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Portola Redwoods
Overview
Overview
Portola Redwoods State Park offers a deeply immersive experience for those looking to disconnect from the bustle of modern life. Tucked away within the rugged Santa Cruz Mountains, this destination is defined by its towering old-growth coast redwoods and serene atmosphere. It serves as a true escape for nature enthusiasts, prioritizing the preservation of forest ecosystems over high-end resort luxuries, making it a sanctuary for those who value quiet, natural beauty above all else.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the hills above La Honda, CA, the park is accessed via narrow, winding mountain roads that set the stage for a secluded getaway. The surrounding landscape is characterized by steep canyons and lush, verdant forest canopies that filter sunlight into soft, dappled patterns on the forest floor. The remote location ensures that visitors are well-removed from the noise of Silicon Valley and the coastal highway traffic, providing a peaceful environment for deep relaxation.
Amenities & Park Features
The park provides a rugged, back-to-basics camping experience. While the park does not offer traditional RV hookups, it features primitive campsites that accommodate smaller trailers and camper vans. Visitors will find essential facilities including fire rings, picnic tables, and potable water access. The park is famous for its extensive network of hiking trails that allow visitors to wander directly from their campsite into the heart of the ancient redwood groves for an unparalleled morning walk.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the immediate borders of the park, visitors can explore the nearby Pescadero Creek or take a scenic drive toward the Pacific coastline. Local attractions include the historic town of Pescadero, known for its charm, and the stunning coastal cliffs found at Pescadero State Beach. Travelers enjoy visiting the nearby Butano State Park or taking mountain bike rides on local trails. The region is perfect for birdwatching, photography, and exploring the diverse flora of the coastal mountain range.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is best suited for self-contained RV travelers and van-lifers who prefer a rustic, quiet environment over resort-style amenities. It is an ideal spot for those who enjoy hiking, forest bathing, and solitude. Because the access roads are winding and steep, it is generally better suited for smaller rigs rather than large motorhomes. If you crave a genuine, unplugged encounter with California’s majestic redwood forests, this location will perfectly suit your travel style.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Timur “Tim”
We immersed ourselves in a world of peace and solitude! It was very quiet, clean, and fresh. But bring a map with you! The sounds of nature were pure bliss.
Zo Zo
The group campsites are secluded and beautiful!! With the creek near by, one can relax and meditate by it.. The cold water is also a great theory for tired feet after a long hike!!
creativeness
The area was nice and the bathroom was clean but the camp host was very rude as they accused my group for playing loud music the night before right when we were packing up. We didn’t even have a speaker and when we did play music it wasn’t past quiet hour. We made sure to turn off music and just play card games at a certain time. As I quote in sarcastic tone “ of course you didn’t” like excuse me that implying that we did as you they didn’t even try to hustle the other camps near us. I think it was very rude they assumed it was us as there were many other camps playing music and didn’t even try to get an answer from them just for us to end our camping trip on a sour note. Thank you we are never coming back here again.
Lexus Parker
Was an amazing stay, beautiful park. Me and my fiancé got engaged on our tip toe waterfall hike and celebrated his 30th birthday. Please be careful on the roads they’re super tight and windy- don’t be alarmed when you hear a fox screaming at night lmao, they do have an ice machine but it wasn’t fully working yet when we went they just installed it, they also said we COULD bring outside wood but their phone system doesn’t, also their hours may seem incorrect then what google or their phone system says they’re usually open 12 until sunset. Can’t wait to come again. Thanks for the amazing first camping trip.
Davoud Kermaninejad
Beautiful little state park, feels like you’re very much away from the Bay Area despite being quite close. Redwoods and mixed forest is quite beautiful. The campground was small and the sites didn’t seem great or terrible. There are a variety of hikes for all abilities and a cute visitor center. No cell service is what some would consider a bonus for the always plugged in Bay Area crowd. Was our first time here and we would definitely return.