Near Santa Cruz, RV camping options cluster in the nearby redwood forest areas and along the coastline. Accommodations range from sites nestled under dense redwood canopies to beachside locations with ocean access. Winter temperatures typically stay between 40-60°F, while summer brings 70-80°F days with frequent morning coastal fog that burns off by midday.
What to do
Beach access at Marina Dunes: Located about 35 miles south of Santa Cruz, this RV park offers convenient ocean access through sand dunes. "About a 5 min trek through sand and dunes and you'll find yourself at a beach not many people frequent. On Friday we were the only ones for as far as I could see," notes one visitor at Marina Dunes RV Park.
Redwood hiking trails: Many parks provide direct trail access to nearby redwood forests. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, guests can explore the San Lorenzo River area. "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," according to one reviewer.
Historic steam train rides: Several Santa Cruz rv parks sit near the Roaring Camp Railroad. "It was a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the red woods. Fun experience on a real steam locomotive," reports a camper who stayed at Smithwoods RV Park.
What campers like
Heated pool facilities: Some campgrounds maintain year-round heated pools. "Heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room. Staff is very friendly and Sant Cruz beaches are 15min away," notes a family who stayed at Smithwoods RV Park.
Clubhouse amenities: Many Santa Cruz area rv parks feature indoor recreation spaces. "There was also a large clubhouse with foosball, ping pong and arcade games which is open from 9am - 9pm. My daughters used the clubhouse while I set up camp and after waking up while I stayed in bed for a little while," shares a camper at Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
Riverside locations: Several parks border the San Lorenzo River. "Viewing areas allow all to enjoy the stream at the back of the resort, and paths to take a closer look. A safe and quiet location," mentions one reviewer about Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
What you should know
Limited cell service in redwood areas: Coverage varies significantly at forest locations. At Smithwoods RV Park, "We occasionally got 1 bar of cell service in our site if we stood in a certain spot. (AT&T)There was WiFi up at the office but it was inconsistent. Our son did his online school and he kept dropping off."
Narrow access roads: Several parks have challenging approach routes. At Carmel by the River RV Park, "the road in is basically a one lane road. Pray you don't encounter oncoming traffic." Another camper advises: "Unless you're driving a sports car, definitely DO NOT drive on Lorales Grade! It's a narrow, windy, dark road with a 17% grade."
Site spacing varies considerably: Park density differs throughout the region. "Sites can get a bit tight, but there are definitely some gems hidden in the redwoods," notes a camper at Cotillion Gardens RV Park, while another points out that tent sites are often "small, but had a picnic table, fire pit, and elevated wooden deck."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly recreational facilities: Look for parks with dedicated play areas. At Thousand Trails Morgan Hill, "Very large. The kids loved the resident cats. The pool was huge and well loved. Lots of recreation," reports one family, while another mentions "In mid October the campground is still running kids activities daily and they're good!"
Safety considerations: Some parks offer more secure environments. "I felt safe, with my young kids, that everyone was driving slowly and respecting the rules," reports a camper at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort.
Proximity to attractions: Parks vary in distance to popular family destinations. "Only about 8 minutes from Santa Cruz beach/boardwalk. Off a quiet street," notes a visitor to Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement challenges: The location of utilities can create issues. "My Starlink was heavily obstructed by trees so worked at 40% speed," reports an RVer at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, while another mentions "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose."
Size limitations: Many parks have space constraints for larger vehicles. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, "Some spaces are tight to back into. Marginal cell coverage," notes one RVer, while others mention that some spaces "are more suited for a tent" than large RVs.
Seasonal rate variations: Prices fluctuate significantly throughout the year and for holiday periods. "122 US$ for one night," reports a Marina Dunes RV Park visitor, while another notes "$190 a night plus $20 to choose your spot is wild. The location of the electrical/water is awkward."
