Discover the best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Santa Cruz, California

United States
—
California
—
Santa Cruz

90% (1375 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Santa Cruz

Community favorites near Santa Cruz

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Santa Cruz

On the Saratoga Gap Trail returning from the Castle Rock Trail Camp

100%

(14)

Castle Rock Trail Camp

40 sites · RVs, Tents In Castle Rock State Park

98%

(50)

Henry Cowell Redwoods Campground

107 sites · RVs, Tents In Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

97%

(72)

Portola Redwoods Campground

57 sites · RVs, Tents In Portola Redwoods State Park

90%

(5)

Waterman Gap Trail Camp

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Castle Rock State Park

Pretty cool when you wake up and you are above the clouds...

83%

(3)

Bottchers Gap Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Los Padres National Forest

Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

What a beautiful property! Misthaven was a great choice for our 3 year old, he loved watching the animals and exploring the surroundings. The glamping tent was roomy and comfortable, and while we agreed it could use extra blankets on a cold night, was a big step up from tent camping. Communication was good and our host was super friendly and helpful. We'd love to return!

Weekend Trip to Redwood Basin

What a magical place and set up that created a trip memory for a lifetime for us, a group of adults. Getting there was already beautifully surrounded by redwoods and upon arriving who could’ve thought it got even better. A weekend paradise. Everything we saw was as pictured. Indoors were very clean, with towels for everyone. Outdoor kitchen has everything we needed for cooking from tools to spices. Going to town was a very quick easy drive. Evening around the bonfire set the mood for a great bonding time. Waking up to the beautiful trees and birdsongs was a treat. We didn’t use the tub so can’t comment on that. Shower in the shipping container had hot water and good water pressure. Communication with Chief was straight forward and easy- very responsive and timely. Thank you for sharing this place with us!

2 nights at Hidden Spring Ranch

This was our second time staying at Hidden Ranch and it was simply fabulous. A great community of folks with a super relaxed, calm and rustic atmosphere. Fresh eggs, a sauna, room to hacky sack, what could be better!

Weekend Trip to Hidden Spring Ranch

We absolutely loved the property! Showering in nature. The outdoor kitchen had everything we needed. The fresh eggs were delicious. It was very close to town and all the sightseeing!

Weekend Trip to Hidden Spring Ranch

This site was comfortable and super-convenient to Santa Cruz. The owners were very friendly and I enjoyed socializing around the fire with the other residents.

Collin

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

Wide open space nestled in the redwoods. The property is clean and organized which is a big plus. Highly recommend.

Weekend Trip to Redwood Basin

From the moment we arrived we knew we had found a slice of paradise. Nestled in the heart of nature, the surroundings were absolutely breathtaking—towering redwood trees, birdsong in the morning and scattered showers. The accommodations were equally amazing—clean, cozy, and thoughtfully set up with everything we could possibly need. Every detail felt intentional, creating the perfect balance between comfort and rustic charm. You can tell the owner truly cares about the land and the experience of their guests. The outdoor tub was a highlight! laura was absolutely wonderful. Kind, welcoming, and genuinely passionate to ensure our stay was perfect. We left feeling refreshed and are already planning our return. If you're looking for a beautiful, soulful escape into nature with incredible an incredible host - peaceful vibes, this is the place. Simply perfect.

1 night at Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

The property is so amazing! My group and I loved staying here for a night. Beautiful creek going right through the property, plenty of places to sit or lay back and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the mountain redwood forest. Great sheltered outdoor kitchen and huge BBQ grill, we cooked up a feast. The hot showers were a most welcome feature. Amenities for guests are so plentiful we didn't even have time to enjoy them all! Ismael was really helpful and responsive to my questions as I was planning out our camping trip. He's super down-to-earth and it was a pleasure to meet and chat a bit in person. Would love to come back again!!

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

The site was epic and really well maintained. It felt secluded, but not dangerously remote for my girlfriend's first time camping. The directions were fairly clear and the spot was easy enough to find. Doug and Denise were super friendly and accomodating. My only critique is the site could use a better bathroom option. We ended up bringing our own fold up tent toilet setup purchased from Amazon. 9/10 We'd love to come back and try out the Creek site.

Weekend Trip to Redwood Paradise Camping

Unique place in the middle of the Redwoods. So quiet and remote. There are beautiful views from the deck. Delicious Peruvian coffee. Very kind host who welcomed us well

Kelcie

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Hidden Spring Ranch

I had a lovely stay here! I was at site #3, the caravan. It was comfy and cozy inside and there's plenty of space for tents on the site. The outdoor shared kitchen is well stocked and super convenient. There's cute common space with couches and some games and books. I felt welcomed and would stay here again. Definitely recommend. =)

2 nights at Hidden Spring Ranch

A beautiful and welcoming camping site. We admired the efforts to preserve the beauty and natural state of this small farm by having low impact facilities for guests. If you are interested in sleeping under the stars with minimal impact this is the place.

1 night at San Juan Bautista Dog Friendly

Nancy was very communicative through the whole process. Her property is so relaxing and peaceful. We have a 30 ft class A and parked at the 50 amp site. We didnt have to do a lot of leveling. Since we were the only campers there, she allowed our dogs to run freely. Her land is entirely fenced. The pups loved it as much as we did. Bring some carrots to feed Hannah and Daisy (horse and donkey). They are very sweet. If you dont have any carrots, Nancy has treats on the table by the fence where instructions are posted on how to feed them. We will definitely visit again.

2 nights at Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

We had the great plesure to spend 2 nights on sacred earth. And we loved it. It seemed to be out civilization. Thanks to Colin for his explanations to get there. Without him we had been lost. 😂

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

This camp site was a lovely gem to find that was perfectly secluded yet not a far drive into town. We drove a 30 ft trailer and some parts were a little narrow getting to the site but made it with no problem. The kids loved the short hike to the creek. We definitely were happy we chose the redwood spot vs the creek given the length of our trailer. Doug was a great host and we were all happy to hear all about their animals. Would love to stay again if we are ever back in Santa Cruz.

Weekend Trip to Hidden Spring Ranch

Great space, great people, great vibes, great location. Equipped kitchen. We loved it. We did however only bring some wool blankets & sheets and I’d say for location 3 (Franky the caravan) - it needs a space heater or winter approved sleeping bags. It was crazy cold at night. We will be back!

Weekend Trip to Hidden Spring Ranch

First Hipcamp experience perfection! Coming from bustling San Francisco this campsite was the perfect place to enjoy a slower pace for the weekend. The amenities were great! Kitchen very convenient. We got fresh eggs which was nice and also used the wood barrel sauna. Patricia was a lovely host. Thank you so much!!

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

We had such a fun time staying at Doug and Denise's creek campsite. The sound of the creek and the shade from all those beautiful redwoods was by far my favorite. This place is perfect to escape the heat of the summer. To top it all off Doug was such a humble and kind person, he gave us a tour of his ranch and filled us in on all the hard work and time he's put into this land. Thank you again for being kind hosts and for hooking it up with some fresh eggs, we will definitely be back again.

2 nights at Hidden Spring Ranch

Lovely spot and beautiful surroundings. We would stay here again!!

4 nights at San Juan Bautista Dog Friendly

We really enjoyed our four nights at Mi Querida ranch. It was so beautiful and peaceful. It is close to a lot of pretty places. We loved giving carrots to Daisy the donkey and Hannah the horse. We had a wild turkey staying in a pine tree near our campsite. What a charming place and Nancy is a very nice host.

