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Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

100%

192 reviews

· Aptos, Santa Cruz, California

9 acres hosted by Matt B.

1 tent site

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

Family-friendly

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.

Best tent-sites: 2nd place

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.

Matt is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Nestled in a canopy of redwoods, less than 10 miles from the beach sits a private and cozy campground. Fern Ridge Flats combines the best of Santa Cruz county. Abundant trees and misty mornings await you at our property in Aptos. Equipped with electricity, water, and a picnic table for your convenience. There are trails on the land for you to explore, animals, and nature to dive into. *************** Smoking and the use of drugs are strictly prohibited. This is a safe and quiet neighborhood with many families including my own. Please do not request to book if you have the intention of partying or using illegal substances. If these rules are violated, local authorities will be called and you will be removed from the campsite. *************** The campsite is less than a 5 minute walk from the parking spot but is relatively steep. Although it is paved it is not recommended for anyone with mobility issues. *************** As an added precaution to protect the lush landscape, the firepit at the campsite utilizes clean burning propane. We chose a burner that closely replicates the size and heat of a wood to enhance our campers' experience.Nestled in a canopy of redwoods, and only 5 miles from the beach and the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park sits a private and cozy campground. Fern Ridge Flats combines the best of Santa Cruz county. Abundant trees and misty mornings await you at our property in Aptos. Equipped with electricity, water, and a picnic table for your convenience. There are trails on the land for you to explore, animals and nature to experience. While staying at the secluded Fern Ridge Flats, It’s easy to forget that only a 10 minute drive gets you to downtown Aptos with trendy new restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy. Get away from it all and reconnect with nature at Fern Ridge Flats.

Activities

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Natural features

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Reviews

100% Recommend223 ratings · 192 reviews

Talisa H.

1 review

Recommends

· March 2025

Fern Forest Flats

Tent ·

Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

This place was absolutely wonderful! It was like stepping into a different country. The site is perfectly nestled in the trees, with a picnic table, fire pit and toilet easily accessible. The trail on the side of the site wasn’t very long but still very beautiful with mossy trees and a little creek! The owners were extremely friendly and not hovering whatsoever! Would definitely book here again and recommend it to everyone!

Saya H.

9 reviews

Recommends

· March 2025

Tent ·

Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

Matt's campsite is wonderful - easy to access, private, and beautiful.

Olivia H.

2 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2025

SO MUCH FUN!

Tent ·

Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

The property was beautiful and me and my friends felt so safe and comfortable! The host was amazing and so kind as well! We genuinely had the best time and would recommend this to everyone!

Lauren M.

4 reviews

Recommends

· March 2025

Tent ·

Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

Gorgeous spot. I recommend arriving during the day if you can, I think it would have made the drive in easier. Follow the directions that will be sent to you, NOT Google maps. Matt was very fast to respond to messages. 10/10, would go back again.

Areli T.

1 month on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2025

First time camping

Tent ·

Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

Loved it ! Host was very responsive and helpful. It felt so safe for my first time ever camping. It was the perfect amount of privacy and an exceptional amount of nature. Would recommend to anyone. Great if you want to visit Big Sur the next day.

Monica M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2025

A Magical and Healing Stay in the R

Tent ·

Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

This Hipcamp near Santa Cruz was the perfect place to honor my mom’s memory after her passing. A close friend of hers and I visited spots she loved and ones she had hoped to see. The peaceful setting made for a deeply meaningful and healing trip. Matt’s hospitality was exceptional. He greeted us warmly, walked us to the campsite, and even set up propane for a fire. Since we planned to leave and return at night, he sent directions for the easier paved route. He also let us keep the lights on overnight to help my mom’s friend, who isn’t as comfortable with camping, feel at ease. The campsite itself is magical, surrounded by towering redwoods. We woke to a hawk’s call in the morning. The space is well-maintained, with a clean toilet setup and even a surprise gallon of water, despite the listing stating none was available. Well water was also accessible for cooking. The location is ideal—secluded yet close to stunning coastal views and must-see spots. The property also offers vintage Airstream camping. Thoughtful touches, like well-lit paths, make it clear that Matt and his family have created a truly special retreat. This was more than a camping trip—it was a space for healing and reflection. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful escape in the redwoods. Thank you, Matt, for such a beautiful experience!

Location

Aptos, Santa Cruz, California, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Popeloutchom (Amah Mutsun), Ohlone, and Awaswas First Nations according to

Native Land Digital.

To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking