The best camping near Carmel Beach, CA

·
97% (7.3K)
97% (7.3K)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Carmel Beach

Bottchers Gap Campground

1. Bottchers Gap Campground

83%
(3)
Campground in Los Padres National Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Come take a view into the Ventana Wilderness from Botcher’s Gap Campground
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Andrew Molera Trail Camp

2. Andrew Molera Trail Camp

93%
(41)
Campground in Andrew Molera State Park · 24 sites
Sleep in a grassy open meadow in your Big Sur campsite at Andrew Molera Trail Camp, waking early to meander along a trail beside the Big Sur River to Molera Beach—a pristine cove that offers excellent surfing, beachcombing, and access to miles of trails along picturesque meadows, beaches, and striking stretches of coastline
Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground

3. Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground

98%
(893)
Campground in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park · 174 sites · Tents, RVs
Take in the beautiful Big Sur coastal views at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sunset Campground

4. Sunset Campground

95%
(53)
Campground in Sunset State Beach · 85 sites · Tents, RVs
Sunset Campground offers 90 campsites with sprawling farms on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sunset Group Area

5. Sunset Group Area

Campground in Sunset State Beach · 1 site
Sunset Group Area at Sunset State Beach offers a beautiful beachfront setting for large groups
Bay Camps

6. Bay Camps

97%
(18)
Campground in Manresa State Beach · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Bay Campground is one of three at Manresa State Beach
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lupine Camps

7. Lupine Camps

96%
(13)
Campground in Manresa State Beach · 22 sites · Tents, RVs
Lupine Camp, along with the other two camps of Manresa State beach has 64 campsites, with parking off-site so you don’t have to listen to the drone of a running RV through the night
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Willow Camps

8. Willow Camps

88%
(8)
Campground in Manresa State Beach · 85 sites · Tents, RVs
Along with Lupine Campground and Bay Campground, the three campgrounds of Manresa State Beach are home to 64 walk-in campsites
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
China Camp Campground

9. China Camp Campground

100%
(4)
Campground in Los Padres National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Pardon us, did somebody say Hot Springs? That’s right
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
White Oaks Campground

10. White Oaks Campground

Campground in Los Padres National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Head out on the adventurous Chews Ridge to White Oak Campground
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Oak Point and Valley View Campground

11. Oak Point and Valley View Campground

86%
(11)
Campground in Fremont Peak State Park · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
The Fremont Peak climb is called a climb for a reason
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Doe Flat Group Campground

12. Doe Flat Group Campground

100%
(3)
Campground in Fremont Peak State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located just inside the park entrance, this group campground holds up to 50 people
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Seacliff State Beach Campground

13. Seacliff State Beach Campground

100%
(8)
RV park in Seacliff State Beach · 35 sites
Camping at Seacliff is only for RVs and trailers, and there are some hookups available
Wilder Ranch Campground

14. Wilder Ranch Campground

100%
(2)
Campground in Wilder Ranch State Park · 1 site
Wilder Ranch State Park offers a serene camping experience with its campground
Group Camping Area

15. Group Camping Area

Campground in New Brighton State Beach · 1 site
The Group Camping Area at New Brighton State Beach is a popular destination for group camping, offering a variety of amenities including picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms
New Brighton Campground

16. New Brighton Campground

99%
(70)
Campground in New Brighton State Beach · 109 sites · Tents, RVs
New Brighton State Beach campground is off use to day visitors, so make use of its many splendors and stay the night
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Julia Pfeiffer Burns Campground

17. Julia Pfeiffer Burns Campground

99%
(67)
Campground in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This park may only have two camping spots, but they are known to be some of the best camping in California
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Madrone/Campground
Madrone/Campground

18. Madrone/Campground

Campground in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
Madrone Campground offers a primitive camping experience tailored to off-road enthusiasts, particularly those with motorcycles and ATVs
Bee/Campground
Bee/Campground

19. Bee/Campground

Campground in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
The Bee Campground at Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area offers a primitive camping experience in a picturesque setting
Environmental Site
Environmental Site

