The best dog-friendly campgrounds in Central Coast

On California’s Central Coast, you’ll find over 1,180 pet-friendly campsites where dogs aren’t just allowed—they’re part of the adventure. Expect options from $25 a night, with the average site running $77. Hike coastal bluffs, spot deer at sunrise, or saddle up for horseback rides. Most sites have showers and toilets, so you won’t need to rough it. Standouts like Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch (857 reviews), Camp Arroyo Grande (674 reviews), and SLO Country Camp (670 reviews) make it easy to explore the region with your pup. Bring a leash, pack extra water, and don’t forget waste bags—these trails and beaches stay inviting because campers keep them clean. The Central Coast isn’t just pet-friendly; it’s set up for you and your dog to roam.

94% (7.1K) • 219 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Central Coast

On California’s Central Coast, you’ll find over 1,180 pet-friendly campsites where dogs aren’t just allowed—they’re part of the adventure. Expect options from $25 a night, with the average site running $77. Hike coastal bluffs, spot deer at sunrise, or saddle up for horseback rides. Most sites have showers and toilets, so you won’t need to rough it. Standouts like Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch (857 reviews), Camp Arroyo Grande (674 reviews), and SLO Country Camp (670 reviews) make it easy to explore the region with your pup. Bring a leash, pack extra water, and don’t forget waste bags—these trails and beaches stay inviting because campers keep them clean. The Central Coast isn’t just pet-friendly; it’s set up for you and your dog to roam.

94% (7.1K) • 219 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Central Coast

1. Harmony's Glamping

95%

(347)

11 sites · Lodging · Santa Barbara, CA

Nestled along a spring fed creek in the beautiful mountains of Santa Barbara. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors while staying cozy in a Yurt, or one of our Geo Domes. Each is secluded with a hot shower, propane fire pit, camp kitchen (stove and sink ) please bring pots/ pans and all necessary cooking supplies, and a comfortable queen bed. Wake up to the sound of the birds chirping and the creek rippling. Hike to our very own 30' ft waterfall where you can take a dip, lay out and catch some sunshine. The trail is rugged so be ready to boulder and use your hands in some places. Our wood burning hot tub is freshly filled every time, and right along the creek for a natural hot/cold plunge experience. We also offer morning yoga, and relaxing massages for a fully rejuvenating experience. We provide a list of things to explore off-site, but our on-site amenities include things like disc golf, corn hole, ping pong, puzzles in the yurts, books, and more! We do require a liability waiver to be signed, and by booking, you are agreeing to and signing to the waiver. We will also send you a waiver via your welcome message. Enjoy some nearby experiences all within 30 minutes: -Cold Springs Tavern, historical stagecoach stop, live music and delicious BBQ -Wine Tasting in Solvang or on Stearns Wharf -State Street, Downtown Shopping and Restaurants -Beaches, LedBetter, East Beach, Butterfly, Hendry's Beach (Dog Friendly) -Painted Cave, a cave full of Indian paintings -Hikes, SaddleRock, Lizards Mouth, Hot Springs Please note that a high clearance vehicle is recommended! This is a mountainous bumpy dirt road with steep sharp corners. A regular car can make it, just be warned you may bottom out a couple times. We are not liable for any damage to you or your vehicle when entering our property, so do so at your own risk. Please feel free to reach out with any further questions. Text or Call: 805-698-8623 IG:@harmonys_glamping

2. Oak Heart Estate

97%

(114)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Paso Robles, CA

Does a night under the stars on a mountain top in the middle of Paso Robles Wine Country sound appealing? Incredible sunsets, picturesque views, peace and quiet abound at Oak Heart Estate! We'd love to share our piece of heaven with you! Escape the bustle of the city find your way to a little spot out of town. You'll find plenty of wineries in every direction you turn!

3. The Lodge at Deer Creek

90%

(119)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Malibu, CA

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

from

$75

/ night

4. The Campground at Chez Serendip

1 site · Tent, RV · Scotts Valley, CA

Beneath mature oak trees and surrounded by towering redwoods, the Campground at Chez Serendip offers a peaceful, spacious place to land in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This flat, unpaved lot sits within a six-acre creative and land-stewarded sanctuary designed for campers who value quiet, nature, and room to breathe. The site accommodates up to 10 tents or up to 3 RVs, trailers, or fifth wheels (maximum length 30’). The ground is level with generous spacing between setups, making it ideal for groups traveling together or those seeking a private, uncrowded camping experience. Guests enjoy direct access to Glenwood Preserve and Redwood Glen hiking trails, with miles of forest paths just beyond the property. Despite the secluded feel, Chez Serendip is minutes from Highway 17 and downtown Scotts Valley, and only 15 minutes from Santa Cruz beaches. Hosts can also help coordinate optional beach picnic experiences for guests who want a simple, relaxed coastal day. Amenities & Utilities - Power hookups included - Water available for an additional fee - Septic dump access available (portable RV dump tank required; not provided) - On-site host Chez Serendip is an equestrian-friendly property and can accommodate travelers arriving with horses by prior arrangement. The land is home to a small herd, and equine experiences such as gentle encounters, groundwork, arena riding, or trail rides may be available depending on season and conditions. The property also features the Lotus Dome, a stunning 36-foot geodesic dome tucked into the redwoods. The Dome is available for hourly or daily rental (separately) and is ideal for movement, meditation, sound experiences, workshops, or creative practice. This is a pet-friendly and kid-friendly campground, assuming dogs are comfortable around other dogs, animals, and children. Dogs must remain on leash or a lead line at all times due to shared land use and resident animals. After booking, guests may explore a range of optional add-on experiences, including massage therapy, equine encounters, sound bowls in the Dome, guided creative sessions, and private meals in the garden. Chez Serendip is not just a place to camp. It’s a place to rest, create, and reconnect—with nature, creativity, and a slower rhythm beneath the redwoods.

5. Lisa S.’s Land

89%

(302)

4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Solvang, CA

This is Glamping at its best! We have two cabins that have kitchens with mini frig, microwaves and sinks. Complimentary coffee and tea as well. Very comfortable queen beds. Each cabin has a living room and table area along with gas fireplaces inside and A/C. Outdoor courtyard area with firepit, picnic tables and string lights to enjoy the days or evenings.  Each cabin sleeps two but both can be rented to sleep four. Both cabins are historic to the area.   All of this is in the center of the Santa Ynez valley close to Los Olivos , Santa Ynez and Solvang. Wine tasting, bike riding and hiking. Great restaurants and wineries within walking distance.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A closer view. This is unacceptable. The front door also doesn’t lock from the outside.

J

Jenny

3 weeks ago

1 night at Lisa S.’s Land

I really love the little bunk house...this was my second time staying there. It is very convenient to Los Olivos village and quiet...It really is best for just one person unless you are a couple that are used to camping and being very close.

y

yolee

December 2025

1 night at Lisa S.’s Land

Absolutely love this property .. Beautiful, peaceful and perfect for a getaway in nature .. we made a fire and and had a lovely evening.. cannot wait to come back!

Late afternoon light on one of the camping areas

Christoph

November 2025

20 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Oak Heart Estate

Great spot, fairly upscale, great views. We didn't see the owners, and it was a bit hard to find in the dark.

Nicholas

November 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Oak Heart Estate

Beautiful and secluded spot. No one around but the deer. We enjoyed a beautiful sunset, bathrooms were nice and well kept. Very quiet and not far from about 3 dozen wineries! Host was very helpful and we really enjoyed our stay. Thank you!

C

Cameron

November 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Oak Heart Estate

Second trip here - won’t be our last. Absolutely perfect location for paso wine tasting and gorgeous sunsets. The hosts are super responsive but never intrusive. Highly recommended!

K

Kathy

November 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Oak Heart Estate

Quiet💜I was at the top of the property with no other guests. It was magical. I’ll definitely be back

C

Clayton

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

This was an awesome, secluded but easy to get to camp site. 10/10

T

TOBY

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Oak Heart Estate

Lovely area with lots of space and great views. We will be back.

W

Wendy

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Lisa S.’s Land

It's a really charming little cottage with a comfy single bed with a trundle. Loved the decor with an deer antler rack hanging on the wall, cow hide table covering and lovely lamps, etc. It's rustic for sure but was a great very affordable option right around the corner from the amazing Bob's Well Bread.

Christina

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

We had such a great stay at Harmony’s Glamping! It’s incredible that you can feel completely tucked away in nature while being just 20 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara. The property is beautiful — surrounded by trees, with a creek running alongside the sites — and the yurts (we stayed in the Luxury Yurt + Creekside Fairy Dome) struck a perfect balance between comfort and adventure. Harmony was an excellent host and made sure we felt well-prepared before arriving, especially with helpful notes about the drive in and things to bring. Definitely make sure you bring pots/pan and foil for cooking, and headlamps for light. Harmony had alot of the other essentials there for us such was, silverware, soap, sponge, shampoo, lighter, instant coffee, and paper towels. This spot is ideal for anyone looking for an easy, nature-filled getaway without going too far off the grid. We left feeling refreshed and already talking about when we could come back!

J

Jennifer

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

I can’t say enough about our time at the creekside fairy dome! It was a magical location, Harmony was an amazing host and the hike to the waterfall was unforgettable! Loved it and will definitely be going back! 💕

S

Shaun

October 2025

3 nights at Harmony's Glamping

Harmony was very accommodating and even allowed for an upgrade to a different site. The drive down to the site is a little sketchy, but well worth it. We had the entire site to ourselves and was one of our best experiences camping/glamping ever. The dip in the water was refreshing and the nights were peaceful. We didn’t make it to the waterfall because of small dogs, but it didn’t bring our experience down. The ping pong and freezbie golf was a high light as well.

M

Mark

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Lodge at Deer Creek

My spot was lovely and quiet. Watching the cloud/fog layer creep over the mountain tops in view during sunrises and sunsets was wonderful. Chris' knowledge of the human and natural history of the area was profound. If you need a getaway from the city that is close by, this is the place.

G

Grace

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Lisa S.’s Land

The cottage was adorable and was the perfect spot for me to spend the night.

Isabella

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

We enjoyed our stay at Harmony's Glamping. Harmony was very responsive online whenever I had questions and she was warm and friendly in person. The site at the Luxury Yurt was very attractive and the kitchen had everything we expected. The Yurt itself was very comfortable, pretty, and well-furnished. We enjoyed showering outside on the hill. Though the site had enough visual privacy, there was a lot of noise from the other sites. I imagine this could vary a lot depending on the other guests. The hike to the waterfall is short and the creek crossings and boulder hopping make it pretty fun. It's easier on the way back to see which way you're supposed to go. The waterfall and swimming hole is very nice and worth spending the whole day at. The drive down into the camp is very bumpy with sharp turns - a few spots would be tricky in a car with low clearance. The one downside about the camp for me (besides noise from the other sites) was the port-a-potties, which are obviously never a pleasant experience. These ones are at least kept clean, but a compost toilet or fancy port-a-potty with a flush toilet bowl would have been much nicer.

Camille

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Lisa S.’s Land

The cabin is very cute - shabby chic decor with a rustic touch. The bed was very comfortable and the place was clean. We had a great time!

E

Erin

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

Loved this place! I would definitely go back. You can really tell how much the hosts care about taking care of the environment and making it a wonderful place for people to experience. 10/10

B

Brad

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Harmony's Glamping

My wife and I had an amazing time at Harmony's. It was so peaceful, relaxing and fun. Our area was clean and equipped with nice touches that made the stay more enjoyable. Our site felt very private and the community area was fun to hang out in and play games or just relax.