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The best camping near Carmel Beach, CA

·
96% (6.6K)
96% (6.6K)

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%
(892)
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

83%
(10)
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%
(7)
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

92%
(661)
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
dabudage Big Sur

2. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(797)
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
The Secret Gardens by the Bay

3. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

99%
(450)
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
Sun, Soil & Summit

4. Sun, Soil & Summit

Boulder Creek, CA · 4 sites
Flat tent site approx 10' x 10' with varying views of Castle Rock State Park Crags (Underworld Rock, Pyramid Rock etc). Skyline Ridge and Mt. Bielawski. Very unique features of old growth stumps, culls, spiral trees, and lightning survivors embrace this rare and private property bordering Castle Rocks beautiful and remote San Lorenzo Woods via Michaels Summit Loop Trail or continue on the fireroad for a more direct ascent connecting to the private trails and primitive camping system. This access to the private trail is indicated on the picture with the topographic map. Guests are strongly encouraged to utilize functioning GPS and mapping (Gaia GPS, Alltrails) prior to embarking on this hike as THE TRAIL IS APPROXIMATLEY 2.5 MILES to get to the property from parking near HWY 9. Of course all amenities are included and are easily accessed from the trail network. The high speed internet also reaches many of the sites through WiFi access.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

5. Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

94%
(339)
Day Valley, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We created this space for everyone to enjoy.
Pets
Toilets
Water hookup
Felton Open Space Camp Sites

6. Felton Open Space Camp Sites

94%
(612)
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 to 4 adults only. Children are welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Toyo Farm

7. Toyo Farm

Salinas, CA · 80 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Toyo Farm! Escape to the peaceful beauty of California’s Salinas Valley at Toyo Farm, a unique working farm offering RV camping, tent camping, camper van sites, and event spaces. Surrounded by rolling hills, historic greenhouses, rustic barns, and wide-open skies, it’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature while staying just minutes from Salinas, Monterey, Carmel, Big Sur, Moss Landing, and other Central Coast attractions. Our spacious property accommodates RVs, trailers, camper vans, and tents, with select sites offering water, sewer, and electrical hookups. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, quiet evenings, fresh country air, and plenty of room to unwind. Please remember that Toyo Farm is a working farm, not a commercial campground or resort. We’re a small family operation, and you may not always see staff on-site. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Important Information * Use the address in your reservation: 26000 Encinal Rd., Salinas, CA 93908. * Do not search “Toyo Farm” in Google Maps—we have two farm locations, and only this location hosts campers. * Our entrance gate may be closed. If so, please open it, drive through, and close it behind you. * Quiet hours: 10:00 PM–7:00 AM. * Pets are welcome but must be under control. Please clean up after them, keep them off furniture, and do not allow them inside barns or event spaces. * Quiet, well-maintained generators are welcome during reasonable hours. * No fireworks. * Pack out all trash and leave your site clean. * Please respect other guests, farm operations, wildlife, and private areas. Washer & Dryer Available for additional Fee We look forward to welcoming you to Toyo Farm and hope you enjoy a peaceful stay in the heart of the Salinas Valley. Safe travels!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Elkhorn Ranch

8. Elkhorn Ranch

96%
(359)
CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Five minutes from the beach, Elkhorn Ranch is home to goats, sheep, wild chickens followed by their baby chicks, and a couple of cows, dogs, and sheep. In addition to the animals there is a greenhouse and an acre of pumpkins, corn, and beans. A small fruit orchard borders the chicken coop. Anybody who enjoys small farm life and activity will find this place enchanting. Norris and Roberta are incredible hosts and inclusive to any guests that want to participate in farm life. Close to restaurants and the cute harbor town of Moss Landing, 30 minutes from Carmel and Santa Cruz, Elkhorn Ranch can be a place to relax or a gateway to explore Big Sur and all the amazing hidden gems of the Central California Coast. After your stay here if you would like to continue your exploration of the coast, we have a partner who does surfing tours between Santa Cruz and San Francisco. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566796147238 Thanks and hope to see you soon!
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Shiima koh

9. Shiima koh

92%
(140)
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
Salty Fox Retreat @ Peaceful Valley

10. Salty Fox Retreat @ Peaceful Valley

95%
(94)
La Selva Beach, CA · 4 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
Redwood Paradise Camping

11. Redwood Paradise Camping

91%
(304)
CA · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging
PLEASE READ: 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, and hammocks. There is not 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). In the past we let people cook and eat around the pool but now our whole property is fly infested and I find scattered leftovers on the ground. Thanks for understanding. THERE IS A 1-2 MINUTE HIKE TO THE CAMPSITES 1-5! Poolside campsites are closer to the parking and are bigger. CHECK OUT OUR NEW LODGING: 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 on the deck. No smoking (vapes only, away from common areas). Propane grills only—no open flames or campfires. Thanks for helping us keep this place awesome!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

12. Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

91%
(113)
Los Gatos, CA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.). 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
The Hobbit Hideout

13. The Hobbit Hideout

96%
(306)
Watsonville, CA · 7 sites
This campground just god a major uplift. This used to be called Feel Good Camp and now we dedicate it to the natural green building and clean living. There were many beautiful hands put their energies into each cobbin here and we built it with Love, charities and your comfort in mind! We made our decision based on our love to create an inspiration for arts and creating 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
Amaya Creek Redwood Campground

