Looking for a place to car camp in Santa Cruz? You’re in luck! This coastal city is home to some of the best camping spots in California. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly campground or a secluded spot to pitch your tent, Santa Cruz has it all.
From the stunning beaches of Big Basin Redwoods State Park to the breathtaking views of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Santa Cruz offers a variety of camping options for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. So, pack up your gear and get ready to explore the beauty of Santa Cruz’s natural landscapes.
Where to Car Camp in Santa Cruz: A Guide to the Best Spots
If you’re looking for a scenic, adventurous getaway in Santa Cruz, car camping is a great option. With its beautiful beaches, majestic redwoods, and stunning coastline, Santa Cruz has plenty of options for car camping. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best spots for car camping in Santa Cruz, from popular campgrounds to lesser-known gems.
1. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Located just outside of Santa Cruz, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is an excellent place for car camping. The park features over 4,000 acres of redwood forest, hiking trails, and a scenic river. There are 113 campsites, including 10 walk-in sites and 5 group sites. The campground has showers, restrooms, and a camp store.
For those who love to hike, the park has over 30 miles of trails, including the 2.5-mile Redwood Grove Loop Trail, which takes you through some of the most stunning redwood groves in the park. The park also offers ranger-led hikes and nature walks, as well as a Junior Ranger program for kids.
2. New Brighton State Beach
New Brighton State Beach is a popular spot for car camping in Santa Cruz. The campground has 111 campsites, many of which are just steps from the beach. The campground has showers, restrooms, and a camp store.
The beach is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and fishing. There’s also a bike path that runs along the beach, as well as several hiking trails in the area. If you’re interested in wildlife, keep an eye out for dolphins, sea lions, and whales.
3. Sunset State Beach
Another popular spot for car camping in Santa Cruz is Sunset State Beach. The campground has 88 campsites, many of which have ocean views. The campground has showers, restrooms, and a camp store.
The beach is a great spot for surfing, fishing, and birdwatching. There’s also a bike path that runs along the beach, as well as several hiking trails in the area. If you’re interested in history, check out the nearby Pajaro Dunes, which was once a thriving fishing village.
4. Mount Madonna County Park
If you’re looking for a quieter, more secluded spot for car camping in Santa Cruz, Mount Madonna County Park is a great option. The park has 118 campsites, including several walk-in sites. The campground has showers and restrooms.
The park is known for its stunning views of the Monterey Bay and its redwood forest. There are several hiking trails in the park, including the 4.2-mile Ridge Trail, which takes you to the summit of Mount Madonna. The park also has several picnic areas and a playground for kids.
5. Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is one of the oldest and most popular state parks in California. The park has over 18,000 acres of old-growth redwood forest, as well as several waterfalls and hiking trails. There are 146 campsites, including several walk-in sites and group sites. The campground has showers, restrooms, and a camp store.
The park is known for its stunning views and its wildlife, including bobcats, coyotes, and deer. There are several hiking trails in the park, including the 10.5-mile Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail, which takes you from the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains to the Pacific Ocean.
6. Seacliff State Beach
Seacliff State Beach is a great spot for car camping in Santa Cruz if you want to be close to the beach. The campground has 60 campsites, many of which have ocean views. The campground has showers, restrooms, and a camp store.
The beach is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. There’s also a fishing pier and a visitor center, which has exhibits on the history of the park. If you’re interested in wildlife, keep an eye out for dolphins, sea lions, and whales.
7. Butano State Park
Butano State Park is a lesser-known gem in Santa Cruz County. The park has over 4,000 acres of redwood forest, as well as several creeks and waterfalls. There are 21 car camping sites, as well as several hike-in sites. The campground has showers and restrooms.
The park is known for its stunning views and its wildlife, including bobcats, coyotes, and deer. There are several hiking trails in the park, including the 5-mile Jackson Flats Trail, which takes you through some of the most stunning redwood groves in the park.
8. Portola Redwoods State Park
Portola Redwoods State Park is another lesser-known gem in Santa Cruz County. The park has over 2,800 acres of redwood forest, as well as several creeks and waterfalls. There are 53 car camping sites, as well as several hike-in sites. The campground has showers and restrooms.