12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Santa Cruz

93%

(249)

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)

92%

(216)

Redwood Paradise Camping

15 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · CA

PLEASE READ Hello all! If you're looking for some glamping with creature comforts, while just being 10 minutes away from restaurants. This is the place for you. We are a 5 acre property and home surrounded by tall redwood and oak trees. Very green and lots of shade. These are the amenities/facilities you will have free access to: Pool, Pool chairs and umbrellas, Deck area with sunset view, Trampolines, and hammocks. There is not cooking allowed by or at any of the common areas, due to flies and critters. Cooking and eating is only allowed by your sites and not in any common areas: Hammocks, Trampolines, Pool Area, tables, sink, and deck please follow this rule because we want to prevent our shared areas to be fly and bug infested. We are still working on ridding the flies and cleaning. (please try to bring prepackaged food or something easy. If anything you can drive 10 minutes to nearby food and grocery). In the past we let people cook and eat around the pool but now our whole property is fly infested and I find scattered leftovers on the ground. Thanks for understanding. THERE IS A 1-2 MINUTE HIKE TO THE CAMPSITES 1-5! Poolside campsites are closer to the parking and are bigger. FOR ALL CAMPSITES Free coffee in the mornings on the deck! If you have pets make sure to include the extra fee per pet please! We are very near the Lost Empire Hiking trail less than a mile away! We ask you to please let us know your ETA 30 minutes before coming as there is spotty connection. FOR CHILDREN WHO ARE NOT POTTY TRAINED POOL DIAPERS ARE REQUIRED. WE DO NOT SHARE ELECTRICITY! CHECK OUT OUR NEW LODGING: This property is my home that I live in with my 2 kids. It is a rustic and homey vibe, definitely not a hotel. We want you to come knowing what to expect. Our property offers a pool, and trampolines for the kids. We have a deck patio area that overlooks an amazing view of the redwood forest. Most of our guests are those that come from foreign countries and they all LOVE the property. I love leaving a great impression of our area. RULES: Pack your trash. Rinse your feet before entering the pool. No floaties and pool toys of any type allowed. Do not leave children unsupervised. Do not sit on the edge of the reclinable chairs. Do not sit along the edge of the pool or on the pool cover box. All tables are solely for drinking, cooking is only available on the stumps or on tables brought by the camper. Be mindful of the area, do not litter or toss food anywhere except your trash bag. No dogs by the pool area. Dogs must be on leash at all times and clean up after them. No eating inside rooms or the cabin. Come to the deck to check-out. No smoking. (With exception of vapes, do not smoke in common areas) No campfires or any grills with a large open flame PROPANE ONLY!:) Thank you!:)

99%

(164)

San Juan Bautista Dog Friendly

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, Fisherman's Whart, 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."

98%

(177)

BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

2 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Santa Cruz, CA

Purchased from the original owner in 1998. Doug has been clearing and improving the ranch for over 20 years. After surviving the CZU Fire in the summer of 2020, the clearing is continuing and the green growth is thriving all over the ranch. Come revive and energize your soul as you experience the the magic of this private redwood forest. Feel the soothing sound and atmosphere of the pristine creek and its' endless flow as it meanders through the ranch. The seclusion and calmness of this place is addicting! PITCH YOUR TENT UNDER THE MAJESTIC REDWOODS ON THE OLDTIMERS SKID LANDING AND ENJOY THE PRIVACY, SERENITY AND THE SOUNDS OF NATURE ALL AROUND YOU. EASY WALKING ON OUR PRIVATE LOGGING ROADS. SEE THE RESULTS OF THE CZU FIRE AS YOUR HIKE DOWN TO THE PRISTINE AND BEAUTIFUL YEAR ROUND CREEK THAT RUNS THOUGH THE RANCH.

