- Camping with pets allowed
The best dog-friendly camping near Watsonville
95% (4.2K) • 323 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Watsonville
Redwood Paradise
1. Redwood Paradise
94%
(133)
19mi from Watsonville · 5 sites
40 Acres of majestic redwoods bordering Wilder Ranch State Park gives you access to thousands of acres of excellent hiking and mountain biking right from your campsite. Miles of single-track and fire roads in this world-class mountain bike destination lead you through the redwoods to sunny meadows with sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Monterey Bay.
Conveniently located above the westside of Santa Cruz, our site will give you easy access to scenic Westcliff Drive, Natural Bridges State Beach, downtown Santa Cruz, quaint Felton, Henry Cowell Redwoods state park as well as incredibly scenic & private North Coast beaches.
Please note tent camping is a rain-or-shine activity. :)
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
from
$44
/ night
BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS
2. BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS
97%
(212)
24mi from Watsonville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$125
/ night
Private Sunny Redwoods Retreat
3. Private Sunny Redwoods Retreat
99%
(39)
25mi from Watsonville · 1 site
Blooming Echo is a very private, beautifully wooded and wild land. She has a few springs, seasonal creeks, huge trees and a big sunny meadow where we grow our corn. We have a dome for ceremonies and chilling, an outdoor kitchen, two compost toilets, many swings, a trampoline and a slack line. Lots of land to walk and explore, many many wild and native medicinal herbs. This property is totally off grid. You can track wild boar, deer, wild turkeys and mountain lions, and listen to hermit thrush sing in the morning, hawks call during the day and owls hoot at night.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from
$97
/ night
Saddle Mountain Carmel
4. Saddle Mountain Carmel
91%
(570)
28mi from Watsonville · 68 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Saddle Mountain, RV and Campground!
We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life.
PLEASE NOTE, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING.
We charge $15 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets.
On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
*Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation*
On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, Foosball table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months.
We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests.
Thank you!
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
from
$63
/ night
Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping
5. Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping
98%
(176)
33mi from Watsonville · 38 sites
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
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$149
/ night
95% (4.2K) • 323 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Watsonville
Redwood Paradise
1. Redwood Paradise
94%
(133)
19mi from Watsonville · 5 sites
40 Acres of majestic redwoods bordering Wilder Ranch State Park gives you access to thousands of acres of excellent hiking and mountain biking right from your campsite. Miles of single-track and fire roads in this world-class mountain bike destination lead you through the redwoods to sunny meadows with sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Monterey Bay.
Conveniently located above the westside of Santa Cruz, our site will give you easy access to scenic Westcliff Drive, Natural Bridges State Beach, downtown Santa Cruz, quaint Felton, Henry Cowell Redwoods state park as well as incredibly scenic & private North Coast beaches.
Please note tent camping is a rain-or-shine activity. :)
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
from
$44
/ night
BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS
2. BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS
97%
(212)
24mi from Watsonville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$125
/ night
Private Sunny Redwoods Retreat
3. Private Sunny Redwoods Retreat
99%
(39)
25mi from Watsonville · 1 site
Blooming Echo is a very private, beautifully wooded and wild land. She has a few springs, seasonal creeks, huge trees and a big sunny meadow where we grow our corn. We have a dome for ceremonies and chilling, an outdoor kitchen, two compost toilets, many swings, a trampoline and a slack line. Lots of land to walk and explore, many many wild and native medicinal herbs. This property is totally off grid. You can track wild boar, deer, wild turkeys and mountain lions, and listen to hermit thrush sing in the morning, hawks call during the day and owls hoot at night.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from
$97
/ night
Saddle Mountain Carmel
4. Saddle Mountain Carmel
91%
(570)
28mi from Watsonville · 68 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Saddle Mountain, RV and Campground!
We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life.
PLEASE NOTE, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING.
We charge $15 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets.
On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
*Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation*
On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, Foosball table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months.
We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests.
Thank you!
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
from
$63
/ night
Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping
5. Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping
98%
(176)
33mi from Watsonville · 38 sites
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
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$149
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Aaron
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
Beautiful, somewhat isolated location, very accommodating and friendly staff, and close to everything. We had a great time and will definitely be back.
See more
R
RavnFyre
3 weeks ago
Tent
Banks Ranch is beautiful, rejuvenating and amazing. Be sure to scan property from drive in/entrance for high spots to place tent if its going to rain. Also, if it has recently rained or rain is forecasted, move fire pit to right side of lone redwood ( as looking in from driveway) the left side is where water pools. We are seasoned campers, so we were able to plan 4 and navigate 3 days of rain. The bucket toilet was easy 2 use and hosts supplied the bags. You must pack it out but were used 2 that. Hosts are super responsive (b4 the trip) and nice. We didnt get cell service at the property so didnt receive their messages during stay. They require u buy their firewood ( which is like most places) but their wood is denser and smells amazing! Bring a hatchet 2 split 4 easier fire access.
See more
N
Nikita
3 weeks ago
Tent
I love camping in the forest, it was absolutely beautiful. Only downside like everybody says is that it’s a little rough getting down to the campsites. Scott is an incredible host and was very helpful in directing us to the campsite as we arrived later and had trouble finding it. Make sure to have four wheel drive if you do not want to walk back and forth from your campsite to your car. It’s a bit of a walk especially with stuff. If you have four wheel drive though, it will be awesome.
See moreJ
Jared
February 2026
Tent
Super quiet and peaceful. Awesome spot. Compost toilet could use a solid deep cleaning however.
See more
Cassie
February 2026
16 ft car
With pets
Really lovely! RE: the other reviews, yes some spots are tight and yes there is ambient noise, but silence and great hiking are just a five minute walk away. Beautiful views, the staff was very nice, and I think $60/night when you get a sauna, shower, and clean bathrooms is a good deal in this area.
See moreE
Eva
February 2026
Tent
Tent camping here was a blast! Beautiful land surrounded by redwoods. Close enough to drive into town or head to the beach, but secluded enough to make you feel disconnected from “everyday life”
See moreS
Samuel
February 2026
Tent
The campsite seemed very nice! I planned a trip with my best friend to visit UC Santa Cruz, and we chose to stay overnight there at the campground. We arrived extremely late, which is not recommended by him, but we planned it at the very last minute, so we didn't read the full instructions. Likely a mistake on our part, but the link to the location of the sight took us to the wrong spot at first. However, after going further up the road, we found the driveway entrance. When we were lost, Scott was incredibly helpful and understanding. I recommend you stay there if you want to camp a bit in Santa Cruz. It's a bit expensive, but a good spot.
See moreL
Lorenzo
January 2026
15 ft campervan
With kids
I love our spot and I can’t wait to be back over summer. I would highly recommend “saddle mountains” to all my friends and family.
See more
M
Martie
January 2026
Tent
Beautiful views, but still felt very tucked away. Staff was super friendly & bathrooms were very clean, we had a great stay!
See more
R
Randy
January 2026
Tent
With pets
Amazing place! Peaceful, isolated, responsive host… a perfect spot!
See more
MAX
December 2025
Tent
With pets
Every moment of this trip will be shared on our YouTube channel, AMERSIAN CAMPERS.
If you enjoy peaceful camping, nature, and authentic outdoor experiences, follow us on YouTube and Instagram for the full adventure.
Our recent campground visit was exactly what we needed.
The site was tucked deep in a redwood forest—private, peaceful, and surrounded by nature. Each spot was thoughtfully prepared with a leveled pad for an RV or tent, a picnic table, and a fire pit. Upon arrival, the owner personally greeted us, guided us to our site, and even kindly offered firewood for the evening.
The entire campground felt calm, quiet, and secluded—true off-the-grid relaxation. The owners and their family were some of the warmest, kindest people we’ve ever met. On our second day, they stopped by to say hello and even brought their horses. Our dog was absolutely thrilled to see them.
This getaway was especially meaningful for us during the holidays—a perfect chance to reset and prepare for the new year.
See more
n
niamh
December 2025
1 night at Saddle Mountain Carmel
Immaculate vibes, short drive into Carmel, private setting - I stayed in December and was super cozy and warm! Would return.
See more
J
Jennie
December 2025
Group trip
Had a wonderful experience in this peaceful and amazing space, so much so that as soon as I left I was already looking into booking another experience in the future. . Big Sur accommodated exactly the needs I envisioned for my 30th birthday with my closest friends. We all adored the property so much and wish we could have extended. Though small, it definitely provided enough space and sleeping arrangements for my group. Thank you Saddle Mountain! Can’t wait to return ◡̈
See moreJ
Jasmine
December 2025
16 ft car
With kids
Wow! What a treat. The Creek Site is private, quiet, and so peaceful. We travel with a little one, and we felt safe and comfortable the whole time. The short hike from the site to the creek was the perfect challenge for the kiddo's little legs. We were immersed in nature and lulled to sleep by the sound of the creek below, but the property was also just a short drive to nearby amenities and attractions. (We couldn't miss the steam train in Felton.) Doug was very communicative and friendly. We will definitely come back.
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H
Heather
November 2025
18 ft campervan
With pets
Great secluded spot in the redwoods! You’ll have the nice cleared wooded area to yourselves. We stayed at campsite 1 up top. Campsite 2 is about a mile down the dirt road closer to the creek. It’s a nice hike down and gets pretty steep at the end. There are no toilets, but well water. We had no problem driving our 2 wheel drive camper van there. Just the camping we like. Beautiful woodsy area and just us! Nice hosts, we’ll be back!
See more
C
Cath
November 2025
Tent
With pets
We really enjoyed our stay here! The campsite is spacious, private, and wonderfully quiet — exactly what we were looking for. Our anxious dog actually slept better here than at any other campsite we’ve been to, which says a lot. He didn’t wake up every few minutes to check the surroundings; he was completely at peace.
A couple of things to note: the kitchen area could use a bit of attention. Also, make sure to arrive before dark. The driveway is very steep, but my 2WD was able to make it with careful driving.
Overall, a beautiful and peaceful spot, and we would definitely come back!
See morep
paul
November 2025
Tent
With kids
Rad spot in the redwoods. Next door access to great mountain bike trails. Really easy trip into town. Good parking and flat tent sites.
We’ll definitely be back
See more
S
Sarah
November 2025
16 ft car
This is our second time to this beautiful property and we will return again. Doug and Denise are both very warm and welcoming. They are the perfect combination of offering help if needed but also giving us our space. The property is just beautiful with a river you can walk to and so many varieties of mushrooms. Don’t forget to look out for the banana slugs!
See more
C
Chase
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
We really love the idea that this space was in a lot of nature, but also had just enough amenities to keep our big group from having to work too hard on our relaxing weekend away
See moreB
Billy
November 2025
Tent
I loved our drive-in tent spot. The accommodations were very nice. Really liked watching the sunset from our hillside spot.
See more
