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Charcoal Springs Camp & Cabin

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· Watsonville, Santa Cruz, California

40 acres hosted by Johnny N.

1 lodging site · 3 tent sites

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

Johnny is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Romantic

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is romantic.

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, 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/)

Natural features

Forest

Coastal

Mountainous

100%

47 ratings · 38 reviews

Agata K.recommends

October 13, 2024

The Coop

We loved our stay! It was so peaceful and the view was amazing! The bed was super comfy and the cabin had everything we needed. Even though there were other campers at the campsite below, the cabin is situated in a way where you feel like you have your own space and privacy. I plan to be back again someday!

Jomain T.recommends

October 12, 2024

Panorama Container Camp

We love the amazing view at Johnny’s land. The place is well-maintained and we absolutely enjoyed ourselves. We’ll definitely be back! Thank you Johnny!

Albert P.recommends

October 7, 2024

Panorama Container Camp

Johnny is a friendly host, being very responsive, helpful, and easy-going. Another review mentioned the steep on-site road and when I inquired with Johnny, he immediately volunteered his time and ATV to carry our gear to the site. Our subcompact made it to his on-site parking without issue. The Container site is thoughtfully prepared with the core creature comforts. We shared the site with another group for the night and had no issues with sharing the communal facilities and view! Significant portions of the site are exposed to the elements - wind at night; sun and a few flying bugs in the daytime - and a little preparation for each will go a long way for your enjoyment. I look forward to returning to the amazing views and nearby redwoods and recommending Johnny's site to our friends!

芙美三.recommends

October 6, 2024

The Coop

Cute cabin with great view

We loved Johnny’s little cabin. The cabin was so clean and cozy, and the view from the cabin was amazing! Johnny was so helpful, kind and friendly. We really enjoyed the quiet and private atmosphere.

Hugo F.recommends

October 6, 2024

Panorama Container Camp

What a view!

Spectacular views, great facilities (the shower was *so* needed in the heat and it didn't disappoint, kitchen has plenty of room for even the most extravagant cook and a great view too) Johnny is super friendly and helpful :)

Sarah J.recommends

October 4, 2024

Panorama Container Camp

I really appreciate Johnny's kindness - he went out of his way to make my stay positive. And the sunrise view is so amazing.

Location

Watsonville, Santa Cruz, California, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Popeloutchom (Amah Mutsun), Ohlone, Awaswas, and Muwekma First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking