RV campgrounds near Felton, California provide camping options within the redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains at approximately 300 feet elevation. The region experiences mild temperatures year-round with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F and winter lows seldom dropping below 40°F. Most campgrounds maintain open status throughout winter months with occasional closures during severe storms.
What to do
River access: Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort features access to the San Lorenzo River with a small beach area. "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," according to one visitor at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Hiking options: Trails connect directly from Cotillion Gardens RV Park to Henry Cowell State Park. A camper notes, "Lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite. Kids liked the pool and clubhouse. Look forward to our next visit," making it convenient for nature enthusiasts wanting trail access without driving.
Steam train excursions: The Roaring Camp Railroad operates near Smithwoods RV Park, providing historic steam locomotive rides through redwood groves. "It was a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the red woods. Fun experience on a real steam locomotive," reports a camper who enjoyed this unique regional attraction.
What campers like
Shade coverage: Cotillion Gardens RV Park provides extensive tree cover which maintains cooler temperatures even during summer. "Very quiet and comfortable campground," according to a recent visitor, with another noting the "sites are a little tight but worth being nestled in the redwoods."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor to Smithwoods RV Park commented, "The staff is great and helpful. We had a small issue with our cable tv(no fault of theirs) and they came right over and fixed our issue."
Family recreation: Multiple campgrounds feature recreational amenities for families. A camper at Cotillion Gardens mentioned, "There are lots of things for kids to do and lots of friends to play with," referencing the available basketball courts, swimming pools, and playground equipment found at several Felton area RV parks.
What you should know
Cell reception challenges: Connectivity remains limited throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains region. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, a visitor reported, "My Starlink was heavily obstructed by trees so worked at 40% speed," indicating that even satellite services experience interference from the dense tree canopy.
Site sizing considerations: Most Felton area campgrounds feature relatively compact camping spaces. According to one visitor at Cotillion Gardens, "Some spaces are tight to back into. Marginal cell coverage. Camp WiFi is acceptable. Need to use WiFi to supplement cell service."
Seasonal availability: While campgrounds remain open year-round, reservations become essential during peak periods. A camper advised, "We went in mid March on a Thursday and the place was at capacity," suggesting that even off-peak timing requires advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Smithwoods RV Park provides family-friendly amenities throughout the property. "Kids could ride bikes freely, heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room. Staff is very friendly and Sant Cruz beaches are 15min away," noted a parent who camped with five children.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds include playground equipment for younger visitors. "This is our favorite place to camp, Redwoods everywhere, 9 miles from Santa Cruz, kids love this place," commented a frequent visitor to Smithwoods RV Park.
Clubhouse amenities: Indoor recreation options provide entertainment during cooler weather. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, a guest described, "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."
Tips from RVers
Navigation routes: Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort specifically recommends arrival via Highway 17 rather than Highway 9. "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."
Utility positioning: Several RV parks in the area feature hookup placements that require extensions. "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot," reported an RV camper at Santa Cruz Redwoods, with similar reports at other Felton RV campgrounds.
Leveling preparation: Terrain throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains creates uneven camping pads. "Sites are not level," noted a camper at Cotillion Gardens RV Park, suggesting that RVers should arrive with adequate leveling blocks and stabilization equipment.
