RV camping near Boulder Creek, California offers access to towering redwood forests with elevations ranging from 400 to 2,600 feet. The region experiences mild coastal-influenced weather, with summer highs rarely exceeding 80°F and winter temperatures seldom dipping below freezing. Tent and RV sites often require advance booking up to three months ahead during peak season from May through September.
What to do
Redwood hiking trails: Several paths lead directly from campgrounds into surrounding forest. "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 a visitor at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Beach exploration: The region offers quick access to coastal areas for day trips. "The beach was like a 5 minute walk. That was nice," reports one camper at Marina Dunes RV Park. Another visitor adds, "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."
Steam train experiences: Historical railroad tours operate near certain campgrounds. "It was a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the red woods. Fun experience on a real steam locomotive," according to one visitor's report at Smithwoods RV Park.
What campers like
Pool facilities: Several parks maintain heated swimming pools for guest use. "Heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room. Staff is very friendly and Santa Cruz beaches are 15min away," reports a family at Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
River access: Proximity to the San Lorenzo River provides additional recreation. "Viewing areas that allow all to enjoy the stream, at the back of the resort, and paths to take a closer look," explains a visitor at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. "A safe and quiet location. I felt safe, with my young kids, that everyone was driving slowly and respecting the rules."
Community spaces: Shared facilities enhance the camping experience at certain parks. "Clubhouse 9 am - 9 pm (TV, couch, dining tables, fridge, microwave, board games) deck with public BBQ area and plenty of seating that oversees the San Lorenzo River," details one reviewer about available amenities.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. "No AT&T service for me, but free WiFi was available so it was fine," mentions a camper at Cotillion Gardens RV Park. Another site visitor notes, "We didn't get service if our family members needed to contact us since they were staying in town."
Site spacing concerns: Many parks feature compact layouts. "The spaces are tight, but the location can't be beat," reports one visitor. At San Francisco RV Resort, a camper explains, "Very small. The neighbors slide was a foot from our door."
Seasonal conditions: Weather patterns affect camping experience significantly. "We went there with our 5 children from Sunday-Thursday in October. The location is mostly flat and surrounded with Redwoods. Shady and sunny locations; larger and small RV spots," observes one family about their fall visit.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation amenities: Parks with kid-friendly facilities reduce need for off-site entertainment. "Kids could ride bikes freely, heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room," reports a family at Cotillion Gardens RV Park. Another visitor mentions, "Lots of things for kids and families to do, firepit level, clean spots."
Safety considerations: Areas with controlled traffic benefit families with young children. "The camp host went above and beyond! Happily told us things to do with our kids and how close places were. Santa Cruz is only 10 miles away," notes a visitor to Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Accommodation options: Various lodging types suit different family needs. "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," reports one camper about site conditions.
Tips from RVers
Leveling needs: Site terrain varies significantly between parks. At Thousand Trails Morgan Hill, campers note, "Sites are not level," and some visitors report needing substantial leveling equipment. One reviewer specifically mentioned, "We had an Uber come get us and it worked. There for a sports event in Morgan hill. Got propane filled, nice staff. No full hookups but dump station was convenient."
Navigation challenges: Access roads require careful driving and planning. "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. Keep your eyes out for the highway signs," advises one visitor at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Hookup locations: Utility connection placement differs between parks. "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore cord was fine as was the water spigot," reports a camper, while another mentions, "The location of the electrical/water is awkward" at Marina Dunes RV Park.
