Camping near Capitola offers year-round access to both coastal beaches and inland redwood forests at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,000 feet. The Santa Cruz Mountains create a microclimate where summer temperatures average 75°F at the coast but can reach 90°F in inland campgrounds. Winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop to the low 40s, with December through March receiving the most rainfall.
What to do
Redwood hiking trails: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground provides access to miles of hiking trails through ancient redwoods. "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. 5 in our group got stung and there was a massive nest in site 41," warns Megan B.
Kayaking with wildlife: The Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday location puts you within 30 minutes of prime kayaking spots. "Great for families. I wouldn't recommend this for campers who like solitude, of course, or someone looking for a romantic trip," notes Andrea A. Most kayak rentals start at $35 per hour and typically operate from 9am to 5pm daily.
Mountain biking access: Mount Madonna County Park offers excellent mountain biking opportunities on over 14 miles of trails. "Great campground for the kids to bike at but there are a few big hills so make sure they know how to use their brakes," advises Weston W. The park requires that bikes stay on designated trails and yield to hikers.
What campers like
Private beach access: Sunset State Beach provides direct access to less crowded shoreline. "Nice lots on a cliff above the beach protected from the wind by some doug firs and eucalyptus. Beach is long and expansive with very few people on an average day," shares Mauriel O.
Clean facilities: Manresa State Beach Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms despite heavy usage. "The shower had hot water and the restrooms were cleaned each morning. I loved that the beach was easily accessible for my morning walk," reports Fiona W. Quarter-operated showers provide approximately 2 minutes of water per quarter.
Spacious campsites: Mount Madonna County Park offers roomier sites than most coastal campgrounds. "While the sites are a little close together, those on the outside of the loop had a great deal of privacy. Inner loop sites have none, but would be great if you were camping with friends," explains Lori T. Sites 416-418 are particularly noted for their size and privacy.
What you should know
Seasonal wildlife considerations: Raccoons are common at coastal campgrounds in the region. "There are a LOT of raccoons, so pack up your stuff well," warns Lizzy C. about Manresa State Beach Campground. Using the provided food storage containers is essential year-round.
Reservation timing: Most premium oceanview sites book 6-8 months in advance. "We stayed here in our TT in March 2018 for spring break. It's a nice relatively quiet campground on a bluff, above a fairly calm ocean beach. The sites on the bluff overlooking the Pacific looked spectacular!" shares Keith B. about New Brighton State Beach Campground.
Campsite selection strategy: For more privacy, select sites at the edge of campground loops. "Bathroom was clean and we liked that they sold firewood on site. Only 4 stars because the sites are pretty close together and a few had fairly sparse greenery separating you from others so we felt a little on display," says Kelly about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: The Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort offers dedicated recreational facilities. "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. There is a little trail that goes down to the River where you can find a neat little beach," explains Jaime C.
Educational opportunities: Mount Madonna County Park offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "Near the ranger station there are pens with white fallow deer. They are descendants of the exotic zoo at William Randolph Hearst's mansion down the coast," notes April N. The archery trail with 28 targets provides an engaging activity for older children.
Budget considerations: Campsite costs vary significantly based on amenities and location. "It's $50 base price per night, which I think is very exorbitant for a tent site. There is an additional $3 charge per night for any more than two campers per tent or R.V. site," explains Jessica R. about Cotillion Gardens RV Park's tent sites. State parks typically offer more affordable rates at $35-40 per night.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Moss Landing KOA Express requires careful navigation. "Every site is a back in site. The park is tightly packed," notes Stephanie. "Easy in and out, but tight turns if you have a big rig. Our 30' class C had no troubles and there were a lot of much larger trailers and class A's so maybe tight but definitely doable," adds David C.
Pet-friendly RV considerations: Several pet-friendly camping options near Capitola accommodate RVers with animals. "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great! There is a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park that we used as we departed. I believe there are 2 dog friendly yurts," shares Lori T. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Hook-up configurations: Dump stations at popular sites often have long wait times. "Warning: the line for the dump station wound through nearly the entire park," cautions Alma L. about New Brighton State Beach. Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort offers a practical solution: "Hookups at every campsite. Water, Shore power, Cable. Restrooms and Laundry requires a password code to get in provided at check in."
