Charcoal Springs Camp & Cabin

97%

62 reviews

· 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.

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! 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/)

Natural features

Forest

Coastal

Mountainous

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Reviews

97% Recommend74 ratings · 62 reviews

This Watsonville campsite offers a serene retreat nestled among lush trees, perfect for tent campers and RVs alike. The site's clean amenities, including restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits, enhance the experience, while nearby trails invite exploration. Most guests appreciated the stunning views, peaceful atmosphere, and the friendly, helpful nature of Johnny, the host. However, a few noted concerns about the lack of sunshade and occasional noise from nearby homes.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Navdeep B.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2025

Great Stay

The Coop

This is a great place to be surrounded by nature with amazing views. We had a great stay and Johnny was a very communicative host. Would visit again!

Elina N.

8 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Best view in the world

Tent ·

Panorama Container Camp

It is a special place for people who will appreciate the serenity, great views (one of the best worlds possible) easy to access and nature silence. Very good energy at the space and calm atmosphere. I will definitely recommend it to my friends and I might come back again 🙏

Spencer A.

1 year on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· April 2025

Worth the view!

Tent · With pets ·

Panorama Container Camp

The view alone is worth it! This property is awesome and has everything you’ll need for an overnight trip near Santa Cruz.

Wilson M.

6 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2025

With pets ·

The Coop

Perfect spot in the sky! Johnny was a great and communicative host. Great spot for a one night stay or a longer group camp situation. A fun drive but not too far away.

Jackson H.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2025

10/10 Experience

Tent · With kids ·

Panorama Container Camp

Cannot recommend this spot enough. Johnny was a gracious host and the place is amazing — pictures don’t do it justice. We’ll be coming back.

Alexandria K.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Cute getaway in the clouds!

The Coop

This was such a beautiful location and the host, Johnny, was so nice and accommodating! The view at night was stunning and the cabin itself was cozy and had everything we needed. Make sure you have a 4x4 or get a ride with Johnny because it is a semi gnarly road getting in and out.

Location

Watsonville, Santa Cruz, California, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Popeloutchom (Amah Mutsun), Ohlone, Awaswas, and Muwekma First Nations according to

Native Land Digital.

To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking