Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground
4.5778 reviews2591 Graham Hill Road, Scotts Valley, CA 95060
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 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$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground charges $35 per night for campsites. Vehicle day-use fees are $10, with discounts for seniors ($9). Additional vehicles are charged $10 per night. Buses are charged $50 for 10-24 passengers and $100 for 25+ passengers.
About this campground
Nestled within a tranquil forest canopy where towering pines and ancient oaks create nature's own cathedral, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground offers an enchanting escape into California's wild heart. Here, campers discover a world where rare geological wonders meet centuries-old redwood giants, and winding trails lead through landscapes that have inspired generations of nature lovers.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground supports a range of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. Specific options like primitive and group camping are not explicitly confirmed.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history among the magnificent 40-acre old-growth redwood grove that has captivated Presidents and sparked conservation movements across America. These ancient sentinels stand on the ancestral lands of the Sayanta people, bearing witness to countless generations who found sustenance and spiritual connection beneath their branches. This sacred grove played a pivotal role in America's early environmental awakening, inspiring the preservation efforts that protect these natural treasures today.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of mountain weather, where summer mornings begin crisp and cool in the high 40s before warming to pleasant mid-80s perfect for afternoon adventures. Winter brings its own magic, with temperatures dancing between the upper 30s and comfortable mid-50s. The Santa Cruz Mountains are known for their mercurial moods—morning fog can give way to brilliant sunshine in moments, adding an element of delightful unpredictability to every camping experience.
ElevationPerched at 805 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the Santa Cruz Mountains where mild temperatures prevail year-round. From this perfect vantage point, sweeping vistas unfold across rolling mountain ridges, while the moderate elevation ensures comfortable camping conditions without the extremes found at higher altitudes.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a diverse tapestry of ecosystems where mixed evergreen forests create a verdant backdrop for your camping adventure. Just beyond your tent lies one of California's rarest natural treasures—the Santa Cruz Sandhills, an extraordinary marine deposit that emerged from ancient seas to become home to endangered plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. This unique habitat adds an element of ecological wonder to an already spectacular landscape.
Geological RegionThe rugged Santa Cruz Mountains reveal Earth's dynamic story through dramatic geological contrasts. In the south, hard granite and metamorphic schist formations stand as testament to ancient volcanic forces, while the northern reaches showcase softer sandstones and mudstones that whisper tales of prehistoric oceans. This geological diversity creates the varied terrain that makes every hike an adventure through millions of years of Earth's history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible campsites (#17, #23, #24, #109, and #112) feature accessible tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Accessible trails include portions of the River Trail and Redwood Loop Interpretive Trail.
Sites SizeCampsites vary significantly in size, accommodating different tent setups. Some are noted as spacious enough for large tents or multiple setups.
Sites PrivacySites provide varying levels of privacy, with inner sites being closer together and shaded, while other sites offer more seclusion: 'Very nice campsites, most of which have decent privacy.'
Total Campsites107 campsites
Recommended CampsitesInner sites have more shade but are closer together, while outer sites offer more privacy and wider views. Choose based on preferences for proximity to bathrooms or water.
Best CampsitesPopular campsites include sites #2, 10, 12, 14, 23, 24, 33, 35, 42, 78, and 103.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is seven days at a time. Campers are limited to 30 days total within the Santa Cruz district.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests allowed per site including children.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of loops and sections. Sites vary in size and proximity to amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open seasonally. Closures may occur due to inclement weather during fall and winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.reservecalifornia.com or by calling 800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited and dependent on unreserved sites. Guests may need to move sites for multi-night stays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be made six months in advance. Walk-ups are possible depending on availability but only for one night at a time. Refunds are offered for cancellation due to evacuation or relocation due to weather.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground offers a wide array of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and cultural programs. Unique features include the Redwood Grove Loop Trail and access to rare ecosystems like the Santa Cruz Sandhills.