99%

(421)

Grey Oaks

8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Aromas, CA

Grey Oaks' Rustic Campsites, are a boutique camping experience with real old-timey style. We have 2 RV/tent campsites and currently 2 tent-only sites for club member use, that we also have listed on HipCamp for dates that aren’t being used by official club members. Reserving a campsite through HipCamp makes one a guest of the club for the duration of your stay. Grey Oaks is located on 20 acres of land, with hiking and mountain biking trails, a 12 foot deep in-ground swimming pool, multiple interesting and cool landscape features, hot water shower, and animals up by the house (1/4 mile from the campsites) that you can interact with during your stay here, too (8 hens, 2 pasture horses, 2 friendly dogs, and 1 awesome cat). At the campsites, we have picnic tables, fire pits, bbqs, ice chests, and more. A clean and fresh well water hand/dishwashing station, plus Alhambra Crystal Fresh drinking water, and two outhouses are conveniently located to the campsites. Eucalyptus, oak, and/or pine firewood is provided free for you during your stay with us. It really is a beautiful and wonderful property. There is wildlife, and it is private and peaceful. It is very dark at night and the view of the stars, moon, and planets is amazing. There is poison oak on the property so please be aware. We will show you what it looks like, so you can easily avoid it.

80%

(76)

Skyview

14 sites · Tents23 acres · Boulder Creek, CA

** NOTE from owner ** This is a rustic, mountain campground and totally off-grid. Road access here is difficult. It is extremely beautiful, remote, and serene so come for that. This is NOT a party destination and NOT a glamping resort so please don't bring those expectations. We'd be honored and delighted to have you here if you appreciate being close to the elements and you love the outdoors. We've been open for a year and a half and learned a lot from previous guests. Most of our reviews having been super positive but a few have been brutal. We've had growing pains for sure but are applying all the tough lessons to make the experience of being here the best we can. Here's a list of recent improvements: -- Doubled the size of each campsite (more space!) -- Cut the total number of campsites in half (less people!) -- Lowered prices (great value!) -- Improved our outhouses (cleaner, less stinky!) Thank you for reading this part and now a brief property description =) With 23 gorgeous acres, Skyview is the perfect place to enjoy nature and the elements. You can hike our ridge trail for spectacular views of the Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz mountains. You can relax in one of our Skypods and take a nap or read a book beneath a 200 year old oak tree. Go swimming in our huge pond and do yoga/meditate/journal on the adjoining beach. There's a grandmother (old-growth) redwood tree to visit plus a wonderful diversity of wildflowers and native plants to study and appreciate. Birds soar in the skies above (hawks, ravens, vultures) while the calls of morning doves and owls gently fill the air at dawn and dusk. And our sunsets...wow!!

94%

(450)

Lupin Lodge

76 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Los Gatos, CA

Lupin Lodge is a Clothing-Optional Destination Resort located in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains. We offer a variety of overnight stay accommodations, including Yurt Lodging, camp sites, and RV sites for rent. Guests will have access to bathroom facilities and showers, as well as a Community Kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, and oven. 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. On weekends we hold a variety of different events aimed at promoting creativity, enlightenment, and connection. Activities include yoga, Tai-chi, and Qigong classes, dance parties, movie nights, workshops, share circles, and hikes led by our team members. Visit our website to learn more about the events being held during your stay: https://www.lupinlodge.com/events/ At Lupin Lodge, our top priority is to provide a safe, family-friendly environment that encourages self-expression, personal growth, and connection. For whatever reason you chose to come and stay with us, whether it be for personal enlightenment or just a casual weekend getaway, we hope that you find peace and fulfillment during your stay.

99%

(117)

