34 Glamping Spots & Cozy Cabins Perfect for Spring Adventures


Glamping in Northern California the perfect family activity that offers the fresh air that you desire with no tent required! These Bay Area glamping spots let you choose from cabin camping, tent cabins, Airstreams, yurts and even treehouses where you can sleep out in nature without having to set up a tent. There’s even dog-friendly camping, WiFi (if you must) and actual bathrooms. Scroll through to book your next Bay Area camping adventure!

Points North

photo: Colin McCarthy

FAMILY WEEKENDS NOW AVAILABLE! Camp Navarro—Navarro

Retreat into the Redwoods at Camp Navarro where your whole crew can enjoy bonfires, archery, rock wall climbing, hammocks, games and water activities on the Navarro River. Camp Navarro is typically only available to be rented out by groups but this summer they are offering families the opportunity to experience camp for a Weekend in the Woods. Meals (excluding lunch) are included and there's even beer and wine available for the adults. 

The property offers a variety of sleeping accommodations including cabins and Adriondacks (open air cabins). Just 2 1/2 hours north of San Francisco, the gorgeous Anderson Valley home to Camp Navarro welcomes your family to enjoy the outdoors like you never have before. Read all our Mendocino and Anderson Valley recs here

901 Masonite Industrial Road
Navarro, CA
Onlinecampnavarro.com

photo: Kate Loweth

Russian River RV Campground

Head up the 101 to Cloverdale for some serious Russian River time at this spot that offers all sorts of glamping and camping options for families. Primarily an RV park, families looking for a glamping experience can book a few nights at the cabins that offer A/C, beds (to sleep up to 6), a full-sized fridge, grilling equipment and even WiFi if you need it. We found the accommodations to be very comfortable on our recent stay!

The property's highlight is definitely it's access to the Russian River. Set up your gear at one of the rocky beach areas and spend the day floating down the river and rock jumping into the deep pools. The campground has tubes to rent if you don't have your own as well as a store that sells key camping items like ice cream sandwiches (aka bribes to get the kids out of the river). There's even an ice cream truck that makes an appearance on the weekends and special cookouts. Kids can ride their scooters around the property and there's a playground for the little ones. 

33655 Geyers Rd. 
Cloverdale, CA
Online
: rvonthego.com

photo: Wildhaven

Wildhaven Sonoma—Healdsburg

This brand-new spot is perfectly situated right on the Russian River and it's definitely going to be your next favorite glamping spot. Oversized glamping tents sleep up to four with a queen bed and two cots for the kids (or choose the two-queen version). Larger-sized families can rent multiple tents near each other (but stay tuned as they plan to add tents that sleep up to six). 

Bed linens, space heaters for cool nights, bedside lamps and a covered six-foot deck are included. (Bring your own sleeping bags for the kid cots). Upgrade to a premium tent and add on a fire pit with cooking grill, picnic table and additional chairs for your front deck. The new riverside tents have the best views, more privacy and even your own hammock! Shared facilities include restrooms, shower shed and BBQs. Wildhaven recently added an open-air shower right when you come up from the river so you can rinse off before heading to your tent. 

Six acres of land plus another four acres of river area are yours to explore at Wildhaven. Go tubing in the Russian River, explore local roads via bikes, rent a kayak or SUP for the day and head to nearby Healdsburg for wine tasting and plentiful dining options. 

Read our full review of Wildhaven here. 

2411 Alexander Valley Rd.
Healdsburg, CA
Online: wildhavensonoma.com

COVID-19 Update: Wildhaven is currently open and booking up fast. Showers and shared BBQs are open. Check their website for current precautions in place. 

photo: Kate Loweth

Inn at Schoolhouse Creek—Little River

If you want some extra space to spread out on your next visit to Mendocino, a kitchen to cook up some farm-fresh eggs in the morning and a quaint cottage to call home, this is your spot. The Inn at Schoolhouse Creek offers cottages with different layouts to suit the needs of families of all sizes. On a recent visit we stayed in the Pomo Cottage that had a full kitchen, bedroom with king-sized bed, pull out couches that could sleep up to four people and a private hot tub for soaks under the sun. The property also has a spa (currently closed), BBQs for public use and a gorgeous property and creek for exploring. Dogs are also welcome!

