Camping in the Bay Area

·

The San Francisco Bay Area may seem like an urban hub but don't be fooled. Beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, you find Pacific beaches, foggy shorelines, and dense Redwood groves. While many campers are making the long drive to Yosemite, savvy travelers explore a trove of Bay Area state parks.

Just an hour's drive south of the city, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a hidden gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Pitch your tent among towering California redwood groves. Don't forget your cookware—the park has some nifty campground grills.

Want to see the Golden Gate Bridge from your tent? Kirby Cove is the park for you. Nestled right on the bay, it's one of the most popular parks in the region. It tends to book out months in advance, so get yourself on that guest list early.

If you're looking for beach camping, head to Point Reyes National Seashore. The hike-in and boat-in camping spots are secluded, and you can't beat catching the morning surf. While hiking the shore, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, elephant seals, and sea lions.

If you're traveling with kids, head to Samuel P. Taylor State Park, one of the oldest campgrounds in the country. The hiking trails are fairly easy, offering views of Lagunitas Creek, redwood forests, and rolling hills with wild turkeys. For more fun, bike the paved cycling path, or take your four-legged buddy on the Cross Marin trail.

On the continental side of San Francisco Bay, you come to East Bay, an outdoor haven at San Francisco's doorstep. Boat Lake Chabot, hike Wildcat Canyon, or camp at Redwood Regional Park for a taste of adventure.

From state parks with hike-in and bike-in sites to private campgrounds, Bay Area camping helps you connect with the great outdoors. If glamping is more your style, don't worry. You find plenty of seaside cottages, mountain yurts, and wilderness cabins in the region.

The mild climate of the Bay Area makes for great year-round camping. However, scoring a site during summer can be tough. To beat the crowds, pack your rain gear and travel during the winter wet season. Pro tip: If you're camping on the bay in any season, bring a rain jacket. The damp fog rolls in when you least expect it.

96% (5.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bay Area

1. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

98%
(318)
35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Watsonville, CA
✨ The Secret Gardens ✨ Once upon a time, hidden just beyond the whispers of the ocean breeze, there was a secret place where roses stretched toward the sky, dahlias painted the land with color, and lavender cascaded like purple waterfalls. No one quite knew how to find it—until they stumbled upon it. Here, hearts opened with ease, carried by birdsong, the sway of ancient oaks, the fragrance of woodsmoke, and the laughter that seemed to live in the very air. The Secret Gardens unfurls across 11 acres of enchanted redwoods and noble oaks, where each campsite bears a name drawn straight from the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Guests often tell us: “One night is never enough.” And indeed, when you step out of your car, words and pictures fail—there is only the Wow. In true secret-garden spirit, we share just enough glimpses to spark curiosity. The real magic is revealed only when you arrive. Just one mile from Seascape Beach and a short stroll to Seascape Village—with its quaint cafés, market, spa, and more—our haven balances wild wonder with simple comforts. 🌿 The Realms of the Secret Gardens 🌲 Tulgey Woods Nestled beneath towering redwoods, this woodland hosts RV and tent sites, along with Dodo’s Glamp and the Secret Wagon. Here you’ll find showers, bathrooms, a communal kitchen, a campfire circle, and outdoor dining spaces. It’s perfect for families, car campers, and adventurers with roomy tents. ♟️ Chessboard Land Where play and comfort intertwine: cabins, a communal lounge, a sprawling kitchen, living-wall showers, cozy firepits, and even a projector screen for starlit cinema nights. This is the social heart of the gardens. 🐇 Rabbit Holes (open late spring through summer) Two primitive hideaways—Tweedledee and Tweedledum—await in the wilder reaches of the land. Here, no cars intrude; instead, we whisk your belongings by ATV to these tucked-away forest nooks. 🌸 Private Group Groves Three secluded enclaves designed for gatherings, each with its own bathroom, shower, grill, and sink: • Cheshire Grove • The Horseshoe • Wonderland ⸻ 🌟 What Awaits You • Cozy cabins, Dodo’s Glamp, and the Secret Wagon—complete with bedding, heaters, and access to Chessboard Land’s wonders. • Communal spaces alive with warmth: kitchen, fire pits and trail
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$99
 / night

2. Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

99%
(98)
5 sites · Lodging · Woodside, CA
Breathe deep in nature on our 10-acre property on 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. The property is located 30min from SFO, 40min from San Francisco, 30min from Palo Alto, 20 min from Half Moon Bay. 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. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$135
 / night

3. Salmon Creek Ranch

97%
(3542)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bodega Bay, CA
Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$120
 / night

6. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Tower Park

356 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lodi, CA
Visit a place where family fun is the main attraction and memories are waiting to be made. Jellystone Park™ Tower Park, CA is the best campground in California for families having received the Excellence Award from Camp Jellystone. Our Northern California campground is a short distance away from Sacramento. It's not just a campground, it's Jellystone Park™! Located along the beautiful byways of the California Delta, so many fun memories are just waiting to be made by campers and glampers alike. Whether you're looking for luxury cabin rentals in Northern California, the adventure of tent camping, or arrive in style to park in one of our Red Carpet RV sites, a vacation created just for you awaits. When our campers aren't busy swimming and splashing at Yogi Bear's Water Zone, relaxing in our lazy river, or bouncing high on our jumping pillow, they can enjoy endless outdoor activities and attractions that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, we're one of the best snowbird campgrounds in California, offering monthly and extended stay accommodations. We invite you to Jellystone Park™ to not only find your next outdoor adventure - find one that becomes your family tradition for years to come.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$61
 / night

17. Slide Ranch

96%
(157)
25 sites · Tents, Lodging · Muir Beach, CA
Slide Ranch is a nonprofit organization established in 1970, becoming one of the first Park Partners in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Slide Ranch is located on the Marin coast, on land that has a rich history in connecting people to food. The Coast Miwok once fished and foraged for food at this site, and in the late 19th century Portuguese dairy farmers purchased the land and produced milk and butter for residents of San Francisco. In 1969, 134 acres of this fertile coastline were rescued from commercial development. Slide Ranch camping fees directly fund scholarships for youth programs throughout the year. Slide Ranch is an unpaved ranch environment. Our trails and garden paths all consist of uneven, sloping terrain, often muddy or soft ground during the winter season, and may be challenging to access for visitors with significant mobility restrictions. Minors aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed; service animals are permitted. We do not have showering facilities or flush toilets. Water in all Slide Ranch taps is potable for refilling water bottles/jugs. Soap is provided for hand washing. Slide Ranch does not have any concessions on site. Camping is not supported by the on-site staff. Per current GGNRA regulations, campfires and open flames of any kind are not allowed.
Toilets
Potable water
Wifi
from 
$50
 / night

18. Windsor Family Farm

100%
(743)
2 sites · Lodging · San Martin, CA
We are a small farm in Silicon Valley. We are basically a petting zoo and kid-friendly destination! You can stay in our "Flying Pig" cabin (sleeps up to 5), or our "Room with a view of a Ewe" (sleeps 3)....or bring friends 'n' family - and reserve both :-) Please PLEASE read further for more information! and read again just before you come :-) The guest restroom (outside entry in the main house) is shared with other guests. I clean it every day, between every group or guest. We have bikes for kids, playhouses, playground, so many kid activities....and of course, animals galore!! You can feed or pet many of them. Relax, the place is yours! One mile away is Harvey Bear County Park, with trails for bikes, horses or walking. We are 5 minutes from the Gilroy Outlets, yet a world away from the hustle and bustle! Come, relax and enjoy nature! Enjoy Gilroy Gardens (seasonally) or go hiking at a nearby State or County Park. Or just relax at the Farm. We will make this a special day for you! Let us know if you are celebrating an event * CHECK-IN is after 4:00pm and please give us a 30 min heads-up before your arrival. CHECK OUT is 10am, unless previous arrangements have been made. Please be as specific as you can regarding your arrival time (so I can make the temp in there as comfortable as possible, turn on lights as needed, etc.) ** We are a "Bed and Breakfast"; most days we have other day-guests and events here, so please respect the arrival and check-out times. If you stay 2 nights, please be aware that you most likely won't have the whole farm to yourselves during the day. This is an animal farm. If you love new animal experiences, this is the place for you! If you are scared of or allergic to cats or dogs, this might not be the place for you! If you can't handle new smells and sounds, this might not be the place for you. You will feed and enjoy the animals; please respect their space, no chasing and no going into their enclosures. There is dirt, dust and various country critters. We love Country Life!! If you are adventurous and love animals and want a unique experience, come check us out! Restroom available in the main house (short walk from the cabin). Small fridge and microwave next to the restroom. There is no kitchen/oven/stove available. Gas Fire pit available ; there is no BBQ. We are exceptionally cautious with camp fires. If it is particularly hot and windy, there will be no fires. We now have a gas fire pit where you can create smores or just enjoy the campfire ambiance. Price is $175 for the Flying Pig (up to 5 total). Another option (as an add-on): you can pitch a tent for $45. "The Flying Pig" has a queen bed, bunk beds twin size, and a loft with a twin mattress, all bedding included. You are not just paying for a place to sleep; you are paying for an experience and the enjoyment of our property :-). We serve a continental breakfast (free) or hot breakfast ($35/cabin) between 8-9am. (we can accommodate vegetarian and dairy free diets; let us know before you come). We provide bedding and towels. There is A/C and a plug-in heater in The Flying Pig. Please do not bring additional things to plug in except for chargers for phone/electronic devices. We are approximately 1 1/2 hours south of San Francisco, 30 min south of San Jose (without traffic). Gilroy Gardens is 15 min away; Harvey Bear County park is 1 mile away; Monterey and Santa Cruz and the Pinnacles National Park are approximately 1 hour away. We recommend bringing dinner or eating before arrival to maximize your evening. Contact us for more info. If you want to celebrate a birthday and bring friends for the evening, there is an additional fee for parties. (Please contact us about this). If you want to bring a few friends just to enjoy the evening, we now have that as an add-on. SPECIAL PACKAGES :-). Must be PRE-ordered and paid thru Hipcamp or upon arrival ~ *smore's kit (Everything -- including use of our gas fire pit -- that you will need to create amazing roasted marshmallows and smores sandwiches!) $20 *Child Birthday package: small gift and special treat $10 *use of fire pit (propane expense) $10
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$145
 / night

