Stanford's nearest glamping options sit in the Santa Cruz Mountains where coastal redwoods thrive at elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet. Most upscale camping sites near Stanford remain open year-round, though winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional fog, especially in forested areas. Coastal glamping options typically maintain daytime temperatures between 65-75°F during summer months, while inland options can reach into the 80s.
What to do
Archery trails with targets: Mount Madonna County Park features a dedicated archery course set among the redwoods. According to a visitor, "There is an archery trail with 28 targets on a trail through the woods. We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge."
Waterfall hikes: Uvas Canyon County Park offers multiple waterfall viewing opportunities within a short distance from campsites. "Go see the waterfalls. With the current California drought all of the falls were at little more than a trickle but still something to see. To hike to each fall it's about 6ish miles with just a few hundred feet of total elevation gain," notes one camper.
Beach exploration: Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground provides direct beach access for glamping close to Stanford, California. A camper shares, "Lucky to have good weather and limited wind. Beautiful walk-in site (about 200 feet from car). Other sites were crowded (more of a parking lot) but amazing location with access to beach."
What campers like
Free amenities: Mount Madonna County Park offers complimentary shower facilities that campers frequently praise. "Bathrooms and showers are free and clean. Parking is free with paid camping. People seem to be very aware and pick up after themselves which I love," one visitor notes.
Wildlife viewing: Sanborn County Park provides opportunities to observe local fauna in their natural habitat. A camper mentions, "We hardly had a signal," highlighting the immersive natural experience that makes this glamping destination special.
Spacious sites: Uvas Canyon County Park receives positive feedback for its site layout. "The campsites are nice with lots of shade. The campsites and bathrooms are well maintained, and the camp host sells firewood," explains one review.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly across glamping sites near Stanford, with coastal locations typically having less reliable coverage. At Sanborn County Park, "There is wifi at the bathrooms," according to one camper, though park-wide connectivity remains limited.
Temperature fluctuations: Mountain locations experience significant temperature drops after sunset, especially in redwood forests. A visitor to Mount Madonna notes: "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared & had to drive into town & buy more clothes!"
Reservation requirements: Most Stanford-area glamping sites require advance booking, with weekend dates filling months ahead during peak season. At Half Moon Bay State Beach, sites "are reservable by phone at 1-800-444-PARK (7275) or online with a $7.99 online fee."
Tips for camping with families
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential at many glamping sites near Stanford, particularly in summer months. A review for Uvas Canyon County Park suggests, "You will want to bring insect repellent in the summer," while another camper notes it's "a bit buggy in the afternoon and found some mosquitoes."
Kid-friendly activities: Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground offers family-appropriate beach activities. "This campground has a beach that dogs are allowed to walk on and beautiful places to hike. There is horse back riding available and coin operated hot showers," reports one visitor.
Proximity to supplies: When glamping close to Stanford, California, prepare for varying distances to stores. At Big Basin Redwoods, a camper advises, "Get any supplies you will need before you head out, as it is a long, winding drive to the campground and there is no cell service when you are there."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA offers premium RV sites with specific advantages. "The sites at the bottom of the first loop with awesome sunset views are my favorite. Very grassy and 'outdoorsy' for a KOA," explains one RVer.
Tight spacing: Prepare for close quarters at some RV-friendly glamping locations near Stanford. At Pelican Point RV Park, a camper notes the "narrow rv spots (pretty close to your neighbor)" despite the "$85/night" rate, indicating the premium charged for coastal proximity.
Hookup limitations: Verify available hookups before booking, as they vary by location. A visitor to Mount Madonna explains, "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great! There is a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park."
