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Big Basin Redwoods
Overview
Big Basin Redwoods State Park stands as California’s oldest state park, offering a unique opportunity to witness the resilience of nature. Located in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the park is currently in a phase of limited reopening following the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex fire. While the landscape has changed, the majestic old-growth redwoods continue to draw travelers who appreciate a quiet, reflective atmosphere amidst a regenerating forest ecosystem.
Location & Surroundings
Situated near Boulder Creek, the park is tucked into a rugged stretch of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The journey to the park involves navigating narrow, winding roads lined with towering trees and dense foliage. This remote setting provides a complete escape from the bustle of Silicon Valley and the coast. Visitors are surrounded by a coastal mountain microclimate that often brings cool morning mists, providing a refreshing break from the California sun.
Amenities & Park Features
Camping here is a rustic, back-to-basics experience. There are currently no hookups available, making it essential for RVers to arrive with full tanks and charged batteries. The sites are generally smaller and better suited for camper vans and short trailers, as the mountain roads can be quite tight. Standard amenities include picnic tables and fire rings, but the primary draw is the direct access to the recovering wilderness right outside your cabin or rig door.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
While many trails are still undergoing restoration, several routes allow visitors to view the iconic Redwood Loop and various waterfalls. A short drive away, the charming town of Boulder Creek offers local shops and dining. For those wanting a change of pace, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is less than an hour away, providing classic seaside fun. Hikers also frequent nearby Castle Rock State Park for its unique geological formations and climbing opportunities.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for adventurous dry campers and nature lovers who prioritize scenery over luxury. Because of the size limitations and technical driving required, it is best suited for those with compact RVs or van builds. If you seek a quiet, unplugged experience where the focus is on hiking and environmental recovery, Big Basin provides a profound and educational stay unlike any other in California.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Evelin Finlinson
Beautiful place to visit. We went on a Monday and it wasn’t crowded at all. The trails are not very trafficked right now. We saw a lot of restoration efforts after the fire of 2020. We also saw abandoned campgrounds/sites. We heard a tree falling in one of our trails. Kinda scary/cool at the same time. There was only one park ranger in the entrance of the park and the visitor center. He was really friendly and answered all our questions. There is a lot of shade and so much beauty. It’s amazing to see the regrowth of the park. Take some water and snacks. No food or drinks for sale. We didn’t notice any mosquitoes there in early June. The weather was perfect. Such a fun place for my toddler too. Make a car reservation before you go.
Charlie Heinzl
Big basin is a beautiful park that is not too crowded. Great trails with tall trees and mountains as far as you can see. Easy parking with a small picnic area for lunch or a snack. The Ocean view hike is a great, not too difficult, half day hike. I would recommend.
francisco daniel
I love this park! It's very tranquil, mostly all you hear is the beautiful sound of nature surrounding you! The trails are well groomed, very well delineated, the natural beauty is overwhelming! I would love to visit it more often and experience every trail, I will soon!
anna raaj
Spring break turned into an unforgettable adventure, surrounded by some of the most peaceful and refreshing natural beauty. The moment we arrived, we were struck by the lush greenery—tall trees standing like guardians, with water gently flowing around them. Everything felt alive and untouched. What truly stood out was the purity of the landscape. Rocks and fallen wooden logs were blanketed in soft green moss, adding to the magical, almost storybook-like setting. And when the sunlight filtered through the dense canopy of leaves, it created a breathtaking play of light and shadows—an aura that’s hard to put into words. Spring is undoubtedly the best time to explore this place, when nature is at its vibrant peak. That said, it’s important to plan ahead—there’s little to no network connectivity, so mapping your routes and trekking spots in advance is essential. Parking can also be a bit tricky, as the narrow uphill roads offer limited space, so be prepared to find spots along the roadside. Make sure to carry proper trekking gear and comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the terrain. Overall, it’s a serene escape into nature—perfect for anyone looking to disconnect, recharge, and soak in raw, untouched beauty.
Sirisha Aisola
Amazing park with giant redwoods and peaceful walking trails. The board says no dogs allowed, but we went with our pup and saw many other people with dogs too, so it doesn’t seem very strict. The trail was clean and easy to walk, but the path had a lot of yellow snails everywhere, so walk carefully. Good place for a quiet walk.