The best camping near Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park adventure.

Discover the historic charm of Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park.

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Community favorites near Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park

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Woodmill Cottage

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Mount Hermon, CA

Nestled on an acre of Zayante Creek frontage, our property offers private paths to swimming and wading holes, all with breathtaking views of magnificent Redwoods and the historic Woodwardia Bridge and Falls. Enjoy the convenience of full multimedia hook-ups and a luxurious bathroom just steps away in the main house. Explore nearby attractions such as Quail Hollow, Roaring Camp, The Trout Farm, and Henry Cowell Redwoods, all within 2 miles. For a seaside adventure, Santa Cruz's Beach Boardwalk is a mere 6 miles south.

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Brook Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Brookdale, CA

Welcome to our one-acre Redwood grove, complete with a seasonal creek. With both level and hilly areas, we offer one platform tent (with more on the way), a spacious Picnic Pavilion, and numerous spots for pitching a tent beneath the majestic Redwoods. Explore the many unspoiled creeks in the area, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Additionally, the Santa Cruz beach and Boardwalk are just 6 miles south, offering endless seaside entertainment. Please note, our site holds historical significance as it borders the CZU fire burn scar. Big Basin is a mere 4 miles away, while the historic Brookdale Lodge is just 1 mile from our location.

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The Enchanted Forest Retreat

54 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents45 acres · Los Gatos, CA

Welcome to the Enchanted Forest Retreat! We are a meditation retreat center with 45 acres of some of the most gorgeous redwoods in the Santa Cruz mountains to enjoy hiking, creeks and small water fall exploration, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, star gazing, relaxation, meditation and more. Our campground has running water from a natural spring, Men and Women's Restrooms each with 2 toilets and 1 hot water shower, laundry shed with sink and hot water, and an outdoor amphitheater, (the kitchen and washer/dryer is Staff Only not for campers). We have meditation teaching at the amphitheater and campers are welcomed to attend for free. 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. You can bring a maximum of 2 cars. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a trash service on site, we require all campers to PACK OUT THEIR GARBAGE with them! 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. NOTICE REGARDING RVs and TRAILERS: While we can not offer hookups, theoretically we have no problem with RVs, the road is steep in a couple of places getting down to the campground and VERY narrow in one spot (10ft). If you feel you're willing to take this risk (we won't be held liable), you're welcome to reach out to us and we can see if the site is good for RV/trailers. Only sites 8, 12 and 5 are good for trailers. No vehicle can drive into Site 7, 9, 10 and 11 (the parking area is separate). Other sites may be ok with small trailers. Check with the host. Any trailer larger than 20ft, take your own risk, there is a narrow point only 9ft wide.

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SMR Carmel Camping

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents89 acres · Del Rey Oaks, CA

Welcome to Saddle Mountain Ranch, 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, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING. Our glamping stays are NOT pet-friendly aside from one of our luxury tents. We charge $5 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets. On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct). 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, Foosball 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!

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Felton Open Space Camp Sites

10 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Felton, CA

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 two adults only. Children are welcome.

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Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

2 sites · Tents9 acres · Aptos, CA

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.

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Redwood Mountain Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Scotts Valley, CA

This location is a private home, turned retreat center in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We are cradled by Mother Nature, in the middle of a Redwood forest, with fresh air and California sun, work together to create an environment that will insulate you from the chaos of today’s hectic lifestyles. Besides camping or overnight stays, we offer retreats to soothe your weary soul. The rooms for rent are part of the home, where I live. We will be sharing space. I have two dogs that live on the property - a British Labrador and a Goldendoodle. Please do not book if you don't like dogs. They are the sweetest dogs you'll meet. They serve to exuberantly welcome you, as well as guard, protect and warn me about unruly UPS drivers and the very scary turkeys that roam the mountains. This property is proudly woman-owned and operated. I love hosting women travelers and have built my tent sites, rooms, cabins, retreats and experiences to cater to women. That is to say, women want a little more comfort, a little more care, a little more thoughtfulness and little more bougie. If that's what you're looking for, this is it! Of course I welcome men too. In fact, there are quite a few men’s’ retreats hosted here. All will be comforted with the smells of the redwoods outside and the smells of fresh baked bread, inside. Come and join me for a night in the woods. Welcome to your Redwood Mountain Retreat, ~Daisy

