Portola Campground
4.6425 reviews9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020
Portola Campground
$10.00 - $35.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$35.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Family campsites cost $35 per night. Day-use parking is $10 per vehicle. Additional fees apply for extra vehicles and group campsites.
About this campground
Escape into a cathedral of ancient giants at Portola Campground, where 55 family-friendly sites and four hike-and-bike spots nestle beneath towering redwoods in the heart of Portola Redwoods State Park. Here, the modern world fades away as you immerse yourself in nature's grandest living monuments.
Portola Campground offers diverse camping options, including family drive-in sites, walk-in tent sites, hike-and-bike sites, and group campsites.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolá, whose name graces this timeless landscape. Throughout the park, whispers of the past emerge from the forest shadows – discover the weathered Iverson Cabin standing as a testament to pioneer resilience, and trace the ghostly remnants of old logging roads and mills that once hummed with industry before nature reclaimed her domain.
Weather and SeasonsNature's moods shift dramatically throughout the year in this coastal mountain paradise, where 40-60 inches of annual rainfall nurture the forest's emerald tapestry. Summer mornings often arrive wrapped in mysterious fog that keeps temperatures refreshingly cool, while winter transforms the landscape into a rain-soaked wonderland. Pack your rain gear for the wet season when trails become ribbons of mud, adding an adventurous element to your forest explorations.
ElevationPerched at 1,160 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary offers a refreshing retreat from valley heat. The elevation creates its own microclimate where summer mornings often greet campers with a mystical blanket of fog that slowly lifts to reveal the sun-dappled forest canopy. Pack layers – the mountain air brings a pleasant chill that makes campfire gatherings all the more inviting.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a verdant wonderland where ancient redwood sentinels tower above a tapestry of mixed evergreen forests. Crystal-clear streams cascade through the shaded basin, their waters home to silvery steelhead trout that flash beneath the surface. This lush sanctuary feels worlds away from civilization, offering intimate encounters with both majestic old-growth giants and thriving second-growth forests that demonstrate nature's remarkable resilience.
Geological RegionCradled within the rugged embrace of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the campground occupies a natural stream basin that has been carved over millennia. This unique geological setting creates a perfect amphitheater of biodiversity, where ancient redwoods and mixed evergreen forests thrive in the mountain's protective folds, sustained by the life-giving waters that flow through this enchanted landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne wheelchair-accessible campsite is available. The visitor center and restrooms are also wheelchair-accessible, but no trails currently meet accessibility standards.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with standard and tent-specific dimensions. Some sites are noted as small and suitable for only one tent.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some offering seclusion due to surrounding trees, while others are more exposed. Site #44 is recommended for its privacy.
Total Campsites55 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 44 offers privacy and scenic surroundings with its own small bridge. Site 21 is suitable for single-tent setups.
Best Campsites15, 19, 37, 46
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum per reservation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per site for family campsites.
Groups
Group sites include Ravine (25 people limit), Hillside (50 people limit), Point (50 people limit), and Circle (50 people limit). Group camps are tent-only and require a walk of 50 to 200 yards from parking areas.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are grouped into loops, with RV sites located at sites 4, 7, 8, 9, and 19. Walk-in sites include #61-64.
Open and Closed SeasonCampgrounds are open from late spring to mid-autumn and closed November through March.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available at www.reservecalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability is offered for unreserved sites. Check at the park office for one-night registrations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations and changes must be made 48 hours in advance. Fees may apply.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Portola Campground offers a range of recreational activities, such as hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. While fishing is prohibited, creeks provide scenic spots for water play. There are 18 miles of trails catering to different skill levels, and the park is known for its majestic redwood groves.
Hiking18 miles of trails are available, ranging from easy to strenuous. Highlights include the Old Tree Trail, Sequoia Nature Trail, and Peters Creek Loop. User reviews praise the trails' natural beauty and variety.
FishingFishing is prohibited in the park's creeks to protect endangered species such as coho salmon and steelhead trout.
