Yurt camping near Davenport, California provides access to redwood forests sitting above the fog line at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet. The coastal region experiences temperature fluctuations of 20-30 degrees between day and night, with summer highs around 75°F and winter lows in the 40s. Most campgrounds in this area remain open year-round, though several close temporarily during extreme weather events.
What to do
Hiking redwood trails: At Big Basin Redwoods State Park, trails lead to impressive waterfalls. "Best thing about this campground is proximity to the Berry Creek Falls... a huge series of water falls on a super long and strenuous hike," notes Andrew D. The park features miles of hiking options for various skill levels.
Archery practice: Mount Madonna County Park offers a unique 28-target archery trail through the woods. "There is an archery trail with 28 targets on a trail through the woods. We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge," shares April N.
Tide pool exploration: The beaches near Sunset State Beach offer excellent tide pooling opportunities during low tide. "A great beach to relax on, sometimes there's surf here too," mentions J.d. E. The beach stretches for miles with relatively few visitors on weekdays.
White deer viewing: Near the ranger station at Mount Madonna, visitors can see the remaining white fallow deer. These are descendants from the exotic zoo at William Randolph Hearst's mansion. "Near the ranger station there are pens with white fallow deer," explains a reviewer.
What campers like
Natural pest control: The redwood ecosystems help minimize certain pests. "This is the only place I've seen the redwood trees harvest the fog and make their own rain, which is pretty cool. In the morning it's raining under the redwood trees but not under the madrone or tan oak trees, which is wild," observes April N. at Mount Madonna County Park.
Private spots: At Sanborn County Park, sites higher up the hill offer more seclusion. "Some campgrounds have tables and others don't - some are too close to others but the higher up hill, you're closer to the trail heads," explains Ellice O. The park provides carts to help transport gear to walk-in sites.
Year-round access: Most Davenport area yurt camping and tent sites remain accessible in winter. "We camped here in the winter and had no reservations, but got a good spot anyway. Winter can be a very nice weekend!" notes Pete M. about his stay at Sunset State Beach.
Secluded coastal views: Less-visited spots provide solitude. "Dispersed camping outside the campground perimeters. Very quiet and this is the place if solitude is your thing. Bring lots of water. Walk in or 4wd accessible. Never have seen another human here," shares Lisa A. about Sunrise Point.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug spray is essential, particularly in summer months. "The ONE nit I have is that the lack of air movement during the summer = LOTS of bites. I highly recommend camping in the spring or fall if you are prone to welt-y bug bites," advises Tai W. about Big Basin.
Temperature variations: The mountain areas are significantly colder than nearby towns. "It is a LOT colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose," warns a camper at Mount Madonna. Pack additional layers even for summer camping.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "WiFi like always is iffy and ATT is limited. 1 bar at site 30," notes Rowan B. at Santa Cruz KOA. Some parks offer WiFi near bathroom facilities or entrance areas.
Wildlife encounters: Skunks and raccoons are common visitors. "We suffered the consequences when we awoke to a family of raccoons raiding the box," reports Austin C. at Sunset State Beach. Always secure food in provided storage lockers.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday offers numerous structured activities. "This KOA is great for a family getaway. TONS of activities on site- huge bouncy pad, a climbing wall, ping pong tables, a swimming pool, pedal go karts, the list goes on and on," says Daniel D.
Biking opportunities: Mount Madonna provides safe biking areas for children. "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.
Creek exploration: Uvas Canyon County Park offers creek access that children enjoy. "Small waterfalls are the highlights of the trail, but kids will enjoy playing in the water on hot days," says a reviewer. The park features waterfalls connected by relatively short hiking trails.
Wheelchair access: Several campgrounds offer accessible sites and facilities. "Bathrooms are great" and "lots of space with bathrooms very accessible" note reviewers at different parks, making the area suitable for family members with mobility considerations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Seacliff State Beach, waterfront sites are highly coveted. "Yes, your rig is within 20' of the beach at all campsites," confirms Serge B. Book months in advance for these premium locations.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many campgrounds. "If you plan to sleep in your car, you may want to take leveling blocks as I found the car parking spot to be not leveled at all," suggests Mon M. about Uvas Canyon.
RV space limitations: Sites vary significantly in size and accessibility. "RV sites are basically parking lot with 4' strips of grass in between," notes daren W. at Sanborn County Park. Most sites accommodate smaller rigs under 30 feet, with limited options for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by park. "The RV area has ~20 sites. They all have water and 30 amps hookups," reports Ignasi M. Always verify specific hookup options when making reservations for yurt camping near Davenport, California.
