Monte Sereno sits at approximately 500 feet elevation in the eastern foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The surrounding terrain features significant elevation changes, with nearby campgrounds ranging from sea level to over 2,000 feet. Winter temperatures typically drop to the low 40s at night while summer daytime temperatures can reach the 90s, requiring campers to prepare for potential temperature swings.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 2-5 miles of trails at Uvas Canyon County Park offer numerous small cascades. "Short hikes along the Uvas Creek and Swanson creek are right next to the campground. Trails are narrow and steep at some places but mostly shaded. Small waterfalls are the highlights of the trail, but kids will enjoy playing in the water on hot days," notes Mon M.
Redwood train excursion: 1-hour rides depart from Roaring Camp near Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. "It was a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the red woods. Fun experience on a real steam locomotive," writes David H. The historic steam train offers a narrated journey through old-growth redwood forest.
Archery practice: 28-target course at Mount Madonna County Park provides a unique outdoor activity. "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," shares April N. Equipment rental is available at the ranger station.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: 95% tree coverage at Butano State Park creates a cool microclimate. "Great weather, lots of shade at the campsite and on the hikes. Coast was a cool 60's-70's but warm in the sun, night time was a lovely 55-59 degrees, easy to sleep, not too cold," reports Kathleen C. This temperature differential can be 15-20° cooler than surrounding valley areas.
River access: Short steep trail at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort leads 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," says Jaime C. The river depth averages 2-3 feet during summer months.
Wildlife viewing: White fallow deer inhabit special enclosures at Mount Madonna County Park. "Near the ranger station there are pens with white fallow deer. They are descendants of the exotic zoo at William Randolph Hearst's mansion down the coast," explains April N. These rare animals are among the last remaining from the original herd.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Free WiFi hotspots available at Sanborn County Park campground, but cell reception is minimal throughout the area. "Barely any cell reception, but wifi worked pretty well (we could have a video conference)," reports Ignasi M., though connectivity is typically limited to common areas.
Gate codes required: After-hours access needs pre-arranged codes at multiple parks. "You need codes for the gate after 7pm, the showers, and the RV dump and they don't volunteer that info, you have to ask," advises daren W. Request these codes during check-in to avoid being locked out.
Insect precautions: Lyme disease risk exists in several campgrounds. "Several campers note that ticks carrying Lyme disease are present in the area, so appropriate preventative measures for pets are recommended," advises Amanda P. Long pants, closed shoes, and regular tick checks are essential, especially during spring and early summer.
Tips for camping with families
Chess board tables: Built-in games at several sites in New Brighton State Beach Campground keep kids entertained. "Nice coastal campground... Good beach access (down a ramped pathway and then staircase). Bathrooms are clean and single occupant," Karen reports. These concrete tables include chess/checker boards stamped into the surface.
Kid-friendly pool: Heated to 90°F at Smithwoods RV Park during shoulder seasons. "Heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room. Kids could ride bikes freely," says Jessica D. The pool is typically open April through October, weather permitting.
Wagon transport system: Available carts help transport gear to walk-in sites at several dog friendly campgrounds near Monte Sereno. "It's a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites. The park provides carts to help with hauling gear," explains Amanda P. These utility wagons have large wheels designed for rough terrain.
Tips from RVers
Dump station location: Free facility at Mount Madonna County Park located just inside park entrance. "There is a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park that we used as we departed," notes Lori T. The station includes potable water for tank filling.
RV site selection: Relatively level pads available at several dog friendly campgrounds. "We stayed here with our 25ft camping trailer. There was plenty of room for it on site 105, however if it was any higher it would be hitting tree limbs," advises Chesney S. from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground. Sites with tree clearance for larger rigs are limited and should be reserved well in advance.
Sewer hose extensions: Bring additional length for some sites at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose. Shore chord was fine as was the water spigot," Patrick J. explains. Connections at many sites are positioned at the far end of the pad, requiring longer hookups.
Traveler
