Best Cabin Camping near Capitola, CA

Several campgrounds near Capitola, California provide rustic cabin rentals with varying amenities. Mount Madonna County Park offers tent cabins in a redwood setting, while Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday features small cabin accommodations with more modern conveniences. Cabins at Big Basin Redwoods State Park (currently closed due to wildfire damage) were particularly well-regarded, with one visitor noting, "The cabins were nice, and each cabin has 2 double beds, a table, and a wood stove." Most cabin options include basic furniture, fire pits or wood stoves for heating, and access to shared bathroom facilities with showers. Cotillion Gardens RV Park in Felton provides cabin rentals with proximity to Santa Cruz attractions and family-friendly amenities.

Rustic cabins dominate the region's offerings, with options ranging from basic wooden structures to more comfortable furnished units. Pet-friendly cabins can be found at several locations, though policies vary regarding where pets are allowed within the grounds. According to a camper at Big Basin, "We got a package with the tent cabin that came with bedding, cooking utensils and firewood, so were pretty much set once we got there." Many cabins feature wood-burning stoves as the primary heat source, which proves essential during cooler nights in the redwood forests. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during summer months when family cabin camping is most popular. KOA properties offer the most consistent cabin experience with standardized amenities and reliable service.

Most cabin rentals provide beds with mattresses but require guests to bring their own linens, pillows, and sleeping bags. Kitchen facilities vary significantly between properties, with some offering only outdoor fire pits with grill covers and others providing basic cooking equipment. Cabins at private campgrounds typically include more amenities than those at state or county parks. Several locations offer add-on packages that include bedding, cooking supplies, and firewood for an additional fee. The nearest full-service grocery stores are located in Capitola and Watsonville, though many campgrounds maintain small on-site stores with essential items. Visitors staying in forest cabins should prepare for cooler evening temperatures year-round, particularly in the redwood-covered areas where shade is abundant.

Best Cabin Sites Near Capitola, California (23)

    1. Mount Madonna County Park

    32 Reviews
    Gilroy, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (408) 842-2341

    "There's something for everyone here, RVers, tenters, and those who want to rent tent cabins. There are plenty of trails to hike, as well as equestrian trails. No bikes on trails though."

    "This campsite offers a variety of amenities.With running water faucets and fire rings, you are sure to have a wonderful time away from civilization.Some events are held at this location,and ypu do have"

    2. Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday

    16 Reviews
    Freedom, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 722-0551

    "The small cabins are nice and I quite like them. This is a good place for hiking, but unfortunately there is not a lot more to do. You can go to Monterey and do things there though."

    "Lots of activities for kids, convenient location for area attractions, pet friendly. Local roads to the KOA were in pretty bad condition."

    3. Cotillion Gardens RV Park

    14 Reviews
    Felton, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 335-7669

    "Park is rustic, but has a lot of amenities and is very close to Santa Cruz. We visit family and friends in the area often, but this was the first time we camped in the area."

    "Entrance is a little nerve racking on your first visit, but once your at your site you can relax. Bathrooms are a little dated, no cell service but good WiFi if your close to the office."

    4. Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED

    34 Reviews
    Boulder Creek, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 338-8860

    $35 / night

    "We got one of the tent cabins, which are just adorable and so cozy. The sites are nice and distanced from each other, bathrooms were in great shape and it was pet friendly."

    "We stayed in a tent cabin at the Huckleberry campground which was nicer than we thought it would be. It had just the right amount of space for my wife and I, our two daughters and all our gear."

    5. Seacliff State Beach

    7 Reviews
    Aptos, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 685-6442

    "All camping spots are adjacent to the 'boardwalk' beach path and the beach. Yes, your rig is within 20' of the beach at all campsites."

    6. Thousand Trails Morgan Hill

    8 Reviews
    San Martin, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Great culture here - friendly, lots of things to do (pool, basketball, volleyball, horse shoes, playground, billiards, karaoke, tennis)."