Check out our Mendocino guide

7051 North Highway 1
LIttle River, CA
Online: schoolhousecreek.com

photo: LOGE

LOGE Mt. Shasta

LOGE, the lifestyle hotel group which brings forgotten motels back to life, welcomes families to its Mt. Shasta property where they'll find family-sized rooms with bunk beds and storage for all your gear. Hotel rooms and covered camping sites all come with your very own hammock by Kammok for relaxing after a day on the trails. Other on-site partnerships include Traeger wood fire grills. Rumpl blankets, Biolite headlamps and Miir mugs available for guest usage during your stay. Coming soon: Borrow city cruiser bikes and demo Fox Racing gear to check out all the amazing biking trails in the area. 

Life is easy at LOGE where you'll find an on-site cafe and bar, fire pits for making new friends and plenty of outdoor recreation nearby. Even your dog is welcome to join in the fun!

Read all about what to do in Siskiyou County here

1612 S Mt Shasta Blvd.
Mt. Shasta, CA
Online: logecamps.com

COVID-19 Update: Check out LOGE's Go Together Code to learn how LOGE is protecting guests and employees. 

photo: Mendocino Grove

Mendocino Grove—Mendocino

Mendocino Grove is a newcomer to the glamping scene and they know how to do it right. With 60 fully-outfitted tents with lavish beds, your family will not want to leave once you have arrived. Kids can spend the days enjoying the nearby hiking trails and on-site amenities like cornhole, bocce ball and other games. Campfires and gas barbecues make cooking easy. You can even rent cooking equipment so you don't have to lug your pans with you. Luxurious bathrooms and hot water stations make this a no-brainer for families. Relax on a hammock and enjoy the fresh air. At Mendocino Grove, it's R 'n R at its finest.

Read all our Mendocino recs here

9601 California Route 1
Mendocino, CA
Onlinemendocinogrove.com

COVID-19 Update: Mendocino Grove is open. Check out their COVID-19 update here

Railroad Park Resort—Dunsmuir

Railfans, this is the spot for you! Head north to Siskiyou County and 45 minutes past Redding will get you to Railroad Park Resort where you can glamp in the utmost style. Here families bed down in vintage railroad cabooses that sleep up to five people. You'll have a fridge, full bathroom, WiFi and microwave as well as on-site pool, restaurant (serving breakfast and dinner in a rail car!) and a creek for exploring. They also have an RV and campground with access to the pool. The nearby area is full of waterfalls, fishing spots and lakes for boating. The perfect family getaway awaits! 

100 Railroad Park Road
Dunsmuir, CA
Online: rrpark.com

COVID-19 Update: Railroad Park is currently open and accepting reservations. See their updates here

photo: Kate Loweth

Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort—Mt. Shasta City

You'll definitely want to bring along some other families when you plan your trip to Lake Siskiyou. This idyllic spot will bring you back to your summer camp days with movies by the lake, a sandy beach with gorgeous mountain scenery and even an arcade for when you need a little veg out time. You can bring your RV or pop up a tent in one of the camping sites or glamp out at a cabin lakeside. Cabins come with fire rings for s'mores and kitchens for cooking. You can also dine at the on-site restaurant that serves pizza and other kid-friendly fare. Kids will especially love their time spent in the splash zone—the inflatable water park that offers slides, trampolines and hours of entertainment (open seasonaly). Read all about what to do in Siskiyou County here

4239 W. A. Barr Rd.
Mt. Shasta City, CA
Online: lakesiskiyouresort.com

COVID-19 Update: Lake Siskiyou Resort will open for recreational visitors. See their COVID-19 response here

Point Arena Lighthouse—Point Arena

For a truly coastal experience, you can stay right at the Point Arena Lighthouse in one of their six vacation cottages. Three of them comfortably sleep six people with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. They come with a well-equipped kitchen, satellite TV, wood-burning fireplace and the most gorgeous coastal views. Wake up to hear the waves crashing against the rocks and spend your days exploring the 23 acres of land adjacent to the lighthouse. One of the three family suites was recently updated to include a gourmet chef’s kitchen, custom tiled baths and unique artwork.

All lighthouse quarters include unlimited visits to the museum and climbs up the lighthouse tower (a sure-fire way to tire out the kiddos). You will also enjoy a welcome bottle of Husch Vineyards wine and chocolates from Mendocino Chocolate Company upon arrival. Check for seasonal specials to grab yourself a free night or bucks to use at the lighthouse gift shop. Bonus: you can feel good knowing you are supporting this non-profit in its goal of keeping the light on for visitors for generations to come. Check the calendar for the next Night Tour for an extra-fun adventure!

4550 Lighthouse Road
Point Arena, CA
Onlinepointarenalighthouse.com

COVID-19 Update: Open for visitors! 

photo: Kate Loweth

Head Keepers' House at Point Arena Lighthouse | Point Arena, CA

You'll love the serenity that comes with this rental on the Mendocino Coast. It has two bedrooms, a bathroom and a full kitchen with a living room to relax in, but the best is the property that surrounds it. You can walk up to the top of the lighthouse to see if you can spot any whales passing by or walk the coastal paths to take in the fresh air. Read all there is to do in Mendocino with kids here

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $304/night
Online: airbnb.com

Drakesbad Guest Ranch—Chester

Since 1900, guests have made their way to Drakesbad Guest Ranch for some time in nature. Drakesbad's prime location in Lassen Volcanic National Park is only five hours from the Bay Area but a million miles away from the craziness of everyday life. The property offers cabins and bungalows that are perfect for families and all have amazing views of the nearby mountains. There are horses to ride, swings for relaxing, a hot spring-fed pool and nightly campfires. All rooms come with three meals served at the dining hall so you don't have to worry about cooking for the kids. If you are going to be hiking to Boiling Springs Lake to see the bubbling mud pots, you can opt to take a sack lunch with you.

Read our full review here

Drakesbad Guest Ranch
14423 Chester Warner Valley Rd., Chester, CA
Onlinedrakesbad.com

COVID-19 Update: Drakesbad is closed for the season. Book your 2021 visit now!

Coverdale/Healdsburg KOA—Cloverdale

These cabins right near wine country are perfect for families looking to explore this area without having to shell out the big bucks for a hotel. This KOA offers tons of amenities for those with kids—fire pits, barbecues, swimming pool, ping pong table and even a video arcade. Choose from one and two-bedroom cabins that sleep up to six. Grab a cup of coffee from the on-site coffee stand before you head out on your morning hike.

1166 Asti Ridge Road
Cloverdale, CA
Online: koa.com

COVID-19 Update: This KOA is currently open. 

Bothe-Napa Valley State Park—Calistoga

This beautiful 1,900-acre state park in the heart of Napa Valley was slated for closure during the state's 2011 budget crisis, and is now managed by the nonprofit organizations that helped save it. It boasts 10 trails that run through coastal redwoods, Douglas firs, big-leaf maples (gorgeous in the fall) and oaks; a spring-fed swimming pool for cooling off on steamy summer days; and an easy bike ride to award-winning wineries. And yurts! The year-round campground has three reservable yurts that sleep up to six people and seven smaller ones that can accommodate a family of four. You can also reserve one of the three cabins on site. All include skylights, lockable doors, an outdoor fire pit and picnic table, with bathrooms and showers nearby. Keep your eyes (and ears) out for the six different woodpeckers that call this park home.

3801 St. Helena Hwy
Calistoga, CA
Online: napavalleystateparks.org

COVID-19 Updates: The campground is open to campers. 

photo: Safari West

Safari West—Santa Rosa

Come to Santa Rosa for the exotic animals and stay for the one-of-a-kind overnight glamping experience at the Safari West wildlife preserve. The heavy canvas tents—imported from Africa—hardwood floors (albeit polished), and the sounds of wildlife give the feel of camping, while heaters and ceiling fans provide home comforts. While the luxurious bedding is nice, the highlight of the experience for all ages are the more than 800 animals that roam these acres. (Note that the tents are separated from the wildlife for safety reasons.) The on-site Savanna Grill offers indoor and outdoor dining and wines from area vines, as well as Africa.

3115 Porter Creek Rd
Santa Rosa, CA
707-579-2551
Online: safariwest.com

COVID-19 Update: Safari West is currently open for guests. Check the website for updates. 

photo: Kate Loweth

Oz Farm—Point Arena

This off-the-grid spot on the Mendocino Coast offers tranquility like you've never had before. Cabins, yurts and even geodesic domes are scattered around the property to give you privacy and also offer the option of gathering together with multiple families. Some offer kitchenettes for cooking and most are just a short walk to the river. Included in a cabin rental is access to the community house, which is a shared kitchen, living space and bath house for all Oz Farm guests. This working farm also offers a variety of seasonal produce. Request a box for $20 and it will be awaiting your arrival on the farm. Pack light as you'll need to walk a short distance from your car to your residence. Read all our Mendocino recs here