SwimmingSwimming is allowed in creeks but restricted to areas without diving or jumping. Visitors are asked not to build rock dams to avoid harming aquatic habitats.
BikingBiking is limited to paved roads and the Service Road leading to Old Haul Road. Trails are off-limits to cyclists.
Wildlife viewingVisitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including black-tailed deer, raccoons, and endangered marbled murrelets nesting in old-growth redwoods. User reviews highlight the park's serene environment for wildlife observation.
Winter ActivitiesWinter recreation is limited due to trail closures and weather-related obstacles.
Water SportsNon-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned as activities within the park.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Wood gathering is prohibited. Firewood is available for purchase.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Generators are restricted to 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include poison oak, ticks, stinging nettles, and yellowjackets. Mosquitos are prevalent during warmer months.
Active alertsSeasonal bridges are removed in the fall and replaced by May 15. Trails have periodic closures due to storm damage. Campgrounds close during extreme droughts or severe weather.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 20
Wednesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include a payphone within the park and hospitals accessible via a 14-mile drive to Sky Londa. Dial 911 for emergencies.
Good to know
Peak season datesCamping season runs from late spring through mid-autumn, with closures in winter.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are provided. Visitors are encouraged to use designated bins to support the park's crumb-clean initiative, which helps protect local wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresNear creeks like Pescadero Creek, which support steelhead trout and coho salmon. Swimming is permitted but fishing is not.
Common complaintsIssues include small or oddly-shaped campsites, lack of soap in bathrooms, muddy trails, and limited cellular service. Mosquito infestations are a noted seasonal concern.
HostFriendly and helpful park staff and camp hosts provide assistance and recommendations.
Campground Map
9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020
Driving directionsFrom Highway 35, turn west onto Alpine Road, go 3 miles, and turn onto Portola State Park Road. The road dead ends in the park. Use low gear as both these roads are steep and winding. Expect a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from most Bay Area locations.
The last 6 miles of road to Portola State Park are steep, narrow, and winding, requiring careful navigation. Gas stations are not available at or near the park, with the nearest one located 14 miles away in Sky Londa.Nearby places
Sky Londa (14 miles), La Honda (9 miles)
Nearby supplies
Nearest grocery store is 9 miles away in La Honda along Highway 84. Firewood is available for purchase at the park office or from the camp host. No gas stations or general stores exist within the park area.
Camper Reviews
4.6
25 reviews
Portola Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally praised for its stunning redwoods, clean facilities, and peaceful atmosphere. Some visitors appreciated its secluded location and opportunities to unplug, while others noted issues with mosquitoes, small campsites, and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised aspects include the park's natural beauty, clean restroom facilities, helpful staff, and quiet atmosphere. Many users enjoy the hiking trails and the overall serenity of the redwood...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include small campsite sizes, dirty bathrooms during peak times, mosquito infestations, and limited cell phone service. Some users also mentioned the steep, winding road leading...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing anti-mosquito gear, quarters for the showers, and notifying family of the lack of cell service. Site #44 is particularly recommended for privacy. Early check-in is advised...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews highlight summer as the busiest season, with mosquitoes and yellowjackets being more prevalent. Winter visits are affected by trail closures and muddy conditions, but the park remains serene.
Based on 25 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This park is a majestic place... You feel like you’re on Endor!' - Serena Petrie
2. 'Great unplugged experience among the trees.' - MJ
3. 'Awesome campground! Amazing experience in the redwood...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites #15, #19, #37, and #46 are listed as the best campsites due to their size and location. Site #21 is described as small, suitable for only one tent. Site #44 is praised for its privacy and...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground's accessibility features include one wheelchair-accessible campsite and accessible restrooms. However, no trails meet accessibility standards.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed within campsites, picnic areas, and on paved roads but must be leashed at all times. Several users appreciated these pet-friendly policies but noted restrictions on trails.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025