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Camping near Ben Lomond, CA

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Camping options around Ben Lomond, California include several established campgrounds nestled among towering redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The area features a mix of developed campgrounds like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground and Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, which accommodate both tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities. These sites are predominantly located within 10 miles of Ben Lomond, providing convenient access to the San Lorenzo River and nearby state parks with their impressive old-growth redwood groves.

    Campground availability remains relatively consistent throughout the year in this moderate coastal mountain climate, though reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when facilities reach capacity. Most established campgrounds in the region provide drinking water, toilets, and fire pits, while RV resorts offer additional hookups including electric, water, and sewer connections. The proximity to Santa Cruz (approximately 10 miles south) makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations. Road access varies, with Highway 9 presenting challenges for larger vehicles. As one camper noted, "Don't use Highway 9 south from Santa Cruz when towing. The road is too winding and narrow. Use Highway 17 to Mount Herman Road instead."

    The region's campgrounds receive particularly high ratings for their redwood settings, offering a distinctive camping experience beneath ancient forest canopies. Sites along the San Lorenzo River are especially prized but tend to be limited in number. "Sites surrounded by redwoods, friendly helpful staff, close to attractions," noted one visitor to Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. Many campgrounds feature tight spacing between sites, creating a community atmosphere but limiting privacy. Several reviews mention the trade-off between convenience and solitude, with most developed areas prioritizing amenities and accessibility over spaciousness. The combination of redwood forest camping with proximity to Santa Cruz beaches creates a versatile base camp for exploring both mountain and coastal environments in a single trip.

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    Best Campgrounds near Ben Lomond (121)

      1. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground

      4.4(43)4mi from Ben LomondRVs, Tents

      "This is a nice campground in a great part of California with lots of hiking and beaches nearby. The bathrooms were clean and well kept."

      "There were bigger sites that would've suited us better but it was a nice little tucked in site. The poison oak is prolific. Our site was literally surrounded by it."

      from $7 - $35 / night

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      2. New Brighton State Beach Campground

      4.5(45)11mi from Ben Lomond103 sitesRVs

      "Camped with electricity and water, situated on a bluff near the ocean. Easy walking distance to the water, nice roomy campsites with fire rings and tables. Not too close to other campers."

      "New Brighton is a jewel on the California coast. Camping is on a bluff above beach and you must walk down stairs to get to the beach. Camping in the woods with the beach below is perfect."

      from $35 - $185 / night

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      3. Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED

      4.7(34)9mi from Ben Lomond33 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Not far from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area in California. When you arrive it's like stepping in to a whole other world. Huge redwoods blanket the mountain and line every site."

      "So sad the devastation of last month's fires on the oldest state park in California, home to thr biggest redwoods south of San Francisco."

      from $35 / night

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      4. Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort

      4.1(22)3mi from Ben LomondRVs

      "They are a bit narrow, so much of the camp side you will have a close look at your neighbors utilities. When the park is full, it is close. Go on weekdays, not as busy and more room is likely."

      "Sites surrounded by redwoods, friendly helpful staff, close to attractions."

      5. Cotillion Gardens RV Park

      3.5(15)3mi from Ben LomondRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Entrance is a little nerve racking on your first visit, but once your at your site you can relax. Bathrooms are a little dated, no cell service but good WiFi if your close to the office."

      "The place is old, but it has a great location. There are great hiking trails assessable from the campground."

      from $60 - $100 / night

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      6. Sanborn County Park

      4.0(20)11mi from Ben LomondRVs, Glamping

      "This is a nice camping away from the car experience. It's a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites."

      "Great walk-in campground so close to home in the South Bay Area (albeit walk is slightly uphill)."

      from $33 / night

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      7. Smithwoods RV Park

      4.6(7)3mi from Ben LomondRVs

      "The location is mostly flat and surrounded with Redwoods. Shady and sunny locations; larger and small RV spots. No tent camping. It backs into Henry Cowell State Park and you can walk into it."

      "I’m so glad we did because we were surrounded by these beautiful red wood trees and we could hear the train whistle in the daytime coming from Roaring Camp Railroad."

