Camping near Seaside

·

Formerly known as East Monterey, the city of Seaside encompasses the area just northeast of Monterey to the point where the two separately governed cities really feel like one larger town. The city sits adjacent to Fort Ord Dunes State Park, a former military outpost that features a 4-mile-long beach, a sea-facing viewing platform, and a handful of interpretive displays. Seaside makes a fine base for exploring the Monterey Bay area, and you’ll find plenty of private camping options and Hipcamps a short drive inland. 

95% (5.8K) 389 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Seaside

1. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

98%
(322)
23mi from Seaside · 35 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 • Cozy cabins, Dodo’s Glamp, and the Secret Wagon—complete with bedding, heaters, and access to Chessboard Land’s wonders. • Communal spaces alive with warmth: kitchen, fire pits and trail
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$99
 / night

2. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(725)
49mi from Seaside · 9 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 more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information 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. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 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. Children are welcome. 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
from 
$90
 / night

8. Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

97%
(231)
21mi from Seaside · 5 sites · RVs
Eight minute walk to the beach! 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 located in La Selva Beach, an eight-minute walk to Manresa State Beach. 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. Our two campsites include water and electric hookups, and are only appropriate for self-contained recreational vehicles and trailers (no tent camping). You will not have another camper next to you! There are no size constraint on RVs or trailers. We have plenty of room for a second vehicle. We do offer a port-a potty. Cell service is very good. The Valley View site can be expanded to two sites, both with water and power hookups. The second site (Valley View 2) can only be booked together with Valley View - please inquire if interested. This is helpful for guests who have separate rigs but want to be close to each other. Our property is a great base camp for your Santa Cruz and Monterey County adventures! We are 15 minutes from Capitola Village, 30 minutes to downtown Santa Cruz and 45 minutes to Monterey. We love to host guests and will provide information about things to do and see in our area. We often loan our State Parks pass so that you can venture out to Point Lobos, Wilder Ranch, Sunset Beach, Natural Bridges and more. There is a Dump station 5 minutes down the road at the KOA (for a fee).
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$85
 / night

9. Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

99%
(286)
27mi from Seaside · 2 sites · Tents
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
from 
$65
 / night

13. Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

9 sites · California
Hollister Hills State Vehicle Recreation Area (SVRA) is California State Parks’ first SVRA. Located in the Gabilan Mountains, just an hour’s drive south from San Jose, this unique SVRA features over 6,800 acres of scenic and varied terrain. Visitors are drawn to the natural beauty of the park’s oak woodlands, rolling hills, lush canyons, and seasonal creeks with elevations ranging from 660 feet to 2,425 feet. Hollister Hills SVRA offers numerous off-highway vehicle (OHV) opportunities as well as designated hiking, bicycling, and equestrian trails. The park straddles the San Andreas Fault. The North American tectonic plate (North East side) consists of clay-rich adobe soil with rolling hills covered in grassland and oak woodlands. The Pacific tectonic plate (South West) consists of granitic soil with steeper terrain with pine, sage, and chaparral taking root in the sandy soil. The Pacific and North American tectonic plates have been sliding past each other for 30 million years at a current rate of about 1.5 inches per year. Howard Harris created the foundation of what today is known as Hollister Hills SVRA. Howard’s great grandfather, Jesse Whitton, was a civilian surveyor for the John C. Fremont expedition that traveled through the area in 1846. After the expedition, Jesse Whitton returned to the area and successfully purchased 600 acres for $50 per acre. The land was passed on through the family and finally to Howard Harris in 1959, who became the last private owner of the property. In the following years, Howard purchased more of the surrounding properties and built many of the park’s trails and roads. He used the land for a number of activities including mining, farming, ranching, hunting, scientific studies, and OHV recreation. OHVs were first used on the ranch in 1947 when Howard established the Bird Creek Hunting Club. Jeeps, motorcycles, and “tote-goats” were used for transportation to get around the ranch. During the 1950s, private OHV activities were held and by 1970, the ranch was officially opened for public OHV recreation. Howard managed the land as a motorcycle park until October 1, 1975, when the land was sold to the State of California and became Hollister Hills SVRA.

