Cabin camping near Moss Beach, California offers coastal experiences with average temperatures ranging from 45°F to 75°F year-round. The fog-prone coastline creates distinct microclimates where inland cabins often enjoy warmer, sunnier conditions than oceanfront accommodations. Winter cabin stays typically see more rainfall between November and March, requiring appropriate waterproof gear.
What to do
Hike to Sempervirens Falls: Nearby Big Basin Redwoods State Park features accessible waterfall hiking trails. "We stayed here for a few nights and thought it was clean and spacious. Close to the visitor center. We did some hiking as well, a popular and short hike is to Sempervirens Falls," notes Queenie M. from Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings provide opportunities to observe local fauna. "We saw deer and turkeys roaming the campground," reports Uriel S. at Del Valle Campground, where the lack of cell reception enhances the wilderness experience.
Beach exploration: Cabins at Steep Ravine Campground offer direct beach access. "I've seen deer in the seaside vernal pools, wild miniature ocean bunnies boxing in the morning sunshine, and a great white shark off the cliffs one fine day," shares Nikata L. about the diverse marine ecosystem at Steep Ravine Campground.
Mountain biking: Several trails accommodate cyclists of varying skill levels. "Love the hiking trails. Mountain biking for those who can climb," writes Jamie H. about Del Valle Campground, highlighting the terrain difficulty but rewarding routes.
What campers like
Redwood setting: The unique forest environment creates distinctive cabin experiences. "The cabins were nice, and each cabin has 2 double beds, a table, and a wood stove. It can get cold at night in the redwoods so the wood stove was great at night," shares Kim P. about camping at Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
Modern cabin amenities: Some locations offer higher-end cabin accommodations. "Cabins are incredible. They have electricity, outlets, and heating. All you need are sheets, pillows, and blankets," notes a camper about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Outdoor cooking options: Most cabin sites include dedicated cooking facilities. "Each campsite has a fire pit with a grill cover which made it easy to cook dinner," explains Kim P. about Big Basin's cabin areas.
On-site restaurants: Some cabin campgrounds feature dining facilities. "The restaurant at the lodge, the Cascade, was phenomenal. The vegetables were all grown in the garden and the dishes were expertly executed, and so dang fresh we could not believe we were at a KOA," says Alma L. about Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular cabin sites require advance planning. "Extremely hard to get a reservation. Can get very windy! Gorgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs," advises Kelly S. about Steep Ravine Campground, where reservations often fill immediately upon release.
Temperature variations: Coastal cabins experience significant day-night temperature swings. "The nights were pretty loud but the management made sure that everything was shut down by 10 PM. The weather here is cold just a heads up be prepared for wind and overcast weather," warns Alma L. about camping at Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA.
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage prevents unwanted visitors. "Bring mouse traps," advises Adam in his review of Steep Ravine Campground. "In two days, I caught three and actually had to buy more traps."
Water availability: Many cabin sites have limited fresh water access. "On our first visit, there was no running water or showers, but they did have portapotties. On our second visit, water was available, but it was not potable," reports Joseph F. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programming for children. "This is a great camp ground for families as well as seniors! We attended a presentation on the wild birds in the area that an employee provided, and then he took us on a hike through Costanoa and over to the ocean," shares Dave about Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA.
Playground access: Dedicated play areas provide entertainment. "This place just has everything including always lit fireplaces at the bath houses. Very social camping place. So much to do. Great for families," notes Corrie G. about the facilities at Olema Campground.
Creek exploration: Natural water features offer entertainment for children. "This campground has great bathroom facilities and has a creek that runs through it that the kids loved playing in all day. The slugs were hanging out in trees all around us and it was so much fun looking for them," writes Adventure M. about Big Basin Redwoods.
Noise considerations: Family-friendly cabins can mean more ambient noise. "You are going to probably experience some of the most ridiculous first-time campers with no sense of camping etiquette you have ever met in your life. I put up with it, for kids," warns Susie B. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV cabin camping often means tighter spaces. "The pull through spaces are extremely tight to the point that our slide out was hitting vegetation and our neighbors awning was about two feet from our RV. But, if you expect that, it's a great place to stay," advises Andrea A. about Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA.
Hookup locations: Position your RV strategically for utility access. "Hookups are pretty far away and needed my sewer extension," notes C.W. about staying at Treasure Island MH and RV Park, which offers cabin alternatives for those without RVs.
Check-in procedures: After-hours arrivals require planning. "It was a little confusing as we couldn't see exactly where the camp check in was as compared to the resort check-in. Once we figured it out, the late check in paperwork was detailed on how to find our space," explains Lori L. about Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA's processes.
