Sanborn County Park provides easy access to glamping options in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just 45 miles south of San Francisco. At 2,000 feet elevation, the park experiences temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby San Jose, making it ideal for summer getaways. The redwood ecosystem creates its own microclimate where morning fog often collects and drips from tree branches, creating a natural moisture effect even during dry periods.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 6 miles of trails at Uvas Canyon County Park offer close access to multiple cascades. "Pretty camp ground, large spots. Bathrooms and shower. The campsites and bathrooms are well maintained, and the camp host sells firewood," notes kaela L. The waterfall loop trail provides an accessible introduction to the area's natural features.
Archery range: 28 target course at Mount Madonna County Park winds through the forest 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. The course offers different skill levels with targets positioned throughout the wooded area.
Beach exploration: 4 miles of shoreline at Sunset State Beach provide excellent tide pooling opportunities. "We stayed here for three nights and it was beautiful! You can walk down to the beach, take a trip to the henry cowel redwoods, go ride bikes in santa cruz," explains Tiffany W. Morning fog typically burns off by midday during summer months.
What campers like
Private yurt accommodations: Elevated glamping experience in Mount Madonna County Park offers an alternative to traditional tents. "Our friends stayed in one of the yurts and it was great, albeit a little cold for them at night. I believe there are 2 dog friendly yurts," mentions Lori T. Yurt rentals require booking 2-3 months in advance during summer season.
Secluded tent camping: Higher elevation sites at Sunrise Point provide isolation from crowds. "Dispersed camping outside the campground perimeters. Very quiet and this is the place if solitude is your thing. Bring lots of water. Walk in or 4wd accessible. Never have seen another human here," reports Lisa A. These sites lack water hookups and require proper preparation.
Airstream rentals: Turn-key glamping option at Santa Cruz KOA provides comfort without hauling gear. "We stayed in one of the airstreams they have for rent there. The family loved it- it was the perfect size for us and everything worked and the outdoor patio had heavy duty tables and chairs along with fire pit and even a Weber grill," explains Jay. Reservations should be made 4-6 months in advance.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Communication gaps affect most glamping sites near Saratoga. "We saw a lot of deer and wild turkey. We hardly had a signal," notes a camper at Corrie G. from Sanborn County Park who adds, "Great camping in the mountains of Santa Clara county. Very secluded. No cell service. Miles of Great hiking."
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for 40° drops between daytime and nighttime temperatures in the Santa Cruz Mountains. "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared & had to drive into town & buy more clothes!" warns April N. Summer evenings typically drop to 45-55°F even after 80°F days.
Wagon availability: Limited transport options for walk-in sites require timing or patience. "We were camping for 1 night and boy, was it crowded! Each and every group was fighting for the 'wagons' to haul stuff up the hike-in campsites," explains Pranj D. Arriving mid-week substantially improves access to these carts.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly activities: Daily scheduled events at Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA keep children entertained. "TONS of activities on site- huge bouncy pad, a climbing wall, ping pong tables, a swimming pool, pedal go karts, the list goes on and on," shares Daniel D. The campground texts daily activity schedules to guests.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk animal sightings provide educational experiences. "We saw a lot of deer and wild turkey," reports a visitor. At Mount Madonna, families can observe the white fallow deer enclosure: "Near the ranger station there are pens with white fallow deer. They are descendants of the exotic zoo at William Randolph Hearst's mansion down the coast."
Beach camping alternatives: Fog considerations affect coastal glamping experiences. "Prepare for it to be cold just a heads up be prepared for wind and overcast weather," advises Alma L. Coastal glamping sites typically experience morning fog until 11am-1pm during summer months, with children's activities planned accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Outside loop preference for increased privacy at Francis Beach Campground. "While the sites are a little close to each other, those on the outside of the loop had a great deal of privacy. Inner loop sites have none, but would be great if you were camping with friends," suggests Lori T. Reservations for these premium sites require booking 6 months in advance.
Hookup availability: Water and electric options vary significantly between parks. "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great! There is a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park that we used as we departed," notes Lori T. Most glamping sites near Saratoga only offer partial hookups, with full hookups available at commercial campgrounds.
RV size restrictions: Length limitations affect campground accessibility. "Getting to Sanborn you will have to drive up a narrow road. We didn't have any issue with a 21' though," explains Ignasi M. Most Saratoga-area glamping sites accommodate RVs under 30 feet, with larger rigs better suited to commercial campgrounds.
