Best Campgrounds near New Almaden, CA
New Almaden is surrounded by a diverse range of camping options within the eastern foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains and nearby valleys. Uvas Canyon County Park provides 25 tent and RV campsites nestled in a wooded canyon setting with access to waterfall trails, while Mount Madonna County Park offers tent camping alongside yurt and cabin accommodations. The camping areas extend from Morgan Hill to Santa Cruz, with established campgrounds concentrated along Highway 9 and in the coastal mountains west of Silicon Valley.
Many campgrounds in the region require reservations, particularly during spring and summer weekends when cooler temperatures draw visitors from nearby urban areas. "The campsites are nicely maintained. Plenty of area to pitch a tent, all the sites have a BBQ, fire pit, and picnic table," noted one camper about Uvas Canyon, though they cautioned that "the sites are close together so maybe bring ear plugs in case you have loud neighbors." Road access varies significantly, with campgrounds like Uvas Canyon requiring navigation along narrow, winding roads approximately 15 miles west of Gilroy. Most established sites offer amenities including drinking water, toilets, and fire rings, though facilities range from primitive to developed depending on location and managing agency.
Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty of the region's redwood groves and seasonal waterfall trails. A review for Uvas Canyon mentioned that "there are a number of trailheads that start in the campground, or close by, that lead you to a collection of waterfalls and streams." The proximity to both nature and urban conveniences makes this area particularly appealing, with several campers noting the contrast between feeling immersed in nature while being relatively close to Silicon Valley. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, with some areas maintaining Verizon coverage while others offer complete disconnection. Most campgrounds in the area maintain clean facilities with showers and running water, though sites at popular locations like Uvas Canyon tend to be close together, limiting privacy during peak seasons.
