The best forest glamping near Santa Cruz, California

United States
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California
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Santa Cruz

95% (1551 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Santa Cruz

Community favorites near Santa Cruz

Public campgrounds near Santa Cruz

Cabin #16, awesome to hear the creek on the other side of the trees but very very muddy. I think it was the combination of low ground and water access close by.

99%

(69)

Big Basin Tent Cabins

36 sites In Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Stories from the community

D

Dick

2 days ago

2 nights at Happy Valley Haven

Naomi's Haven was an amazing experience. We had everything we needed set in a beautiful wooded area. All the plants and animals were busy. The kitchen was wonderful and bedroom large enough. You could easily sleep in because it is so quiet. It is not far from downtown Santa Cruz but far enough away you don't hear it. I am so glad we picked the location to stay. We had a nice talk with Naomi on the last day.

Weekend Trip to Happy Valley Haven

I had a great time staying at Naomi's propert! Prior to my stay, she was very helpful with her communication and even gave local recommendations. The property itself was very charming, clean, and serene. I honestly felt myself enter a bit of a meditative state at the start of my stay due to the calming ambiance haha. This isn't a critique, but the host's house was closer to the property than I expected although you can see that in the pictures if you analyze them enough. It wasn't an issue though as the property still felt very private. I would definitely stay again if I register the area!

Erin

5 days ago

Weekend Trip to Santa Cruz Mountains Staycation

second time here, first time flying solo. it was marvelous. the most quiet 4th of july ever. no noise. just peace. i watched movies, had delicious food that i cooked, had a nice hot shower, and was plenty comfortable hanging in the cosy bed. truly such a great staycation spot. rebekkah was truly so hospitable once again. so glad i booked last minute to enjoy a delightful second stay.

2 nights at Happy Valley Haven

The land was very beautiful, with many medicine plants growing. The directions given by Naomi made the land easy to reach. There was no reception on the land, but the wifi connection was strong enough. Over all, the place had a very peaceful and safe energy. The cabin was colorfully decorated, and became warm and cozy on the cold nights. The new kitchen installation was beautiful and very well equipped! Naomi was welcoming, and Johnny taught my girlfriend about alpacas, how to feed them, and how to boop their nose. The location was perfect for escaping to nature, but not far enough from the city to feel isolated. It was a very special and romantic experience!

Heidi

6 days ago

1 night at Hilltop Vineyard Dome Glamping

This was my first time dome camping and it was really fun! The sky was clear that night and you could see stars from the dome. The host was great, thank you!

1 night at Happy Valley Haven

Had a great time at the haven, will definitely be coming back.

1 night at Santa Cruz Mountains Staycation

A hidden gem, I cannot recommend this site enough! I was driving in from a week long stretch of camping, and the relaxation & peace of the airstream was just what I needed. My dog and I enjoyed morning walks through the redwoods in this quiet, safe neighborhood. Rebekkah was quick to respond to any questions, all while maintaining our privacy. Comfortable bed, cute camper, all the kitchen amenities we needed, and good wifi connection to catch up on some work. I felt like we could stay here forever!

Weekend Trip to Happy Valley Haven

Super cute and comfortable spot. Everything was in pristine condition and there were a lot of thoughtful additions along the way (coffee/creamer, extra blanket, vanity mirror with nice light, etc.)

Weekend Trip to Happy Valley Haven

It was a really lovely place to stay. The bedroom was cozy and had the most comfortable mattress. We didn’t use the outdoor cooking area but it has everything you need. On future trips to Santa Cruz, we would love to stay again and will make sure to bring things to prepare in the cooking area. The property was stunning and so peaceful. Naomi was very welcoming when we arrived but also gave us our space during our stay.

Rachel

1 week ago

2 nights at Santa Cruz Mountains Staycation

This is my second time at this stay and it was just as charming as the first! The air stream is so cute, clean and comfortable and is the perfect stay for one or two. Would definitely recommend!