Redwood Basin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Soquel, CA

Family-owned since the 1960's my parents chose this ridgetop location on 10 acres for its beauty, serenity, bio-diversity, and amazing peaceful healing energy. The main house is called Rainbow Ridge where a double rainbow appears across the skyline on occasion. We have decided to share this land with conscious folks who want to retreat to the woods from the hustle and bustle but be close to all the action and have all the creature comforts of home with a camping vibe. We have one private site with a glamorous A Frame cabin and a modern tiny home and a tiny retro trailer. The site comes as one single package and is exclusive to you and your group! Nestled on its own private 3-acre redwood and oak forest, leading down to a creek. The site is located just 4 miles (10 min drive ) from Soquel Village and just 5 miles from the beach at Capitola. The site offers: - A 20ft modern container home with one queen sofa bed, large screen with Apple TV, kitchen, patio, fridge, microwave, cooktop, shower, and toilet. - A custom, outdoor kitchen, and bar for entertaining with gas BBQ, fridge freezer, sink with hot and cold filtered water, Sonos sound system. - Large gas fire pit and seating area. - One A Frame eco cabin with option for one king size day bed OR two singles, A twin mattress can also fit in the cabin when in the two singles configuration. The cabin has electricity, fan and heating for colder nights. - One very cute retro airstream style 1950's trailer with a twin bed for a couple or one person. - Space for 1-2 additional tents. For groups of 8 or more and special events please contact us so we can discuss the possibilities. - Onsite you should find all the basic amenities from home including all bedding, towels, kitchenware, cooking utensils, dining ware, herbs and spices, cleaning products, gas for the BBQ and fire pit is included etc. There are a few things you should bring: Food, drinks, ice and fun! The site looks down into a private and secluded redwood and oak forest with trails for small hikes into the redwood fairy circles or all the way down to the creek. The glamping site is on a sunny flat area surrounded by steep terrain up to a ridgeline and down to the creek. The creek is accessible although the final route requires a rope down so may not be suitable for everyone. Within 15-20 min drive you will find almost all major attractions in the Santa Cruz area including The Mistery Spot, Nisene Marks State Forest, Capitola Pier, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and many famous surf breaks from Capitola to The Point, The Hook, Steamer Lane and many more., as well as many amazing mountain bike trails. There are also several Santa Cruz Mountain wineries to explore in a 3- 5 mile radius. Further afield you will find Monterey Bay Aquarium and the coastal beaches north up to San Francisco Bay ( 1 hour 30 mins north) and down to Big Sur about 1 hour 20 mins south. We ask all our visitors to be respectful of the environment, our wildlife, and our neighbors. Please drive slowly and respect the quiet times: between 9.30 pm and 8.30 am. We check all our guests in and provide a quick tour. We can offer a number of additional amenities and services including shopping, stocking up on your favorite supplies, catering, romantic packages and special picnics on the Rainbow Ridge, and much more, so please just ask about all the possibilities.

97%

(144)

Redwoods Mountain Getaway

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Ben Lomond, CA

Our property sits on 2 acres of pristine mix of redwoods, madrone, and oak trees. Amazing valley views, gate access from yard to hiking trails, and very quiet at night. Neighborhood overview Felton/Santa Cruz is full of things to do:The Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad is a 3 ft narrow-gauge tourist railroad.Henry Cowell State Park, most famous for the 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees.Mystery Spot: Experience gravity-defying demonstrations on the short but steep uphill walk.Garden of Eden: Secret swimming hole with lots of fun boulders to jump off and swim around. We will fill you in on how to get there.Cruise on bikes down West Cliff DriveHang out at beach and relax..And of course, world famous surfing in Santa Cruz. We have a two-night minimum on weekends.

98%

(171)

Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping

37 sites · Lodging112 acres · Carmel Valley, CA

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. Individual Glamping sessions are available on select dates. Breakfast included in the stay. Length of stay may be required. 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. 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 Solstice and Sunrise cabins recently re-built cabins have one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) and are located near a shared communal bathhouses. Sunset village cabins have access to a bathhouse with designated full baths with private shower and bathroom for each cabin. Each cabin has power and one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) Like tent camping without the hassle of having to set up a tent. You bring your sleeping bag, bedding and towels. Or we can provide you with a bedding/towel pack for an extra cost. POWER All cabins and bathhouses have power Wi-Fi Free wi-fi in central camp not at cabins. FOOD and DRINK 2024 Glamping Includes breakfast. Lunch and Dinner optional at an additional cost. 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 nightly, Yoga, Archery and Tie Dye sessions available on Saturday. (holiday weekends additional sessions available) FIRE No individual fires. We do offer hosted campfires nightly. DOG Two dogs are welcome per cabin $50 per dog. MUSIC No speakers, amplification or radios. Acoustic instruments are allowed. RESERVATIONS Glamping weekends may require multiple night stays. 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 or rent linen pack Towels and Toiletries Flashlight Water Bottle