Directions here
Point Arena, CA
Onlineozfarm.com

COVID-19 Update: Currently open to glampers. 

photo: Windsong Guest Yurt

Windsong Guest Yurt—Point Reyes Station

This secluded glamping spot in Point Reyes Station comes with a California king bed and pull-out couch, full kitchen, a wood burning stove and electric heat, and Wi-Fi. With the gorgeous views, abundant nature and nearby attractions, you won't even notice the cable TV. Start your day right with your complimentary welcome basket filled with fruit, muffins and eggs before hiking around Point Reyes National Seashore. At night after the kiddos are off in dreamland, you can stargaze from the hot tub in your private garden. There is a two-night minimum stay, although one night weekday stays can be arranged for special occasions. This place books fast, so check their calendar in advance. If the yurt is booked, ask about the guest house on the same four-acre site. 

25 McDonald Lane
Point Reyes Station, CA
Online: windsongcottage.com

COVID-19 Update: Currently open. 

photo: Presidio Trust

Rob Hill Campground—San Francisco

You will have to sleep on the ground in a tent here (unless you bring your double-decker AirBed), but there is something luxurious about camping in a national park without having to leave San Francisco. Take-out for dinner, anyone? There are two group campsites for up to 30 people available at the Presidio's Rob Hill campground above Baker Beach, with its unparalleled views of the Golden Gate Bridge and stunning sunsets (and moon sets, if you time it right). Each site includes a stand-up grill and a large fire pit that's perfect for s’mores and campfire songs. The campground is open from April through October, and reservations are available on a rolling basis. Weekends are snapped up fast, but there are still weekday sites available for a summer staycation. Rob Hill’s clean and well-lighted bathrooms and city location make it ideal for first-time campers. If you don’t have your own camping supplies, Sports Basement Presidio has tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, camp stoves and more for rent. Read more

1475 Central Magazine Road
San Francisco, CA
Online: presidio.gov

COVID-19 Update: Open for campers. 

Points East

photo: Kate Loweth

Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite

If you are looking for modern conveniences in a woodsy setting, pick Evergreen Lodge for your next stay when you visit Yosemite. Right now, Evergreen Lodge is celebrating 100 years of welcoming families to Yosemite and it's the perfect time to visit. You can book special packages and activities through the end of 2021. The property is located about 10 minutes off highway 120 on the road that takes you to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. You'll feel like you are totally away from it all when you visit. 

Accommodations include cabins of every size including the two-bedroom family cabins that we definitely recommend for those visiting with little ones. You'll get a bedroom with a king-size bed, another with two twins and a center living room with a pull-out couch. Custom camping is also available if you really want to get a taste of the outdoors. You'll arrive to your campsite with a tent already set up (pretty much the camping dream) and mattresses already laid out. 

Read all about Evergreen Lodge and what to do when you visit Yosemite

photo: Kate Loweth

Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort | Midpines, CA

Families looking for the perfect combination of rustic and convenient will love the Yosemite Bug. Located in Midpines on the road between Mariposa and the El Portal entrance, you'll be perfectly located for Yosemite adventures. The Yosemite Bug offers lots of different lodging options—cabins, rooms with private bathrooms, rooms with shared bathrooms, glamping tents, camping spots and even hostel rooms. There's a shared kitchen onsite that's available for your use if you'd like to cook a meal and laundry facilities for when your kid gets his favorite pants soaked on Day 1. There's also an onsite spa. 

The property also has the June Bug Cafe if you'd rather have someone else cook for you. We highly recommend taking advantage of this option as the meals are delicious and large enough to share. The dinner menu changes from day to day with vegan and vegetarian options always available (plus options like pizza for the kids). Order up your trail lunch at breakfast time and you can take it with you when you venture into the park. 

Yosemite Bug has trails on the property that will lead you down to a waterfall and swimming hole (be careful as the trails are steep and difficult for little ones). You can rent out snowshoes in the winter (as available). The kids will love the outdoor ping pong and foosball tables and parents will love that the rooms do not have TVs (because, nature!). 

Check out our Yosemite guide. 

