Camping on California's Central Coast

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California's Central Coast covers 230 miles of Pacific coastline north of Los Angeles and south of San Francisco. With temperate weather year-round and easy ocean access, this is an extremely popular destination! Call ahead when planning your camping locations to make reservations whenever possible.

Pismo Beach, near San Luis Obispo at the midpoint of the Central Coast, provides plenty of adventure options. Camp on the state beach or rent an ATV and hit the dunes. For a slightly quieter experience, head just 30 minutes north to reach Morro Bay. Bring binoculars; this area's excellent for Hipcampers who enjoy birdwatching.

The gorgeous Big Sur area is a bit further north, just south of Monterey Bay. You'll find excellent hiking options here, ranging from easy sightseeing strolls to challenging treks. Two of the best trails are both accessible from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The McWay Waterfall Trail offers Big Sur's most spectacular view; the Ewoldsen Trail takes you through breathtaking Redwood groves.

Manresa State Beach Campground near Santa Cruz offers about 60 first-come, first-served tent sites. Here you get both beach access and a phenomenal view of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Manresa's also a solid choice if you enjoy fishing. Bass, perch, flounder, and halibut all swim in Monterey Bay.

94% (8K) • 2,260 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Central Coast

Saddle Mountain Carmel

1. Saddle Mountain Carmel

91%
(677)
Carmel, CA · 52 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, all our sites are pet friendly, but there are additional fees and size limitations depending on the type of site. Please add to the reservation or message us. On site seasonally heated pool (Memorial Day weekend in May through October). 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, ping pong 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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Felton Open Space Camp Sites

2. Felton Open Space Camp Sites

95%
(587)
Felton, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Next to Historic Winery in the heart of Santa Cruz Mountains in the quaint town of Felton. Located between two state parks, Henry Cowell and Fall Creek. Just 6 miles, up in the mountains, from the Pacific Ocean and the Monterey Bay. Half a mile from the famous Roaring Camp Railway. Wine & Cider tasting next door at Hallcrest Vineyards; Dine in Felton, hiking, biking and local shops to explore. Please note when booking that each of the sites are limited up to 4 adults only. PET POLICY: Aggressive dogs, Pitbulls and pitbull mixes are not allowed. Rescue dogs that have issues with people or other dogs are not allowed. Children are welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

3. Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

96%
(100)
Ben Lomond, CA · 4 sites
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.
Toilets
Picnic table
Los Padres National Forest

4. Los Padres National Forest

95%
(466)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Emma Wood State Beach

5. Emma Wood State Beach

96%
(29)
State park in California · 93 sites
Fish, surf, and explore WWII ruins at this Southern California beach.
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Toilets
Campfires
dabudage Big Sur

6. dabudage Big Sur

96%
(824)
CA · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
⭐DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. 🌈🌊***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. ⭐ 🌲Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. 🌪️*The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes a 15% cut from hosts. Guests are also charged an additional 20+%. 🌖 for more information on discounts / avoid fees, you can visit our site direct on the web at dabudage 💸 *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. 🪨A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Great for families with children. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. ⚡️*YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED⚡️ Requests are usually checked once daily.🏄‍♂️
Pets
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Campfires
Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

7. Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

99%
(1261)
Gaviota, CA · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Howdy, campers, Welcome to our rustic resort. We look forward to hosting you. We place campers on a first come first serve bases. Larger groups and campers booking more than one night take priority. Feel free to ask any questions, we will get back to you ASAP. Answers to the most common questions below... Yes, we an outdoor shower at cactus flower beach (our version of a beach with cold dunk tubs, shade trees, day bed cabaña and lounge chairs for when it's hot.) Yes, you can use a propane camp stove or cook at our common area bbq in front of the barn where we light a real wood fire for campers to socialize with us, other campers and visit our speakeasy. Yes, we provide propane for the propane fire pits. Yes, your dog can run off-leash. Yes, each site has a picnic table, umbrella, propane fire pit. Most sites have a hammock and hammock stand. Please pack your trash out there is a dumpster at the front gate entrance/exit for your trash. You can support our farm by buying eggs, hats, stickers, and other items, all for sale in the barn. Sincerely, Sierra, Darin, and The Freedog Crew! By booking and agreeing to camp, you accept the waiver and release of liability, without a wet signature. The Entire Waiver can be found under the "Rules" section of our listing.
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Showers
Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

8. Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

89%
(135)
Los Gatos, CA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE READ FULLY AND COMPLETELY. Patchen Farm is a 6 acre, choose and cut Christmas tree farm. Since the farm is only open during the holiday season, in the off season you'll find a working farm (work being done, cars coming and going, etc.). THIS IS A NO FRILLS STAY. NO ATTENDANT ON SITE. NO NEED TO CHECK IN OR OUT. NO RESTROOM. Patchen is located only 10 mins from downtown Los Gatos in one direction and the Santa Cruz beach in the other direction. Perched at the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Patchen offers the scenic beauty of lush redwood forests and views of the surrounding area. There are several wonderful wineries within 5 miles and great hiking and biking trails. The one and only store in the mountains is the Summit Store and just 3 miles down Summit Road. They have plenty of the essentials plus an excellent deli, wine collection and coffee bar. NO CHECK IN OR CHECK OUT NECESSARY NO RESTROOM ON SITE NO ATTENDANT ON SITE WATER and POWER are marked with signs (EACH SERVICE IS $20 PER NIGHT) NO TRASH SHOULD BE LEFT AT THE PROPERTY Payment envelopes at red barn door or Venmo 408-605-1522 Zelle 408-605-1522 Water can be found near the giant wreath just inside entrance and on either end of the red barn. Power is 15 amp and can be found near the giant wreath just inside the entrance, mid-way up the parking lot on the in the wood chips and at the tiny red shack.
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

9. Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

97%
(327)
La Selva Beach, CA · 1 site
We are currently offering one campsite with awesome views for self contained units only. Our property is an eight minute walk to the beach! We are pet friendly! Welcome to southern Santa Cruz County, home of some of the longest and most beautiful beaches in central California. Enjoy the peaceful view of 300 acres of strawberry fields across the valley. We are a small, working farm with vegetable and flower gardens, chickens and bees. There are many excellent places nearby to hike, walk, surf, swim, tide pool, kayak or just sit and enjoy the view. On site we have a basketball hoop, corn hole, lots of room for kites, frisbees etc. If we appear booked, please inquire anyway, we may have a site that can be opened for a self contained unit. We can usually accommodate early and late check out, please inquire. Our campsite includes water and electric hookups. We welcome self contained units only e.g. Camper vans, RV’s, trailers etc. We do offer a port-a potty and sinks; no shower facilities; good cell service. We provide a fire pit, complimentary firewood, a picnic table and a couple of comfortable chairs. Our property is a great base camp for your Santa Cruz and Monterey County adventures! SFO is 90 minutes away depending on traffic. We regularly host international travelers and we are happy to help you get acquainted with your rig as you set out on your journey. We love to host guests and will happily provide you with information about things to do and see in on the central coast such as Point Lobos, Wilder Ranch, Sunset State Beach, Natural Bridges and more. There is a Dump station a few minutes down the road at the KOA (for a fee).
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Seacliff State Beach

10. Seacliff State Beach

100%
(8)
State park in California · 35 sites
Yeah, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is just up the coast, but you may not want to leave this sandy haven home to a WWI-era tanker.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Santa Margarita Lake

11. Santa Margarita Lake

100%
(9)
Park in California · 57 sites
Do a bit of hiking, fishing, or boat-in camping at this popular California lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hearst San Simeon State Park

12. Hearst San Simeon State Park

100%
(6)
State park in California · 4 sites
Hearst San Simeon State Park is one of the oldest units of the California State Park System. The coastal bluffs and promontories of the scenic park offer unobstructed views of the ocean and rocky shore. The park includes the Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve, the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Pa-nu Cultural Preserve which were established in 1990. A 3.3 mile trail runs through parts of the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Washburn Campground. The trail includes scenic overlooks, rest-stop benches and interpretive panels with information on wildlife and habitat. A portion of the trail along the seasonal wetland is wheelchair accessible. Santa Rosa Creek Preserve is an area which includes valuable riparian forests and coastal wetlands, that provide habitat for endangered Tidewater Goby. San Simeon Natural Preserve consists of vast wetlands, riparian areas, and several undisturbed native plant communities including unique mima mound topography. The Preserve is also the wintering site for monarch butterfly populations. The 13.7 acre Pa-nu Cultural Preserve contains the most significant archeological site within San Simeon State Park. The site has been dated to 5850 years before the present, and it contains significant evidence documenting prehistoric technology, subsistence practices and social organization over the course of several centuries.A unique opportunity to view northern elephant seals is available at the Elephant Seal Boardwalk in Hearst San Simeon State Park. This vantage point provides an ideal location to view these marine mammals from a safe distance.  Located around Point Piedras Blancas, the elephant seal rookery extends along 6 miles of the shoreline.  Elephant seals may be seen throughout the year. The largest populations and the most activity are during the months of late January, April and October.  Although elephant seals spend most of their lives in the open ocean, they arrive at the rookery to give birth, breed, molt and rest from long migrations in the ocean in search of food. The viewing areas are open to the public year round and are wheelchair accessible.  Docents are on site to answer questions. No reservations are required and there is no fee.  Restroom facilities are not available at this location.  The nearest restrooms are 4 miles south of the viewing areas at William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach.
New Brighton State Beach

