Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping
9 acres hosted by Matt B.
1 tent site
Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Best tent-sites: 2nd place
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.
Matt is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
Activities
Biking
Fishing
Hiking
Paddling
Natural features
Forest
Coastal
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1 site
High demand
Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping
100% (238)
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Picnic table
from
for NaN guests$65
/ nightReviews
100% Recommend238 ratings · 205 reviews
We loved Fern Ridge Flats! Matt 's communication, attention to detail, and warmth were beyond terrific!
The area was super clean, exactly as advertised, and super convenient for our 2 days of hiking in The Forest of Nisene Marks and one day at Wilder Ranch State Park. We will definitely be back. Thanks so much!
Syd H.
1 month on Hipcamp
Great spot on private land with gorgeous views! Very secluded even though you are just behind the host's house. Are kids were just old enough (3.5 and 5.5) but any younger would have a hard time staying out of the poison oak and away from the steep hills. Matt was very thoughtful with the amenities that make this spot so easy and comfortable - toilet, spigot, gas fire pit. It's a very peaceful spot bursting with nature that is soothing on both the eyes and ears. So easy to get into town and have a beach day, then come back to camp in the redwoods.
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Lisa K.
7 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
I loved my stay at fern flats! I got the most amazing sleep, the birds provided beautiful music and it was absolutely quiet at night. I would definitely return. There was construction noise in the mornings though which Matt had zero control over. Hopefully the construction noise will be gone soon. The bottom line is that this place was great!
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Kathy M.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
This is the perfect spot if you want all the nature without the people. It’s very private and there’s a small trail to follow in case you want to explore. It’s big enough for two people in one tent to camp comfortably. Otherwise, you could maybe fit one more person. The host is incredibly friendly and helpful.
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Riley S.
1 month on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Great location! Nestled amongst trees but also a short drive to hikes and the beach. We enjoyed the fire pit and lights at night. Everything was great; thanks Matt!
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Grace F.
5 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Beautiful space. Matt gave clear instructions on how to arrive and it was easy to locate both parking and the actual tent site. Everything was set up and easy to use. Fabulous time, my only regret was not spending more time at the actual site.
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Sica V.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
we enjoyed our stay at matt’s camping site! it has just enough amenities to be comfortable while also feeling like we were really camping. matt was super kind, giving us our space but also swinging by to drop off some bug spray we had forgot to pack. we felt safe and peaceful - it was a great getaway from city life.
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Kaysee O.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping
This is a beautiful private spot, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
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Peter W.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2025
The camping spot is amazing, very quiet and private, nestled in the forest! Very unique experience.
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Clara S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2025
Absolutely beautiful place and so secluded! Has nice amenities for a camp site - spigot for washing, non-flush toilet, etc.
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Kei S.
4 reviews
The spot was nestled into the forest and the scenery was beautiful. Close to Aptos and a gorgeous hiking spot. The host was helpful and personable. Would book again.
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Erin H.
2 reviews
Recommends
· March 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping
Cute lights and comfy camping, thanks for having us!
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Mary S.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2025
I loved staying at Fern Flats! It is a beautiful campsite tucked away in nature. We had a lovely time enjoying the campsite and exploring the area. I would definitely recommend this Hipcamp to anyone who wants a gorgeous place to relax.
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Erin T.
2 reviews
This place was absolutely wonderful! It was like stepping into a different country. The site is perfectly nestled in the trees, with a picnic table, fire pit and toilet easily accessible. The trail on the side of the site wasn’t very long but still very beautiful with mossy trees and a little creek! The owners were extremely friendly and not hovering whatsoever! Would definitely book here again and recommend it to everyone!
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Talisa H.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2025
Matt's campsite is wonderful - easy to access, private, and beautiful.
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Saya H.
10 reviews
The property was beautiful and me and my friends felt so safe and comfortable! The host was amazing and so kind as well! We genuinely had the best time and would recommend this to everyone!
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Olivia H.
2 reviews
Recommends
· March 2025
Gorgeous spot. I recommend arriving during the day if you can, I think it would have made the drive in easier. Follow the directions that will be sent to you, NOT Google maps. Matt was very fast to respond to messages. 10/10, would go back again.
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Lauren M.
4 reviews
Loved it ! Host was very responsive and helpful. It felt so safe for my first time ever camping. It was the perfect amount of privacy and an exceptional amount of nature. Would recommend to anyone. Great if you want to visit Big Sur the next day.
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Areli T.
4 months on Hipcamp
This Hipcamp near Santa Cruz was the perfect place to honor my mom’s memory after her passing. A close friend of hers and I visited spots she loved and ones she had hoped to see. The peaceful setting made for a deeply meaningful and healing trip.