15. Sacred Owl Land

100%
(16)
27mi from Seaside · 3 sites · Lodging
Welcome to Sacred Owl Land — A Sanctuary for the Soul Tucked into the serene hills of California’s central coast, Sacred Owl Land is a sacred, off-grid retreat space designed for rest, renewal, and reconnection with nature. We invite you to unwind in one of our two thoughtfully crafted cabana stays, each offering comfort, privacy, and expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Each cabana features: A beautiful queen-size bed or california King bed, loft style Private indoor sink and hot shower French press with coffee & tea (the tea is harvested from our land) and basic utensils Small fridge Large windows for stargazing or sunset watching from bed Access to a shared outdoor composting toilet Guests staying in either cabana also enjoy access to beautiful shared spaces, including: A hot tub under the stars A communal fire pit A BBQ area A peaceful outdoor yoga deck with ocean views Whether you're soaking in the tub, practicing morning yoga, or enjoying the stillness of the land, Sacred Owl Land offers a deeply nourishing experience for body and spirit. Located just 20 minutes from the beach and walking distance to a local winery, it's a perfect escape into simplicity and sacred beauty. For movement and mindfulness, we offer both an outdoor yoga deck with ocean views and an indoor yoga shala for quiet practice or group sessions. Sacred Owl Land is ideal for retreating, gathering, or simply being. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby walking trails and scenic hikes. More details will be shared after
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$170
 / night

18. Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

93%
(87)
37mi from Seaside · 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
from 
$20
 / night

19. BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

97%
(210)
36mi from Seaside · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Purchased from the original owner in 1998. Doug has been clearing and improving the ranch for over 20 years. After surviving the CZU Fire in the summer of 2020, the clearing is continuing and the green growth is thriving all over the ranch. Come revive and energize your soul as you experience the the magic of this private redwood forest. Feel the soothing sound and atmosphere of the pristine creek and its' endless flow as it meanders through the ranch. The seclusion and calmness of this place is addicting! PITCH YOUR TENT UNDER THE MAJESTIC REDWOODS ON THE OLDTIMERS SKID LANDING AND ENJOY THE PRIVACY, SERENITY AND THE SOUNDS OF NATURE ALL AROUND YOU. EASY WALKING ON OUR PRIVATE LOGGING ROADS. SEE THE RESULTS OF THE CZU FIRE AS YOUR HIKE DOWN TO THE PRISTINE AND BEAUTIFUL YEAR ROUND CREEK THAT RUNS THOUGH THE RANCH.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$125
 / night

20. Country + Redwoods - Near beach!

94%
(31)
21mi from Seaside · 3 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: 3 available sites – book solo or with friends. Site can accommodate large groups but price set for up to 4 people. Equipped with fire pits, string lights, bocce ball, horseshoes, and more 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. 🚐 Optional Trailer Rental: Want to level up your stay? Ask about renting the host’s personal 33-ft travel trailer right on-site!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$62
 / night

Formerly known as East Monterey, the city of Seaside encompasses the area just northeast of Monterey to the point where the two separately governed cities really feel like one larger town. The city sits adjacent to Fort Ord Dunes State Park, a former military outpost that features a 4-mile-long beach, a sea-facing viewing platform, and a handful of interpretive displays. Seaside makes a fine base for exploring the Monterey Bay area, and you’ll find plenty of private camping options and Hipcamps a short drive inland. 

