1 / 3

New Brighton Campground

In
New Brighton State Beach
·
98%
·
17 reviews
109 sites · RV, Tent

New Brighton State Beach campground is off use to day visitors, so make use of its many splendors and stay the night!

The location is view-tastic, atop an oceanside bluff and though the campsites aren’t known for privacy, hiking trails will lead you from the site directly down to the beach or to the nearby village known as Capitola by the Sea. Nine campsites are considered premium due to their particularly well-positioned spots overlooking beach-style sunsets. For an extra fee one of those nine sites could be yours, but if premium’s not your jam, 102 other campsites await your choosing, as well as RV accommodation and developed restrooms with hot pay showers. This site fills up fast, so book in advance!
What this place offers
Campfire allowed
Pets allowed
Showers
Toilets
No potable water
Picnic tables
Sewage hookups
No electric hookups
109 sitesRV, Tent
Scanning sold-out campgrounds every 15 seconds. Get notified the moment New Brighton Campground becomes available.
Scanning sold-out campgrounds every 15 seconds. Get notified the moment New Brighton Campground becomes available.

Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near New Brighton State Beach

  • The Ranch at Cross Road
  • Evening view
  • The Ranch at Cross Road
97%
(518)

The Ranch at Cross Road

12 sites · RVs, Tents84 acres · Livermore, CA
Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 10 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is 15 minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us! We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars. Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
  • Hidden Spring Ranch
  • Hidden Spring Ranch
  • Hidden Spring Ranch
93%
(237)

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)
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
  • Felton Open Space Camp Sites
  • Felton Open Space Camp Sites
  • Felton Open Space Camp Sites
94%
(426)

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.
Pets
Toilets
Trash
from 
$40.50
 / night
  • May's Luxury Farmstays
  • May's Luxury Farmstays
  • May's Luxury Farmstays
93%
(14)

May's Luxury Farmstays

5 sites · Lodging20 acres · Los Gatos, CA
Relax and recharge at our retreat in Los Gatos. Whether you’re here to reconnect with nature, hike the trails, camp under the stars, or explore the Bay Area, Harlan’s Retreat, has everything for a worry-free stay! With nature trails on-site and the Saratoga Gap down the road, you won’t have to go far, For fun drive into the city. Come home and admire the amazing views from your secluded glamp-site with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and Silicon Valley 2,800 feet below. This very private site offers breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay and the south bay. The views at night are transcendent. The Apple building and Moffet field are clearly visible. you look down from above the clouds to the valley floor 2,800 feet below.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$99
 / night
  • Charcoal Springs Camp & Cabin
  • Charcoal Springs Camp & Cabin
  • Charcoal Springs Camp & Cabin
97%
(75)

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, 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! 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-DECEMBER - 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 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
from 
$95
 / night
  • At trails end
  • Entrance
  • At trails end
84%
(70)

#2 HMB Highway Overnight Rest Stop

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Half Moon Bay, CA
WELCOME PLEASE READ! Overnight parking and Rest Stop on South Highway One. Cars, trucks, vans, campers or motorcycles only. No Trailers or RVs Three vehicle parking spots available: Each has outdoor picnic table and tent area. One vehicle only and four persons per reservation. Again A Car, Pickup Truck, Small Van or Motorcycle are Welcome. Private road into grounds, shared fire-pit and play areas. Walk to beach bluffs 10 minutes. Walk to town 10 minutes. Potable water hose by cottage. Outdoor bathroom. Free fire wood and kindling. Tents area included near each picnic table. An abundance of seasonal wildflowers and wild berries year round. Observe rare. Species of birds. ********************************************* Next to FARM horses and chickens. Ocean may be loud. Highway may be heard. No pets please. No towable Trailers or RVs over 20 feet. Noise curfew is sundown. No parties in this location. Check in after 2pm Check out is noon.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
  • Newly added: Outdoor shower! 🧼
  • Whiskey Hill Barn and Camp
  • Newly added: Outdoor shower! 🧼
98%
(160)