19. #2 HMB Highway Overnight Rest Stop

85%
(180)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Half Moon Bay, CA
WELCOME PLEASE READ! Overnight parking and Rest Stop on South Highway One. ***Not zoned for big groups, meet ups, celebrations or parties*** 1-4 persons One vehicle only per booking. Single car, trucks, campers vans or motorcycles are welcome. NO Towable Trailers or RVs. Gravel road. Follow directions given at booking, no signage is allowed on highway. Parking SITE IS MARKED ON TABLE TOP. ONE picnic table, a parking spot and a tent area. Site #1, 2 and 3. Site #1 and 3 are next to open grass area. Site #2 is more private and a favorite of camper vans or Inside sleeping. Private gravel road into parking area and grounds for overnight tent. Port-a potty, water hose and garbage in same area. No Charcoal stoves, Okay to use ‘PROPANE Bar-B-Que’ on gravel only. NO OPEN FIRE PITS allowed. Walk to beach bluffs 10 minutes west. Walk to town 10 minutes north. An abundance of seasonal wildflowers and wild berries year round. Observe rare. Species of birds. Next to FARM horses and chickens. Ocean may be loud. Highway may be heard. No pets please. Noise curfew is sundown.
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
$49
 / night

20. The Olive Farm

99%
(366)
4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Novato, CA
Excellent Group Site! We only host one group at a time so you can be with your family and friends in a large, flat and private space. We listed the site for up to 12 campers but feel free to reach out if your group is bigger. Please check out the newest addition of our cabin bunkhouse. Take a look at the pictures - you can add it to your stay as an extra when you book! The land was originally purchased in the 1980's. Since then, it has been used by four generations of the family as a place to gather, relax, camp and even celebrate. I had my wedding on the property in 2010. For a few years we held an annual music festival with the very inventive name of Samapalooza. Up to 400 people would attend the day filled with live music, food and drinks. You will still find the stage and bar we built as an outdoor kitchen and dining area. Around 2008, my father and I planted our first olive trees. Many have been planted since which has gifted the land the timeless sense of purpose it deserves. My father dedicated his last years to tending the young trees and now I have taken the mantle to carry the farm forward. 'The Property', as it is known amongst family and friends has always been a place to camp. I have sat around the same fire ring for decades, rain or shine. I hope that fellow hipcampers can find the joy that my family and I have experienced here. This is a very private camp on a small olive farm. Geographically close to highways and the town of Novato, Sonoma and Napa wine country, this camp feels remote and secluded. Only one camp on the property to keep it private and special. You basically have your run of the land. We have just updated the land and made some nice improvements. Located on ten acres, you will drive past a small olive grove before reaching the spacious and open campground. Just up the hill from the camp is a private pond where you can fish, take out a small boat or just sit and watch the birds. It can be great swimming on hot summer days. This spot has been used by the family for decades and is now open to share with fellow nature lovers. Just a note: While the majority of the time you can expect complete privacy, this is a working olive farm. From time to time you may run into me (Sam) or someone else associated with the land. We will always do our best to respect your space.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$126
 / night

The San Francisco Bay Area may seem like an urban hub but don't be fooled. Beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, you find Pacific beaches, foggy shorelines, and dense Redwood groves. While many campers are making the long drive to Yosemite, savvy travelers explore a trove of Bay Area state parks.

