Camping sites near Cupertino, California range from sea level to over 3,000 feet elevation in the Santa Cruz Mountains, creating distinct microclimates within short distances. Winter temperatures in these mountain campgrounds can drop below 40°F at night even when daytime valley temperatures reach 70°F. Rainfall typically occurs from November through April, with occasional summer fog keeping overnight temperatures cool in forest campsites.
What to do
Explore the ridge trail system: Castle Rock Trail Camp in Castle Rock State Park offers access to panoramic vistas after a modest hike. "Hike a short 2.5mi to get to the campsite. 20 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings (when allowed). Very green and lots of great vistas along the ridgeline on the hike in," notes Esther Y.
Visit nearby beaches: Memorial Park puts you close to several coastal options. "The campground is only a 10 minute drive down to Pescadero State Beach so we went there after we broke camp. The kids all loved it," shares Carl N. from Memorial Park.
Rock climbing opportunities: Castle Rock State Park provides excellent climbing routes for various skill levels. "This is sweet hike in trail camp. We have used it for two purposes. First when were were climbing in Castle Rock State Park and this was our hub and second when we were doing the Skyline to the Sea Trail," explains a reviewer.
Swim in natural water holes: During summer heat, locals know where to cool off. "We drove 9 miles to Boulder Creek and found an epic swimming hole by Cafe to help us cool in the 95 degree heat," shares Jeannie B. about her experience near Big Basin.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: San Mateo Memorial Park offers good separation at many sites. "Some sites are very private, some right on top of each other," notes Lisa H., adding that the park is "Family friendly, easy hiking, creek running through, clean but old bathrooms, spacious sites."
Access to running water: Butano State Park provides creek access that enhances the camping experience. "There is a little creek that's only about a quarter mile hike down a trail," notes one camper, while another mentions "Fun creek behind campground for pups to splash around."
Tent cabins for comfort: For those seeking a hybrid camping experience, tent cabins offer convenience. "We camp here every year in May or June. It's always fun. The tent cabins are super convenient," shares Carl N. about his stays in the region.
Proximity to urban areas: Dumbarton Quarry Campground provides camping without long travel times. "The best parts about this campground in my opinion are: close to town, excellent cellular reception on all carriers, warm/hot and clean showers, nice sound of train off in the distance at night, sunrise views," explains Blake H.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most mountain campgrounds have spotty coverage. At Sanborn County Park, one camper noted: "Great camping in the mountains of Santa Clara county. Very secluded. No cell service. Miles of Great hiking."
Wagon availability for walk-in sites: Some campgrounds provide carts to help transport gear. "It's a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites. The park provides carts to help with hauling gear, and storage boxes are provided at the site, near the picnic table," explains Amanda P. about Sanborn.
Peak season crowds: Many sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "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.
Bear-proof storage: Many campgrounds provide bear boxes. "There is potable water throughout the campground, recycle bins, trash bins (animal proof) and bear lockers and firepits at each site," reports Kathleen C. from her experience at Butano.
Tips for camping with families
Short hiking options: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers family-friendly trails. "There were a few trails that started from the campground, which was nice," shares Queenie M., making it easy for families to explore without long drives.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas. At Dumbarton Quarry, "There's a great playground if you have small children, and lots of gentle hiking trails," notes a reviewer.
Creek exploration: Children enjoy water features at several campgrounds. "The sites were very spacious and this has probably been one of my favorite campgrounds! This campground has great bathroom facilities and has a creek that runs through it that the kids loved playing in all day," shares Adventure M.
Nature discoveries: Local wildlife provides education opportunities. "The slugs were hanging out in trees all around us and it was so much fun looking for them," notes one family at a redwood campground.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort can accommodate various RV sizes but with limitations. "The RV area has ~20 sites. They all have water and 30 amps hookups. RVs are pretty close to each other, but not too invasive," reports Ignasi M.
Level site challenges: Some campgrounds require leveling equipment. "Sites, though asphalt, require some leveling," notes Kim G. about Dumbarton Quarry Campground.
Dump station timing: Plan accordingly for busy checkout times. "The line for the dump station wound through nearly the entire park," warns one camper about New Brighton State Beach.
Low clearance awareness: Tree limbs can be an issue for taller RVs. "We loved camping here with our 25ft camping trailer. There was plenty of room for it on site 105, however if it was any higher it would be hitting tree limbs," advises Chesney S.
