Cabin camping options near Scotts Valley, California provide a wilderness experience in the coastal redwood forests without sacrificing comfort. Located at elevations between 600-2,000 feet, the region experiences fog-influenced climate with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter temperatures dropping to 40-55°F. Many cabins require reservations 3-6 months in advance during peak summer season.
What to do
Hiking trails in redwoods: At Big Basin Redwoods State Park, trails lead to impressive waterfalls and ancient trees. "Best thing about this campground is proximity to the Berry Creek Falls... a huge series of water falls on a super long and strenuous hike," notes a visitor. Trails range from easy 1-mile loops to challenging 10-mile routes.
Beach access: Campers at Marina Dunes RV Park enjoy nearby beach activities. "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," reports a camper. The beach access point is approximately 0.25 miles from the cabin area.
Archery course: Mount Madonna County Park offers a unique 28-target archery trail through the forest. "We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge," shares a visitor. The course is accessible year-round and provides targets at varying skill levels.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Select cabins at Mount Madonna County Park offer secluded settings. "Sites 416 and 417 are also big with hidden spots back off the road for pitching your tent," reports one camper. The Tan Oak campground area generally has more spacious sites than other areas.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: The changing seasons bring different wildlife viewing opportunities. "We had a great trip. It was a nice park with a lot of old redwood trees. Fun creek behind campground for pups to splash around," recalls a visitor to Big Basin. Morning hours (6-8am) offer the best wildlife viewing times.
On-site recreation: Cotillion Gardens RV Park provides multiple recreation options. A visitor notes, "Lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite. Kids liked the pool and clubhouse." The recreation areas are open from 9am to 9pm daily and include basketball courts and playground equipment.
What you should know
Temperature variations: The redwood forest creates significant temperature differentials. "Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared and had to drive into town and buy more clothes," advises a Mount Madonna camper. Night temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer.
Booking lead time: Cabins fill quickly during peak seasons. For Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA, one visitor recommends: "I do recommend paying a bit more for the more spacious sites. Next time I'm going for the ones with the patio, those people looked quite happy." Reservations should be made 4-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Noise factors: Some cabin locations experience traffic noise. At Marina Dunes RV Park, "It is very loud here with the freeway right behind you. It didn't bother us in the day. At night I had a sound machine so it didn't bother us." Request cabins furthest from highways when possible.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday offers numerous family options. "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," explains a visitor. Most activities are included with stay, though some may have additional fees.
Weather preparedness: Coastal fog can create unexpected conditions. A Big Basin camper advises, "Bring the spray. We drove 9 miles to Boulder Creek and found an epic swimming hole by Cafe to help cool us in the 95 degree heat." Temperature swings of 30+ degrees within a day are common.
Cabin selection for families: Choose cabins with appropriate space for children. A visitor to Santa Cruz KOA notes, "We have a two and a half year old and it's perfect for us in a 28' fifth wheel. Paved roads for bikes, huge playground, nice store, warm pool. It's perfect for families." Cabins with outdoor space provide play areas for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When booking cabins or RV sites with cabins, site location matters. "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," notes a visitor to Mount Madonna County Park.
Utility placements: Pay attention to hookup locations when booking. At Marina Dunes RV Park, a visitor points out, "The location of the electrical/water is awkward." Request detailed site maps before booking to ensure compatibility.
Seasonal considerations: Winter cabin camping requires additional preparation. Redwood forests create their own microclimates, with one camper noting, "In the morning it's raining under the redwood trees but not under the madrone or tan oak trees, which is wild." Bring waterproof gear even during dry seasons.