Just an hour's drive south of the city, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a hidden gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Pitch your tent among towering California redwood groves. Don't forget your cookware—the park has some nifty campground grills.

Want to see the Golden Gate Bridge from your tent? Kirby Cove is the park for you. Nestled right on the bay, it's one of the most popular parks in the region. It tends to book out months in advance, so get yourself on that guest list early.

If you're looking for beach camping, head to Point Reyes National Seashore. The hike-in and boat-in camping spots are secluded, and you can't beat catching the morning surf. While hiking the shore, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, elephant seals, and sea lions.

If you're traveling with kids, head to Samuel P. Taylor State Park, one of the oldest campgrounds in the country. The hiking trails are fairly easy, offering views of Lagunitas Creek, redwood forests, and rolling hills with wild turkeys. For more fun, bike the paved cycling path, or take your four-legged buddy on the Cross Marin trail.

On the continental side of San Francisco Bay, you come to East Bay, an outdoor haven at San Francisco's doorstep. Boat Lake Chabot, hike Wildcat Canyon, or camp at Redwood Regional Park for a taste of adventure.

From state parks with hike-in and bike-in sites to private campgrounds, Bay Area camping helps you connect with the great outdoors. If glamping is more your style, don't worry. You find plenty of seaside cottages, mountain yurts, and wilderness cabins in the region.

The mild climate of the Bay Area makes for great year-round camping. However, scoring a site during summer can be tough. To beat the crowds, pack your rain gear and travel during the winter wet season. Pro tip: If you're camping on the bay in any season, bring a rain jacket. The damp fog rolls in when you least expect it.

96% (5.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bay Area

1. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

98%
(318)
35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Watsonville, CA
✨ The Secret Gardens ✨ Once upon a time, hidden just beyond the whispers of the ocean breeze, there was a secret place where roses stretched toward the sky, dahlias painted the land with color, and lavender cascaded like purple waterfalls. No one quite knew how to find it—until they stumbled upon it. Here, hearts opened with ease, carried by birdsong, the sway of ancient oaks, the fragrance of woodsmoke, and the laughter that seemed to live in the very air. The Secret Gardens unfurls across 11 acres of enchanted redwoods and noble oaks, where each campsite bears a name drawn straight from the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Guests often tell us: “One night is never enough.” And indeed, when you step out of your car, words and pictures fail—there is only the Wow. In true secret-garden spirit, we share just enough glimpses to spark curiosity. The real magic is revealed only when you arrive. Just one mile from Seascape Beach and a short stroll to Seascape Village—with its quaint cafés, market, spa, and more—our haven balances wild wonder with simple comforts. 🌿 The Realms of the Secret Gardens 🌲 Tulgey Woods Nestled beneath towering redwoods, this woodland hosts RV and tent sites, along with Dodo’s Glamp and the Secret Wagon. Here you’ll find showers, bathrooms, a communal kitchen, a campfire circle, and outdoor dining spaces. It’s perfect for families, car campers, and adventurers with roomy tents. ♟️ Chessboard Land Where play and comfort intertwine: cabins, a communal lounge, a sprawling kitchen, living-wall showers, cozy firepits, and even a projector screen for starlit cinema nights. This is the social heart of the gardens. 🐇 Rabbit Holes (open late spring through summer) Two primitive hideaways—Tweedledee and Tweedledum—await in the wilder reaches of the land. Here, no cars intrude; instead, we whisk your belongings by ATV to these tucked-away forest nooks. 🌸 Private Group Groves Three secluded enclaves designed for gatherings, each with its own bathroom, shower, grill, and sink: • Cheshire Grove • The Horseshoe • Wonderland ⸻ 🌟 What Awaits You • Cozy cabins, Dodo’s Glamp, and the Secret Wagon—complete with bedding, heaters, and access to Chessboard Land’s wonders. • Communal spaces alive with warmth: kitchen, fire pits and trail
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$99
 / night

2. Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

99%
(98)
5 sites · Lodging · Woodside, CA
Breathe deep in nature on our 10-acre property on 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. The property is located 30min from SFO, 40min from San Francisco, 30min from Palo Alto, 20 min from Half Moon Bay. 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. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$135
 / night

3. Salmon Creek Ranch

97%
(3542)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bodega Bay, CA
Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$120
 / night

6. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Tower Park

356 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lodi, CA
Visit a place where family fun is the main attraction and memories are waiting to be made. Jellystone Park™ Tower Park, CA is the best campground in California for families having received the Excellence Award from Camp Jellystone. Our Northern California campground is a short distance away from Sacramento. It's not just a campground, it's Jellystone Park™! Located along the beautiful byways of the California Delta, so many fun memories are just waiting to be made by campers and glampers alike. Whether you're looking for luxury cabin rentals in Northern California, the adventure of tent camping, or arrive in style to park in one of our Red Carpet RV sites, a vacation created just for you awaits. When our campers aren't busy swimming and splashing at Yogi Bear's Water Zone, relaxing in our lazy river, or bouncing high on our jumping pillow, they can enjoy endless outdoor activities and attractions that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, we're one of the best snowbird campgrounds in California, offering monthly and extended stay accommodations. We invite you to Jellystone Park™ to not only find your next outdoor adventure - find one that becomes your family tradition for years to come.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$61
 / night

17. Slide Ranch

96%
(157)
25 sites · Tents, Lodging · Muir Beach, CA
Slide Ranch is a nonprofit organization established in 1970, becoming one of the first Park Partners in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Slide Ranch is located on the Marin coast, on land that has a rich history in connecting people to food. The Coast Miwok once fished and foraged for food at this site, and in the late 19th century Portuguese dairy farmers purchased the land and produced milk and butter for residents of San Francisco. In 1969, 134 acres of this fertile coastline were rescued from commercial development. Slide Ranch camping fees directly fund scholarships for youth programs throughout the year. Slide Ranch is an unpaved ranch environment. Our trails and garden paths all consist of uneven, sloping terrain, often muddy or soft ground during the winter season, and may be challenging to access for visitors with significant mobility restrictions. Minors aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed; service animals are permitted. We do not have showering facilities or flush toilets. Water in all Slide Ranch taps is potable for refilling water bottles/jugs. Soap is provided for hand washing. Slide Ranch does not have any concessions on site. Camping is not supported by the on-site staff. Per current GGNRA regulations, campfires and open flames of any kind are not allowed.
Toilets
Potable water
Wifi
from 
$50
 / night

18. Windsor Family Farm

100%
(743)
2 sites · Lodging · San Martin, CA
We are a small farm in Silicon Valley. We are basically a petting zoo and kid-friendly destination! You can stay in our "Flying Pig" cabin (sleeps up to 5), or our "Room with a view of a Ewe" (sleeps 3)....or bring friends 'n' family - and reserve both :-) Please PLEASE read further for more information! and read again just before you come :-) The guest restroom (outside entry in the main house) is shared with other guests. I clean it every day, between every group or guest. We have bikes for kids, playhouses, playground, so many kid activities....and of course, animals galore!! You can feed or pet many of them. Relax, the place is yours! One mile away is Harvey Bear County Park, with trails for bikes, horses or walking. We are 5 minutes from the Gilroy Outlets, yet a world away from the hustle and bustle! Come, relax and enjoy nature! Enjoy Gilroy Gardens (seasonally) or go hiking at a nearby State or County Park. Or just relax at the Farm. We will make this a special day for you! Let us know if you are celebrating an event * CHECK-IN is after 4:00pm and please give us a 30 min heads-up before your arrival. CHECK OUT is 10am, unless previous arrangements have been made. Please be as specific as you can regarding your arrival time (so I can make the temp in there as comfortable as possible, turn on lights as needed, etc.) ** We are a "Bed and Breakfast"; most days we have other day-guests and events here, so please respect the arrival and check-out times. If you stay 2 nights, please be aware that you most likely won't have the whole farm to yourselves during the day. This is an animal farm. If you love new animal experiences, this is the place for you! If you are scared of or allergic to cats or dogs, this might not be the place for you! If you can't handle new smells and sounds, this might not be the place for you. You will feed and enjoy the animals; please respect their space, no chasing and no going into their enclosures. There is dirt, dust and various country critters. We love Country Life!! If you are adventurous and love animals and want a unique experience, come check us out! Restroom available in the main house (short walk from the cabin). Small fridge and microwave next to the restroom. There is no kitchen/oven/stove available. Gas Fire pit available ; there is no BBQ. We are exceptionally cautious with camp fires. If it is particularly hot and windy, there will be no fires. We now have a gas fire pit where you can create smores or just enjoy the campfire ambiance. Price is $175 for the Flying Pig (up to 5 total). Another option (as an add-on): you can pitch a tent for $45. "The Flying Pig" has a queen bed, bunk beds twin size, and a loft with a twin mattress, all bedding included. You are not just paying for a place to sleep; you are paying for an experience and the enjoyment of our property :-). We serve a continental breakfast (free) or hot breakfast ($35/cabin) between 8-9am. (we can accommodate vegetarian and dairy free diets; let us know before you come). We provide bedding and towels. There is A/C and a plug-in heater in The Flying Pig. Please do not bring additional things to plug in except for chargers for phone/electronic devices. We are approximately 1 1/2 hours south of San Francisco, 30 min south of San Jose (without traffic). Gilroy Gardens is 15 min away; Harvey Bear County park is 1 mile away; Monterey and Santa Cruz and the Pinnacles National Park are approximately 1 hour away. We recommend bringing dinner or eating before arrival to maximize your evening. Contact us for more info. If you want to celebrate a birthday and bring friends for the evening, there is an additional fee for parties. (Please contact us about this). If you want to bring a few friends just to enjoy the evening, we now have that as an add-on. SPECIAL PACKAGES :-). Must be PRE-ordered and paid thru Hipcamp or upon arrival ~ *smore's kit (Everything -- including use of our gas fire pit -- that you will need to create amazing roasted marshmallows and smores sandwiches!) $20 *Child Birthday package: small gift and special treat $10 *use of fire pit (propane expense) $10
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$145
 / night

19. #2 HMB Highway Overnight Rest Stop

85%
(180)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Half Moon Bay, CA
WELCOME PLEASE READ! Overnight parking and Rest Stop on South Highway One. ***Not zoned for big groups, meet ups, celebrations or parties*** 1-4 persons One vehicle only per booking. Single car, trucks, campers vans or motorcycles are welcome. NO Towable Trailers or RVs. Gravel road. Follow directions given at booking, no signage is allowed on highway. Parking SITE IS MARKED ON TABLE TOP. ONE picnic table, a parking spot and a tent area. Site #1, 2 and 3. Site #1 and 3 are next to open grass area. Site #2 is more private and a favorite of camper vans or Inside sleeping. Private gravel road into parking area and grounds for overnight tent. Port-a potty, water hose and garbage in same area. No Charcoal stoves, Okay to use ‘PROPANE Bar-B-Que’ on gravel only. NO OPEN FIRE PITS allowed. Walk to beach bluffs 10 minutes west. Walk to town 10 minutes north. An abundance of seasonal wildflowers and wild berries year round. Observe rare. Species of birds. Next to FARM horses and chickens. Ocean may be loud. Highway may be heard. No pets please. Noise curfew is sundown.
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
$49
 / night

20. The Olive Farm

99%
(366)
4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Novato, CA
Excellent Group Site! We only host one group at a time so you can be with your family and friends in a large, flat and private space. We listed the site for up to 12 campers but feel free to reach out if your group is bigger. Please check out the newest addition of our cabin bunkhouse. Take a look at the pictures - you can add it to your stay as an extra when you book! The land was originally purchased in the 1980's. Since then, it has been used by four generations of the family as a place to gather, relax, camp and even celebrate. I had my wedding on the property in 2010. For a few years we held an annual music festival with the very inventive name of Samapalooza. Up to 400 people would attend the day filled with live music, food and drinks. You will still find the stage and bar we built as an outdoor kitchen and dining area. Around 2008, my father and I planted our first olive trees. Many have been planted since which has gifted the land the timeless sense of purpose it deserves. My father dedicated his last years to tending the young trees and now I have taken the mantle to carry the farm forward. 'The Property', as it is known amongst family and friends has always been a place to camp. I have sat around the same fire ring for decades, rain or shine. I hope that fellow hipcampers can find the joy that my family and I have experienced here. This is a very private camp on a small olive farm. Geographically close to highways and the town of Novato, Sonoma and Napa wine country, this camp feels remote and secluded. Only one camp on the property to keep it private and special. You basically have your run of the land. We have just updated the land and made some nice improvements. Located on ten acres, you will drive past a small olive grove before reaching the spacious and open campground. Just up the hill from the camp is a private pond where you can fish, take out a small boat or just sit and watch the birds. It can be great swimming on hot summer days. This spot has been used by the family for decades and is now open to share with fellow nature lovers. Just a note: While the majority of the time you can expect complete privacy, this is a working olive farm. From time to time you may run into me (Sam) or someone else associated with the land. We will always do our best to respect your space.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$126
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field