    "We got a nice spot close to the dump station near front. Their pool is huge and very very well kept. The spot was 30amp and back in however they have 50amp/pull through also."

    7. Marina Dunes RV Park

    11 Reviews
    Marina, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 384-6914

    "Nice rv park by the beach. Bathrooms and showers are great. Downside is the store is closed on Sundays. Also, $190 a night plus $20 to choose your spot is wild."

    "There is a Best Western right next to this place were we ended up getting a room instead as that was less expensive. We did arrive there with no reservation and after hours."

    8. Redwood Resort RV Park & Campground

    3 Reviews
    Boulder Creek, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 338-3413

    $55 - $75 / night

    "Was able to book the night before and get the last full hookup spot."

    9. Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA

    16 Reviews
    Pescadero, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (650) 879-7302

    $100 - $200 / night

    "Once we figured it out, the late check in paperwork was detailed on how to find our space."

    "I’m taking this up a notch to five full stars because I don’t think it’s fair to compare it to a national park anymore. It’s its own thing and it’s very successful at it."

    10. Salinas-Monterey KOA

    7 Reviews
    Castroville, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 663-2886

    "They have nice facilities and a heated pool although a hot tub would be nice also. The sites are a little small but very mature trees and they keep it clean."

    "The location is very secluded as bd far from stores but fairly close to the sea. Have visited a few time and enjoy the stay. Not many issues. I’m looking forward to the Upgrades!"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Cabin Reviews near Capitola, CA

251 Reviews of 23 Capitola Campgrounds


  • Natalie G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2020

    Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED

    Idyllic campground close to loads of beauty

    We stayed here with our 2 dogs last November as a nice winter getaway from L.A. We got one of the tent cabins, which are just adorable and so cozy. The sites are nice and distanced from each other, bathrooms were in great shape and it was pet friendly. We got a package with the tent cabin that came with bedding, cooking utensils and firewood, so were pretty much set once we got there. The beds are comfy and the wood burning stove (photo attached) is the only source of heat. It is neat but BE WARNED...it gets COLD on those winter nights so make sure you a) have enough wood; b) are good at keeping fires going throughout the night; and c) have lots of dry wood. The wood that was left for us as part of our package was really wet and wouldn't burn so we had a very chilly night even with loads of sleeping bags and blankets. Other than that, we had a great experience and got to take the dogs for a great walk on the paved trails in the State Park. Can't wait to go back!

  • A
    Sep. 22, 2016

    Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED

    Summer Family Fun at Big Basin

    We visited the Big Basin Redwoods State Park late July this year with a large group of friends and their families and it was such an awesome experience. We stayed in a tent cabin at the Huckleberry campground which was nicer than we thought it would be. It had just the right amount of space for my wife and I, our two daughters and all our gear. The entire campground is loaded with trees so there was plenty of shade everywhere. There's also a few decent hiking trails close to the campground which is really cool and convenient. My daughters enjoyed every minute from the hiking, riding their bikes, campfires as well as all the other great things to do when camping. We also explored the Visitor Center to see some of the most magnificent dinosaur-like redwoods including what they call the 'Father of the Forest' and 'Mother of the Forest' trees. The guide was an encyclopedia of information on the massive trees which he shared with us along the tour. If you're at all interested, then you must go on the short tour. The only complaint I have is about the one night there were what seemed to be very loud college students, probably from UC Santa Cruz or another nearby college, who were in the cabin at the site next to ours and were partying way too hard. We had to tell them to keep it down since they had woken us up. I'm all for a little partying, but damn, they were loud and no one came around to tell them to keep it down besides us. Other than that, all in all, we had a great tent cabin campsite and did notice some even better in the campground, so we will definitely be going back again.

  • R
    Jul. 5, 2019

    Saddle Mountain Ranch

    Glamping Approved

    This place is nestled in the Carmel Valley and decently secluded. We booked a luxury gazebo situation which came with a queen bed (heated mattress) a fire pit and your own propane grill. There are areas for tents and RV’s as well and priced accordingly. The restrooms and showers are super clean and the staff is great. There is a heated pool and various hiking trails to keep you occupied. The only downfall is you’re a little close to other campers. You don’t get much space/privacy but it’s not too bad. I would come back for sure.

  • K
    May. 22, 2018

    Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED

    nice cabins

    We stayed in a cabin in the huckleberry campground. The cabins were nice, and each cabin has 2 double beds, a table, and a wood stove. It can get cold at night in the redwoods so the wood stove was great at night. Each campsite has a fire pit with a grill cover which made it easy to cook dinner. The sites are a decent size with lots of trees to climb on, hide in, and play on. You can get ‘add on’ packages with the cabins, which include things like sheets and pillows for the beds, propane lanterns, and cooking items.

  • Shawnna B.
    Jun. 13, 2019

    Mount Madonna County Park

    My favorite campground of the Monterey Bay

    Mount Madonna County Park has 4 campgrounds. I've been camping in this park since the late 70s. I've seen some changes over the years...ahem...decades. There's something for everyone here, RVers, tenters, and those who want to rent tent cabins. There are plenty of trails to hike, as well as equestrian trails. No bikes on trails though.

    There are several micro climates in this area and temps can vary, besides our weather varies from day to day.

    There are trails offering views of the Santa Clara Valley, and trails offering views of the Monterey Bay. The park is above the fog line (most of the year). We don't get rain in the summer here. The park is situated at the County lines of Santa Clara County and Santa Cruz County and is part of the Santa Clara County Parks system.

    No stores or markets in the park, but you can easily run into town, either Watsonville or Gilroy. It's slightly closer to Watsonville where you will find a gas station/market on 152 (Currently a Valero), or go into Gilroy on 152 for Safeway and more.

    There's a small cabin (ranger's station) with a history exhibit and the white reindeer up from the kiosk. My favorite campground in the park is the Tan Oak campground at the top and through the day use area. There are plenty of Geocaches on the trails.

    The bathrooms are generally clean. I say generally because I prefer the off season when I have the campground to myself and the bathrooms are super clean, but when the campground is full, like any public bathroom they can need more attention. (Or maybe people just need to clean up after themselves) I've never used the showers, nor the tent cabins. I like the sites because overall they are separated by trees so you don't feel as crowded as more open campgrounds.

    Despite signage warning of mountain lions, I have never encountered a single one in all the years of camping here. I've had raccoons and skunks (so lock up your food and belongings), turkeys and deer.

    Weekends, especially a holiday weekend such as Memorial Day weekend, can be full. (Not my favorite) I have also stayed for the 4th of July when it fell midweek and had the campground (Tan Oak) literally to myself.

    Leashed pets are allowed (2 per site) and 2 cars and 8 people per site.

  • C
    Nov. 26, 2021

    Saddle Mountain Ranch

    Perfect for beginning campers and glampers

    Great location with nice views of the valley. Easy drive in with parking spots next to most sites.

    Camp sites and cabins are a little close together but nice, clean grounds make it comfortable. Good playground for kids. Foosball, ping pong, corn hole, horseshoes, and other games available. 3 gas fire pits near the office with nice space for socializing or sharing an outdoor dinner.

    Cabins are tight but nice and clean. Our kitchen had all the necessary utensils and dishes to cook for a couple nights.

    Staff is nice, communicated well ahead of the trip, and made late check in easy.

    Huge pool is heated May to October. Small sauna next to pool currently closed but looks fairly new.

  • John W.
    Jun. 9, 2020

    Big Sur Campground & Cabins

    Epic Campground on the river

    I've been coming to Riverside campground fo the past 46 years and I'm 48 years old.  I've never taken anyone here who hasn't fallen in love with it.

    It's on the north end of Big Sur which is great since you can come from the north or drive through Big Sur to get there (which is beautiful).

    There are amazing riverside campsites (some for RV's as well) that have picnic tables and fire rings.  There isn't the most privacy, but the campground does a good job of putting trees/bamboo between the sites, so you're not joining them for dinner.