6979 Highway 140
Midpines, CA
Online: yosemitebug.com

photo: Greenhorn Ranch

Greenhorn Ranch—Quincy

Part glamping adventure and part cowboy getaway, Greenhorn Ranch offers the best of both worlds to families who come back year after year (and once you experience it, you'll know why). Horseback riding gets center stage at this ranch in the Lost Sierra that's just four hours from the Bay Area. Your all-inclusive stay comes with twice daily horseback rides and three meals of family-style dining so that all you have to do is relax and enjoy the view. Saturday night BBQs are a highlight so make sure you book your stay over the weekend. Families will love the rustic elegance of the creekside cabins that will sleep up to six people.

Read our full review here

2116 Greenhorn Ranch Rd.
Quincy, CA
Online: redtri.com

COVID-19 Update: Greenhorn Ranch will be open for the season in May. 

photo: Kate Loweth

Wylder Hotel Hope Valley

Tucked away on the eastern edge of Hope Valley in the mountain landscape of the Sierra Nevada, Wylder Hotel Hope Valley is an iconic, 165-acre all-season resort built with equal parts relaxation and adventure in mind. Only 25 minutes from South Lake Tahoe, Wylder Hope Valley celebrates the spirit of its natural surroundings, as the West Fork Carson River meanders through the ground’s expansive alpine meadows.

Wylder Hope Valley’s accommodations include 30 uniquely built cabins made across different decades for the past 100 years—ranging from riverfront cabins for two to homesteads for groups up to eight people. Guests will also find a fully-restored 1951 vintage Spartan trailer with riverfront views, alongside seven custom yurts varying in size and style from 20-foot yurts with full bathrooms to a 16-foot off-grid yurt on a cliffside with incredible views.

For the camping enthusiast, there are expansive campgrounds with various sites for tents and RVs. A wide range of onsite activities include relaxing in a wood-fired sauna, enjoying wine or hot cocoa by the fire, hiking, mountain biking and snowshoeing—while off-property adventures await such as hot springs, swimming, kayaking, fishing, skiing and so much more. Local fare, grocery and to-go items are available at the beloved Sorensen’s Café and the General Store. 

Read our full review of Wylder Hotel Hope Valley here

14255 Highway 88
Hope Valley, CA
Online: redtri.com

COVID-19 Update: Wylder Hotel Hope Valley is open for visitors. 

photo: Sun RV Resorts

49er Village RV Resort—Plymouth

Nestled in the Sierra Foothills of Amador County, 49er Village RV Resort provides the perfect destination for you and your family. They offer a wide selection of accommodations with hundreds of full-hookup sites and charming cabin rentals. Take a dip in the beautiful swimming pools and hot tub. Enjoy a game of shuffleboard, horseshoes or billiards. Then, get in touch with nature at the fishing ponds.

Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at the on-site Café at the Park. Offsite, visit the over 35 award-winning wineries and numerous championship golf courses nearby. Or, breathe in the natural beauty of Amador Flower Farm in the Shenandoah Valley.

8265 CA-49
Plymouth, CA
Online: sunrvresorts.com

COVID-19 Update: The resort is open to guests. 

photo: Tenaya Lodge

Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins—Yosemite

You need to check out the brand-new Explorer Cabins at Tenaya Lodge as families love them. The picturesque cabin development combines the refined comforts of a modern cabin, personalized service and the perks of a full-service resort—all in a pristine mountain setting. At 650 square feet, the “mountain modern” cabins sleep up to six guests and include a living room, kitchen area, two bedrooms and a private deck from which to unwind after a day of adventure. The family cabins, outfitted with bunk beds in the second bedroom, are nestled in the interior areas and grouped for easy socialization and community gathering. All cabins have access to the clubhouse, daily breakfast and on-site activities. Kids will especially love the Kids Adventure Course, archery, flashlight hikes and mountain bikes available for rent.

Read our Yosemite guide here

1122 Highway 41
PO Box 159
Fish Camp, CA
Online: tenayalodge.com

COVID-19 Update: Tenaya Lodge is open and you can read their COIVD-19 response here

photo: AutoCamp

AutoCamp Yosemite—Midpines

AutoCamp welcomes guests to their new Yosemite property that's perfect for families. Nestled on 35 acres in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Yosemite property features 80 deluxe Airstream trailers as well as 15 luxury tents and three cabins. Airstreams can accommodate up to two adults and two kids (queen bed + pull-out sofa) and the cabins sleep up to five. After a day of hiking, relax by the on-site (heated!) pool or canoe in the freshwater pond. Nights will definitely be spent roasting s'mores around the fire pit and making new friends.