13. New Brighton State Beach

99%
(70)
State park in California · 110 sites
Wake up to stunning views of Monterey Bay in New Brighton, one of California's best beaches.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Hobbit Hideout

14. The Hobbit Hideout

96%
(357)
Watsonville, CA · 7 sites
This property is best experienced by couples from Friday - Sunday and Familys during the week only and is not suitable for children under 10 or elders with mobility issues. This allows for a fun environment for everyone and dedicated family time as well as quite time. We designed this property because we love to create inspirational spaces dedicated to nature and art. We brought together a huge community to create beautiful buildings using materials that you can find around you such as pallets, clay, sands, straws, etc. Everything is made out of non toxic materials, we even made our own paint out of cooking flours! Being inside these cob buildings feels like being in the womb of Mother Earth: the scent, the calm, the grounding, etc. The woods come from one of our properties and we milled them ourselves. We upcycle almost everything: The tree barks, the branches, even the furnitures were secured from non-profit organizations. We'd like you to come to be inspired! One of the buildings is there as a demonstration site till its done and we'll have the cob builder to be there to show you around. Cob working party is held by a master cob builder. We made your Camping and Glamping experience easy. We provide clean showers, restrooms, toilet paper, paper towels, barbecue, fridge, freezer, popcorn kettles, , utensils, plates, bowls, mugs, coffee maker, pots and pans, cutleries, etc. Yes, there is hot water as well with no coins needed. The campground is located in a serene oak grove area of the property. Its a peaceful getaway with an abundance of bird varieties and occasional wild turkeys passing through. Take a stroll around our 5-acre property and catch a breathtaking sunset from the hillside. The amenities are: Outdoor kitchen, 2 fire pits, outdoor showers and bathrooms, electricity in each cobin, Board games, Yard Games, dog park and an outdoor library for little ones to grown ups. In Winter 2026 we'll add sauna and outdoor tubs for warm winter experience. Your parking spot is within a very short walking distance and there are wagons for you to use to haul your belongings to your camp site.
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Mountain Paradise

15. Mountain Paradise

89%
(40)
Carmel Valley, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
New Location established 2026 January. Located on Cachagua Road in Carmel Valley. Cachagua means “hidden waters” in native and is inspired by the Carmel River and Cachagua Dam nearby. While 8 miles from Carmel valley village and 20 from Carmel by the Sea, our weather is consistently warm and sunny as we are tucked in the hills and in the Valley, surrounded by trees in Los Padres National Forest. Within a mile from the property you will have access to single track trails that connect via foot with Big Sur and the Ventana wilderness area in the Santa Lucia Mountains. On the property itself, you will have access to an electrical outlet and water hookup. 36 feet long by 18 feet wide lot... that means 36 feet long including trailer and towing vehicle. *Gate entry to site is 140 inches wide
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

