Tent camping options near New Almaden, California range from 500 to 3,500 feet elevation with significant temperature variations between day and night. The area sits at the eastern edge of the Santa Cruz Mountains where coastal fog often rolls in during summer mornings. Fall and spring typically offer the most stable camping conditions with temperatures between 50-75°F and lower humidity.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Uvas Canyon County Park offers multiple waterfall trails within walking distance of camp. As one camper notes, "The sites are spaced out nicely and there is a water faucet and trash bins plus recycle every couple of sites. On the trails there's quite a bit of poison oak so keep dogs close."
Stargazing: Joseph D. Grant County Park hosts organized stargazing events during certain seasons. According to a visitor, "There are nights to gather and stargaze. The tent spaces are sizable & you can have a fire. Some seasons there are wild pigs running around everywhere."
Rock climbing: Castle Rock Trail Camp provides access to climbing areas within a short hike. A climber shared, "This is sweet hike in trail camp. We have used it for two purposes. First when were were climbing in Castle Rock State Park and this was our hub and second when we were doing the Skyline to the Sea Trail."
What campers like
Easy beach access: From tent camping sites near New Almaden, coastal campgrounds are accessible within a 45-minute drive. At Manresa State Beach Campground, "Beautiful views of the ocean just steps from your tent. During the summer months, whales and dolphins can be seen cruising through the ocean around sunset."
Quiet weekday camping: Campers consistently report better experiences midweek. A visitor to Joseph D. Grant County Park observed, "We camped here for one night to test our pandemic project...a van conversion. We had a great site and there was no one on either side of us. The camp ground was quiet and it was mostly couples or small family groups."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being in remote locations, many campgrounds feature clean facilities. A Castle Rock Trail Camp user mentioned, "Great campsite with picnic tables and fantastic view for sunset. Came FCFS and the ranger at the parking lot usually lets you know if it's full or available before you go up."
What you should know
Fire restrictions change seasonally: During dry months (typically June-October), complete fire bans may be enforced at most campgrounds. At Black Mountain Backpacking Camp, fires are never permitted regardless of season.
Wildlife awareness: Raccoons and other small animals are common at most tent campsites near New Almaden. A camper at Uvas Canyon warned, "Second time at the campground. Love this campground still but I'm pretty sure there is a wasp nest near 25. We were here about 2 weeks ago at a different site and didn't have any wasp issues."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no cell service. At Uvas Canyon County Park, one camper noted, "Good to be disconnected, but if needed, Verizon cell service worked at the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Bring bug spray: Seasonal insects can be problematic, especially in warmer months. An Uvas Canyon visitor advised, "A little buggy in the afternoon and found some mosquitoes so take bug spray. Lots of birds."
Choose sites strategically: Not all tent sites accommodate families equally. At Towle Campground, the limited number of sites means early reservations are essential for weekend stays during summer months.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Evenings can get surprisingly cold even in summer. A camper at Uvas Canyon County Park observed, "It is tucked back in a canyon so once the sun goes down it can get cold quickly."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven parking areas. At Uvas Canyon, one camper advised, "If you plan to sleep in your car, you may want to take leveling blocks as I found the car parking spot to be not leveled at all."
Length restrictions: Most tent campgrounds near New Almaden have limited space for larger vehicles. According to a visitor at Uvas Canyon, "Not every site is able to car camp due to rocks blocking off the parking area but every campsite is pretty nice."
Limited hookups: Only Joseph D. Grant County Park offers water hookups among tent campsites near New Almaden. As one camper noted, "Showers are free only one shower per restroom though so be prepared to wait."
