Campers arriving at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park face narrow roads with overhanging trees that can challenge larger RVs, though 26-foot rigs typically manage the route. The campground spreads across multiple loops with sites varying significantly in size and configuration, making advance photo research essential for booking the right spot.
Oak trees and scrub pines provide natural shade throughout most sites, with many offering enough privacy despite the campground's popularity. "Sites had ample trees and shade," notes Sarah J., adding that the tree coverage works well for hammock setup. Bear boxes, picnic tables, and fire rings equip each site, though poison oak grows extensively throughout the campground and along trails to restrooms.
The 40-acre old-growth redwood grove provides hiking access directly from camp, with additional trails connecting to observation points and the broader trail system. Coin-operated showers run 50 cents for two minutes, and flush toilets stay well-maintained according to multiple reviews. Yellow jackets present a notable issue during warmer months, with several campers reporting stings near sites and along trails.
Road access requires careful navigation for larger rigs, and early arrivals before check-in must wait at the day-use area several miles away. The campground books quickly due to its proximity to Santa Cruz and coastal attractions. Sites closer to cliff areas offer better views but require advance reservations to secure. Consider bringing quarters for showers and watching for poison oak when setting up camp or walking to facilities.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundHenry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground is located in California
Directions
Located South of Felton, on Graham Hill Road in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Exit from Highway 17 in Scotts Valley at the Mt. Hermon Road exit, go through Scotts Valley and continue on Mt. Hermon Road to Graham Hill Road. Turn left on Graham Hill Road, turn right into the Henry Cowell campground.
Address
101 North Big Trees Park Rd
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Coordinates
37.032968898265146 N
122.04243990412888 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 3/16/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 21 usersLast on 3/16/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 64 usersLast on 3/16/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 3/16/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 21 usersLast on 3/16/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 64 usersLast on 3/16/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 2 min from Santa Cruz, CA
- 32 min from San Jose, CA
- 40 min from Salinas, CA
- 1 hr 7 min from San Francisco, CA


















