16. Creekside Camping and Mineral Baths

88%
(823)
Cambria, CA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
We can accommodate tent campers or car campers. Each campsite fits 4-6 people. The price is $40/per person. Kids under 12 are free. Most campsites are accessible by car and all campsites are accessible by foot. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a traditional check in procedure. Campsites are first come first serve. Expect a "self-check in process" most of the time. However, there are sometimes people working onsite that you may run into, that are happy to help and lead you in the right direction. You choose your own campsite so plan to arrive early. You can park and walk around. There is signage that says "CAMP" with Arrows. BYO water. We have sulfur spring water. Great for your skin, not good to drink! There's a couple outhouses on the property. One in the main camp zone, one at the far north end of the lower Redwood campsite. You can also bring a shovel and take a walk if you're in the more remote campsites. We have a dumpster outside the gate for your garbage. IMPORTANT INFO Please don't mind our farm junk/tools as you enterGate 1! We are slowly working on clean up and relocation of materials from the entry road and away from view. Before you arrive, have knowledge of poison oak because it is a native plant. The main photos in the listing are taken from Hipcamp Scouts back in 2018 and they are featuring our Original campsite. This is located past the mineral baths. It's the furthest one to reach, and accessible by foot. I will update photos to depict all the campsites, but please share your photos with us on Instagram and tag @charanspringsfarm to help future campers get a view of what the sites look like with a tent set up! SULFUR MINERAL BATHS Include in your experience the use of our sulfur mineral baths. It's $10 per person. PLEASE BOOK THIS AS AN EXTRA AT CHECKOUT. The mineral baths are 2 funky vintage clawfoot tubs that are pictured in the actual listing.The photos show an accurate description of the Mineral Baths. They are not located in the main camp zone. Please call ahead to book your time slot and get directions to the mineral baths. PLEASE DO NOT BOOK IF: You are looking for "Glamping," (Glamour Camping). It's primitive camping on a private property with bonuses like the garden, rustic baths, and beautiful nature. This property has been a working farm for decades, which has struggled with hard times. If farm yards/junk piles make you uncomfortable or give you a creepy feeling, don't book because our boneyard is adjacent to the entry road and it can't be ignored. Thank you for reading this whole description and we hope you have a good experience.
Pets
Toilets
Camp Rewilding

17. Camp Rewilding

94%
(62)
Morgan Hill, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Secluded private campsites for those willing to make the trek up the mountain. Guests love the privacy, wildlife sightings, and beautiful mountain setting. Whether you’re exploring nearby hiking trails, visiting Gilroy Gardens, or taking a scenic drive to Santa Cruz, this is the perfect base for an outdoor getaway. Amenities include picnic tables, fire pits, and a clean pit toilet to make your rustic camping experience comfortable. Please note: the final few miles to camp are on a rustic mountain road with uneven terrain. The drive is part of the adventure!
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Toilets
Campfires
Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

18. Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

99%
(34)
Lexington Hills, CA · 1 site
Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this serene retreat is surrounded by natural beauty and offers the perfect escape into nature. Conveniently located between Downtown Los Gatos and Downtown Santa Cruz which is just 25 minutes from each. You’ll have easy access to the best of both mountain charm and coastal energy. Outdoor enthusiasts will love being just minutes from the renowned mountain biking trails of Demonstration Forest, scenic hiking routes, and the beloved Summit Store for local provisions. NOTE that NO open fires are allowed by our county but guests are allowed to have a gas or propane stove for cooking. Water is 125' front tent. Toilet is 100' front tent. Outhouse has a honeypot, hand washing station, mirror, hand soap and hand towel. Picnic table. Power plug is 140' from tent to charge your phone, etc. Tent does not leak. Pls disregard LOCATION Earth Map. It's incorrect. See the Google Map in pictures that is correct. This time of year, please consider this COLD CAMPING at night. The tent has 4 extra blankets but you should be prepared to keep yourself warm and prepared for winter weather. If you enjoy the sound of rain on the tent roof for just a little longer this season, please come see our tent. In July, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in Henry Cowell Redwoods, walking along West Cliff Drive, and visiting Natural Bridges State Beach. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is open year-round, offering a chance to experience it with fewer crowds and more deals. You can also visit local attractions like the Mystery Spot, the Santa Cruz Wharf, and the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Check Levi's Stadium for all events you might have intertest in such as concerts, sporting events, etc.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
The Lodge at Deer Creek

19. The Lodge at Deer Creek

91%
(169)
Malibu, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
At The Lodge at Deer Creek you'll be nestled between the majestic Santa Monica Mountains and the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Enjoy sunsets and stargazing from this 25 acre ocean view property. During the day you can swim or surf the famous Malibu waves, hike or bike in the mountains, or enjoy shopping at Pt. Dume or Cross Creek. Grocery, restaurants, and retail are just 15 minutes away along the beautiful coast.
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Showers
Redwood Paradise

20. Redwood Paradise

92%
(165)
Santa Cruz, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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 and private North Coast beaches. Please note tent camping is a rain-or-shine activity. :)
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Toilets
Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Frequently Asked Questions

Free camping on the Central Coast is limited, but there are some options. Most of the free camping spots are dispersed and primitive, so be prepared to follow Leave No Trace principles. Los Padres National Forest offers dispersed camping in certain areas, such as Nacimiento-Fergusson Road, which is popular for its views. In the Big Sur area, Prewitt Ridge is another option for free dispersed camping with incredible views of the coastline. Keep in mind that these sites are first-come, first-served and may have limited amenities. Always check the current regulations and restrictions before heading out.

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