Cabins near Mount Hermon, California are typically situated at elevations between 900 and 1,000 feet in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where average summer temperatures range from 70-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night. Winter cabin stays experience temperatures between 50-65°F daytime and often drop to 35-45°F overnight, with fog being common in early mornings across all seasons.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Several cabin properties offer direct access to hiking paths. At Mount Madonna County Park, visitors can explore multiple trails through redwood forests. "The park has some unique features. 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," notes one visitor.
Water activities: Many cabin rentals are within 20-30 minutes of beaches and swimming spots. "We drove 9 miles to Boulder Creek and found an epic swimming hole by Cafe to help cool us in the 95 degree heat," reports a camper who stayed at Big Basin Redwoods State Park cabins.
Recreation facilities: Several cabin campgrounds provide on-site recreation beyond hiking. "Sites can get a bit tight, but there are definitely some gems hidden in the redwoods. Close to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which is definitely worth checking out. While you're at it, take a ride through the forrest on the steam train," recommends a visitor to Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
What campers like
Cabin comfort levels: Various cabin options offer different amenities based on your needs. At Big Basin Redwoods State Park, "We stayed in a cabin in the huckleberry campground. 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."
Natural settings: Most cabins are situated among significant tree coverage. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, one reviewer appreciated the "Beautiful sites among mature redwoods. Spent 2 nights here with our 2&3 year olds. Sites are a little tight but worth being nestled in the redwoods. Lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite."
Proximity to attractions: Cabin locations offer convenient access to multiple destinations. A visitor to Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday noted, "Very close to the beach, quiet, excellent friendly staff always happy to help. Had some helpful neighbors for my first time in the travel trailer. They have activities daily and things to do which are sent out daily in a text."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Santa Cruz Mountains can experience significant temperature fluctuations. "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared & had to drive into town & buy more clothes! Also, sometimes the fog whistles through on a stiff breeze so not only is it cold but also clammy wet," cautions a visitor to Mount Madonna County Park.
Advance planning essential: Most cabin rentals require booking well ahead, especially during peak seasons. At Redwood Resort RV Park & Campground, one visitor mentioned they "Were able to book the night before and get the last full hookup spot. The man who checked us in was super friendly and answered all of my partners questions and even helped us with some basic RV knowledge as we're new."
Site selection matters: Cabin locations vary significantly in privacy and setting. "Tan Oak campground seems to have bigger sites than the others, but we drove through all the campgrounds and none of them are awful. Our site (418) was huge and private," states a Mount Madonna Park reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Family-friendly activities are available at many cabin sites. At Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA, "Grandkids wanted to ride the bikes before we left, kiosk wasn't open yet, but the gentleman at the camp kiosk helped us. They are harder than they look. Overall a great visit."
Child-friendly facilities: Several cabin locations feature amenities specifically designed for families. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, "Kids liked the pool and clubhouse. Look forward to our next visit," mentioned one family with toddlers.
Educational opportunities: Multiple cabin locations offer nature programs for children. "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. He was awesome and the hike was great!" reports a visitor to Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site restrictions: Some cabin areas have limited parking or size restrictions. At Redwood Resort, a visitor observed that "Some spaces are tight to back into. Marginal cell coverage. Camp WiFi is acceptable. Need to use WiFi to supplement cell service."
Setup considerations: Cabin locations often have specific configurations for utilities and amenities. A visitor to Marina Dunes RV Park noted, "Nice rv park by the beach. Bathrooms and showers are great. Downside is the store is closed on Sundays. Also, $190 a night plus $20 to choose your spot is wild. The location of the electrical/water is awkward."
Seasonal planning: Weather variations affect cabin comfort significantly. "Sites are a little close together. The place is old, but it has a great location. There are great hiking trails assessable from the campground. There is a nearby store, and you are close enough to Santa Cruz to spend a day on the boardwalk," observed a guest at Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
