Cabin camping near Woodside, California offers diverse accommodations in redwood forests at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,800 feet. The region experiences temperature swings between coastal fog-cooled campsites and inland areas that can be 15-20°F warmer. Winter cabin camping requires preparation for nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 30s, while summer brings milder conditions with minimal rainfall.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Big Basin Redwoods State Park trails lead to spectacular waterfalls, with the Berry Creek Falls trail being especially popular. "Best thing about this campground is proximity to the Berry Creek Falls... a huge series of waterfalls on a super long and strenuous hike," notes Andrew D. about Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
Archery practice: Mount Madonna County Park maintains a 28-target archery course through the woods. "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. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Beach exploration: Cabin campers can access coastal beaches within a short drive. "We drove 9 miles to Boulder Creek and found an epic swimming hole by Cafe to help cool us in the 95 degree heat," says Jeannie B., highlighting off-site adventures from Big Basin Redwoods.
Wildlife viewing: Observe deer, turkeys, and unique park animals. "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," reports another Mount Madonna visitor.
What campers like
Elevated camping platforms: Some cabin sites provide wooden platforms for tents or relaxing. "The spot was small, but had a picnic table, fire pit, and elevated wooden deck. I'm not sure if the deck is for setting up your tent on or lounging on, but we opted to set up our tent on the ground," explains Jessica R. about Cotillion Gardens RV Park.
Rustic luxury: Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA offers upscale cabin camping with excellent dining. "The restaurant at the lodge, the Cascade, was phenomenal. This is coming from someone used to San Francisco and Oakland restaurants. The vegetables were all grown in the garden and the dishes were expertly executed," says Alma L. about Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA.
Ocean views: Cabins at Steep Ravine provide dramatic coastal vistas. "For that, you get your own seaside cabin with million dollar views just 30 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Sleeping platforms for about 6 people split among 3 semi-private rooms," explains Adam about Steep Ravine Campground.
Wooded privacy: Many cabins are situated to maximize nature immersion. "Sites can get a bit tight, but there are definitely some gems hidden in the redwoods. Close to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which is definitely worth checking out," advises Tim & Cleo D. about Cotillion Gardens.
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Mountain cabin locations can be significantly colder than surrounding areas. "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. about Mount Madonna.
Reservation challenges: Some cabin locations require planning months in advance. "So the cabins are not only notoriously difficult to reserve -- you need to be ready to click 'reserve' on the website at no less than 5 minutes before the window opens for your dates of interest, which was 6 months ahead of time when I reserved," explains a Steep Ravine visitor.
Pest management: Cabin campers should prepare for wildlife encounters. "Mice. There were several brand new mouse traps provided at the entrance to my cabin. You'll need them," warns Adam about the Steep Ravine cabins.
Limited amenities: Many cabins lack typical hotel conveniences. "Mount Madonna is my favorite camping site. The site has a lot of space. The bathroom is clean. There are also lots of trails to explore," notes Yaqi W. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, highlighting the basic but functional facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Some cabin campgrounds offer extensive family amenities. "There were lots of kids around using the playground, bicycling, playing basketball, and swimming in the pool. There was also a large clubhouse with foosball, ping pong and arcade games which is open from 9am - 9pm," describes Jessica R. about Cotillion Gardens.
Educational wildlife opportunities: Families can learn about local fauna. "The slugs were hanging out in trees all around us and it was so much fun looking for them. The sites were very spacious and this has probably been one of my favorite campgrounds!" shares Adventure M. about Big Basin.
Camp cooking options: Many cabin sites include outdoor cooking facilities. "Each campsite has a fire pit with a grill cover which made it easy to cook dinner. The sites are a decent size with lots of trees to climb on, hide in, and play on," notes Kim P., describing the setup at Big Basin.
Site selection strategy: For family privacy, choose outer campsites. "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," advises Lori T. about Mount Madonna.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many RV cabins have limited space between units. "The pull through spaces are extremely tight to the point that our slide out was hitting vegetation and our neighbors awning was about two feet from our Rv. But, if you expect that, it's a great place to stay," advises Andrea A. about Santa Cruz North-Costanoa KOA.
Dumping facilities: RVers should note available sewage disposal options. "There is a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park that we used as we departed," mentions Lori T. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Parking limitations: Some cabin sites have restricted vehicle access. "Site 211 was listed as 30' trailer but that was definitely not the case as it was a weird triangle parking area. We made it work and enjoyed the park," explains Weston W. about Mount Madonna.
Hookup availability: Electric connections can vary by campground. "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great!" confirms a Mount Madonna visitor, contrasting with other nearby parks offering more limited services.
