Are you planning a tent camping trip to Pescadero? We've got you covered. Find the best information on tent camping near Pescadero, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
CAMPGROUND CLOSED DUE TO FIRE:
Public access to Big Basin has been severely impacted by the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire and ongoing fire recovery work, but the park is now open for limited day-use access. Reservations for parking are not required, but are encouraged due to the limited amount of first-come, first-served parking available. Reserve a parking space. The parking fee is $6 per vehicle plus a $2 reservation fee or $10 per vehicle without a reservation. No reservations or fees are required for visitors arriving by foot, bike, or bus. Read the FAQs for more information on the reservation system and visiting Big Basin.
Established in 1902, Big Basin Redwoods is California’s oldest state park. In the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Big Basin camping's biggest attractions—literally—are its ancient coast redwoods. Some of these giants are more than 50 feet around and as tall as the Statue of Liberty. At 1,000 to 1,800 years old, some may predate the Roman Empire. The park also offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, lush waterfalls, and a fascinating natural and cultural history.
The park has more than 80 miles of trails. Some of these trails link Big Basin to Castle Rock State Park and the eastern reaches of the Santa Cruz range. The Skyline to the Sea Trail threads its way through the park along Waddell Creek to the beach and adjacent Theodore J. Hoover Natural Preserve, a freshwater marsh.
The park has a number of waterfalls, a variety of habitats (from lush canyon bottoms to sparse chaparral-covered slopes), many animals (deer, raccoons, bobcats) and lots of bird life—including Steller’s jays, egrets, herons and California woodpeckers.
$35 / night
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground, located near Santa Cruz, CA, is a fantastic spot for camping all year round. This place is a haven for nature lovers, offering a serene environment surrounded by towering redwoods and lush greenery. The campground is equipped with essential amenities like flush toilets, coin-operated showers, and picnic tables. You can also bring your pets along, but keep in mind that they aren't allowed on the trails.
One of the standout features here is the abundance of beautiful trails nearby. Whether you're into hiking or just want a peaceful walk, you'll find plenty of options to explore. The campground itself is spacious, with sites that provide a decent amount of privacy thanks to the dense tree cover. However, some sites might be a bit shaded, which could be a downside if you're relying on solar panels.
Visitors have praised the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the overall maintenance of the campground. It's a family-friendly spot, safe and enjoyable for all ages. If you're into campfires, you'll be happy to know that fires are allowed, and you can even purchase firewood on-site.
For those who like a bit of convenience, the campground is just a short drive from the South Bay area, making it easy to pop into town for supplies or a quick bite. Plus, it's close to attractions like Roaring Camp, which adds a fun element to your stay.
In summary, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground offers a great mix of natural beauty, essential amenities, and convenient access to nearby attractions. It's a place where you can truly unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.
$7 - $35 / night
Francis Beach has a campground with 52 individual sites, some suitable for tent camping, others for trailers or recreational vehicles. Some campsites have electrical hookups. Water and sewer hookups are not available, but there is a dump station ($10 fee) and a water filling station. Rental RV’s are not allowed to be dropped off or picked up from the park.
Coin-operated hot showers are also available. (approximately 2 minutes per quarter)
$165 / night
BEN REIS CAMPINPGROUND is CLOSED as a result of fire-related damage to the park's water system.
Updated Nov 2022: This park unit is partially open. Please take the time to read the information contained on this webpage to find out what is open and closed, and what COVID-19 guidelines are in place: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=536
Due to the CZU Fire, areas of Butano State Park will remain closed. The fire has left many trees compromised and other trail hazards exist. Crews are continuing to work on repairs. For your safety, please stay out of closed areas.
$35 / night
Memorial Park is open year-round for camping, picnicking and youth group activities. Family picnic sites are located at the East End of the park. Memorial Park has two large family camping areas. Sites are available for up to two weeks. A maximum of eight people is accommodated per site. Showers are on site and firewood is available to buy. A limited number of sites can accommodate recreational vehicles up to 35 feet in length. A dump station is available for registered recreational vehicles. Campsite availability can be checked on our on-line reservation system.
