Mount Hermon sits at 900 feet elevation in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where coastal redwoods create a cool microclimate even in summer months. Camping in this area typically means 10-15°F cooler temperatures than nearby Santa Cruz, with morning fog common from May through August. Trail conditions can be muddy in winter months, with most campgrounds requiring advance reservations from April through October.
What to do
Hiking through redwood groves: Access miles of trails directly from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground. "Great spot to camp, plenty of hiking trails. We stayed here for a night and thought that it was a clean campground. Our site was on the smaller side, but it accommodated us all. There were a few trails that started from the campground, which was nice," reports Queenie M.
Train rides at Roaring Camp: Located just 1 mile from multiple campgrounds in Felton, this historic railroad offers steam train rides through redwoods. "If you hike into the redwoods or go a few miles down the road and take a ride on the Roaring Camp Big Trees Railroad," suggests Nona A. from Henry Cowell, noting the close proximity to camping.
Beach day trips: Many campers use Mount Hermon as a base for exploring nearby beaches. At Sunset State Beach, "You can walk down to the beach from the campground some sites are further away than others since there are three big loops of sites," notes Kelly S. Most coastal beaches are within a 25-minute drive from Mount Hermon area campgrounds.
Archery at Mount Madonna: For 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. from Mount Madonna County Park.
What campers like
Proximity to urban conveniences: While camping feels remote, you're never far from supplies. "Great spot to camp, close to grocery stores and gas stations," mentions Willow M. about Henry Cowell. Many campers appreciate the balance of nature with nearby towns.
River access spots: Several campgrounds offer access to the San Lorenzo River. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, "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," explains Jaime C.
Year-round camping climate: The moderate coastal-influenced climate makes camping possible all seasons. At New Brighton State Beach Campground, "We tent camped here but most people had a trailer. Translation: the bathroom was empty. Quiet with quick access to the beach via a steep paved path," reports Alma L., highlighting off-season benefits.
Pet-friendly campground amenities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Mount Hermon offer specific amenities for pets. "The sites were private but easy to get to trails, showers, bathrooms. Etc. If you have littles the roads are paved so a scooter or bike could be fun," notes Chesney S. about Henry Cowell, which allows pets throughout the campground.
Traveler
