Big Basin Redwoods RV & Campground Guide
California
- Home
- >State Parks
- >California
- >Big Basin Redwoods
Ancient redwood trees soar high above the lush forest floor in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, creating an aura of mystery that's irresistible to adventure-seekers from around the world. Just standing in the presence of these giants is an unforgettable experience, and the tallest of the redwoods rise as high as the Statue of Liberty. More than 80 miles of trails wind through this remarkable old-growth forest, taking you past misty waterfalls and up steep slopes to breathtaking vistas. Hikers, bikers and horses are all welcome; just be sure to check trail use restrictions. As you explore this park, which is set deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, you'd never guess that San Francisco is just 75 miles to the north and Santa Cruz lies 22 miles south.
Spring 50-70 F
Summer 65-85 F
Fall 55-80 F
Winter 45-60 F
Santa Cruz, CA
RV Resorts & Campsites in Big Basin Redwoods
Whether you're visiting Big Basin Redwoods State Park in the heat of the summer or you're planning to enjoy the low crowd levels in the winter months, an RV makes the perfect home base. Enjoy views of the forest from your windows but sleep soundly away from the dew and mist. Whether you're coming from afar or you live in the area, an RV rental from RVshare is a fun way to add a little luxury to your camping trip. Browse models by size to find the ideal size for your family; you can even select options that allow pets.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park Campgrounds
If you're hoping to get up and hit the trail early, the Big Basin Redwoods State Park campgrounds are your best bet. Inside the park, there are four different campgrounds: Huckleberry, Blooms Creek, Sempervires and Wastahi. Huckleberry is open all year while the others are only available in the high season. Be sure to ask about the length of the site when you're booking as the biggest sites in the park can accommodate RVs up to 27 feet. You won't find hookups in this remote, beautiful area, but the stunning natural landscapes and the sound of the wind whistling through the trees more than make up for it. Use the dump station for easy cleanup. All four Big Basin Redwoods campgrounds offer sites for $35 per night.
Sanborn County Park
Leave your RV at Sanborn County Park and avoid much of the mountain driving around Big Basin Redwoods. Though it's closer to the bustle of San Jose, this campground offers peaceful forest sites and access to 22 miles of trails. Each site comes with electricity and water, so you can get the most from your RV rental after a day of hiking in the redwoods. Sites at Sanborn accommodate motorhomes up to 30 feet long; car camping is not allowed. Pets are welcome, and there's a dump station on site. Fees start at $34 per night, and rates are discounted by 25% from November through the end of February.
Redwood Resort RV Park
Are you visiting Big Basin Redwoods in a big rig? The closest campground that can accommodate large RVs is Redwood Resort RV Park. Here, you'll find 20 sites, all maintained by friendly owners who are dedicated to the comfort and safety of their guests. Each site comes with full hookups, internet, cable and phone. Take a dip in the swimming pool in the summer or revel in a hot shower at the end of the day. Sites with hookups start at $60 per night; dry sites begin at $45 per night.
What to Do at
Big Basin Redwoods
Inside Big Basin Redwoods
The redwood trees themselves are the highlight of Big Basin Redwoods State Park, and the best way to see these majestic trees is on the park's 80-mile network of trails. Take your bike on the park's fire roads or bring a horse and explore the Henry Creek and Westridge Trails. In the summer, park rangers host a full schedule of talks and events, so check the park office for details. If you're heading to the coastal section of the park, be sure to check out the Rancho Del Oso Nature and History Center.
Outside Big Basin Redwoods
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is located off the beaten path, so exploring the restaurants, shopping and attractions in the area will require a bit of a drive.
Restaurants
Boulder Creek Country Club Bar & Grill
The closest dining option to the park, this spot serves sandwiches and snack bar foods. It also has a kids' menu, so it's a fun option for families.
Type: American
Location: 16901 Big Basin Hwy, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
Scopazzi's
Enjoy a hearty bowl of pasta at this friendly spot, which features an extensive wine list and a spectacular wood-beamed dining room.
Type: Italian
Location: 13300 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
Taqueria Los Amigos
With dishes ranging from taco plates to shrimp, this counter-serve spot is the perfect place for lunch. Servings are generous, and there's a Mexican dish for every preference.
Type: Mexican
Location: 13070 CA-9, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
Tae's Edo Sushi Bar
Treat yourself to a few specialty rolls at Tae's Edo, which is known for its exceptionally fresh fish. With its Japanese-style dining area, this is a lovely spot for a date or a family dinner. Be sure to ask for a table with a view of the river.
Type: Sushi
Location: 13271 CA-9, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
River Dogs
If you're bringing the whole family, don't miss this local favorite food truck. Grab a few loaded hot dogs for everyone and enjoy your meal in the outdoor dining area.
Type: Hotdogs
Location: Forest St, Ben Lomond, CA 95005
Shopping
Air and Fire, A Mystical Bazaar
Shop for everything from crystals to handmade soaps at this intriguing shop. You'll find all sorts of natural products, including oils, mists, candles and more.
Location: 13136 CA-9, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
Plumline Vintage
Pick up a vintage fedora or a retro dress at this friendly boutique.
Location: 13160 CA-9, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
Sightseeing
Año Nuevo State Park
After you visit the redwoods, head to this seaside park to experience the rugged California coastline. Año Nuevo is known for its herd of elephant seals, which congregate on the beach each year. Be sure to check out the Marine Education Center to learn more.
West Waddell Creek State Wilderness
Escape the crowds at this remote and rugged area, which features an excellent network of hiking trails and several spectacular waterfalls.
Butano State Park
Located adjacent to Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Butano is another great spot to see the redwoods. Here, you can stroll through silent canyons on 40 miles of trails. Butano Creek Trail is a lovely place to start.
Castle Rock State Park
Rugged sandstone cliffs peek out from thick forests at this park, which you can reach on foot from Big Basin Redwoods via the Skyline to the Sea Trail. If you're a climber, bring your gear and scale the sheer walls using the existing bolts.
Portola Redwoods State Park
Feel like you've stepped into a dinosaur movie at this state park, which is known for its spectacular trees and impossibly huge ferns. It's the perfect place to get off the grid because there's no cell phone reception throughout the park.
How to Get to
Big Basin Redwoods
To get to Big Basin Redwoods State Park, you'll need to get on Highway 236 from the north or the south. No matter what direction you're coming from, just hop on Highway 9, which connects to 236. Keep in mind that the road has some curvy sections, so it's a good idea to allow plenty of time for the trip.
By Car
Entering Big Basin Redwoods
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is open every day of the year from 6 a.m. to sunset.
Big Basin Redwoods Per vehicle : $10.0
Big Basin Redwoods Per vehicle age 62+ : $9.0
Big Basin Redwoods Bus with 10-24 passengers : $50.0
Big Basin Redwoods Bus with 25+ passengers : $100.0
Is Big Basin Redwoods State Park on your itinerary? The team at RVshare would love to hear about your trip. If you're posting photos or stories on social media, tag them so they can check them out. You can also send snapshots and memories from your visit to [email protected]; they might even publish them on their blog to inspire other RV travelers.