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Smithwoods RV Park (MHP)
Overview
Smithwoods RV Park offers a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. This family-owned destination has welcomed travelers for generations, providing a quiet escape under a canopy of ancient trees. The park maintains a nostalgic atmosphere while offering the modern conveniences necessary for a comfortable stay. It serves as a serene sanctuary for those looking to disconnect from city life and reconnect with the tranquility of nature.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the quaint town of Felton, California, the park is surrounded by some of the most impressive old-growth redwoods in the state. The location provides a distinct mountain climate that remains cool and refreshing even during the summer months. Being nestled within the San Lorenzo Valley, visitors are treated to lush greenery and a sense of seclusion, yet they remain just a short drive from the vibrant coastal energy of nearby Santa Cruz.
Amenities & Park Features
The park is well-equipped to handle various rig sizes with the following features:
- Full hookup sites including water, sewer, and electricity.
- A seasonal heated swimming pool perfect for family relaxation.
- Community facilities such as a billiard room and a playground.
- On-site laundry facilities and clean restroom structures.
These amenities ensure that both short-term visitors and those on longer journeys have everything required for a seamless camping experience.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s proximity to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where miles of hiking trails wind through majestic groves. Just minutes away, Roaring Camp Railroads offers a historic steam train experience through the forest. For those craving the ocean, the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is only a short drive away, providing the perfect balance between mountain hiking and classic seaside entertainment.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for families and nature enthusiasts who appreciate a quiet, well-maintained environment. It is particularly suited for RVers who want a central basecamp for exploring both the redwood forests and the California coastline. Travelers seeking a peaceful forest retreat rather than a high-activity resort will find Smithwoods to be the perfect fit for their Northern California adventure.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Discounts
- Facility
- Internet
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
R B
We called ahead to see if there were available RV spots, but no one answered the office — it was close to after-hours, so we decided to drive to the campground. The sign on the office door said to “find the camp host” for after-hours check-in. We looked around, couldn’t find the host, but did see several vacant spots. We parked for the night intending to check in and pay first thing in the morning — as we’ve done for years at many campgrounds across the country. That’s standard camping etiquette: if you arrive after hours, park, pay in the morning, and move if needed. However, in the morning when we were getting ready to go to the office, the camp host showed up and immediately started verbally chewing us out for being there, claiming it was a “private campground.” She made us feel completely unwelcome, saying if the owner was there we’d be kicked out on the spot. We calmly explained we meant no harm, that there was nothing on the website or in person stating “private guests only,” or anything to denote this was an exclusive resort and that we fully intended to pay. Despite this, she continued to scold and berate us instead of just handling the situation professionally. We packed up to leave and pay, but she still threatened to call the sheriff — even as we were paying and exiting. She even went so far as to imply we were homeless, which was incredibly insulting. For context, we were simply visiting our child who is a UCSC student, taking a weekend off from our corporate jobs. In all my years of RVing and camping, I’ve never been treated this way at a campground — especially as a paying customer. This was, without a doubt, the most unwelcoming experience we’ve ever had. On top of that, the park itself wasn’t anything special: cramped spaces, RVs packed closely together, lots of permanent residents, designated trashcan areas a mess, skunks were everywhere and loud partying after hours. There are many other, far friendlier campgrounds in the Santa Cruz area — do yourself a favor and stay elsewhere. Good riddance. I’m sure the owner or camp host will respond to this review with a snarky or defensive comment, as they seem to do with many others. But to be clear — you were in the wrong. Treating respectful, paying guests this way is unacceptable, and it’s exactly why you’ll continue to lose business.
Magnolia Sirolli
Extremely rude on the phone. Treated us like we didn’t belong and made judgmental comments about our work. Definitely not a welcoming place.
Laura Ginder
Beautiful location, but so are the other RV parks in the area. This park charges visitors $20 per car, per day PLUS $5 per person if you are just visiting someone staying at the park. If you are a guest, in excess of 6 people and 1 vehicle, it's $2 per person over the 6 people per day and an extra fee per car per day. The WIFI is NOT free. It's $2 an HOUR for EACH DEVICE! Cell service is bad, so if you need a device to contact people, you'll need to access the Wi-Fi.There are no BBQ areas. The guest policy DOES NOT list charges for day use guests. You can call to confirm ahead of time. The staff is limited in their capabilities. It's unfortunate, but if you have the time to review and look elsewhere, I recommend it. Just don't be surprised if you get hit with a hidden charge.
A New Morning View ScottnTina
This RV Resort is beautiful. Well maintained and friendly staff. The spots are spacious and well shaded. Bathrooms are clean. The pool is heated and makes for a Great all season retreat.
Madison Wolff
I had gone here for the past 4 summers and had a great time although the staff was always a little unfriendly, we continued to go because we enjoyed the camp ground. This past year the lady in the office booked us too far in advance and there was no policy written anywhere that you couldn’t book over a year in advance but she still booked us. About two weeks later we got a call saying our reservation was canceled because it was too far in advance and that they had given our reservations to someone else. When we called the owner to talk about the situation and how the lady let us book and never mentioned a policy he was EXTREMELY rude and said that if we didn’t like what they did we could book somewhere else. He was one of the most unprofessional and unfriendly business owners I’ve ever experienced. I would NOT RECOMMEND COMING OR BOOKING HERE due to the extremely rude and unprofessional staff.
