New Brighton State Beach Campground sits along the northern edge of Monterey Bay, about 12 miles from Aptos at an elevation of roughly 40 feet above sea level. The campground occupies a coastal terrace with eucalyptus and Monterey pine providing shade throughout the camping areas. Temperatures typically range from 45°F to 75°F year-round, with winter bringing occasional rain and summer featuring consistent fog patterns.
What to do
Hiking at Henry Cowell Redwoods: Just 15 minutes from Aptos, the park offers trails through ancient redwoods. "There are a few trails that started from the campground, which was nice," notes Queenie M. about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground.
Beach exploration: Walk from your site to the shoreline at Manresa. "Beautiful views of the ocean just steps from your tent. During the summer months, whales and dolphins can be seen cruising through the ocean around sunset," reports Cara V. about the coastal setting.
Mountain biking: Trails near Mount Madonna County Park accommodate various skill levels. "Great campground for the kids to bike at but there are a few big hills so make sure they know how to use their brakes," suggests Weston W. about the terrain at Mount Madonna County Park.
Archery practice: Mount Madonna offers a dedicated archery course. "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," says April N.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. "While the sites are a little close to each other, those on the outside of the loop had a great deal of privacy," notes Lori T. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high standards. "Bathrooms are constantly cleaned and showers are free and clean. Parking is free with paid camping," reports Carolina M. about the amenities.
Wildlife viewing: Marine mammals are visible from some coastal sites. "You can easily walk to the marina, take a trip to the henry cowel redwoods, go ride bikes in santa cruz. We have so much fun," says Tiffany W. about Sunset State Beach.
Historical features: Some parks preserve local history. "Great hikes right from the site or you can drive up to where the old homestead was and see some ruins," mentions Weston W. about Mount Madonna.
What you should know
Weather variations: Coastal fog affects some campsites more than others. "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!" warns April N.
Reservation challenges: Some campgrounds book quickly. "Hard to find a spot here these days but a great camping spot above the beach," says Willow M. about New Brighton.
Cell service limitations: Signal strength varies by campground. "No cell service but good WiFi if your close to the office," reports Ben T. about Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
Insect awareness: Be prepared for seasonal bugs. "You will want to bring insect repellent in the summer," advises Xi C. about Uvas Canyon County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer special facilities for children. "TONS of activities on site- huge bouncy pad, a climbing wall, ping pong tables, a swimming pool, pedal go karts, the list goes on and on," reports Daniel D. about Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday.
Family-sized sites: Look for campgrounds with space for group activities. "Tan Oak campground seems to have bigger sites than the others, but we drove through all the campgrounds and none of them are awful. Our site (418) was huge and private," notes April N.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs. "Nice area, lots of trails into redwoods and cedar trees, campsites were very roomy and flatish. Water was available, bathroom was clean," writes James about Mount Madonna.
Water play options: Kids enjoy creek and beach access. "Short walk from parking to camp sites. Clean bathrooms. Water spigot at many sites, easy walk down to the beach, close to town if you need anything," says Derek about Manresa State Beach.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose carefully for level parking. "Sites 416 and 417 are also big with hidden spots back off the road for pitching your tent," suggests April N. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer the same services. "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 that we used as we departed," reports Lori T.
Navigation challenges: Access roads can be tricky. "Entrance is a little nerve racking on your first visit, but once your at your site you can relax," warns Ben T. about Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Aptos: Multiple parks welcome pets. "Great for families. We have a two and a half year old and it's perfect for us in a 28' fifth wheel. Paved roads for bikes, huge playground, nice store, warm pool," writes Andrea A. about the KOA, mentioning one of several pet-friendly options in the area.
Traveler