      8. Ben Ries Campground — Butano State Park - CLOSED INDEFINITELY

      4.8(18)16mi from Ben LomondTents

      "It is a smaller park than many of the other redwoods parks in Northern California, so it was very nice and peaceful. Butano is a bit off the beaten path to get to, but so worth it."

      "Large, user-friendly campsites surrounded by redwood trees. Great ferny hiking trails for every level of camper/hiker. Very easy access to campsites and near Pescadero and Highway One."

      from $35 / night

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      9. Sunset State Beach

      4.3(28)19mi from Ben LomondRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "Dogs can be allowed on beach if you go to the right of the main entrance. No dogs to the left.  Camp sites vary but the best loop is South Loop. Some with ocean views but those are hard to reserve. "

      "Strawberry fields surround the campground and are next to the Hike and Bike area. The walk is not too difficult down to the beach."

      10. Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA

      4.4(16)15mi from Ben LomondRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "But for a quick weekend jaunt for RV campers, this location slightly more than an hour from the Bay Area is hard to beat."

      "There is a nice playground next to an equally nice café called the pinecone. The weather here is cold just a heads up be prepared for wind and overcast weather."

      from $100 - $200 / night

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    Recent Reviews near Ben Lomond, CA

    817 Reviews of 121 Ben Lomond Campgrounds


    • Anthony V.
      Jul. 2, 2026

      Trailer Tel RV Park

      Nice clean, bad management

         I lived at this trailer park from October 2021 until June 2026. I loved living here and the lifestyle. I've always been on good terms with property management and owners. Wayne and I would talk often, I even bought him and his wife dinner because i noticed we're eating at the same place. I've recently been going through a divorce and spoke with Wayne about personal issues, I generally keep to myself but I thought Wayne was a man of integrity. Come to find out he's spreading my personal business throughout the trailer park. Around June 25th i asked wayne, if I could speak to him privately in his office, he said, no, my boss is in there. I then asked him about the moving out process, and if I could possibly rent another spot in the park and leave my ex wife in that spot. This is what He deemed an appropriate response in the middle of the street in front of neighbors, The property owner and staff. "Your wife has a bad reputation". What do you mean complaints? "Not only that several of your neighbors have told me that they're sleeping with your wife". I was humiliated, embarrassed would be an understatement. I then told him that i'm gonna be out of there as soon as possible. He then said "I have 6 people fighting for that spot. If you can be out by the end of the month, I'll get them in right away". Come the 1st of the month. Wayne gives me a call saying they are keeping my deposit, and I owe an additional $310 i was perplexed. After trying to talk to him about this, he became aggressive, yelling, using profanities. After realizing how this was going, I asked for an Itemize statement and a copy of my lease agreement. I also asked if I still need to pay for the next several days, can I have use to the facilities still? Pool, weight room, laundry room ect. There was a long, awkward pause, he eventually said, I would prefer if you don't. This just seemed really off to me that you are forcing me to pay, but I can't use what i'm paying for. He then said "I got shit to do bro". And hung up the phone. I've spoke to him 3 times train to get an explanation or some clarity on my end but each time I am met with aggression and being hung up on with no resolution. Today when I spoke with him, she told me, " i don't care if you pay or not. Ill send you to collections, you turned in your mail key and moved your trailer". "You don't have a leg to stand on, i suggest you sue us". I then said, wayne, this is exactly the problem.You're the property manager, you should care if your current or former tenants, our paying their bills. I'm just trying to come to a resolution. He then hung up the phone and ignored my return calls. Again the facility is great, clean, we'll maintained i really anticipated on leaving a 5 star review but the way Wayne mishandled this is disappointing to say the least. I hope the owner will please call me, Anthony Vyeda #52  

      Sorry to the owners of trailer tel rv park for leaving this honest review.

    • A T.
      Jun. 21, 2026

      Seacliff Center Trailer & RV Park

      Passing by

      We love doing road trips and we don't have a destination so this time it was hard to find a spot to camp, everything was full but we fund this nice spot that we could stay for the night. We love the this 😍 camping spot it's not in the forest but is near the beach at walking distance and they have showers!. Can't wait to come back again. Thank you!