Stargazing events and nature talks among other programming are available. YARTS shuttle service will take you from the property into Yosemite so that you don't have to worry about jockeying for a parking spot. Grab a complimentary cup of tea or coffee before you set out. Forgot something? Head to the AutoCamp Shop for all the essentials. 

6323 CA-140
Midpines, CA
Onlineautocamp.com

COVID-19 Update: Open for visitors.

photo: Inn Town Campground

Inn Town Campground—Nevada City

Are you a tent, trailer or pillow-top mattress kind of family? Whatever your camping style, the new Inn Town Campground has an option for you, from woodsy tent sites, to spacious RV sites with full hook-ups to the prime glamping sites. There are 15 glamping sites available, and each features a large canvas tent erected on an elevated platform and includes perks like private decks, electric lighting (and outlets) and of course, cozy, fully-made up beds—configurations range from 1 (queen) to 4 (twin) beds. There will even be a stack of fluffy towels waiting for you! Each glamping tent is decorated with an individual theme and unique furnishings, and some are even designated dog friendly. The back decks feature camp chairs and electric lanterns. There are even extra cots available to accommodate bigger broods.

Read all about Inn Town Campground here.

Inn Town Campground
9 Kidder Ct., Nevada City, CA
530-265-9900
Onlineinntowncampground.com

COVID-19 Update: Inn Town is open for recreational visitors. See their COVID-19 precautions here

Lake Camanche—Valley Springs

Venture up to Amador County for some glamping along the shore of Lake Camanche. With both cottages and vacation homes available to rent, there's something for families of all sizes. The cottages include fully-equipped kitchens and a large deck for enjoying the outdoors. The vacation homes can accommodate up to 12 people and include a kitchen, washer/dryer, outdoor dining area and even a TV. Lake Camanche offers swimming, watersports, fishing, summer movie nights and more. 

Lake Camanche
North Shore: 2000 Camanche Road, Ione, CA
South Shore: 11700 Wade Lane, Valley Springs, CA
Onlinelakecamancheresort.com

COVID-19 Update: Open for camping. 

Points South

photo: Kate Loweth

Fernwood Resort—Big Sur

Big Sur's heavenly mix of forested mountains, rugged coastline and lack of cell service make it the ideal locale for getting away. But even if you wanted to sleep on the ground in a tent, scoring a summer spot in the popular Pfieffer Big Sur State Park can feel like trying to win the lottery. Just up the road, and with access to the same trees and beautiful coastal amenities, is the Fernwood Resort. Their tent cabins run alongside the Big Sur river, and come with raised beds, picnic tables and fire pits, and access to the camp store and the Fernwood Bar & Grill (which has Wi-Fi), for when you don't feel like grilling.

The cabins are a great option for families who don't want the hassle of setting up a tent. You'll get your own bathroom, a queen bed, bunk bed and pull-out couch. Each cabin comes with a fire ring and outdoor picnic table. The cabins have a full refrigerator, oven and all the dishes/cutlery/serving bowls you'll need. The on-site general store has literally anything you'd need from ice cream to water shoes for the river. 

Right down the road are two other Big Sur glamping options: Riverside Campground & Cabins and Big Sur Campground & Cabins

47200 Hwy 1
Big Sur, CA
831-667-2422
Online: fernwoodbigsur.com

COVID-19 Update: Campground is open. 

photo: Kate Loweth

Pigeon Point Lighthouse—Pescadero

This hostel recently converted its rooms to private rentals and they are perfect for families. There are three units available and each sleeps up to 10 people. You'll have your own kitchen and an outdoor dining area with gorgeous views of the California coast. Walk just north of the lighthouse and there are some easily-accessible tide pools—perfect for exploring. Swing by downtown Pescadero or Pie Ranch for some tasty grub.

Read this story for more Pescadero must-stop spots

210 Pigeon Point Rd.
Pescadero, CA
Online: hiusa.org

COVID-19 Update: Open for visitors. 

photo: Santa Cruz Monterey Bay KOA Holiday

Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday—Watsonville

If you have never brought the kids to a KOA for camping then you are in for a real treat. This spot near Manresa State Beach and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk offers Deluxe Cabins with bunk beds or a sleeping loft for the kids and brand-new Glamping Cabins that are perfect for a romantic getaway. Just in time for summer, the Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday underwent a renovation of its activity park that includes an outdoor ping pong table, climbing statues, KOA jumping pillow and a new pool.