    The river is perfect for setting your chair in the river and sipping your beer while you watch the butterflies dance across the river and pine trees.

    There are also cabins which are great during those cold spells, but I've always been into camping.

    The general store is fantastic.  You can buy steaks to grill and has a good selection of beers and wine.  You could literally show up with just a tent and nothing to eat and be just fine.

    There is also a restaurant that is walking distance which is fantastic in case you want different scenery.

  • J
    Aug. 22, 2018

    Cotillion Gardens RV Park

    Fun for the kids

    This R.V. Park is rustic, but has a lot of amenities and is very close to Santa Cruz. We visit family and friends in the area often, but this was the first time we camped in the area. It is $50 base price per night, which I think is very exorbitant for a tent site. There is an additional $3 charge per night for any more than two campers per tent or R.V. site. Because there was me and my two daughters it was $53 per night. I gave it 4 stars because the price is so high.

    There are just four tent sites here. We were in T2 which was just over a small footbridge over a creek from our parking spot. The spot was small, but had a picnic table, fire pit, and elevated wooden deck. I’m not sure if the deck is for setting up your ten on or lounging on, but we opted to set up our tent on the ground.

    We spent most of our time with relatives, so we didn’t have a lot of time to use the amenities, but there were lots of kids around using the playground, bicycling, playing basketball, and swimming in the pool. There was also a large clubhouse with foosball, ping pong and arcade games which is open from 9am - 9pm. My daughters used the clubhouse while I set up camp and after waking up while I stayed in bed for a little while.

    There was no AT&T sevice for me, but free WiFi was available so it was fine. The check in process was slow, but okay. Our campsite neighbors seemed very squeamish about camping and left out food that a raccoon family got into in the early morning waking them and us up. I think they were just inexperienced campers.

    Overall I’d stay here again, but I might hesitate at the price. I think this would be a nice place for a family to hang out at. There are lots of things for the kids to do and lots of friends to play with.

  • Shaun S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 16, 2024

    Big Sur Campground & Cabins

    Great place to camp

    Big Sur Campground and Cabins, while on the pricier side for camping, definitely delivers on cleanliness, service, and quality of experience. Check in is super easy, and the staff were all very friendly and helpful. The welcome package is a nice touch, 2 mugs, a deck of cards, flashlight and bundle of firewood. They also have free ice, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate daily.
    It rained the first day we were there, and campsites stayed pretty well drained. Our site was kind of tucked away in the back of the camp ground, near the showers and playground. The bathroom/showers were cleaned regularly and stocked with shampoo conditioner and shower gel. Playground was well maintained and modern

    Plenty of water spigots throughout the campground, each site has a fire pit. During our stay, over NYE, there was a nice mix of RVs, trailers, suvs with RTTs and tent campers. The campground doesn’t see a lot of sunlight, due to the large trees shading most of the area. If you rely on solar power, you may need to get creative.


Guide to Capitola

Cabin camping near Capitola, California offers a unique blend of nature and comfort, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying the great outdoors.

Explore the Majestic Redwoods

Cabin Camping Prices

  • Prices for cabin camping can range from $65 to $150, depending on the location and amenities offered.
  • At Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday, you can find cabins that cater to families, providing a fun and engaging environment for kids.
  • For a more rustic experience, Hummingbird Rest offers a quaint cabin overlooking Monterey Bay, with prices that reflect its unique location.

Cabin Campers Appreciate These Amenities

  • Many cabins at Seacliff State Beach come with picnic tables and fire rings, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors.
  • Thousand Trails Morgan Hill features cabins with electric hookups and access to a large pool, perfect for family fun.
  • At Beach RV Park, you can enjoy clean facilities and a friendly atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing cabin retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Capitola, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Capitola, CA is Mount Madonna County Park with a 4.5-star rating from 32 reviews.

What is the best site to find cabin camping near Capitola, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 23 cabin camping locations near Capitola, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.