14. Amaya Creek Redwood Campground

78%
(201)
Los Gatos, CA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to the Amaya Creek Redwood Campground! We are deep in the Santa Cruz mountains and it’s rustic so be prepared! The road is all paved but it can be narrow, bumpy and steep in some areas. Be sure to follow our directions! The campground is hilly to walk around. The cell phone reception is decent for all major carriers up at the entrance gate area but down in the campground really depends on the carrier, Verizon and AT&T are weak or even no signal down at the campground, T-Mobile and Comcast Mobile are better down there. If your phone doesn't work in the campground and you need to reach the host, go up to the entrance gate area, or ask other campers whose phone work down there to help. We do not have a trash service for the campground, we require all campers to PACK OUT THEIR TRASH! No wood burning fire is allowed all year around. Propane firepit is ok. Our campground has running water from a natural spring, Men and Women's Restrooms each with 2 toilets and 1 FREE hot water shower, utility shed with sink and hot water, and an outdoor amphitheater. The kitchen and washer/dryer is Staff Only not for campers. . We have 40 acres of redwood forest and two creeks running through including the Amaya Creek which serves the boundary of our property at the end of Amayak Creek Trail. There’s also a small waterfall off the Amaya Creek Trail, but it may dry out during the summer. Enjoy hiking, creeks and small waterfall exploration, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, star gazing, relaxation, meditation and more. Most campsites allow 4-6 guests maximum with 1 car included in the nightly rate. Each additional vehicle is $15 per day and will be added at checkout once you add the correct number of vehicles you will be bringing. Pets are $10 per day, 1 pet per group ONLY. Please add this as an extra at the time of booking, you will see the option to add extras once you begin the checkout process. Dogs must be on leash at all times! Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. No drugs of any kind including marijuana allowed. No loud music allowed. This is a private property so no visitors are allowed, only paid guests. Our onsite staff will go around and enforce the rules. No hookup for RV and trailer, check each site description to see if RV/trailer is ok for that site.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Redwood Paradise

15. Redwood Paradise

94%
(158)
Santa Cruz, CA · 3 sites
40 Acres of majestic redwoods bordering Wilder Ranch State Park gives you access to thousands of acres of excellent hiking and mountain biking right from your campsite. Miles of single-track and fire roads in this world-class mountain bike destination lead you through the redwoods to sunny meadows with sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Monterey Bay. Conveniently located above the westside of Santa Cruz, our site will give you easy access to scenic Westcliff Drive, Natural Bridges State Beach, downtown Santa Cruz, quaint Felton, Henry Cowell Redwoods state park as well as incredibly scenic and private North Coast beaches. Please note tent camping is a rain-or-shine activity. :)
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Quail Ridge Farm

16. Quail Ridge Farm

100%
(12)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

17. Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

96%
(65)
Boulder Creek, 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
Double Bear

18. Double Bear

100%
(11)
Lexington Hills, CA · 4 sites
Double Bear is a rugged three yurt glamping escape in the Santa Cruz Mountains, a secluded setting on a 1.5 mile mountain dirt road among towering redwoods with sweeping views, just 30 minutes from Silicon Valley. It is designed for those who appreciate quiet beauty, a touch of adventure, and the feeling of being truly off the map without being far from it. Our camp features three sleeping yurts, a spacious shared kitchen yurt, and a bathhouse, all thoughtfully placed to let the landscape take center stage. The yurts, up to 30 feet in diameter, offer a unique sense of space and comfort in a natural setting. Soak in the hot tub beneath the trees, enjoy dinner on the pavilion terrace, gather around the fire, or wander the woods at your own pace. Privacy Up the hill sits a separate art house that is occasionally rented, while the owner lives about 10 minutes down the road and is available if needed. You also have the option to book the entire camp, three yurts with 16 plus beds, along with the kitchen yurt and bathhouse, for your group. Hiking / Biking The land is steep, rugged, and spans 83 acres of private forest. You are free to explore and discover hidden corners of the property. You may come across some remarkable surprises along the way. Getting around takes effort, and that is part of the experience. Surrounding area • Two highly rated wineries within a 10 minute drive • Groceries, breakfast, lunch, and dinner options about 15 minutes away • Castle Rock State Park and Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve approximately 20 minutes away Getting here is part of the adventure Double Bear is about a 30 minute drive from Los Gatos. The final stretch is a 1.2 mile drive up a steep dirt road, crossing Bear Creek and winding through the mountains. The road is suitable for 2WD vehicles, just be comfortable driving on dirt roads. Wi Fi Once you arrive, you will have access to reliable, low latency satellite Wi Fi around camp. Cell service can be limited, so we recommend downloading maps in advance. Our approach Double Bear is not built as a for profit venture, but as a place to share the land and its experience. We are just getting started, and your feedback is truly appreciated as we continue shaping it.
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Mountain Paradise

19. Mountain Paradise

90%
(15)
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
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Electrical hookup
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Camp Rewilding

20. Camp Rewilding

95%
(47)
Morgan Hill, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to a peaceful private campsite in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Mt. Madonna County Park. Surrounded by trees and nature, our sites offer a quiet and secluded place to relax, watch the stars, and enjoy evenings around the fire pit. 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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Picnic table

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