$40 - $50 / night
Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA, nestled near Pescadero, CA, is a gem for those looking to camp with a touch of comfort. This place is open year-round and offers a variety of accommodations, from tents and RVs to cabins, yurts, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the cleanliness. Visitors consistently rave about the immaculate grounds and ultra-clean bathrooms. If you're traveling with kids, they'll love the playground and the bike rentals. The campground also has a market, so you can grab essentials without venturing too far.
For those who enjoy a good meal, the on-site restaurant, Cascade, is a pleasant surprise. The food is top-notch, with fresh vegetables straight from the garden and expertly prepared dishes that rival some of the best restaurants in San Francisco and Oakland. The cocktails are equally impressive, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
The campground is big-rig friendly and offers amenities like electric and water hookups, showers, and a sanitary dump. Pets are welcome, and there's even a fire ring and picnic table at each site. If you're planning to stay, consider splurging on a site with a patio for a bit more space and comfort.
While the Wi-Fi can be spotty and cell service limited, the natural beauty and serene environment more than make up for it. The sunsets are breathtaking, and a short hike will take you to the beach, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a bit of exploration.
Overall, Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA is a fantastic spot for families and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a few added comforts.
$55 - $88 / night
New Brighton State Beach is one of the most popular beachfront campgrounds in California, offering over 100 developed campsites, including 11 RV hookup sites. With bluff top views of the the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, a visitor center museum, shade ramada for group picnics and special events, and campfire center with free summer programs, it’s no wonder New Brighton State Beach is such a favorite destination!
$50 / night
Castle Rock State Park is a land of sculpted sandstone, lush forests, and sweeping vistas. From one of the highest ridges in the Santa Cruz Mountains, park visitors enjoy hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding. Rock climbers explore the park's caverns and rocks, including the namesake Castle Rock. Plant-lovers come for California black oaks, knobcone pines, and high-elevation coast redwoods. The park’s 34 miles of rugged trails conveniently connect to an extensive trail system that links the Santa Clara and San Lorenzo valleys to nearby Big Basin Redwoods State Park and open space preserves on the Skyline to the Sea Trail.
The Castle Rock Trail Camp is open year round on a first-come, first-serve basis. The campground is a 2.5 mile (4 kilometer) hike from the parking area and you will have to carry all of your equipment into the camp. Castle Rock Trail Camp has trash receptacles, bathrooms, and 20 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Wood is available for sale during the wet season. Fires are not allowed during fire season.
Camping is permitted only in designated camps. Campers are required to be in their campsites from sunset to 6 a.m.
To register and pay your fees, check in at the Entrance Station at the Castle Rock parking lot. If you arrive when the station is not staffed, you can use the self-registration envelopes. Make sure you bring exact change or a check to use in case you must use the self-registration. Place your receipt on the dashboard in a visible place as proof of payment. Rangers will verify payment. For more information about camping and fire closure dates, please call Castle Rock State Park at (408) 867-2952. For more information and reservations for Waterman Gap Trail Camp, please visit the Santa Cruz Mountain State Parks Backcountry Trail Camp Page.
$8 / night
Welcome to Cotillion Gardens RV Park. Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, right next to Henry Cowell Redwood State Park, our secret little garden is hidden amongst the massive redwood trees and waiting for your arrival.
Anthony Chabot Family Campground, overlooking Lake Chabot, is a year-round getaway only 35 minutes from downtown Oakland and Oakland International Airport. The campground features 53 drive-to tent campsites, 10 walk-to tent campsites, and 12 RV/trailer campsites with full hookups (sewer, water, and 30 amp electrical). All sites have a picnic table and fire ring with grill. Restrooms include hot showers. Firewood and charcoal are available for purchase. The campground provides access to miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, along with fishing at nearby Lake Chabot.
Anthony Chabot Regional Park features seven group camps ranging in capacity from 35 to 300 campers, reservations required (a minimum of 9 people to use the group campsites). All group camps include picnic tables, BBQ, fire ring, water, and chemical/vault toilets. Equestrian camping is available by reservation at Bort Meadow Group Camp. For reservations, call 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2. Group campsites cannot be reserved online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pescadero, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pescadero, CA is Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED with a 4.7-star rating from 34 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Pescadero, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 74 tent camping locations near Pescadero, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