HikingThe park boasts over 30 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks like the Redwood Grove Loop Trail to challenging hikes such as Four Crossings, which includes river crossings. Highlights include views of Monterey Bay from the Observation Deck and trails through ancient redwood groves.
FishingFishing in the San Lorenzo River is available, primarily catch-and-release steelhead trout fishing. Licensing and regulations apply.
SwimmingSwimming is available at Cable Car Beach and other river areas, but dogs and alcohol are prohibited.
BikingBiking is permitted on designated fire roads such as Pipeline Road and Powder Mill Road. Trails like Rincon Fire Road offer scenic routes but require advanced skills due to steep terrain and river crossings.
Wildlife viewingWildlife commonly observed includes deer, coyotes, and rare species like the Zayante band-winged grasshopper and Mount Hermon June beetle. Viewing areas include riparian zones and grasslands.
Beach activitiesBeach-related activities are centered around river areas like Cable Car Beach. Activities include picnicking and swimming.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsPrograms such as guided tours, ranger-led hikes, and campfire programs are offered seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings. Firewood is sold at the campground entrance for $15 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is common. Seasonal restrictions may apply to campfires due to drought. Wildlife such as coyotes may visit.
Active alertsRincon Fire Road remains closed due to 2023 winter storm damage.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 98%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
Santa Cruz District Public Safety Office (101 Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA). Emergency contact: 911.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are conveniently located, and campers are reminded to secure valuables due to occasional theft risks. Recycling options are not mentioned explicitly.
Proximity to water featuresThe San Lorenzo River runs through the park; the campground is near the Garden of Eden and Cable Car Beach.
Common complaintsFrequent mentions of poison oak, proximity of sites affecting privacy, and occasional theft.
HostCamp hosts patrol regularly to maintain quiet hours and provide assistance. Hosts are noted as helpful and friendly in reviews.
Campground Map
2591 Graham Hill Road, Scotts Valley, CA 95060
Driving directionsFrom Hwy 17, take the Mt. Hermon Rd. exit. Follow Mt. Hermon Rd. until it ends at Graham Hill Rd. For the campground, turn left onto Graham Hill; the entrance is about 2.5 miles down on the right.
The campground is easily accessible from major roads. Graham Hill Road is paved, and the entrance is clearly marked. Seasonal closures may occasionally affect accessibility due to weather conditions.Nearby places
Santa Cruz (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Felton (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Davenport (20 minutes), Moss Landing (30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Convenience stores are located within 3 minutes of the campground entrance. Costco and other stores are approximately 15 minutes away in Santa Cruz.
Camper Reviews
4.6
78 reviews
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the natural beauty and convenience of the campground, including proximity to Santa Cruz and clean facilities. Common sentiments highlight the well-maintained restrooms and showers, along with varying campsite sizes and privacy levels.
Review Summaries
Clean restrooms and showers, convenient access to Santa Cruz, well-maintained trails, and ranger presence for maintaining order. 'The park Rangers n the Camp Host keeps this park quiet n orderly.'
Complaints include poison oak prevalence, occasional maintenance issues with showers, and limited cell service. Some users felt quiet hours were overly restrictive: 'Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6...
Show more
Bring quarters for showers, avoid poison oak, choose inner sites for shade, and plan visits during less crowded weekdays for better experiences.
Peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day) sees heavy crowds, but events like ranger-led hikes add value. Fall and winter closures may occur due to inclement weather.
'Always love this place. They keep bathrooms and showers clean DAILY.' 'Loved our stay. Its 10 min from Santa Cruz beach, and 5 min from Felton.' 'Sites are private and large, there are fire rings...
Show more
Favorite campsites include #2, #10, #12, #14, #23, and #107, noted for views, privacy, and proximity to amenities.
ADA-accessible sites are praised for usability. Accessible trails include portions of the Redwood Grove Loop Trail and River Trail.
Dogs are allowed in designated areas but prohibited in the Redwood Grove Trail. Some campers appreciate pet-friendly policies but note restrictions on trails.
Last updated July 20, 2025