Big Basin Redwoods State Park

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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the oldest state park in California. It was acquired in 1902. The park has miles of trails, which serve hikers and equestrians, link Big Basin to Castle Rock State Park and the eastern reaches of the Santa Cruz range. The Skyline to the Sea Trail threads its way through the park along Waddell Creek to the beach and adjacent Theodore J. Hoover Natural Preserve, a freshwater marsh. The park has a surprising number of waterfalls, a wide variety of environments (from lush canyon bottoms to sparse chaparral-covered slopes, many animals (deer, raccoons, bobcat) and lots of bird life (including Steller’s jays, egrets, herons and acorn woodpeckers.) The park is also home to stately redwood groves.

Directions

From Santa Cruz take Hwy 17 to Mount Hermon road. Follow Mt.Hermon to Graham Hill Road, turn right onto Graham Hill. Go 1 block to light, turn right onto Hwy 9, follow Hwy 9 to Boulder Creek. At the 236 intersection, turn left. Follow 236 approximately 10 miles to park gate.

Visitor Center

Weekdays 9 – 5

Camping

Year-round.

Climate/Clothing

The weather can vary during the day from foggy to sunny. Layered clothing is advised.

Amenities

Showers
Campground
Visitors Center
Trailer sanitation station
Food, lodging and supplies nearby

Family and children’s programs

Historic sites and exhibits

General Info/Trails

More Camping Information
$35.00 per night. Each campsite includes parking fee for one vehicle.
Extra vehicle(s) $10 night
Firewood available in gift shop.

Juveniles

(those under 18 years of age) not camping with a parent or legal guardian must have WRITTEN permission to camp in the park. Permission letters must include the name of the park, the name of the juvenile, the dates they may stay and the name, address, phone number and signature of the person’s parent or legal guardian. The parent must be reachable at all times during the juvenile’s visit. Children 14 years of age and under may not camp without a parent present during the stay.

For more info on how you can support this park, visit Mountain Parks Foundation.