RV campgrounds near Soquel, California provide diverse options within Santa Cruz County's coastal environment at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,600 feet in the surrounding mountains. Many facilities maintain strict quiet hours from approximately 10 PM to 8 AM to preserve the peaceful atmosphere. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-60°F while summer averages 60-75°F with coastal fog common in mornings.
What to Do
Hiking near redwoods: Henry Cowell State Park trails connect directly from Smithwoods RV Park where you can access old-growth redwood forests within walking distance. "It backs into Henry Cowell State Park and you can walk into it. The river was visible from our spot over a small fence (not accessible because of a 20-30 foot drop)," notes one family who visited with five children.
Beach access: The Marina Dunes RV Park offers a short walk to uncrowded beaches. "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. No exaggeration," shares a visitor who appreciated the relative seclusion.
Train rides: Take a historic steam train ride through the redwoods near Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. "It's a goofy little descent/climb to get there and out but worth it," mentions one camper about accessing the river beach area, while another adds that the nearby steam train offers "a ride through the forrest."
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: The bathrooms at several RV parks receive consistent praise for cleanliness. At Cotillion Gardens RV Park, while "bathrooms are a little dated," the overall cleanliness is noted. One visitor at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort highlighted "super clean restrooms" as a standout feature despite noting "not much in the way of extras."
Swimming options: Many parks offer swimming pools as an alternative to beach trips. "Their pool is huge and very very well kept," reports one visitor to Gilroy Garlic USA RV Park, which is approximately 20 miles inland from Soquel. Another reviewer mentioned the pool was "small, yet well-kept and we had it to ourselves every time."
Cell service and WiFi: Internet connectivity varies significantly by location. One camper at Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park described it as "clean, feels safe" with good access to e-bike rental racks throughout the city. At Gilroy Garlic USA RV Park, a visitor praised that "the WiFi was outstanding!" - important for those needing connectivity.
What You Should Know
Site spacing: Many RV parks have limited space between sites. At Thousand Trails Morgan Hill, about 25 miles from Soquel, a camper noted that while they "were able to get a good spot it was not a campground that stood out too much to us," adding that the pool facilities were good but couldn't be used during colder weather.
Tent camping limitations: Some RV parks offer minimal or no tent camping. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, one camper warned that "tent camping was in a back corner or the RV park, the websites photos are deceiving," noting it might work for families but wasn't ideal for couples.
Reservation requirements: Many parks require advance reservations during peak times. In the off-season, some parks offer late arrival options, as mentioned by one reviewer: "If they have open spots after the office closes they put out packets for up to 2 pull thru and 2 back in spots for late arrivals without a reservation."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer dedicated recreation areas. "Kids could ride bikes freely, heated pool (90 degrees), clean shower and restroom, plus laundry room," reported a visitor to Smithwoods RV Park who traveled with five children in October.
Playground access: Some parks feature playground equipment and organized activities. At Thousand Trails Morgan Hill, a camper noted that "in mid October the campground is still running kids activities daily and they're good! Great culture here - friendly, lots of things to do (pool, basketball, volleyball, horse shoes, playground, billiards, karaoke, tennis)."
Pet policies: Most RV parks welcome pets but have specific areas for them. "Truly dog welcoming, with multiple dog poop baggy bins and a dog run so your best friend can run leash free. They even gave my dog premium dog treats upon arrival," shared one visitor about Gilroy Garlic USA RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven sites at some locations. At Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park, a visitor mentioned "Almost level adjoining asphalt parking slots face boats in harbor. Water / electric / sewer connection at back of parking slot."
Sewer connections: Bring extension hoses for hookups. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, one RVer advised: "Bring your sewer hose extension. Most other sites had them from what I could see."
Navigation challenges: Some RV parks require careful attention when driving. Regarding Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, one RVer cautioned: "Getting there takes some attention. Do not take highway 9 from Santa Cruz as the RV park will tell you... Roads to the sites are narrow, so again, keep your eyes pealed."