Perhaps the best part of a KOA is that there are loads of activities for kids that are hosted by on-site counselors (translation: parents can relax). Ride the KOA Express Fun Train around the property, get strapped in to climb the coconut palm trees, watch movies under the stars and enjoy s'mores without the cleanup! Weekends bring extra fun with pancake breakfasts, giga balls and more.

Check out this story for all our Santa Cruz recs

1186 San Andreas Road
Watsonville, CA
Online: koa.com

COVID-19 Update: This spot is open for recreational visitors. See their COVID0-19 response here

photo: Kate Loweth

Flying Flags RV Resort and Campground—Buellton

Head south on the 101 and just past San Luis Obispo you'll be in the Santa Ynez Valley, a picturesque spot to plan a weekend getaway. Flying Flags RV Resort and Campground takes glamping to a whole other level with swimming pools, splash park, playground, on-site restaurant, WiFi and even a dog park for Fido. The family-friendly cottages with loft sleep up to six people and include a full kitchen so that you don't have to eat out for every meal. The property also has safari tents, Airstreams and cabins, as well as tent and RV camping spots. Nearby attractions include OstrichLand, wine tasting galore and the adorable town of Solvang. Get more tips for what to do in the Santa Ynez Valley here

180 Avenue of the Flags
Buellton, CA
Onlinehighwaywestvacations.com

COVID-19 Update: Flying Flags is currently open for reservations but the swimming pool and other amenities are closed. Check the website for updates. 

Costanoa—Pescadero

With words like “spa” and “eco-adventure” in the description, you might think Costanoa was a retreat for grown-ups. And you'd be right, but this place understands that kids need a break from the daily grind, too. They’ve even figured out how adults and kids can find their own bliss simultaneously. Drop your kids in a two-hour nature-themed camp on weekends and Wednesdays (ages 6-12), then check into the spa for a massage, head out on the adjacent trails on bike or horse (rentals of both available on site), or just crawl back in bed with a good book (or iPad: even the tent cabins are equipped with free Wi-Fi). There are many levels of "roughing it" here. Tent cabins are perfect for families of three (double bed and twin), with larger cabins to suit larger families, with kitchenettes and showers. There's also a KOA campground on site, for tent and RVs. Shared Comfort Stations throughout the campground offer clean bathrooms, showers and dry saunas. If ensuite bathrooms are a must, book a room in the lodge. Check their activity schedule for fun family-friendly events, like the open-air live music and BBQ on Saturday nights throughout the summer. Follow that up on Sunday morning with a cooked-for-you breakfast and group yoga and head home refreshed and ready for what the week has in store.

2001 Rossi Road at Hwy 1
Pescadero, CA
650-879-1100
Online: costanoa.com

COVID-19 Update: Lodge, Tent Bungalows, Cabins, Tents and RV sites are open at this time. Restaurant is open for to-go orders only. Check website for updates. 

Treebones Resort—Big Sur

It's hard to top a stay in one of the fully furnished yurts at Big Sur's Treebones Resort. These circular fabric-covered structures with wood lattice frames offer private decks, breathtaking ocean and mountain vistas and an ideal jumping off point for coastal exploration, on foot or by kayak. The Wild Coast Restaurant and Sushi bar offers fresh, local, organic food. Yurts large enough to host a family are booked well in advance—weekends are especially scarce—so do plan ahead. Also, kids must be over age 6 to stay at Treebones. 

71895 Hwy 1
Big Sur, CA
877-424-4787
Online: treebonesresort.com

COVID-19 Update: Open for visitors. 

Other Options

photo: Airbnb

Treehouses in California That You Can Rent

If life in a treehouse is just what you need in your life, check out this list of 14 California treehouses that are available on Airbnb. California is full of whimsical treehouses where you can sleep closer to the stars from deep in the forest or right in the heart of a city. 

photo: Glamping Hub

Loads of Options on Glamping Hub

When searching for the perfect glamping sites to visit with your loved ones, be sure to check out Glamping Hub. With over 1,000 family-friendly accommodations in Northern California, glamping families are sure to find the best spot to spend their next adventure. Some must-visits include this stylish yurt nestled among the Redwoods, perfect for a family of four looking to disconnect in the heart of the forest, or these two stunning tree house cabins for four guests found tucked into the thick of Carmel. From yurts to tree houses, safari tents, and more, you and your family will be sure to have the most unique experience when booking a glamping getaway in California

Online: glampinghub.com

—Kate Loweth

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