95% (5.8K) 389 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Seaside

1. The Secret Gardens by the Bay

98%
(322)
23mi from Seaside · 35 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 • Cozy cabins, Dodo’s Glamp, and the Secret Wagon—complete with bedding, heaters, and access to Chessboard Land’s wonders. • Communal spaces alive with warmth: kitchen, fire pits and trail
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$99
 / night

2. dabudage Big Sur

95%
(725)
49mi from Seaside · 9 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 more than a 25% cut. Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information 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. Hwy 1 is currently closed to the north of this land. The only access is through Cambria from the south or over the mountain from King City off of Hwy 101 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. Children are welcome. 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
from 
$90
 / night

8. Strawberry Fields+Walk to the Beach

97%
(231)
21mi from Seaside · 5 sites · RVs
Eight minute walk to the beach! 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 located in La Selva Beach, an eight-minute walk to Manresa State Beach. 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. Our two campsites include water and electric hookups, and are only appropriate for self-contained recreational vehicles and trailers (no tent camping). You will not have another camper next to you! There are no size constraint on RVs or trailers. We have plenty of room for a second vehicle. We do offer a port-a potty. Cell service is very good. The Valley View site can be expanded to two sites, both with water and power hookups. The second site (Valley View 2) can only be booked together with Valley View - please inquire if interested. This is helpful for guests who have separate rigs but want to be close to each other. Our property is a great base camp for your Santa Cruz and Monterey County adventures! We are 15 minutes from Capitola Village, 30 minutes to downtown Santa Cruz and 45 minutes to Monterey. We love to host guests and will provide information about things to do and see in our area. We often loan our State Parks pass so that you can venture out to Point Lobos, Wilder Ranch, Sunset Beach, Natural Bridges and more. There is a Dump station 5 minutes down the road at the KOA (for a fee).
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$85
 / night

9. Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping

99%
(286)
27mi from Seaside · 2 sites · Tents
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
from 
$65
 / night

13. Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

9 sites · California
Hollister Hills State Vehicle Recreation Area (SVRA) is California State Parks’ first SVRA. Located in the Gabilan Mountains, just an hour’s drive south from San Jose, this unique SVRA features over 6,800 acres of scenic and varied terrain. Visitors are drawn to the natural beauty of the park’s oak woodlands, rolling hills, lush canyons, and seasonal creeks with elevations ranging from 660 feet to 2,425 feet. Hollister Hills SVRA offers numerous off-highway vehicle (OHV) opportunities as well as designated hiking, bicycling, and equestrian trails. The park straddles the San Andreas Fault. The North American tectonic plate (North East side) consists of clay-rich adobe soil with rolling hills covered in grassland and oak woodlands. The Pacific tectonic plate (South West) consists of granitic soil with steeper terrain with pine, sage, and chaparral taking root in the sandy soil. The Pacific and North American tectonic plates have been sliding past each other for 30 million years at a current rate of about 1.5 inches per year. Howard Harris created the foundation of what today is known as Hollister Hills SVRA. Howard’s great grandfather, Jesse Whitton, was a civilian surveyor for the John C. Fremont expedition that traveled through the area in 1846. After the expedition, Jesse Whitton returned to the area and successfully purchased 600 acres for $50 per acre. The land was passed on through the family and finally to Howard Harris in 1959, who became the last private owner of the property. In the following years, Howard purchased more of the surrounding properties and built many of the park’s trails and roads. He used the land for a number of activities including mining, farming, ranching, hunting, scientific studies, and OHV recreation. OHVs were first used on the ranch in 1947 when Howard established the Bird Creek Hunting Club. Jeeps, motorcycles, and “tote-goats” were used for transportation to get around the ranch. During the 1950s, private OHV activities were held and by 1970, the ranch was officially opened for public OHV recreation. Howard managed the land as a motorcycle park until October 1, 1975, when the land was sold to the State of California and became Hollister Hills SVRA.

