Cabin accommodations near Los Altos Hills range from basic shelters to more developed units with amenities. Most cabins in this region sit at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet, offering cooler temperatures than the valley floor—sometimes 40 degrees colder than nearby San Jose or Gilroy. Seasonal factors significantly impact cabin availability, with winter stays requiring preparation for fog, mist, and temperatures that can drop into the 30s during December through February.
What to do
Archery trails: Mount Madonna County Park features a 28-target archery trail winding through the woods. One visitor noted, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The cabin areas around Big Basin Redwoods State Park provide opportunities to observe local fauna. A camper mentioned, "We stayed here the summer before it burned down... Fun creek behind campground for pups to splash around. Easy flat trails to walk... But a ton of mosquitos! Bring the spray."
Beach access: Cabins at Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday offer proximity to coastal recreation. One reviewer stated, "Very close to the beach, quiet, excellent friendly staff always happy to help... They have activities daily and things to do which are sent out daily in a text."
What campers like
Unique shower facilities: Some cabins feature unconventional but appreciated amenities. At Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA, a camper highlighted, "This place just has everything including always lit fireplaces at the bath houses. Very social camping place."
Diverse accommodation options: The region offers various cabin sizes and styles. One guest at Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA observed, "The spots at the bottom of the first loop with awesome sunset views are my favorite. Very grassy and 'outdoorsy' for a KOA."
Fog harvesting redwoods: Natural phenomena make cabin stays memorable. A camper at Mount Madonna County Park described, "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."
What you should know
Temperature variations: Cabin campers should prepare for significant temperature swings. A Mount Madonna visitor warned, "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared & had to drive into town & buy more clothes!"
Site spacing concerns: Some cabin areas have limited privacy between units. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, a reviewer mentioned, "Entrance is a little nerve racking on your first visit, but once your at your site you can relax. Bathrooms are a little dated, no cell service but good WiFi if your close to the office."
Reservation challenges: Securing cabins requires advance planning, especially at popular locations. One visitor to Seacliff State Beach noted, "My family and I have been coming here for years. Unfortunately it can be very difficult, if not impossible, to get a reservation at a site with a hookup."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin deck options: Some sites offer enhanced outdoor living spaces. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, a camper shared, "We were in T2 which was just over a small footbridge over a creek from our parking spot. The spot was small, but had a picnic table, fire pit, and elevated wooden deck."
Kid-friendly activities: Cabin locations often provide structured recreation. A visitor to Del Valle Campground reported, "Very happy with our first camping experience at Del Valle. Our campsite (#139) could have used some shade, but we had plenty of space and the views were awesome."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns impact family cabin experiences differently throughout the year. One Big Basin camper advised, "Big trees, scenic hikes, waterfalls (in the spring)... I highly recommend camping in the spring or fall if you are prone to welt-y bug bites."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Cabins with RV connections offer more amenities. At Del Valle Campground, a visitor noted, "We camp with a 27' Travel Trailer and the campgrounds can accommodate it. There is also several tent campsites as well. The marina to Lake Del Valle is a few miles away."
Site selection strategy: Specific cabin locations offer advantages for RV setups. A Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA camper suggested, "I would recommend booking away from the jump pillow or playground, unless easy playground access is important, because the spots are pretty noisy."
Connectivity limitations: Cabin locations often have restricted digital access. A Cotillion Gardens visitor mentioned, "Sites can get a bit tight, but there are definitely some gems hidden in the redwoods. Close to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which is definitely worth checking out."
