Camping near Bonny Doon provides access to diverse ecosystems where coastal fog often blankets the lower elevations while higher areas remain sunny. The Santa Cruz Mountains create microclimates throughout the region, with temperatures varying by as much as 15 degrees between coastal and inland campgrounds. Many sites require advance planning, with reservations filling 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends.
What to do
Hiking at Butano State Park: The trail system offers routes ranging from easy creek-side paths to challenging ridge climbs with ocean views. "This park has great hikes, thick with Redwoods, immediately you feel like you are in Ewok territory. Lots of varying levels as well," notes Kathleen C. about Ben Ries Campground.
Explore the San Lorenzo River: Several campgrounds provide river access for swimming and wildlife viewing. "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," shares Jaime C. who stayed at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Visit local farms and artisans: The coastal route features strawberry fields, cheese farms, and artisan food stops. "The campground is very close to PCH/Highway 1 and the beaches are lovely. PCH is also dotted with farms and fruit stands, artisan pies, etc. The closest town is Pescadaro, and has a tiny main street with an excellent coffee shop, and grocery store with fresh baked pies," explains a visitor to Ben Ries Campground.
What campers like
Redwood forest immersion: Tall trees provide natural shade and cooler temperatures. "We tent camped here but most people had a trailer. Translation: the bathroom was empty. Quiet with quick access to the beach via a steep paved path," mentions Alma L. about New Brighton State Beach Campground.
Beach proximity: Several campgrounds offer direct beach access or short drives to coastal areas. "We stayed here for three nights and it was beautiful! You can walk down to the beach, take a trip to the henry cowel redwoods, go ride bikes in santa cruz," shares Tiffany W. who stayed at Sunset State Beach.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer kids' activities and common spaces. "The park has a bit of a yellow jacket problem that they dont really seem too concerned about addressing. Yellowjackets on trails, in campsites and near bathrooms," warns Megan B. about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground.
What you should know
Campsite spacing varies significantly: Some locations offer privacy while others place sites close together. "The sites are close together. The place is old, but it has a great location. There are great hiking trails assessable from the campground," explains Linda S. about Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
Wildlife encounters: Proper food storage is essential in this region. "We were camping for 1 night and boy, was it crowded! Each and every group was fighting for the 'wagons' to haul stuff up the hike-in campsites," reports Pranj D. who visited Sanborn County Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. "Do not expect cell service, with better reception near populated areas. "We didn't get service if our family members needed to contact us since they were staying in town. They need to put access points around for a better wifi connection," notes Christina R. about Smithwoods RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with play areas: Some locations offer dedicated recreation facilities. "This is a great campground for families. Hiking and biking trails, nature walks, showers, flush toilets, it has it all for the not so campy campers," mentions J.d. E. about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground.
Check for kid-friendly trails: Short hiking loops with interesting features keep children engaged. "This is an awesome spot to camp with your family. Lots of things for kids to do and families to do, firepit level, clean spots will definitely come back!" shares susan R. who stayed at Smithwoods RV Park.
Consider cabins for easier family camping: Several parks offer cabin options for less gear-intensive trips. "We stayed in a cabin in the huckleberry campground. The cabins were nice, and each cabin has 2 double beds, a table, and a wood stove. It can get cold at night in the redwoods so the wood stove was great at night," shares Kim P. about Lower Blooms Creek.
Tips from RVers
Plan your route carefully: Some roads to campgrounds have tight turns and low clearances. "Getting there takes some attention. Do not take highway 9 from Santa Cruz as the RV park will tell you. Our car navigation changed our route even after we were approaching 17 north," advises Patrick J. about Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Book full hookup sites in advance: Utility connections are limited at many campgrounds. "Very nice place. We stayed 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," shares David H. about Smithwoods RV Park.
Prepare for tight spacing: Many RV parks position sites close together. "Not a bad place to stay. It's just very crowded with zero privacy. All big Rv, there's a pool hall and a river. It's super close to a few bars and about a mile away from the Henry Cowell entrance," reports Corrie G. who visited Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