1 night at Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch

Wonderful retreat—absolutely beautiful cabin with gorgeous views. A gem!

Weekend Trip to May's Luxury Farmstays

Place was well stocked for cooking and eating there! The pond of koi fish, ducks, and chickens were so wonderful to spend time. I wish we could have spent more time hanging out there, especially on the deck. It was near other places to stay on the land but felt private and so special. I would recommend if you want a cozy place to stay while exploring the bay area.

Weekend Trip to May's Luxury Farmstays

A Perfect Getaway: Beautiful Views, Cozy Cabin, and Wildlife Galore! We had an incredible stay at this charming log cabin at May’s log cabin studio farm! The setting is absolutely stunning, with breathtaking views that you can enjoy from sunrise to sunset. The property is alive with friendly chickens, ducks, geese, roosters, and even ravens — it felt like our own little wildlife sanctuary. One of our favorite features was the awesome fish pond filled with large koi and goldfish. The innkeeper thoughtfully provides packets of food so you can feed them, which was such a peaceful and fun experience. Definitely take the suggestion to bring along two heads of lettuce — feeding the chickens, ducks, roosters, and geese was an absolute delight and made the stay even more memorable! The cabin itself was cozy and thoughtfully stocked. The kitchen was amazing — it had everything we needed to cook plentiful Vegan meals without missing anything. The fridge was generously stocked, which was such a nice touch. The bathroom was a dream, featuring a wonderfully large shower. The awesome outdoor clawfoot tub made for a perfect end to long days of hiking - we used it every day during our stay! Speaking of hiking, there were fantastic trails nearby that offered both peaceful nature walks and more challenging hikes, depending on what you’re in the mood for. Overall, this stay exceeded our expectations — peaceful, scenic, and so well equipped. We can’t wait to come back! 🏕️🐓🛀🐠

2 nights at Happy Valley Haven

The Happy Valley Haven was a fantastic, and tranquil, spot. We especially loved how quiet everything was - the wind in the trees and gently stirring up some wind chimes. We felt lucky to find this little slice of quiet. Thanks Naomi!

2 nights at May's Luxury Farmstays

We had a wonderful stay here, they had everything we needed, even provided us with organic eggs from their farm, they were very good. We will definitely come back again in the future!

1 night at Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch

The cabin was beautiful, clean and had everything you would need plus more. The kitchen and living room are perfect for cooking and playing games. Our family of four had such a great time. Beautiful cabin, wonderful hike, beautiful views, peaceful stay!

1 night at Happy Valley Haven

The Haven was so cozy, peaceful, and beautiful. Naomi was very kind and made everything super easy and informative which made my birthday trip go smoothly. The property was so cool, lots of plants, beautiful trees, Naomi’s cute pets and alpacas. It was just what my bf and I needed for my birthday getaway! The kitchen outside was stunning (I want one!) and loved how organized everything was. The aesthetic and vibe were so comfortable and clean! Thank you!

2 nights at May's Luxury Farmstays

We had a great stay and look forward to checking out her other yurts and cabins. Thanks May!

2 nights at Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

Incredible property! We loved our stay here and the Airstream is equipped with pretty much anything you would need. Unbelievable views with a good amount of privacy from neighboring sites as well. I would recommend anyone to stay here.

Weekend Trip to Redwoods Mountain Getaway

Connie was easy to get ahold of and the place was well kept, quiet, and clean. Will stay there again.