    • Grant M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 20, 2026

      Laguna Seca Recreation Area

      Amazing views, location and price, but is a raceway

      Great spots, awesome views, but even if there’s no “event” there may be cars on track 8am-5pm, and it ain’t quiet. Check the community calendar as well. Oh, the water has too much arsenic to drink, so be prepared on that front.

    • Melina H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 16, 2026

      Treasure Island MH and RV Park

      Great Spot

      Stayed here for 2 nights. Staff was very nice and the restrooms looked great and worked perfectly fine. Very quiet.

      • clean washers and dryers available for a few $ Metro not far away to get into the city and a few stores in walking distance
    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 16, 2026

      Candlestick RV Park

      Hard pass

      Obviously a long term lot with a very “wrong turn” kind of vibe. Website on apple is blocked for deceptive practices . There was but link from here works. Never got confirmation e,ail so I called.. 800 number, no answer.. local number answered said I wouldn’t get confirmation until noon tomorrow. Then told me to come on as a walk in. We pulled up, pulled through, left quickly.. bad decisions unless you are on hard times.

    • Delila R.
      Jun. 14, 2026

      Veteran's Memorial Park Campground

      Best campsite in Monterey

      They clean the bathrooms daily, there's trash cans everywhere, a couple water spouts, 2 play grounds, trails, beautiful trees, and more! Fires are not allowed during fire season and you cannot stay for more than 3 days but it's still a very fancy campground in my opinion. Reasonably priced too!

    • Wilbur P.The Dyrt PRO User
      May. 27, 2026

      New Brighton State Beach Campground

      Seaside camping in a forested camp.

      Nice level sites, not too close together….nice trees provide shade. Excellent beach for strolling. A dump station with potable water is $10.

    • AThe Dyrt PRO User
      May. 24, 2026

      Enchanted Forest Mountain Redwood Retreat

      Refund promise not done

      Jessica helped as to reserve the site 10a but when we went there it was so hard to access the site with our car .so we did call her and explain the situation she proposed a refund .we left the area waiting for the promised refund we called her the same night she didn’t answer and she send a message saying she will refund the day after .we called her the day after she said I will do when I get internet after that she said because of your behavior (calling her and asking for our money) she said I will not refund and go to the police


    Guide to Ben Lomond

    Ben Lomond sits at approximately 800 feet elevation in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where the coastal influence creates mild temperatures averaging 50-75°F throughout camping season. The San Lorenzo Valley's microclimate supports a mix of old-growth redwoods and riparian habitats, with evening temperatures typically dropping 15-20 degrees from daytime highs. Campers often note the stark temperature difference between sunny exposed sites and densely shaded redwood groves.

    What to do

    Hiking to waterfalls: Short driving distance from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground where multiple trail options lead to seasonal water features. "Plenty of hiking trails. Hike into the redwoods or go a few miles down the road and take a ride on the Roaring Camp Big Trees Railroad," notes Nona A.

    Steam train adventures: Located just minutes from several campgrounds, the historic Roaring Camp Railroad offers excursions through redwood groves. A camper at Smithwoods RV Park mentions, "We could hear the train whistle in the daytime coming from Roaring Camp Railroad."

    River swimming: Access the San Lorenzo River from multiple points near local campgrounds. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, "There is a little trail that goes down to the River where you can find a neat little beach. It's a goofy little descent/climb to get there and out but worth it," according to Jaime C.

    Biking opportunities: Several parks offer paved roads suitable for family cycling. "If you have littles the roads are paved so a scooter or bike could be fun," says Chesney S. about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground.

    What campers like

    Redwood setting: The ancient trees create distinctive camping environments with natural shade and privacy between some sites. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, "Clean, quiet campground nestled in the big trees. Friendly staff and a quick drive into the Santa Cruz beach communities," reports Kevin.

    Year-round accessibility: The moderate coastal mountain climate makes most campgrounds usable even in winter months. "We camped in the winter and had no reservations, but got a good spot anyway. Winter can be a very nice weekend!" shares a camper at Sunset State Beach.

    Short drives to attractions: Campers value the proximity to both forests and beaches. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, one visitor notes, "Short distance drive to Santa Cruz wharf and boardwalk," while another points out it's "Only 10 miles from Santa Cruz."