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Hidden Spring Ranch

6 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Santa Cruz, CA

Magical 6 acre permaculture ranch just a few minutes to town, beaches and restaurants. Take a bath under a clear night sky, enjoy the morning birdsong and take a stroll on or off the property. We have free ranging chickens, a hidden spring surrounded by two creeks and wild plums. Happy Valley is a secret little gem of Santa Cruz. Plenty of space for relaxing, and amazing location for both convenience and adventures. (2 of the 3 sites have the tubs please read individual descriptions to find out if the one you chose has one)

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Up Shit Creek

4 sites · Lodging, Tents12 acres · Boulder Creek, CA

12 Acres in the Redwoods. Creekside. We have a private driveway with lots of secluded Space. lots of chickens usually an endless supply of eggs for breakfast. Small campfires available. Cabin renters have access to Hot showers, wood-burning stove, kitchen amenities and running water. The cabin is located Away from our living area and is overlooking the creek. Tent sites are located next to the creek or up near the community fire pit. This is our home, it is private, eclectic and filled with natural beauty. That being said, it is by no means pristine. We have the occasional junk pile like most off grid homesteaders do. We do not throw out some things that others would. We try to find a use for old and weathered equipment and materials. Our cabin is built completely with recycled and reclaimed materials. Like I said, we do not like to waste anything, so you may notice a few parts and pieces laying around.

Booked 12 times

Charcoal Springs Camp & Cabin

4 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Watsonville, CA

Welcome to our serene retreat at Charcoal Springs, overlooking the Monterey Bay! Nestled amidst the picturesque Santa Cruz mountains of California, our property offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday urban life. NEW LISTING! We've spent the last year pouring our love into this mountaintop retreat and we can't wait to share it with you! As you arrive, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of the ocean, redwood forest, and stunning sunrise/sunsets. Our spacious camping area provides ample room for you to set up your tent or camper van (no RVs, trailers or 5th wheels) ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of outdoor activities available right at their fingertips. Take a leisurely stroll along our scenic trails and explore the beauty of the surrounding wilderness: we are right next to the north entrance of the Soquel Demonstration Forest for world class mountain biking. Our property is above the redwoods, and more often than not, above the fog line! If you are interested in hosting a larger group, in organizing a retreat, and in booking out all our sites, please get in touch! (Side remark: we are also renting our house on this very property, from June 19th til the end of July - please let us know if you're interested! https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ckKCDzkscPth15ydrW4J2c7_3_L1w-jfDYHmZ0qXInw/edit?usp=sharing) Grocery shopping: We are 25 minutes from the Summit store, and Corralitos meat market down Eureka Canyon. All sites have access to: -electricity, -hot showers, -composting toilet (Sun-Mar Excel), -industrial sink (also with hot water), -partially equipped kitchen (with mini fridge and electric hot plates in 'The Coop' / propane stove/BBQ at the container camp in covered kitchen area), -Fire places: wood stove in The Coop, and seasonal fire-pits (bring your own wood - or buy $15 a bundle from us) (Please bring your own SHEETS, TOWELS and BIODEGRADABLE soap - Dr. Bronner's. If you're camping, for an extra comfy night's sleep, we can provide 2 custom double bed sized camping mattresses - for $25 a mattress per night). After a day of exploration, you can use our designated fire pits (seasonally/weather permitting) and share stories under the stars with your fellow travelers. At Charcoal Springs, you can expect a peaceful retreat far from the city, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you traverse the rugged terrain and enjoy the view. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply craving a moment of serenity, our property offers the perfect escape for your next outdoor getaway. We look forward to welcoming you to our slice of paradise! Johnny and Jeanne (Profile pic from artist Pedro Gomes: https://pedrogo.com/)