Dog-friendly getaways

Booked 2 times

Enchanted Off-Grid Redwood Cabins

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Ben Lomond, CA

🌲 Enchanted Off-Grid Cabins Nestled Among Majestic Redwoods 🌲 Welcome to your very own slice of fairy tale living in this charming one-bedroom rustic cabin, surrounded by the towering beauty of redwoods. This off-grid gem is a unique sanctuary of old world natural wonder, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the everyday world. 🏡 Property Features: 🌲 Rustic Charm: As you approach this cabin, you'll feel like you've stumbled upon a gnome's hideaway. The weathered wooden exterior, nestled in the midst of the forest, exudes a magical aura that transports you to another world. 🌟 Skylights: Each cabin boasts skylights that let in the dappled sunlight during the day and provide a breathtaking view of the starry night sky between the trees. Fall asleep under a canopy of trees and stars, and wake up to the gentle glow of dawn. 💧 Natural Spring Water: Experience the purity of nature with water sourced from a natural spring on the property. You can quench your thirst with some of the freshest, purest water on the planet. 🛋️ Furnished: These cozy cabins comes fully furnished, ensuring your stay is comfortable and hassle-free. The living area is a snug retreat, complete with a wood-burning stove for warmth on chilly nights. The bedroom is perfect for a restful night's sleep, and the kitchen has everything you need to prepare delicious meals. 🍃 Outdoor Paradise: Step outside, and you'll find yourself in a lush paradise. At the nearby Quaker Center, explore the surrounding forest, wander among the towering redwoods, or simply relax on the cabin's porch while you listen to the serene sounds of nature. 🌳 Location: The cabins are located in a secluded spot, yet it's conveniently close to nature trails, hiking, Santa Cruz beaches and surfing, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the redwood forest. Revel in the peace and tranquility of the great outdoors while being just a short drive away from all the amenities you might need. The one-bedroom rustic cabins are perfect for nature lovers, artists, or anyone seeking a serene escape from the modern world. Come experience the magic of this gnome-like dwelling and create your own fairy tale in the midst of the redwoods. Enjoy the outdoor shower with hot and cold water. Note- there is no Wifi and cell reception is limited. AT&T works best. Don't miss your chance to call this unique, off-grid cabin your temporary home. Contact us today to schedule a viewing and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the redwoods. Your fairy tale awaits! 🌿🏡🌳 *** Note- Owner lives on-site in lower cabin. Shared stairwell to the road, outhouse and shower (outdoor).

The Little Poppy Cabin! 🌸

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Carmel, CA

Accessible from Carmel. READ FULL DETAILS OF LISTING BEFORE BOOKING Centrally located between Carmel and the Heart of Big Sur. On a paved road with quick and easy access to Hwy 1. Adorable little cabin in the redwoods, with upstairs lofted sleeping area (double bed), sleeps 2 people. Kitchen, stove, mini fridge and private bath. Stairs are very steep to loft, with open railing upstairs. Please review pic's before booking. Adults only. The larger main cabin on property, is rented separately. Our cabin is in the Santa Lucia mountains and immersed in nature. Please be aware that wildlife is apart of the rugged Big Sur Coast and mountains. Wildlife encounters are something that is not out of the ordinary. From raccoons, skunks, deer, mountain lions, bats, mice, spiders snakes and all types of birds. We have exceeded measures of to keep occurrances to a minimum and have monthly pest control services. BUT can't guarantee you will not be met with wildlife. ANY ENCOUNTERS DURING YOUR STAY, WILL NOT BE ISSUED A REFUND. If you do not feel comfortable with the paragraph, then please do not book our cabins. Recommendations in Big Sur is Ventana Inn, Post Ranch or something in Carmel or Monterey. 1 Dog allowed, pre-approved by owner and $70fee. No aggressive breeds. Under 50 lbs. Must be leashed, picked up after, not allowed on furniture or left alone. Not allowed in the lofted sleeping area, due to step stairs, open railings. Not safe for animals! If you have a hairy dog, please keep the hair swept and under control. It is not fair for our cleaners to do de-fur the cabin. We allow dogs as a wonderful courtesy and don't want it abused. There is NO cell reception in our area, due to the mountain range. You loose reception once you leave Carmel and head south, or leave Big Sur and travel north to the property. WIFI is available but can be intermittent due to rural location. Text and wifi available, no cell reception, once logged into our internet. INTERNET IS NOT GUARANTEED DURING YOUR STAY. At the beginning of our road, it has a "road closed sign". You CAN get to our cabin. Our road is residential and a dead end. So there is not need to go past our cabin. All hiking and site seeing is along Hwy 1.

