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.
