Camping near Los Gatos, California offers a unique combination of coastal mountain terrain at elevations ranging from 400 to 3,000 feet. The Santa Cruz Mountains create distinct microclimates where summer temperatures typically remain 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby valley areas. Many campgrounds in this region have historical significance, with some dating back to the Civilian Conservation Corps era of the 1930s.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Uvas Canyon County Park, follow the Waterfall Loop Trail for a moderate 1-mile hike showcasing multiple cascades. "This is a great spot for people looking to get away and camp but not trying to drive for 3-4 hours to do so," notes Kyle H. The park features "hiking trails that we haven't yet had time to explore" according to Tom and Marianne H.
Mountain biking: Castle Rock Trail Camp offers excellent access to challenging single-track routes. The camp is "a short 2.5mi to get to the campsite" with "20 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings," according to Esther Y. Many bikers use this as a base for exploring the extensive trail system.
Beach exploration: From New Brighton State Beach Campground, you can access coastal areas within minutes. "Direct access to the beach. Showers kinda meh but the rest made up for it!" reports Shanelle W. The campground offers "a walk to the beach via a steep paved path" according to Alma L.
Archery: Mount Madonna County Park features a designated archery range with 28 targets. April N. describes the experience: "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."
What campers like
Redwood forests: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground offers camping directly beneath towering trees. "This is a great classic car camping site. Every site had a picnic table, fire pit and bear box. Sites had a variety of sizes and styles," shares Kelly. The campground is particularly known for its accessible ancient redwood groves.
Wildlife viewing: San Mateo Memorial Park offers opportunities to spot native animals. "The beauty and greenery, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails make this place and the surrounding area a real natural treasure," writes Michael H. The park is known for deer, rabbits, and numerous bird species.
River access: Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort provides a pathway to the San Lorenzo River. "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," notes Jaime C. The resort also features a clubhouse with "a deck with public BBQ area and plenty of seating that oversees the San Lorenzo River" according to GotelRV.
Natural shade: Mount Madonna County Park offers naturally shaded sites. "This is a great campground for hot weather (if you can get a site). Almost all the sites were fully shaded by the big redwoods," explains Weston W. The park's elevation and tree cover maintain cooler temperatures even during hot summer days.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the Los Gatos area require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Mount Madonna County Park, "Registration online was really easy as was the check-in process," according to Lori T. For some parks, reservations open 6 months in advance.
Seasonal closures: Several parks have temporary or seasonal closures. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park has experienced closures with a camper noting, "Read up on the Ca State park website. Campground was scheduled to reopen 8/1/25 not yet."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. San Mateo Memorial Park offers "Wifi for the phone addicts at the main office" according to Michael H., while at Uvas Canyon County Park, a reviewer mentioned "we had good Verizon coverage and there is wifi at the bathrooms."
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by location and season. Castle Rock Trail Camp sometimes restricts fires, though Juliana S. noted "fire rings at the sites." Always check current fire restrictions before your trip as they change frequently based on conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cotillion Gardens RV Park offers multiple family-friendly amenities. Jessica R. shares, "There were lots of kids around using the playground, bicycling, playing basketball, and swimming in the pool. There was also a large clubhouse with foosball, ping pong and arcade games which is open from 9am - 9pm."
Kid-friendly trails: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park features accessible nature paths. "If you have littles the roads are paved so a scooter or bike could be fun," suggests Chesney S. The park's main loop trail is relatively flat and educational.
Water play options: Uvas Canyon County Park provides creek access for hot days. Mon M. notes, "Small waterfalls are the highlights of the trail, but kids will enjoy playing in the water on hot days." Stream access points are available at several points along the trail system.
Family-sized campsites: Mount Madonna County Park offers spacious sites. Lori T. reports, "While the sites are a little close to each other, those on the outside of the loop had a great deal of privacy. Inner loop sites have none, but would be great if you were camping with friends."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Sanborn County Park offers water and electrical connections. Ignasi M. explains, "The RV area has ~20 sites. They all have water and 30 amps hookups. RVs are pretty close to each other, but not too invasive." For those needing full hookups, Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort provides "Water, Shore power, Cable" according to GotelRV.
Dump station access: New Brighton State Beach has a dump station, though be prepared for waits. Alma L. warns, "The line for the dump station wound through nearly the entire park." Mount Madonna has "a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park" according to Lori T.
Size limitations: Most campgrounds in the area have restrictions on RV length. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, one camper noted "spots are way too small. My slide almost sat on the neighbors table," while another mentioned "Entrance is a little nerve racking on your first visit, but once your at your site you can relax."
Leveling challenges: Consider bringing leveling blocks as many sites are uneven. At Uvas Canyon County Park, Mon M. advises, "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."