Matt’s hospitality was exceptional. He greeted us warmly, walked us to the campsite, and even set up propane for a fire. Since we planned to leave and return at night, he sent directions for the easier paved route. He also let us keep the lights on overnight to help my mom’s friend, who isn’t as comfortable with camping, feel at ease.
The campsite itself is magical, surrounded by towering redwoods. We woke to a hawk’s call in the morning. The space is well-maintained, with a clean toilet setup and even a surprise gallon of water, despite the listing stating none was available. Well water was also accessible for cooking.
The location is ideal—secluded yet close to stunning coastal views and must-see spots. The property also offers vintage Airstream camping. Thoughtful touches, like well-lit paths, make it clear that Matt and his family have created a truly special retreat.
This was more than a camping trip—it was a space for healing and reflection. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful escape in the redwoods. Thank you, Matt, for such a beautiful experience!
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Monica M.
2 years on Hipcamp
We enjoyed our quick weekend getaway at Fern Ridge Flats! The campsite is well kept and clean, and felt like we were in a hideaway in the mountains. The campsite was complete with lights, picnic table, fire pit (optional), toilet, and trashcan. There is even a cute little bench and viewing point down the path. Though we didn’t plan on it raining earlier than expected, it was so relaxing to hear the rain while the birds chirped in the morning. Because of this, we would recommend maybe a little lockbox for storage since the car park is a walk uphill. We‘d love to come back here again, perhaps for a longer stay, to explore Aptos - which is such a cute town. Thank you, Matt and family, for the hospitality!
Patricia D.
4 reviews
This was the perfect spot to get away for the day. I felt like I was far out in the woods but it was just a very short way from my car and rural civilization. I loved the little path down through the trees and all the birds flying in and out. What a lovely forest to explore. The weather was perfect and I was super cozy in my quiet tent all night. Not a drop of rain or dew on my fly in the morning. Thank you Matt for the opportunity to unwind without having to go very far.
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Liz K.
2 reviews
My boyfriend and I came here for Valentine’s Day weekend, and it was absolutely perfect! So romantic and scenic! The campsite is tucked away down a short trail that makes you feel completely in the woods but it’s just a quick walk away from Matt’s house! Made me feel very very safe knowing Matt was nearby to help out if needed, and he is super quick to respond. The campsite has a string of warm, cozy lights that make it more homey at night, which I appreciated.
We went down to Monterey one day and spent the entire rest of the trip at the campsite, and it was a perfect combination! They don’t have showers here yet, which wasn’t a huge problem for us because we had friends in town and just used their showers. Other than that it was fantastic! Such a sweet Valentine’s Day weekend, and we definitely will be back!
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Bekah C.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
New personal all-time favorite site
Camping at Fern Ridge Flats is an absolute pleasure. The site is beautiful, clean, and comfortable. Matt is an attentive and gracious host. Both sunrise and sunset views from the site are phenomenal. Will be back!
Alex K.
2 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
Really lovely spot! Matt is super responsive and it's a lovely spot to pitch a tent. The campsite is in his yard and it overlooks a little ravine. He's also put up some string lights to add to the atmosphere.
I will say I was a little annoyed about having to pay $20 for a campfire. Since wood fires aren't allowed, the only option to do the add-on for the propane tank. I understand the reasoning for this, but it wasn't clear to me when I bought it. At the end of the day, it came out to $97 for a night of camping. I know that no one is making big bucks off hipcamp, but that's just a bit steep for me (I was camping by myself).
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Ben I.
2 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
I loved tent camping here. Gorgeous site, very spacious, and extremely kind host. 10/10 recommend!
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Darius B.
6 months on Hipcamp
I loved this property! Matt was super attentive and helpful with getting us set up before we arrived and made sure things stayed comfortable for us. Incredible host! Great land! Highly recommend!
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Megan R.
8 months on Hipcamp
This place is a gem on so many levels. Private. Beautiful. Comfortable.
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Gary S.
2 reviews
We booked this last minute and we will definitely be back! The view from the campsite was gorgeous.
Loved that there was wifi and electricity and the fairy lights were a nice touch :)
Matt was an incredible host.
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Nadine W.
7 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2024
Beautiful space. Went out for a solo camping trip, and enjoyed the quiet sounds of the nature. Clear instructions, and a nice trail to walk as well!
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Brendon L.
7 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2024
Tent · With kids ·
Fern Ridge Flats - Private Camping
Loved the site - perfect balance of privacy, nature and amenities for a family of 4. Will definitely return
Vincent P.
4 years on Hipcamp
Location
Aptos, Santa Cruz, California, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
Hosted by Matt B.
Joined in August 2022Response rate: 100%Response time: Within 3 hours
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