20. Environmental Site

Campground in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
The Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area offers areas specifically for non-motorized activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding

Top-rated campsites near Carmel Beach

Saddle Mountain Carmel

1. Saddle Mountain Carmel

91%
(680)
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
The Secret Gardens by the Bay

2. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

99%
(533)
Watsonville, CA · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
✨ 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 • Check out our offering on experiences such as Walking tour with the alpacas and Llamas, Sunset ATV Tour with the land owner, petting zoo, etc.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

3. 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
Camp Rewilding

4. Camp Rewilding

94%
(63)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

5. Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

96%
(103)
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
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
Toilets
Campfires
Felton Open Space Camp Sites

7. Felton Open Space Camp Sites

95%
(592)
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
The Hobbit Hideout

8. The Hobbit Hideout

96%
(360)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Mountain Paradise

9. Mountain Paradise

88%
(44)
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
Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

10. Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

99%
(340)
Aptos, CA · 1 site
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.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

11. Santa Cruz Mountain Camping

99%
(35)
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
Salty Fox Retreat @ Peaceful Valley

12. Salty Fox Retreat @ Peaceful Valley

95%
(149)
La Selva Beach, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Peaceful Valley Glamping Near the Beach & Redwoods Welcome to our peaceful slice of paradise—tucked away in a quiet valley just one street over from one of North America’s top-ranked KOAs and less than a mile from the beach (with a walking path to get you there!). Surrounded by state parks, beaches, and scenic trails, our property offers the perfect mix of convenience and serenity. The land is a mostly flat, open field bordered by a redwood tree line and adjacent to a national wildlife reserve. Neighboring properties have horses and sheep, giving the area a tranquil, rural charm. It truly is a hidden gem—and we're excited to now share it with campers after years of hosting only weddings and private events. Great destination if you want to be close to hikes in the redwoods, access to to some of the most beautiful beaches on the central coast and more. Great fishing along the beaches for striper and perch along with some great surf spots just a few minutes a way. 🏕 The Campsites: 4 available sites – book solo or with friends. Site can accommodate large groups but price set for up to 4 people. These sites are close. Equipped with a fire pit, string lights, bocce ball, horseshoes, and more PLEASE NOTE: Fire ban can come into effect at anytime w/o notice if there is windy weather making it dangerous. Well water available (for fire safety and non-potable uses) One clean, regularly serviced porta-potty Sites are primarily self-contained, so please come prepared 🐎 The Vibe: Our venue is occasionally used for weddings and events, and we can host up to 300 guests if you're looking for a retreat or celebration space. Tables, benches, bars, and decor are available for special bookings—reach out if you'd like to plan something big! 🏡 About Your Host: The host lives on-site but values privacy and keeps a low profile. You likely won’t run into them during your stay unless you need something. 🐾 Pet Policy: Friendly, well-behaved pets are welcome—just check with us first. We ask that you fully clean up after them and ensure they get along with other animals and guests. 🔇 Quiet Hours: Please respect quiet hours starting at 9 PM (Santa Cruz County noise ordinance begins at 10 PM). Be courteous to fellow campers and nearby residents.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

13. Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

97%
(329)
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
Peaceful Soquel Beach Rv Campground

14. Peaceful Soquel Beach Rv Campground

90%
(25)
Soquel, CA · 43 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz County, our Seventh-day Adventist campground is a peaceful sanctuary where you can slow down, reconnect with nature, and feel right at home. Just a short, easy drive from beautiful beaches, the lively Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and local shops, we offer the perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. Sprawling across more than 100 acres of breathtaking countryside, you’ll find gentle walking paths winding beneath majestic redwood trees and stately old oaks, with stunning views of the bay sparkling in the distance. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you breathe in the fresh air and take in the beauty of the rolling hills meeting the blue sea. We’re conveniently located on Old San Jose Road — just 2 miles from Highway 1 and 3 miles from Capitola Beach. Our gated property welcomes you with wide, spacious RV sites designed to easily accommodate even the largest rigs and slide-outs. You’ll also enjoy clean restrooms, hot showers, coin-op laundry, and a playground for the kids. Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend getaway, a family adventure, or a peaceful place to rest and recharge, we’d love to welcome you. Come experience the warmth and beauty of our campground — your home away from home in the redwoods.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Redwood Paradise

15. Redwood Paradise

92%
(167)
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. :)
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Shiima koh

16. Shiima koh

92%
(173)
Aptos Hills Larkin Valley, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Shííma koh is a beautiful space nestled in the Aptos hills. We are 15 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from town, all whilst being surrounded by redwoods. It’s a quiet place with a beautiful view of the valley and natural spring water. We are a family with a few dogs and livestock who live here. And welcome you to our home.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

17. Vega Vortex-Gaia Health Retreat

100%
(68)
Royal Oaks, CA · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Looking for a place to relax, recharge or explore surrounding areas of Santa Cruz and Monterey counties? Vega Vortex is home to the Gaia Health Retreat which possesses vortex energy! Expect a warm greeting upon arrival. Parking is close to our Vega Vortex sign and a short walk to your tent. Filtered potable water, electricity, composting toilet, and shower with "on demand" hot/cold water are available. Instructions for use are available should you need assistance. Experience 3 campsites: BYOT (Bring Your Own Tent) Tent Site (#1) 10'x10', BYOT (Bring Your Own Tent) Site (#2) 8'x8' or an onsite Bell tent complete with carpeted padded flooring, camp lights, shelving, 2 bed frames each with a memory foam mattress plus bedding. All sites have shaded areas, and picnic tables. *A shower and a compost toilet are available for use to all campers. Enjoy a designated smoking/vaping spot, multiple benches, swings, a "grounding" spot, birding, water fountains and art. A no noise policy by the county occurs at 9 pm. Due to a high risk fire zone, no open fires (small camp stoves are ok). Due to the proximity of the tents right next to Vega Rd, sounds from vehicles can be heard. We are situated in a rural neighborhood setting, with sounds of sheep, goats, chickens, wild turkeys, dogs and many birds nestled between both counties. The terrain is hilly with a few gopher holes. Staying on paths limits poison oak exposure. While respecting your privacy, we can be seen improving the property. ***For precautionary measures, we ask that you sign our waiver immediately after you book your reservation. The waiver is "REQUIRED" for you to be able to stay here at the Vega Vortex. Vega Vortex has been called a Park and Machu Picchu due to the amphitheater landscaping of terracing. Practicing permaculture, a diversity of pollinating plants/ flowers, organic garden and art features exist. Minutes away from National Parks, the Mystery Spot, Santa Cruz Beach Board Walk, Roaring Camp Train, Monterey Bay Aquarium, National Steinbeck Center, Moss Landing, Elkhorn Slough/Canoe/Kayak, Estuaries (bird watching), golfing and multiple beaches. As a gift for staying here, you may receive either a bottle of "structured" water, a healing tincture, salve, a bottle of infused olive oil or another healing product curated from the Vega Vortex!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Redwood Paradise Camping

