Within 15 minutes of Santa Cruz, RV campgrounds near Davenport, California provide coastal access with varying connectivity challenges. These sites sit among redwoods and along the coastline, offering both shaded forest camping and oceanside views. Cell reception varies significantly between locations, particularly in mountain areas where terrain affects signal strength.
What to do
Beach access from RV parks: The beach near Marina Dunes RV Park requires a short hike through sand dunes. "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," notes one camper who appreciated the seclusion.
Redwood hiking: Trails connect directly from some campgrounds to larger park systems. "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," explains a camper at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Steam train rides: The Roaring Camp Railroad operates near several campgrounds, offering unique forest tours. "Take a ride through the forrest on the steam train," recommends a visitor staying at Cotillion Gardens, noting the train whistle can be heard from some campsites.
Golfing options: Military members and their guests can access courses adjacent to camping areas. "The golf course next to it is beautiful so bring your sticks or rent them from the clubhouse. One of the more affordable courses to play in the area," notes a visitor to Monterey Pines RV Park.
What campers like
Campsite privacy varies: Some RV parks offer more separation between sites than others. "Cotillion Gardens RV Park is rustic, but has a lot of amenities and is very close to Santa Cruz. There is an additional $3 charge per night for any more than two campers per tent or RV site," reports a camper who appreciated the elevated wooden deck at their tent site.
Heated pool access: Swimming facilities remain comfortable even in cooler weather at some locations. "Heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room. Staff is very friendly and Sant Cruz beaches are 15min away," notes a Smithwoods visitor who appreciated the amenities.
Community facilities: Many parks provide indoor recreation areas with games. "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 a camper at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Ocean views: Specific sites offer direct ocean visibility. "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. When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore," reports a visitor to San Francisco RV Resort.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds have narrow entry roads that require careful navigation. "The road in is basically a one lane road. Pray you don't encounter oncoming traffic," warns a camper about Carmel by the River RV Park, though they still rated it highly overall.
Connectivity limitations: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. "No cell service but free WiFi was available so it was fine," notes one camper, while another mentions "WiFi provided, however it would go out late at night after 10 pm until the morning time."
Price variations: Coastal and premium locations command higher rates. "It is $160 to stay there. I have a camper van and I didn't need all the hook up. There is a Best Western right next to this place where we ended up getting a room instead as that was less expensive," reports a Marina Dunes visitor.
Hookup configurations: Utility placement differs between parks and can present challenges. "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot," shares a Santa Cruz Redwoods camper who needed extra equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation areas: Many campgrounds offer facilities specifically for children. "Very nice campground, new tiled bath rooms. Not quiet though, lots of kids," notes a visitor to Santa Cruz Ranch Campground who rated their experience positively despite the noise level.
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds designate family-friendly areas. "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. The campground is all natural! Trees and nature all around," shares a visitor at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Pool availability: Swimming facilities provide entertainment for children. "We went in mid March on a Thursday and the place was at capacity. The facility was clean and everyone was friendly. The site is 'on' the San Lorenzo River, but there weren't many trails to walk on," reports a camper who visited during spring.
Youth activities: Structured programs run at certain campgrounds. "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)," reports a visitor to Morgan Hill RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Limited tent options: Many parks focus primarily on RV camping. "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. Not secluded at all from the hustle and bustle," notes a Santa Cruz Ranch camper.
Site levelness varies: Prepare with leveling equipment as needed. "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 military campground visitor.
Space considerations: Sites at coastal locations tend to be compact. "Spots are tight. Staff is great! Laundry hot tub pool are always clean. Right on the ocean (on a cliff)!" summarizes one San Francisco RV Resort visitor who still enjoyed their stay despite the limited space.
Generator restrictions: Most campgrounds prohibit generator use. "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 a camper regarding access to the Santa Cruz mountains.
