Best Campgrounds near Monte Sereno, CA
Camping options in the Santa Cruz Mountains surrounding Monte Sereno include both established campgrounds and walk-in sites within a short drive from town. Sanborn County Park offers RV camping with hookups and walk-in tent sites set among redwoods, while Castle Rock State Park provides more primitive trail camp experiences. The region features a mix of county and state park facilities with accommodation types ranging from developed RV sites with utilities to hike-in tent camping areas. Most campgrounds sit within redwood forests at elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet, offering cooler temperatures than nearby Silicon Valley.
Access to camping areas varies by season, with many sites requiring reservations, particularly on weekends. The Santa Cruz Mountains experience mild temperatures year-round, though winter brings increased rainfall. One camper noted, "Very dangerous to drive at night, the road is very small," highlighting the narrow, winding mountain roads leading to most camping areas. Cell service is limited or non-existent at many locations, with a visitor reporting "We hardly had a signal" at Sanborn County Park. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer and fall months, with some parks allowing only charcoal in designated fire rings during high fire danger periods.
The camping experience in this region balances proximity to urban areas with natural immersion. Trail access represents a significant draw, with numerous hiking opportunities connecting campgrounds to scenic viewpoints. Visitors frequently mention wildlife sightings as highlights, with one review stating, "We saw a lot of deer and wild turkey." Campground terrain typically features mature redwood and mixed evergreen forest providing ample shade. RV sites at county parks like Sanborn tend to be arranged parking-lot style with limited separation, while walk-in tent sites offer more privacy and natural settings. Tent campsites often require short uphill hikes from parking areas, with parks providing carts for transporting gear. Weekend noise can be an issue at more accessible campgrounds, particularly those closer to population centers.