    Scenic river views: Several campgrounds offer prime spots overlooking the San Lorenzo River. David H. from Smithwoods RV Park mentions, "We were in site J, on the point. It was nice and big. Full hook ups. We had a great view of the San Lorenzo River and Henry Cowell State Park."

    What you should know

    Cell service limitations: Most redwood campgrounds have poor to nonexistent cellular coverage. "Be ready for no cell or WiFi. We occasionally got 1 bar of cell service in our site if we stood in a certain spot. (AT&T)," notes a Smithwoods RV Park reviewer.

    Road access challenges: Highway 9 presents significant driving challenges for larger vehicles and trailers. A visitor at Costanoa KOA warns: "Getting there takes some attention. Do not take highway 9 from Santa Cruz as the RV park will tell you."

    Early booking essential: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months. "Hard to find a spot here these days but a great camping spot above the beach," says a reviewer about New Brighton State Beach.

    Wildlife encounters: Yellow jackets, raccoons, and other wildlife are common in local campgrounds. "The park has a bit of a yellow jacket problem that they don't really seem too concerned about addressing. Yellowjackets on trails, in campsites and near bathrooms," notes one Henry Cowell camper.

    Tips for camping with families

    Supervised swimming spots: The San Lorenzo River offers safe wading areas with proper supervision. "There is a short nice beach by the river. Easy flat trails to walk," mentions a visitor at Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

    Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated facilities for children. Costanoa KOA offers "great activities for kids that they occasionally bring on site, such as a climbing wall and nature talks with live animals," according to Daniel D.

    Educational programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities that engage children. "We attended a presentation on the wild birds in the area that an employee provided, and then he took us on a hike through Costanoa and over to the ocean. He was awesome," reports a senior camper at Costanoa KOA.

    Banana slug hunting: Children enjoy spotting the bright yellow slugs that inhabit redwood forests. "The slugs were hanging out in trees all around us and it was so much fun looking for them," shares Adventure M. from Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

    Tips from RVers

    Limited size compatibility: Many campgrounds have tight turns and low clearance issues. "Our site was on the smaller side, but it accommodated us all," notes Queenie M. about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

    Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited and often at premium prices. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, "Spots are way too small. My slide almost sat on the neighbors table. Do not come here, sites are more suited for a tent," warns Mike W.

    Extended stay considerations: Limited WiFi availability can affect work-from-camp options. "We'd love to stay for weeks if we could log into work!" mentions a Summer E. at Smithwoods RV Park.

    Premium site selection: When available, riverside or corner sites offer significantly more space. "If I were to come back and want two large sites to connect, I would choose either 6 and 8 or 10 and 13," advises a visitor to Ben Ries Campground.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where are the designated campgrounds near Ben Lomond?

    Several excellent campgrounds are located near Ben Lomond in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground offers sites nestled among towering redwoods with hiking trails nearby. Just a short drive away, Sanborn County Park provides a walk-in camping experience with gear carts available to help transport equipment from the parking area to your site. Other nearby options include Smithwoods RV Park in Felton and San Mateo Memorial Park, both offering various amenities for campers wanting to explore the Ben Lomond area.

    What is the best time of year to go camping at Ben Lomond?

    The best time to camp near Ben Lomond is late spring through early fall (May-October) when weather conditions are most favorable. New Brighton State Beach Campground offers a pleasant coastal option during summer months with roomy campsites featuring fire rings and tables, though evenings can be cool due to ocean proximity. Laguna Seca Recreation Area is notably quiet during fall months, with campers reporting having entire sections to themselves in November. Winter camping is possible but prepare for cooler temperatures and potential rain. For the most comfortable experience, aim for June through September.

    What amenities are available at Ben Lomond camping areas?

    Camping areas near Ben Lomond offer a range of amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. San Mateo Memorial Park provides clean facilities with staff keeping the grounds spotless, making it an excellent basecamp for exploring redwood and coastal hiking trails. Castle Rock Trail Camp offers more primitive amenities for those seeking a more rustic experience near Ben Lomond. Most campgrounds in the area provide picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms. Some sites also feature storage boxes for food, water spigots, and well-maintained bathroom facilities.