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Redwood Paradise

3 sites · Tents40 acres · Santa Cruz, CA

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 remote North Coast beaches. Please note tent camping is a rain-or-shine activity. :)

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Redwood Basin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Soquel, CA

Family-owned since the 1960's my parents chose this ridgetop location on 10 acres for its beauty, serenity, bio-diversity, and amazing peaceful healing energy. The main house is called Rainbow Ridge where a double rainbow appears across the skyline on occasion. We have decided to share this land with conscious folks who want to retreat to the woods from the hustle and bustle but be close to all the action and have all the creature comforts of home with a camping vibe. We have one private site with a glamorous A Frame cabin and a modern tiny home and a tiny retro trailer. The site comes as one single package and is exclusive to you and your group! Nestled on its own private 3-acre redwood and oak forest, leading down to a creek. The site is located just 4 miles (10 min drive ) from Soquel Village and just 5 miles from the beach at Capitola. The site offers: - A 20ft modern container home with one queen sofa bed, large screen with Apple TV, kitchen, patio, fridge, microwave, cooktop, shower, and toilet. - A custom, outdoor kitchen, and bar for entertaining with gas BBQ, fridge freezer, sink with hot and cold filtered water, Sonos sound system. - Large gas fire pit and seating area. - One A Frame eco cabin with option for one king size day bed OR two singles, A twin mattress can also fit in the cabin when in the two singles configuration. The cabin has electricity, fan and heating for colder nights. - One very cute retro airstream style 1950's trailer with a twin bed for a couple or one person. - Space for 1-2 additional tents. For groups of 8 or more and special events please contact us so we can discuss the possibilities. - Onsite you should find all the basic amenities from home including all bedding, towels, kitchenware, cooking utensils, dining ware, herbs and spices, cleaning products, gas for the BBQ and fire pit is included etc. There are a few things you should bring: Food, drinks, ice and fun! The site looks down into a private and secluded redwood and oak forest with trails for small hikes into the redwood fairy circles or all the way down to the creek. The glamping site is on a sunny flat area surrounded by steep terrain up to a ridgeline and down to the creek. The creek is accessible although the final route requires a rope down so may not be suitable for everyone. Within 15-20 min drive you will find almost all major attractions in the Santa Cruz area including The Mistery Spot, Nisene Marks State Forest, Capitola Pier, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and many famous surf breaks from Capitola to The Point, The Hook, Steamer Lane and many more., as well as many amazing mountain bike trails. There are also several Santa Cruz Mountain wineries to explore in a 3- 5 mile radius. Further afield you will find Monterey Bay Aquarium and the coastal beaches north up to San Francisco Bay ( 1 hour 30 mins north) and down to Big Sur about 1 hour 20 mins south. We ask all our visitors to be respectful of the environment, our wildlife, and our neighbors. Please drive slowly and respect the quiet times: between 9.30 pm and 8.30 am. We check all our guests in and provide a quick tour. We can offer a number of additional amenities and services including shopping, stocking up on your favorite supplies, catering, romantic packages and special picnics on the Rainbow Ridge, and much more, so please just ask about all the possibilities.

The best camping near Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park guide

Overview

About

Step back in time at Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park, where history comes alive amid the scenic city of Santa Cruz. Explore the only remaining building of the 12th California Mission, engage with interactive exhibits, and enjoy the tranquil gardens. While camping isn't an option, the park's rich cultural heritage and stunning views offer a unique day-visit experience.

When to go

The best time to visit Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park is during its open hours, Thursday to Monday from 10am to 4pm. Summer and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring the park's features. Avoid holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas when the park is closed, and always call ahead to confirm hours.

Know before you go

Check the park's schedule for guided tours and events to enhance your visit.
Remember, dogs are welcome but not allowed inside buildings.
Accessible features are available for those with disabilities.
Facilities like restrooms and drinking water are provided for your convenience.
Follow the park on social media for updates and information on special programs.