4 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Watsonville, CAWelcome 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, with beautiful views of the ocean, redwood forest, and stunning sunrise/sunsets. Our property is above the redwoods, and more often than not, above the fog line!
We've spent the last year pouring our love into this mountaintop retreat and we are happy to share it with you!
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.
Outdoor activities: leisurely stroll along our scenic little trail + surrounding wilderness: we are right next to the north entrance of the Soquel Demonstration Forest for world class mountain biking.
If you are interested in hosting a larger group, in organizing a retreat, and in booking out all our sites, please get in touch!
ATTENTION: MAY-OCTOBER - FIRE BAN PENDING WEATHER/WIND DAY-OF
KITCHEN/BBQ AT PANORAMA CONTAINER CAMP: Propane is $25/tank, WE DO NOT PROVIDE PLATES, CUPS, UTENSILS, OR COOKING SUPPLIES AT CONTAINER CAMP! Container Camp Kitchen has a BBQ, tongs and brush for the BBQ, a 3 burner camp stove, sink, covered trash/recycling cans, miscellaneous pots/pans (see picture with utensils on site). There is NO REFRIGERATOR at Container Camp, so bring your coolers!
KITCHEN AT THE COOP (NO BBQ): The Coop is equipped with most kitchenware that one would need (4 cu ft refrigerator, pots, pans, 4 x plates, bowls, and cups, mugs, knives, silverware, salad bowl, french-press coffee pot, kettle…) with a two burner electric hot plate and the woodstove with a cooktop on it. The Coop does NOT have a BBQ.
PLEASE KEEP FOOD IN SEALED CONTAINERS OR COOLERS!
Also, remember to keep the volume down, as most people come here precisely for the piece and quiet:)
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 calm, 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/)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
Trash