100%

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Venture Retreat Center

12 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Pescadero, CA

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!

12 top forest glamping sites near Santa Cruz

84%

(46)

Amaya Creek Redwood Campground

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Los Gatos, CA

Welcome to the Amaya Creek Redwood Campground! We are deep in the Santa Cruz mountains and it’s rustic so be prepared! The road is all paved but it can be narrow, bumpy and steep in some areas. Be sure to follow our directions to bypass the road closure! There is no cell phone service in some areas. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a trash service for the campground, we require all campers to PACK OUT THEIR TRASH with them! We have 40 acres of redwood forest and two creeks running through including the Amaya Creek which serves the boundary of our property at the end of Amayak Creek Trail. There’s also a small waterfall off the Amaya Creek Trail, but it may dry out during the summer. Enjoy hiking, creeks and small waterfall exploration, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, star gazing, relaxation, meditation and more. Our campground has running water from a natural spring, Men and Women's Restrooms each with 2 toilets and 1 FREE hot water shower, utility shed with sink and hot water, and an outdoor amphitheater. The kitchen and washer/dryer is Staff Only not for campers. . Most campsites allow 4-6 guests maximum with 1 car included in the nightly rate. Each additional vehicle is $15 per day and will be added at checkout once you add the correct number of vehicles you will be bringing. Pets are $10 per day, 1 pet per group ONLY. Please add this as an extra at the time of booking, you will see the option to add extras once you begin the checkout process. Dogs must be on leash at all times! Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. No drugs of any kind including marijuana allowed. No loud music allowed. This is a private property so no visitors are allowed, only paid guests. Our onsite staff will go around and enforce the rules. No hookup for RV and trailer, check each site description to see if RV/trailer is ok for that site.

93%

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May's Luxury Farmstays

5 sites · Lodging20 acres · Los Gatos, CA

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.

93%

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Hidden Spring Ranch

6 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Santa Cruz, CA

Magical 6 acre permaculture ranch just a few minutes to town, beaches and restaurants. Take a bath under a clear night sky, enjoy the morning birdsong and take a stroll on or off the property. We have free ranging chickens, a hidden spring surrounded by two creeks and wild plums. Happy Valley is a secret little gem of Santa Cruz. Plenty of space for relaxing, and amazing location for both convenience and adventures. (2 of the 3 sites have the tubs please read individual descriptions to find out if the one you chose has one)

Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Lexington Hills, CA

Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this serene retreat is surrounded by natural beauty and offers the perfect escape into nature. Conveniently located between Downtown Los Gatos and Downtown Santa Cruz—just 25 minutes from each—you’ll have easy access to the best of both mountain charm and coastal energy. Outdoor enthusiasts will love being just minutes from the renowned mountain biking trails of Demonstration Forest, scenic hiking routes, and the beloved Summit Store for local provisions.

99%

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Nearby Getaway - Dogs Welcome!