Whiskey Hill Barn and Camp

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Watsonville, CA
Stay on the Monterey Bay coast within minutes of Manresa and Sunset State beaches. There are excellent biking and hiking opportunities among the redwoods in the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. Our property is great for bird-watching and smore's roasting, or even remote work with nature as a backdrop. (Wifi provided) The air is amazing here, between the salt sea and redwood forest. We welcome you to relax and refresh on the Monterey Bay coast.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
  • Free firewood
  • Strawberry Fields Forever
  • Free firewood
97%
(148)

Strawberry Fields Forever

5 sites · RVs5 acres · Watsonville, CA
Welcome to southern Santa Cruz County, home of some of the longest and most beautiful beaches in central California. 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 or just sit and enjoy the view. We offer three campsites, two have fantastic, unobstructed views of the three hundred acres of strawberry fields that back up to our property. Our campsites provide water and electric hookups and are only appropriate for self-contained recreational vehicles and trailers. One of the sites has no size constraints on RVs or trailers. We have plenty of room for a second vehicle. We do offer a port-a potty, but not sinks or showers. We do not accommodate on the ground tent camping or in your car camping. The Valley View site is very quiet as it is farthest from the road, and is the most private. The Gateway site is near the road and does not have a view of the strawberry fields, but guests who are just looking for a quick stop over or base camp love it. The Strawberry and Surf site has no size restrictions and it backs up to San Andreas Rd. All site are walking distance to Manresa State Beach. 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. Each camp site includes a fire pit and a generous wagon of wood. Two camp chairs and a picnic table are included as well. We also offer farm fresh eggs, baked goods and other treats (see our Extras). We are 15 minutes from the village of Capitola, 30 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz and 45 minutes to Monterey. There is a Dump station 5 minutes down the road at the KOA (for a fee).
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
  • The Secret Gardens by the Bay
  • The Secret Gardens by the Bay
  • The Secret Gardens by the Bay
99%
(95)

The Secret Gardens by the Bay

26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Watsonville, CA
The Secret Gardens is surrounded by lots of natural beauties that will open your heart. The spirit of the ocean, the wave, the mountains, the trees, the people and the foods will take you to another world, It is located about 2 minutes drive from the beach and the Monterey bay, about 12 miles away South of Santa Cruz. The beaches here are more peaceful and spread out as long as your eyes can see. We are 33 miles away from Monterey aquarium but you almost don't have to go anywhere when you are here. There are many things to do such as hiking at Land of Medicine Buddha or Forrest of Nisene Mark, Stroll around at Capitola Village, Have coffee and do awesome thrift shopping in downtown Aptos or in Soquel, Get some free foods from Free Food church on Wednesday evening (Yes, locally grown organic produce!), have a picnic on the cliff to watch the sunset, this town kind of remind you what's like to be in town without big boxes and franchise stores everywhere, life as its finest. This campground is also a great setting for your celebrations with two stages, a celebration area, a stone fired pizza oven and a sound systems (These are extras). If you bring your dog we have a trail for you to stroll around the property in a natural setting. We purposely do not a lot of pictures to keep this place mystical and a secret gem. We'd like to WOW you when you get here. What to expect: - Access to fully stocked kitchen: Propane powered grill and stove (commercial grade), refrigerators, freezer, pots, pans, utensils, kitchenware, dinnerware, basic spices and olive oil. - Hot showers and flushable toilettes - If you reserve a cabin, it comes with beddings (sheets, blankets, pillows) - A heater in your cabin What not to expect: - Towels - Free smores
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$89.10
 / night
  • Amaya Creek Redwood Campground
  • Amaya Creek Redwood Campground
  • Amaya Creek Redwood Campground
88%
(4)

Amaya Creek Redwood Campground

14 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Los Gatos, CA
Welcome to the Amaya Creek Redwood Campground! We are deep in the Santa Cruz mountains and it’s rustic so be prepared! The road is all paved but it can be narrow, bumpy and steep in some areas. Be sure to follow our directions to bypass the road closure! There is no cell phone service in some areas. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a trash service for the campground, we require all campers to PACK OUT THEIR TRASH with them! We have 40 acres of redwood forest and two creeks running through including the Amaya Creek which serves the boundary of our property at the end of Amayak Creek Trail. There’s also a small waterfall off the Amaya Creek Trail, but it may dry out during the summer. Enjoy hiking, creeks and small waterfall 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 FREE hot water shower, utility shed with sink and hot water, and an outdoor amphitheater. The kitchen and washer/dryer is Staff Only not for campers. . Most campsites allow 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. 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. No hookup for RV and trailer, check each site description to see if RV/trailer is ok for that site.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
  • Elkhorn Ranch
  • Goats again. Lots of goats here.
  • Elkhorn Ranch
96%
(270)

Elkhorn Ranch

6 sites · Tents11 acres · CA
Five minutes from the beach, Elkhorn Ranch is home to goats, sheep, wild chickens followed by their baby chicks, and a couple of cows, dogs, and sheep. In addition to the animals there is a greenhouse and an acre of pumpkins, corn, and beans. A small fruit orchard borders the chicken coop. Anybody who enjoys small farm life and activity will find this place enchanting. Norris and Roberta are incredible hosts and inclusive to any guests that want to participate in farm life. Close to restaurants and the cute harbor town of Moss Landing, 30 minutes from Carmel and Santa Cruz, Elkhorn Ranch can be a place to relax or a gateway to explore Big Sur and all the amazing hidden gems of the Central California Coast. After your stay here if you would like to continue your exploration of the coast, we have a partner who does surfing tours between Santa Cruz and San Francisco. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566796147238 Thanks and hope to see you soon!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$80
 / night
  • Patchen Christmas Tree Farm
  • Patchen Christmas Tree Farm
  • Patchen Christmas Tree Farm
100%
(11)

Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Los Gatos, CA
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. NO CHECK IN OR CHECK OUT NO ATTENDANT ON SITE Water can be found near the giant wreath just inside entrance and on either end of the red barn.
Pets
Potable water
from 
$20
 / night

More to explore nearby

98%
69 ratings · 17 reviews
M
Mandy S.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2019
This campground can get crowded. The winter is a great time to visit.
Avatar
Lisa M.
3 reviews
Recommends
· November 2018
Book way in advance. Also, Santa Cruz has it's best weather in September and October.
M
Melissa V.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2018
Stunning views. Great beach access. Definitely worth the extra money for the premier campsites. Book in advance!
J
Justin L.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2017
The availability of hot water for showers and dish washing makes this appealing for new campers.
A
Anthony V.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2017
Only a short walk from the beach bust rsvp a spot early
J
Jacqueline L.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2017
Close to the ocean
Avatar
Jenny R.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2017
Beautiful campground, some of the sites are a little close together. There is poison oak in many areas. Beware and watch out. Warn children too!
Avatar
Xanthe &.
27 reviews
Recommends
· February 2017
Green and shaded with a few beautiful areas for larger groups to gather or have bigger bbqs or just watch the sun set from the top of the cliffs.
Avatar
Nathan H.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2017
Downtown Capitola is a cool little beach town and Nacime Marks is an awesome park with lots of great trails.
Avatar
Crystal C.
9 years on Hipcamp
November 2015
Only an hour from SF! Pros: HUGE sites (but sizes vary... the map on website is a decent indication). Hot showers and running water. Nice beach with a really well maintained trail to it. Close enough to civilization to grab necessities you forgot. Cons: inconsistent site facilities (some have working faucet, some have huge bear locker, most don't). $10 charge per car (1 included with res). Slight hwy noise even at sites close to cliff. We stayed at site 71 with 4 tents and could have fit a couple more. Can't really see the ocean from the non-premium sites, but if you're not fussed about that, don't spend the extra $15. Second the recommendation for Gayle's Bakery in Capitola. We'll definitely be staying here again!
Avatar
Matthew G.
9 years on Hipcamp
May 2015
If you have never been to Gayle's Bakery (Bay and Capitola), do yourself a favor and go! Be warned, the place gets very busy on the weekends and opens at 6am. Get the take and bake garlic bread (for cooking back home when you're done camping).
Avatar
Matthew G.
9 years on Hipcamp
May 2015
The fire wood available for purchase is expensive ($10, but goes to conservation efforts) and damp.
Avatar
Matthew G.
9 years on Hipcamp
May 2015
For the walk-in campers: They release open campsites at 2pm, but arrive early on busier day to get your name on the waitlist.
Avatar
Matthew G.
9 years on Hipcamp
May 2015
Pay the extra $15 for a ocean front campsite (if they're available), the views are amazing and the sites are GIANT.
Avatar
Bryn K.
10 years on Hipcamp
April 2015
Also, if you need a camping cheat and want to get a warm meal, highly recommend Bangkok West, about 1 mile away. It was delicious!
Avatar
Bryn K.
10 years on Hipcamp
April 2015
We only stayed here passing through, but I did notice how many families and trailers were around. Kids were biking everywhere and having a great time!
Avatar
Courtney C.
10 reviews
March 2015
This campground sits right above a great beach for launching a kayak or paddleboard. Some of the sites are kind of wide open and it is popular with the RV crowd. Try to stay closer to the beach, the farther back you stay you will hear noise from Highway 1.
LocationNew Brighton Campground, New Brighton State Beach, California, United States
What this place offers
Campfire allowed
Pets allowed
Showers
Toilets
No potable water
Picnic tables
Sewage hookups
No electric hookups

