Most RV campgrounds near Bonny Doon occupy the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountain terrain at elevations between 700-2,000 feet. Cell service varies throughout the region due to dense forest coverage and mountain terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, with coastal fog influencing morning conditions in lower elevation sites.
What to do
Explore redwood trails: Henry Cowell State Park offers accessible hiking directly from nearby campgrounds. "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," notes one visitor about Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Visit local beaches: Marina State Beach sits approximately 45 miles south of Bonny Doon. "About a 5 min trek through sand and dunes and you'll find yourself at a beach not many people frequent. On Friday we were the only ones for as far as I could see," reports a camper at Marina Dunes RV Park.
Ride historic trains: The Roaring Camp Railroad operates steam engines through redwood forests. "We could hear the train whistle in the daytime coming from Roaring Camp Railroad. This location isn't too far from Santa Cruz and Felton if you want to go into town and do activities," states a reviewer about Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
What campers like
River access: Some campgrounds offer direct access to the San Lorenzo River. "Very nice campground, new tiled bath rooms. Not quiet though, lots of kids," mentions a visitor at Santa Cruz Ranch Campground in Scotts Valley.
Ocean views: Coastal parks provide unique camping experiences. "This is an interesting rv park on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It has a ca beach town feel, but is just 20 minutes from San Francisco. Spectacular sunsets over the pacific if the fog permits. Saw a couple whales too," reports a camper at San Francisco RV Resort.
Swimming pools: Several parks maintain heated pools for guests. "The pool is huge and very very well kept. The spot was 30amp and back in however they have 50amp/pull through also. There is multiple lodges and a recreation center so plenty to do," notes a reviewer at Thousand Trails Morgan Hill.
What you should know
Tent camping limitations: Not all RV parks accommodate tent campers. "Came here last minute on a surf trip to Santa cruz so its partially our fault, but this place is not the best for tent camping in my opinion. They had a small plot to the side of the rest of the rv slots with a little grass to pitch a tent," explains a visitor at Santa Cruz Ranch Campground.
Highway noise: Some parks experience traffic noise. "It's a good half mile to the water. Staff was fantastic, the RV slots were level and with full hookups, it was just a little too far from ocean activities and too close to HWY 101," notes one Marina Dunes RV Park camper.
Internet connectivity: WiFi quality varies between parks. "We'd love to stay for weeks if we could log into work! The spaces are tight, but the location cant be beat. The only reason to not give that last star is the WiFi coverage," reports a camper at Smithwoods RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Look for parks with multiple activities. "Well maintained, super clean restrooms. Not much in the way of extras like a well stocked store, trails, or a fancy playground but the cleanliness and professionalism of the staff makes up for it," states a visitor to Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Pool amenities: Several parks maintain heated swimming pools. "Cozy tight quarters but just enough room for a picnic bench, fire pit and hanging out area. This campground is covered entirely by redwoods with plenty of shade for a cool vacation," notes a Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort visitor.
Kid-friendly amenities: Structured activities enhance family stays. "In mid October the campground is still running kids activities daily and they're good! Great culture here - friendly, lots of things to do (pool, basketball, volleyball, horse shoes, playground, billiards, karaoke, tennis)," explains a Thousand Trails Morgan Hill visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some parks have uneven terrain. "Sites need renovation and they claim it is coming. Of course they have said that for the last 3 years. Their answer to uneven sites is to give you pieces of wood to try and level. Good luck, I saw some raised up 2-3 feet," warns a reviewer at Monterey Pines RV Park.
Road challenges: Access roads can present difficulties. "The road in is basically a one lane road. Pray you don't encounter oncoming traffic," cautions a visitor at Carmel by the River RV Park.
Hookup placement: Utility connections vary between parks. "Getting there takes some attention. Do not take highway 9 from Santa Cruz as the RV park will tell you. I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot," notes a Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort camper.
