Best Campgrounds near Mount Hermon, CA
Campgrounds near Mount Hermon, California are nestled in redwood forests within proximity to Santa Cruz and the Monterey Bay. The area features several established campgrounds like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Smithwoods RV Park, and Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, offering a range of accommodation options from tent sites to RV hookups and cabins. Most campgrounds in the region are situated among coastal redwoods, providing shaded sites with varying levels of privacy and access to hiking trails. The proximity to both forest recreation and coastal attractions makes this area popular for visitors seeking diverse outdoor experiences.
Reservations are highly recommended for campgrounds in the Mount Hermon area, particularly during summer months and weekends when sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Facilities vary widely, with state park campgrounds offering basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, while private RV parks provide full hookups, showers, and sometimes WiFi. Cell phone reception can be limited in forested areas, with one camper noting, "Cell phone reception was very bad. Bathrooms were clean but no soap, looked like each campsite had trees to hang a hammock."
The redwood forest setting creates a distinctive camping experience throughout the region. Sites at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park receive consistently positive reviews for their spaciousness and proximity to hiking trails. Campers frequently mention the opportunity to explore ancient redwood groves directly from their campsites. A visitor described the experience as "magical" noting that "the campsites were large. Could easily accommodate my 25' RV and more. Unlike most RV parks where you're stacked on top of each other, there is so much space and privacy." Poison oak is present throughout some campgrounds, so visitors should exercise caution when exploring. The area's campgrounds serve as excellent base camps for exploring nearby attractions including Santa Cruz beaches, local state parks, and the Roaring Camp Railroad, all within a short drive.