The park is known for its stunning views and its wildlife, including bobcats, coyotes, and deer. There are several hiking trails in the park, including the 6.5-mile Old Tree Trail, which takes you through some of the most stunning redwood groves in the park.
9. Bonny Doon Beach
Bonny Doon Beach is a lesser-known spot for car camping in Santa Cruz. The campground is located on a bluff overlooking the beach and has 20 campsites. The campground has vault toilets, but no showers or potable water.
The beach is a great spot for surfing, fishing, and beachcombing. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including the 4.2-mile Bonny Doon Coastal Trail, which takes you along the bluffs and through some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes.
10. Wilder Ranch State Park
Wilder Ranch State Park is a great spot for car camping in Santa Cruz if you’re interested in history. The park was once a working dairy ranch and has several historic buildings and exhibits. There are 25 car camping sites, as well as several hike-in sites. The campground has showers and restrooms.
The park is known for its stunning views and its wildlife, including bobcats, coyotes, and deer. There are several hiking trails in the park, including the 5.9-mile Ohlone Bluffs Trail, which takes you along the bluffs and through some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes.
In conclusion, Santa Cruz has plenty of options for car camping, from popular campgrounds to lesser-known gems. Whether you’re interested in stunning redwood forests, scenic beaches, or historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone in Santa Cruz. So pack up your car and hit the road – adventure awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about car camping in Santa Cruz:
1. Where can I car camp in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has several campgrounds where you can park your car and set up camp. Some popular options include the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, New Brighton State Beach, and the Santa Cruz KOA. The Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a great option for those who love the outdoors and want to explore the nearby hiking trails. New Brighton State Beach is perfect for those who want to camp near the beach and enjoy the sound of the waves. The Santa Cruz KOA is a great option for families as it offers a range of amenities including a pool, playground, and mini-golf.
2. Are there any free car camping spots in Santa Cruz?
Unfortunately, there are no free car camping spots in Santa Cruz. However, there are some affordable options such as the Santa Cruz Hostel or the Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park. These places offer affordable rates and a great location for exploring Santa Cruz.
3. Can I camp in my car in Santa Cruz?
Yes, you can camp in your car in Santa Cruz as long as you follow the rules and regulations set by the campground. Some campgrounds have designated areas for car camping while others allow you to park your car next to your tent. It’s always a good idea to check with the campground beforehand to ensure that you are following their rules.
4. What should I bring for car camping in Santa Cruz?
When car camping in Santa Cruz, it’s important to bring all the essentials such as a tent, sleeping bag, camping stove, food, and water. You should also bring warm clothing as the nights can get chilly in Santa Cruz. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring some camping chairs and a portable table to make your campsite more comfortable.
5. Can I bring my pet when car camping in Santa Cruz?
Yes, many campgrounds in Santa Cruz allow pets as long as they are kept on a leash and are well-behaved. Some campgrounds also have designated dog areas where your pet can run and play. It’s always a good idea to check with the campground beforehand to ensure that you are following their pet policies. Additionally, it’s important to clean up after your pet and keep them under control at all times.
In conclusion, Santa Cruz is a great destination for car camping enthusiasts. From the rugged coastline to the towering redwoods, there are plenty of options for those looking to spend a night or two under the stars.
One of the best spots in the area is Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Here, you’ll find campsites nestled among the trees, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Plus, the park offers plenty of hiking trails and outdoor activities to keep you busy during the day.
Another great option is New Brighton State Beach. Located just outside of Santa Cruz, this beachside campground offers stunning views of the ocean and easy access to the water. It’s the perfect spot for surfers and beach lovers alike.
Lastly, for those seeking a more remote camping experience, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a must-visit. The park boasts miles of hiking trails, towering redwood trees, and campsites tucked away in the forest. It’s a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
No matter where you choose to camp in Santa Cruz, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. So pack up your gear, hit the road, and get ready to explore all that this beautiful area has to offer.