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · San Juan Bautista, CA

Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Come to relax in peace and quiet, pleasant outdoor. A short drive away but far from troubles you've left behind! Relax and rejuvenate. The weather is always temperate, sometimes the evening marine layer lavishly blankets the rolling hills like cotton. Evening campfires are cozy and relaxing. Easy access to Highway 101 for "Nearby Getaways" or convenient stops along your travels. Nearby attractions include whale watching, Elkhorn Slough Safaris, fishing, Monterey Zoo, world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pebble Beach, Carmel, Big Sur, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and miles of beaches, redwoods, miles of bike trails from the new Coastline Trail to Fort Ord and Niscene Marks Redwoods, wine tasting and more. Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner. Simply ask for recommendations. Come to your "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great sky views, and pleasant country walks, or step back in time to the Mission-era town of San Juan Bautista without commercialism! Well, we do have a gas station, a market, the active mission, of course, a step back in history, a few quaint restaurants, craft beer and local wines in our "one-horse" historical town. For the ultimate Nearby Getaway book the entire property and bring along your own selected guest list of friends or family. We invite private groups to exclusive use of the property for Getaways, family & friends picnics, celebrations, reunions, even weddings. Day use or overnite facilities. Groups of 1-100. NEWS FLASH: Skip the long stopover at urban EV charging stations. Charge your EV overnite! Special rates for stopover charging! Easy off and on to Highway 101, 129. 156 and on your way! Learn more about this land: This is a large flat site with rolling hills, lovely rural views, rolling oak studded pastureland, open views, lovely sunsets and beautiful mornings. Very quiet, private, peaceful and serene. Afternoon breezes while red tailed hawks ride the thermals, and woodpeckers work on their treasure hoarde. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! Wildlife abounds. Easy access from Highway 101, yet private and secluded. Historic San Juan Bautista Mission and town nearby. Monterey/Carmel 30 minutes. Santa Cruz/Beaches 20 minutes. Hollister, Salinas, or Gilroy 20 minutes. Site will accommodate RV, Sprintervan, or trailer 50/30/20 amp service. Tents welcome too! Water. Ranch "outhouse" with flushable composting style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity. Bunkhouse rustic accommodations available. Contact Host for details. Tent and Car Top Tent sites also available. Contact Host for details. Beautiful peaceful historic San Juan Bautista. Quaint historic mission town nearby with restaurants. Hiking trails nearby Horseback riding woods & beach. Equine Facilities available. 20 min to beach or redwoods. Beautiful rural area. Weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life; event camp; event site. Family groups and events always welcome! Call for more information. NOTE: This property is located in a very private country area. It is approximately 8 minutes from the small historic town of San Juan Bautista. We meet our first time guests at the Park & Ride as a welcome courtesy so you can easily follow us in and around the potholes on our rural roads! Let us know if we can assist you with any special interests or attractions in the Monterey Bay and Central Coast Area. As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."

87%

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Hilltop Vineyard Dome Glamping

6 sites · Lodging, RVs32 acres · Felton, CA

Welcome to Hill Top Vineyard, nestled in the mountains of Santa Cruz; this breathtaking 30+ acre retreat is the ideal getaway. We offer 3 RV/tent sites and 2 glamping domes. The glamping domes share a full bathroom equipped with a hot water shower and flushing toilet. There is no toilet available for the RV/tent sites so campers are required to bring their own. Featuring four acres of vineyard, two acres of seasonal pond, winding trails, and sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains. Just imagine waking up slowly with a cup of coffee from one of the local coffee shops while you watch the wildlife come to life. Evenings are best spent enjoying the stunning sunsets in front of the 2 acre pond. Located just 15 miles from the world-famous beaches of Santa Cruz that have some of the most sought-after surf breaks, and if beaches aren't your thing, Henry Cowell State park is less than ten miles away and has some of the gorgeous hikes in all of Santa Cruz County. Big Basin State Park is a few towns over and is one of the few places in the world where you can see coastal redwoods. The location also offers easy access to silicon valley and the greater bay area if you're interested in a day trip to the city. Amenities include RV/oversized vehicle parking, private trails, and more! Book your stay today at Hill Top Vineyard to experience the ultimate getaway, where you'll find peace in nature's embrace.

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Lupin Lodge

77 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents112 acres · Los Gatos, CA

Lupin Lodge is a family-friendly, clothing-optional destination resort located in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Our yurts are fully furnished with a queen-sized bed, heater, fan, electricity, and Wi-Fi. Alternatively, guests may choose to car camp or rent a campsite during their stay. Shared bathroom facilities, showers, and the Community Kitchen are located nearby and available to guests 24/7. Our property highlights include scenic hiking trails, our pool and hot tub area, sauna, tennis court, lounge area, and our Clubhouse Restaurant that serves Saturday night dinner. At Lupin, guests enjoy a quiet, comfortable escape into nature while remaining conveniently accessible by car, just 10 minutes from downtown Los Gatos.