Other campgrounds in New Brighton State Beach

Right after the storm passed through. The pelicans were going nuts!

Group Camping Area

1 site In New Brighton State Beach

Your guide to camping in New Brighton Campground

Overview

Biking

Interested in surfside riding and pedal powered exploration through farmland backcountry? Check out the various bike friendly miles provided by New Brighton Beach State Park, including the Brighton Beach to Vets Memorial route . Ride prepared for the Monterey fog!

Boating

Head over to our kayaking & canoeing section if you’re curious about the boating options at New Brighton.

Fishing

New Brighton State Beach was once a Chinese fishing village and yes, it is still a fishing worthy hub for day visitors and campers alike. Bring your rod and cook your bay caught dinner over the crackle of nighttime flames.

Hiking

You could easily exhaust yourself combing the length of the sandy shore at New Brighton , beach wanderer! Before you do, check out the surrounding coastal forest for a more spider-monkey-esque trek, nestled between the sweet scent of pine and the glory of green.

Paddling

Don’t leave the salty water of New Brighton behind without sampling a whole host of aquatic transportation options. Along with kayaking and canoeing, this includes paddle boarding, boogie boarding, skim boarding and nearby surfing. There is something for every type of water pioneer. Rent some gear in nearby in Santa Cruz!

Surfing

See Kayaking / Canoeing for more info on surfing!

Swimming

Swim in the coves and crests of New Brighton’s Pacific waves. Try a starlit dip, a water-laden morning workout, or a whole family splashing session.

Wildlife watching

If you find yourself cursing your timing during a brisk winter outing to New Brighton State Beach, curse not! You are seasonally right on schedule for sightings of migrating whales off shore, Bottlenose dolphins, sea lions and otters.

Top parks near New Brighton Campground

Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Henry W. Coe State Park
China Camp State Park
Fremont Peak State Park
Limekiln State Park
Hendy Woods State Park
Auburn State Recreation Area
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me
Hipcamp campgrounds near me
Best RV camping near me
Hipcamps ready for RVs near me
Best glamping near me
Cabins, yurts, treehouses and more
  1. United States
    —
  2. California
    —
  3. New Brighton State Beach
    —
  4. New Brighton Campground

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Learn More
Hipcamp Hand
Hosting Standards
Hosting Standards
Hosting Standards
Learn More
Hipcamper Standards
Hipcamper Standards
Hipcamper Standards
Learn More

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly
Leave No Trace
National Weather Service

About us

CareersJournalGift CardsContactGeneral StoreHipcamper FAQBecome an Affiliate

Hosting

Becoming a HostIs my land a fit?InsuranceStandardsHosting FAQ

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

Terms of ServicePrivacy PolicySitemap
© 2025 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.