakers and educational workshops and guests are always welcome to participate in events.
Campers, trailers, RVs and Vans are welcome to stay in our lot but we currently do not have hookups available.
Have a large group? We are happy to reserve group sites.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Martha
2 days ago
2 nights at Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
Thaddeus and Mona were so intentional with the space they made. They were great hosts, and the bell tent was super cozy and we had everything we needed. They also added special touches that made us feel welcome and cared for. We especially enjoyed the different garden areas and benches on the property. We would love to be back!
See more
Luciana
1 week ago
Weekend Trip to Sacred Owl Land
He had a wonderful time at Sacred Owl Land. The place is just magical, and every single detail is very well-thought. Ludo and Vanessa are exceptional hosts. I'd definitely go there again soon!
See moreJ
Jovelle
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
Look no further for a comfortable stay on some beautifully curated land, by the most incredible and thoughtful people you'll have the pleasure of booking with. We loved staying with Thaddeus and Mona, their space was perfect for a harmonious weekend away. You can tell they poured a lot of love and care into their space. We'd come back for the tree swings alone!
See moreM
Maggie
February 2026
Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
The Vortex was the perfect place to disconnect and take a break from the hustle and bustle of life. Thaddeus and Mona were incredibly welcoming - I felt right at home the moment I arrived. The tent and bathroom facilities were impeccable. They truly thought of everything to make the experience seamless, from automatic lights to earplugs if you’d rather not hear the sounds of the surrounding farms (I personally loved it). The energy there is spectacular. I only wish I had stayed longer than one night!
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M
Minna
February 2026
1 night at May's Luxury Farmstays
We had a lovely rainy stay! The accommodations were fantastic. The hosts really good out of their way to make this place special.
See moreB
Bradley
January 2026
1 night at Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
We loved meeting Mona and Thaddeus. They were so kind and welcoming and made our stay special. It’s nice to have a great cozy stay, but it’s also great to connect and support good people.
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L
Lynn
January 2026
Weekend Trip to May's Luxury Farmstays
My daughter and I had a lovely time for my birthday getaway weekend. I tried to book this place for my husband’s birthday in July but it was booked and every time I check it is usually filled with. We decided to check because it is the off season and there was one spot left for a Yurt. We showed up and it was already dark but we were able to navigate to our area with the instructions. Jeremy the maintenance manager was there within a few minutes to assist us with heaters and give us the lay of the land. We had great conversations with Jon and he introduced us to the chickens and geese. My daughter enjoyed talking with Jon’s wife as well. Fresh eggs, fresh air and beautiful skies all around. We definitely will be back. If you’re on the fence about this place don’t be where else can you take a hot bath under the stars. Pull the trigger and live a little bit. You won’t regret it and if you do well you don’t belong in our circle. ❤️
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K
Kelsey
December 2025
1 night at May's Luxury Farmstays
This place is so great, a perfect birthday getaway!! The details are so well thought out and it felt like we had a ton of privacy, while being close to town still. The hosts thought of everything, down to heated toilet seats which was a nice touch this time of year! Thoughtfully stacked snacks and drinks of all kinds. The eggs were great! Host was very communicative and easy to reach. Even brought me champagne for my birthday! There are a bunch of animals which made it extra fun. Even fish food for the fish in the pond. Just very well put together all around. The tub at sunset was a dream. We will absolutely be back!
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Z
Zachary
November 2025
2 nights at May's Luxury Farmstays
Great little place. We loved our stay. And the host was super friendly and thoughtful. Also very communicative if we had any problems.
The Tub was a highlight.
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Chloe
November 2025
1 night at Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
Wonderful stay! They thought of everything, plus homemade gifts! What really nice people too! Thank you so much for taking care of me on your beautiful land!
See moreF
Francesca
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
We loved staying at Vega Vortex! Thaddeus and Mona were so sweet, giving us a tour of the property upon arrival. The tent was spacious. The beds kept us very comfy and warm at night. The bathrooms were very clean and well maintained. The property is beautiful!
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A
Amy
October 2025
3 nights at May's Luxury Farmstays
Everything at the yurt was so wonderful! We loved our spot under the trees (the other one was more out in the open so we chose well!). While we had initially thought about taking some day trips, we literally stayed all 3 days at the yurt and the grounds--feeding the fish and chickens and geese, walking around, sitting in the tub, etc. John was friendly and kind and would check in on if we needed anything restocked. (The Peppermint Bark liqueur was a favorite!) A fully stocked bar was really special, as was the view, and the feeling that we could wander and explore. A great sister trip to be sure and we will definitely, definitely be returning.
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Pei
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
My friend and I stayed at the Bell Tent for one night. The site was so clean, cozy and inviting. Thaddeus and Mona were awesome hosts. They were warm and communicative and you could tell that they put a lot of thoughts and love into the camp site to make it as homey as possible. Highly recommend!
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Rajat
October 2025
With kids
Everything was so well done! We visited with our kiddos and absolutely loved it. The kids were occupied, and had loads of fun feeding the fish at the pond and in the hot tub.
We were especially grateful for the heater in the camp. The night was very windy and cold, but the heater kept us (ans esp the kids) warm and snug.
See moreA
Alex
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
Thaddeus and Mona were great hosts and amazing folks. The garden and beautifully terraced hillside are expertly done and the amenities are top-tier— One of the best camping shower experiences ever. Woke up feeling refreshed and at ease. Thank you Mona and Thaddeus!
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C
Chris
October 2025
With kids
Love this place!!
Outdoor tub overlooks San Jose lights and is so relaxing
Koi pond on premises was really cool too
Downtown Saratoga was great to wander around and Santa Cruz isn’t too far either.
See moreS
Sasha
September 2025
2 nights at May's Luxury Farmstays
Had a wonderful time spending the weekend up in the mountains. The Yurt has everything you could ask for and more. Including complimentary drinks, a hot bath, an extremely responsive host and more. I highly recommend taking a trip up and experiencing Mary’s farm stays! The hosts will get you anything you need and provide a welcoming space. 10/10 recommend!
See moreA
Alec
September 2025
Weekend Trip to May's Luxury Farmstays
It was an amazing experience. I took my fiancée up there for her birthday and the entire scenery and weekend we had was amazing. Bed was comfortable and yurt was stocked with great stuff to use. Would definitely come again!
See morec
cara
September 2025
2 nights at Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat
The bell tent was beautiful, Thaddeus and Mona were very generous and left little goodies for us when we arrived. Their property is beautiful, the garden leaves the whole place smelling amazing and the wind-chimes everywhere provide a relaxing ambiance. The property is smaller and closer to the main road than we were expecting. We were initially expecting a more secluded space, but Thaddeus and Mona were incredibly kind and left us to ourselves to enjoy the property they have clearly put much thought and effort into. Our added breakfast was delicious with vegetables and herbs from their garden, thank you both for our stay!
See moreT
Todd
September 2025
2 nights at May's Luxury Farmstays
They thought of everything. One of the nicest stays I have had off this platform. Really enjoyed the views, bird life, and accommodations. Nicely located to still make town reachable if needed while still feeling deep in the forest. I have never bothered to leave a review but this one exceeded all my expectations.
See moreSanta Cruz camping guide
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.