18. Redwood Paradise Camping

90%
(273)
CA · 12 sites · Tents, Lodging
PLEASE READ DESCRIPTION: Hello all! If you're looking for some glamping with creature comforts, while just being 10 minutes away from restaurants. This is the place for you. We are a 5 acre property and home surrounded by tall redwood and oak trees. Very green and lots of shade. These are the amenities/facilities you will have free access to: Pool, Pool chairs and umbrellas, Deck area with sunset view, trampolines (kids only), and hammocks. Our check in window is strict: 3-6pm. Only later check in is allowed if discussed previously with host. There is no cooking allowed by or at any of the common areas due to flies and critters. Cooking and eating is only allowed by your sites and not in any common areas: Hammocks, Trampolines, Pool Area, tables, sink, and deck please follow this rule because we want to prevent our shared areas to be fly and bug infested. We are still working on ridding the flies and cleaning. (please try to bring prepackaged food or something easy. If anything you can drive 10 minutes to nearby food and grocery). THERE IS A 2-3 MINUTE HIKE TO THE CAMPSITES 1-5! Poolside campsites are closer to the parking and are bigger. This property is my home that I live in with my 2 kids. It is a rustic and homey vibe, definitely not a hotel. We want you to come knowing what to expect. Our property offers a pool and trampolines for the kids. We have a deck patio area that overlooks an amazing view of the redwood forest. Most of our guests are those that come from foreign countries and they all LOVE the property. I love leaving a great impression of our area. CAMPGROUND GUIDELINES -Pack out your trash. -Rinse feet before using the pool. -No pool toys or floaties. -Always supervise kids. -Don’t sit on chair edges or pool cover box. -Use stumps or your own table for cooking (not ours). -Keep the area clean—no food scraps on the ground. -No dogs in the pool area; leashes and cleanup required. -No eating in rooms or cabin. -Check out at the deck. -No smoking (vapes only, away from common areas). -Propane grills only: no open flames or campfires or charcoal. Thanks for helping us keep this place awesome!
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Leafy Lanes Tree House (“Fort”)

19. Leafy Lanes Tree House (“Fort”)

98%
(31)
Watsonville, CA · 1 site
Cozy Retreat Among the Trees in the Santa Cruz Mountains Escape to nature for a stay in our rustic and comfy ‘tree house’ nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Features: •Unique, elevated cabin offering stunning views and the serenity of the redwood trees •Spacious deck for enjoying morning coffee or sunset views •Small kitchen, cozy living space, with comfortable twin (trifold) beds in the loft for a peaceful stay •WiFi for adventure planning (or work from the woods) Cyclist's Dream Location: •Situated extremely close to world-renowned redwood cycling trails, there are routes for all levels of rider from gentle forest roads to challenging mountain climbs Adventure Awaits: •The beauty of the Redwoods will surround you, and provide the perfect backdrop for your outdoor recreation actives whether it’s hiking, nature walks, cycling, bird-watching, etc. •Relaxing, recharging, and reconnecting with nature is almost effortless with lovely parks located nearby •The pleasures of stargazing (without all the light-pollution that’s so common in cities) can be a memorable experience, so don’t forget to turn your eyes to the skies after dark… and listening to the peaceful sounds of the forest can be really special. About: The area of Eureka Canyon Road and Highland Way is charming and quiet. A location surrounded by forest and quite close to some of the best cycling on the West Coast. The property itself is nestled adjacent to pristine Corralitos Creek with its serene sounds of flowing water and steelhead trout. The trees that tower all around have a quiet presence, and you’ll often be aware of the gentle murmur of the breeze through their leaves and branches. This is an ideal place to rest after a day of exploring, sightseeing, or simply experiencing everything the Santa Cruz Mountains and nearby town offer. The Tree House or "Wood Tent": This little home in the trees is unique and can be considered an alternative to camping. Features that combine both “tiny cabin" and "camping", there are plenty of the amenities that will make it feel like a comfy getaway spot. A ladder leads to loft which houses twin mattress.
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Quail Ridge Farm

20. Quail Ridge Farm

100%
(26)
Los Gatos, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camping & RV Parking on a Working Farm Near Santa Cruz Come camp on our peaceful working farm with easy access to incredible bike trails, beaches, and hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We offer 3 spacious campsites where you can park your RV or camper van, or set up a tent. The sites are spread out with plenty of room for groups and families. For a more comfortable stay, you can also rent our solar-powered Airstream Base Camp. The property is a working farm with animals and a Christmas tree farm, and we’re currently planting olive trees and lavender fields. Guests are welcome to enjoy hikes directly on the property, including redwood forest trails and scenic views. Interested in hosting a gathering? Ask us about renting the entire property for private events like birthday parties or group lunches, with the option to camp overnight. Camp Details: 3 sites for RVs (various sizes) or tents No hookups Potable drinking water available for fill-ups No electricity at campsites Quiet, natural setting—perfect for unplugging A great spot for campers looking for nature, space, and a relaxed farm atmosphere close to Santa Cruz.
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