15. Sacred Owl Land

100%
(16)
27mi from Seaside · 3 sites · Lodging
Welcome to Sacred Owl Land — A Sanctuary for the Soul Tucked into the serene hills of California’s central coast, Sacred Owl Land is a sacred, off-grid retreat space designed for rest, renewal, and reconnection with nature. We invite you to unwind in one of our two thoughtfully crafted cabana stays, each offering comfort, privacy, and expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Each cabana features: A beautiful queen-size bed or california King bed, loft style Private indoor sink and hot shower French press with coffee & tea (the tea is harvested from our land) and basic utensils Small fridge Large windows for stargazing or sunset watching from bed Access to a shared outdoor composting toilet Guests staying in either cabana also enjoy access to beautiful shared spaces, including: A hot tub under the stars A communal fire pit A BBQ area A peaceful outdoor yoga deck with ocean views Whether you're soaking in the tub, practicing morning yoga, or enjoying the stillness of the land, Sacred Owl Land offers a deeply nourishing experience for body and spirit. Located just 20 minutes from the beach and walking distance to a local winery, it's a perfect escape into simplicity and sacred beauty. For movement and mindfulness, we offer both an outdoor yoga deck with ocean views and an indoor yoga shala for quiet practice or group sessions. Sacred Owl Land is ideal for retreating, gathering, or simply being. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby walking trails and scenic hikes. More details will be shared after
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$170
 / night

18. Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

93%
(87)
37mi from Seaside · 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
from 
$20
 / night

19. BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

97%
(210)
36mi from Seaside · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Purchased from the original owner in 1998. Doug has been clearing and improving the ranch for over 20 years. After surviving the CZU Fire in the summer of 2020, the clearing is continuing and the green growth is thriving all over the ranch. Come revive and energize your soul as you experience the the magic of this private redwood forest. Feel the soothing sound and atmosphere of the pristine creek and its' endless flow as it meanders through the ranch. The seclusion and calmness of this place is addicting! PITCH YOUR TENT UNDER THE MAJESTIC REDWOODS ON THE OLDTIMERS SKID LANDING AND ENJOY THE PRIVACY, SERENITY AND THE SOUNDS OF NATURE ALL AROUND YOU. EASY WALKING ON OUR PRIVATE LOGGING ROADS. SEE THE RESULTS OF THE CZU FIRE AS YOUR HIKE DOWN TO THE PRISTINE AND BEAUTIFUL YEAR ROUND CREEK THAT RUNS THOUGH THE RANCH.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$125
 / night

20. Country + Redwoods - Near beach!

94%
(31)
21mi from Seaside · 3 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: 3 available sites – book solo or with friends. Site can accommodate large groups but price set for up to 4 people. Equipped with fire pits, string lights, bocce ball, horseshoes, and more 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. 🚐 Optional Trailer Rental: Want to level up your stay? Ask about renting the host’s personal 33-ft travel trailer right on-site!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$62
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Seaside guide

Where to go

The Monterey Peninsula

Just south of Seaside, the Monterey Peninsula offers tons to see and do, from taking a scenic seafront drive to visiting Point Pinos Lighthouse, which dates back to 1855. Don't miss Carmel at the southern end of the peninsula, where you can tour an 18th-century mission or simply stroll around town checking out its famously quirky storybook houses.

The San Francisco Peninsula

North of Seaside, the San Francisco Peninsula features a mix of sandy and rocky beaches and a whole lot of redwood trees. This area makes for a great hiking day trip from Seaside, though you may want to stick around to set up camp in one of the many inland state parks.

California's Central Coast

Stretching south from Monterey Bay until the southern end of Ventura County, California's Central Coast is known for gorgeous beaches—many of which have year-round campgrounds—along with some of the state's most lauded wine-growing areas. The Big Sur coast, a short drive south, offers some of the finest views in the region along with dense forests full of hiking trails and camping spots.

When to go

Like Monterey, Seaside has a mild climate and gets a lot of visitors throughout the year. Summer weekends are particularly busy, as is the third full weekend of September, when the annual Monterey Jazz Festival brings tens of thousands of visitors to the area. Come in winter to see migratory whales make their annual journey past Seaside's shores.