100%

(2)

Camp Cruz Glamping Retreat

3 sites · Lodging5 acres · Watsonville, CA

Located an hour drive from the bay area, Camp Cruz is a year-round glamping retreat in the redwoods ideal for people who want a private outdoor getaway without giving up basic living comforts. It is a perfect destination to unwind, recharge, and create special memories in nature. We only book one group at a time so whether you are a couple or a large group, you get the whole place to yourself. It offers guests 2 private bedrooms: the Raven’s Nest (an aircrete dome) and/or the Owl’s Nest (a yurt). More guests are welcome if you bring your own camping tents. There is a fully equipped covered kitchen with stove, fridge, barbecue grill, electric coffee maker, tables and chairs, and more. The kitchen also has a ping pong table. There is also a large geodome furnished as a game room with couches, a lounge area, pool table, foosball table, a stereo, games, and music equipment. There are clean composting toilets, hot showers, a propane fire pit, heaters for the cold, a hammock bungalow, a meditation pagoda, a deck overlooking a creek, and disc golf baskets. With a fair balance of sunlight and shade, we have a garden, kids outdoor play equipment, and lots of open space to spread out and relax. We run a nonprofit nature camp for underprivileged youth, and your stay supports our work.

97%

(33)

Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

4 sites · Tents50 acres · Boulder Creek, CA

For over 40 years, Sacred Earth has been cherished by many as an example of sustainable off-grid living immersed in nature. While it is just 12 minutes drive from the village of Ben Lomond, 30 from Santa Cruz beaches, and 90 minutes to Berkeley, this valley feels as though you are deep in the wilds, complete with old growth Redwoods you can stand inside and far- reaching majestic Madrones. The land is home to the headwaters of Love Creek, with springs to be found in fern gullies and gentle babbling brooks. The breathtaking ridgetop has expansive views down the San Lorenzo Valley southeast and westerly views to Ben Lomond Mountain, the final hill between this place and the Pacific. Don’t miss the sunrise with meandering mist rising off the valley. Large sites allow for family and group gatherings/activities, while small tucked in tent sites provide hidden nooks. Hiking trails (open in dry season only) encircle the land and allow for moderate walks throughout its mostly vertical terrain. What is truly dynamic about Sacred Earth is the sheer diversity of plant and animal species combined with its proximity to world-class surfing, sailing, scuba, mountain biking, hiking, birdwatching, etc. Make your stay in Santa Cruz Mountains at SER.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

97%

(19)

Castle Rock State Park

Saratoga, California

98%

(50)

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Felton, California

97%

(72)

Portola Redwoods State Park

La Honda, California

95%

(445)

Los Padres National Forest

Mission Canyon, California

Other options near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort

125 sites1 acre · Felton, CA

Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort stands out as a unique destination, perfectly blending the tranquility of the California redwoods with the adventure of the great outdoors. Nestled in the picturesque Santa Cruz Mountains, our resort is situated along the stunning San Lorenzo River and is bordered by the expansive Henry Cowell State Park. Our clean and well-maintained RV park and campground provide a welcoming atmosphere for families, groups, and RV clubs of all sizes. With year-round access, guests can unwind in a serene environment or embark on exciting outdoor explorations. The surrounding area offers a wealth of natural attractions, including scenic hiking trails, swimming holes, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Additionally, nearby restaurants and shops enhance your stay, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Whether you're looking to relax or seek adventure, Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort is the perfect home base for your outdoor experiences.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

River, stream, or creek camping near Santa Cruz guide

Overview

Looking to go camping near Santa Cruz, California and have a preference for being near a river? Look no further than The Enchanted Forest Retreat! With over 440 options in the area that offer river access, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a secluded retreat or a lively campground, Hipcamp has got you covered. Some of the top campsites in the area include The Meadows at Isleton and DABUDAGE. Plus, with popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. Don't wait, start planning your camping trip today!