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Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

5 sites · Lodging10 acres · Woodside, CA

Breathe deep in nature on our 10-acre property on a Kings Mountain, California hillside. Our generously sized Safari-style tents offer a unique blend of comfort and adventure. Each tent has beds, down comforters, crisp cotton linens, lights, and more. Outdoor and indoor furniture and little touches that will make your stay unique. Each tent is perched on a sturdy wooden platform and features a fully furnished deck, providing a cozy space to relax and soak in the breathtaking ocean (Half Moon Bay views) and forest views (Kings Mountain). All tents include a mini fridge and a stove, ideal for light cooking, intimate fireside storytelling, and warmth during cool days. We suggest you bring easy-to-prep food, drinks, warm clothes, hiking shoes, and a beanie, as it can get chilly without notice. Your designated parking space is a 6-minute walk from the campsite (downhill on arrival, then back uphill (steep) in the forest), so we recommend traveling light. Our campsite is nestled within the same property as our charming little farm. If you're interested in meeting our friendly farm animals, get in touch, and we'll be delighted to arrange a visit at a time that works best for you and them. Our goats roam the land all day and may visit you for pets and nuzzles. They are gentle, but please do not feed or let them inside the tent. Recharge from the day with a hot shower. Grab your fresh towels from your tent and go to your outdoor allocated bathhouses, where you’ll find an indoor shower and well-appointed restrooms. They are nicely lit and stocked with bath products. A sink area is available for dish clean-up, and a bbq/picnic area. KM is famous for its hiking and biking trails nestled amongst the redwoods. The closest is a 15-minute walk from our campsite, and others are within a 15-minute car ride. Tent 01 (180sqft) accommodates 3 people in a queen-size bed and a daybed. Tent 02 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a bunk bed and an outdoor suspended net Tent 03 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a twin bed + daybed and an outdoor propane stove, hangout deck Recently added: an apartment w a hot tub Kids under the age of 8 are not allowed. An adult must accompany minors under 21 YO.

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Terra Cultura

5 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Aromas, CA

Our farm is nestled in the scenic hills of Aromas, CA, just 15 minutes away from the ocean. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip along California’s majestic coast, or looking to spend some time getting to know the lush landscape of the Central Coast, we welcome you with open arms! We are a nonprofit educational eco-arts farm and your booking supports environmental stewardship and arts education for underserved communities. Thank you for your support! We place the highest value on respect--for the land, and for the people, plants, and animals that call this area home. While you are here, please consider yourself a partner in stewarding this place.

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Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch

1 site · Lodging350 acres · Loma Mar, CA

Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) protects open space on the Peninsula and in the South Bay for the benefit of all. Situated on top of a ridge with expansive redwood forest and coastal views, the Audrey Edna Cabin provides a completely private gathering place and destination for visitors with reservations. The cabin has spectacular views of forest, sky, ocean and the Butano ridgeline. It's a short hike to 8000+ acres of county parkland where you can hike, bike and ride horses (though please note, there are no facilities for horse boarding at the cabin.) The cabin is located at Alpine Ranch, a property adjacent to Sam McDonald County Park that was protected by Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST). Whether you are looking for an active experience or just want to relax in a peaceful, remote setting, there's something here for everyone. This is a rustic hike-in cabin designed for a introductory pack-in experience. Bedding is not provided. It is about a 1.7-mile hike on a rolling dirt road from the Sam McDonald County Park parking lot, with about 650 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers can reach the cabin in an hour or less. Guests should plan to arrive at least 2 hours before sunset, and pack water and flashlights or headlamps. Guests with limited mobility, please contact us for information regarding accommodations that will allow you to access this shared resource. *A note about reservation availability: On the weekends, POST offers priority reservations for the cabin to our partners at the San Mateo County Health Department and Park Rx to provide patients with equitable access to the benefits of nature. Occasionally, we have last-minute public weekend reservation availability due to cancellations. The cabin is reservable up to 3 months in advance, on a rolling basis. Love the idea of a hike-in cabin, but unable to visit us Sunday-Thursday? Check out the nearby Sierra Club Hiker's Hut in Sam McDonald County Park. Property History: At one time, the ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains was a thriving center for trade between tribes of the coast and the bay, which we still find evidence of today in cultural sites and artifacts throughout the region. Native people have cared for this land since time immemorial, including the local Muwekma and Ramaytush Ohlone who are still active in the area today. This property specifically is host to a tributary to one of just a handful of waterways that support salmonids in this region, which are a species of tremendous importance to native people. Over 1000 acres here were eventually purchased by entrepreneur Ridgeway Rowley, who built a home on the ranch in the 1880s as part of an unsuccessful wedding proposal to Fannie Page, daughter of a local mill owner (ever heard of Page Mill Road?) After being rejected by Fannie, Rowley operated the ranch for a decade in conjunction with his work as District Attorney and publisher of the Palo Alto Weekly, before eventually returning to his hometown of Cortland, NY, where he lived as a bachelor until his death. Over the course of the 20th century, the ranch was divided, some parts of which became Pescadero Creek County Park. POST purchased the 350 acre home property, now called Alpine Ranch, in 2012 through our Heart of the Redwoods campaign, an initiative to protect 20,000 acres of Redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Alpine Ranch borders Pescadero Creek County Park and Sam McDonald County Park, adding to the area’s protected open space and containing more than a mile of tributaries to Pescadero Creek, which flows year-round and is a major spawning stream for steelhead trout. The Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch is situated at one of the property's most scenic overlooks. The cabin was built in the early 1900's, and completely reconstructed up to modern building codes by POST in 2018 so that all could enjoy this special place.

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Santa Cruz Mountains Staycation

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Los Gatos, CA

Located in the peaceful, forested Chemeketa Park neighborhood, our Airstream Caravel is situated in a perfect resting spot for road cyclists, mountain bikers, Santa Cruz surfers, and winery fans looking to recharge before their next adventure! The Airstream is conveniently located on our driveway property, so you'll have easy access to-and-from the quaint and cute downtown area of Los Gatos, nearby hiking trails, and scenic routes along Highway 17.

Booked 3 times

Big Basin Creekside Tents

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Boulder Creek, CA

Unplug and unwind at our serene campsite just outside Boulder Creek, nestled along a quiet back road into Big Basin State Park. We offer two spacious 10x12 white canvas tents—one tucked into a tranquil redwood grove, the other shaded by two beautiful madrone trees. Both are a short walk to the creek and perfect for cyclists, hikers, and small families looking for a peaceful nature retreat. While the tents are unfurnished, they’re well sheltered from the elements. The area is rich with nearby gems, including a stunning Buddhist monastery just up the road, the Boulder Creek Golf & Country Club with both disc golf and traditional golf, and Big Basin Winery—only a 3-minute drive away—offering breathtaking views and local wines. Please note: we do have one friendly dog on site.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Boulder Creek, California

Other options near Santa Cruz

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Redwood Rain Forest Camp

16 sitesBoulder Creek, CA

Redwood Rain Forest Camp is Easterseals Camp Harmon. For more that 50 years it has been a magical place for people with special needs to experience the wonder of camp. During our off season we invite you to enjoy the beauty and wonder of a rain forest. Winters in the redwoods are a fantastic time to really experience nature. Even during the rain one can hike and see the amazing forest in action.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest glamping near Santa Cruz guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your ultimate guide to camping in the United States! Looking for a glamping experience in the forest near Santa Cruz, California? With over 342 available options that match your accommodation and activity/terrain preferences, we've got you covered! Our top-rated campsites, including The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), Windsor Family Farm (404 reviews), and Swallowtail Historic Art Studio (252 reviews), offer popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and toilets, as well as exciting activities like wind sports, historic sites, and boating. Average price per night is $149, with options as low as $36. Let's get you set up for your next forest adventure!