Redwood groves surround the Ben Lomond area, situated at approximately 800 feet elevation in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The climate features mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F and summer days averaging 75-85°F. Camping season extends year-round, though some campgrounds close certain facilities during winter months, and summer weekday visits offer much better availability than weekends.
What to do
Redwood forest hiking trails: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers several trails starting directly from the campground. "We stayed here for a few nights and thought it was clean and spacious. Close to the visitor center. We did some hiking as well, a popular and short hike is to Sempervirens Falls," notes Queenie M. about the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground.
River access opportunities: Several campgrounds near Ben Lomond provide access to the San Lorenzo River. 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. The Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort sits alongside the river, providing water access without driving.
Roaring Camp Railroad excursions: Located minutes from several campgrounds, this attraction features historic steam locomotives. "It was a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the red woods. Fun experience on a real steam locomotive," David H. shares about staying at Smithwoods RV Park, which offers convenient access to this family attraction.
What campers like
Natural shade coverage: Redwoods provide excellent natural shade at most campgrounds. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, one camper notes, "Clean, quiet campground nestled in the big trees. Friendly staff and a quick drive into the Santa Cruz beach communities." The Cotillion Gardens RV Park features sites with mature redwoods providing cool camping conditions even during summer months.
Access to beaches: Many campgrounds near Ben Lomond offer relatively quick access to coastal beaches. At Sunset State Beach, a reviewer states, "Nice campsite within driving distance on the Bay area on a 1 night stop on the way down to Big Sur." Sunset State Beach provides direct beach access with "a walk down about 100 stairs or you can drive down and park."
Availability of essentials: Despite feeling remote, most campgrounds are minutes from supplies. "Great spot to camp, close to grocery stores and gas stations," mentions Willow M. about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Local towns of Felton and Boulder Creek have everything needed for restocking during extended stays.
What you should know
Campground closures and renovations: Always check current status before planning. "Read up on the Ca State park website. Campground was scheduled to reopen 8/1/25 not yet," warns Lorena S. about Henry Cowell. Several area campgrounds undergo periodic maintenance closures.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have spotty coverage. At Sanborn County Park, a camper notes there is "No cell service" though some locations offer WiFi near the office. This can be problematic for those needing to stay connected.
Site proximity: Many campsites are relatively close together. "The sites are pretty small and very close together. We were in site #66 and the adjacent sites were very close," explains Darrin L. about Henry Cowell Redwoods. Request specific site numbers when making reservations if privacy is important.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated activity areas. At Cotillion Gardens, "We spent 2 nights here with our 2&3 year olds. Sites are a little tight but worth being nestled in the redwoods. Lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite. Kids liked the pool and clubhouse." Many dog friendly campgrounds near Ben Lomond also include child-focused facilities.
Short hikes for young children: Select trails appropriate for smaller hikers. "This is an awesome spot to camp with your family. Hiking and biking trails, nature walks, showers, flush toilets, it has it all for the not so campy campers," shares J.d. E. about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground.
Insect preparedness: Pack appropriate repellent for mosquitoes. A camper at Big Basin notes, "The ONE nit I have is that the lack of air movement during the summer = LOTS of bites. I highly recommend camping in the spring or fall if you are prone to welt-y bug bites." This advice applies to most forested campgrounds in the region.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Many campgrounds have limited space for large rigs. "Our site was on the smaller side, but it accommodated us all," reports Queenie M. about Henry Cowell. For larger RVs, Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort and Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA offer more suitable options.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited but available at select locations. "Hookups at every campsite: Water, Shore power, Cable," notes GotelRV about Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA. This campground provides the most comprehensive RV hookups in the region.
Pet-friendly RV spots: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Ben Lomond welcome pets at RV sites. "We loved camping here with our 25ft camping trailer. There was plenty of room for it on site 105," shares Chesney S. about Henry Cowell. Most campgrounds limit leash length to 6 feet and require pets to be attended at all times.
Traveler
