Camping near Loma Mar, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature, surrounded by towering redwoods and beautiful coastal views. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.
What to do:
- Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground. "There are beautiful hiking trails all over this campground," one camper noted, highlighting the lush surroundings.
- Beach Access: Visit New Brighton State Beach Campground for a day at the beach. A reviewer mentioned, "Great views and easy access to the beach," making it a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife at Anthony Chabot Regional Park. One visitor shared, "We saw a lot of deer and wild turkey," adding to the park's charm.
What campers like:
- Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at Ben Ries Campground — Butano State Park. "The spots are spread out, the air feels pure to the lungs, and it’s very woodsy," said one happy camper.
- Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A reviewer at New Brighton State Beach Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms were fine, no lines ever," which is a big plus for families.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA are great for families. One reviewer noted, "Loved the facilities for the children!" making it a hit for those with kids.
What you should know:
- Poison Oak: Be cautious of poison oak at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground. A camper warned, "There is so much poison oak - everywhere," so it's wise to stay on marked trails.
- Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds, like Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, have close quarters. A visitor mentioned, "A bit of space would serve them well," so be prepared for a cozy setup.
- Limited Cell Service: Many areas, including Ben Ries Campground — Butano State Park, have poor cell reception. One camper noted, "There is no cell service," so plan accordingly.
Tips for camping with families:
- Check-in Times: Arrive early to avoid delays. A camper at New Brighton State Beach Campground mentioned, "If you arrive before check-in, they will have you wait at the day use area," which can be inconvenient.
- Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly activities. One reviewer at Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA said, "The bike rentals were a hit with the kids," making it a fun spot for families.
- Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of snacks and drinks. A visitor at Francis Beach Campground suggested, "Riding your bike or walking along the path toward town for a well-earned brunch should definitely reach the top of your to-do list."
Tips from RVers:
- Road Conditions: Be cautious of winding roads when towing. A camper at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort advised, "Don’t use Hwy 9 south from Santa Cruz towing. The road is too winding and narrow."
- Site Selection: Choose spacious sites for comfort. A reviewer at Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA recommended, "I do recommend paying a bit more for the more spacious sites."
- Dump Station Availability: Check for dump station locations. A visitor at Anthony Chabot Regional Park mentioned, "The dump station was in good working order," which is essential for RV travelers.
Camping near Loma Mar, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful scenery!