Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground
01 reviewSky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground, Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California
Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground
$6.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Day-use parking fees are $6 per vehicle plus a $2 reservation fee, or $10 without a reservation. No camping fee information provided as all campgrounds are currently closed.
About this campground
Nestled within the legendary Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground offers an intimate gateway to one of California's most resilient natural wonders. Here, where ancient coast redwoods stretch skyward and nature writes its own story of renewal following wildfire, groups can gather beneath a canopy that has witnessed centuries pass. This tranquil retreat weaves together diverse ecological zones, creating a tapestry of experiences that range from hushed redwood groves to sun-dappled meadows.
The authoritative content does not provide specific information about Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground's accommodation types, though general information for Big Basin Redwoods State Park is included.
Historical SignificanceStanding as California's first state park, Big Basin Redwoods tells a story that began with visionary conservationists over a century ago. These cathedral-like groves shelter trees that have stood for more than a millennium, their massive trunks bearing witness to California's transformation from wilderness to the birthplace of the modern environmental movement. Each trail and campsite connects visitors to the passionate individuals who fought to preserve these ancient giants, ensuring future generations could experience the profound peace found only in old-growth forests.
Weather and SeasonsThe Santa Cruz Mountains cast their gentle spell year-round, blessing visitors with nature's perfect temperament. Summer arrives dressed in cool morning fog and warm afternoons, with dry conditions ideal for exploration and stargazing. Winter transforms the landscape with soft rains that nourish the recovering forest, creating a mystical atmosphere as mist dances through the trees. The recent CZU Lightning Complex Fire has opened new vistas and created unique microclimates where pioneering plants paint the hillsides with fresh life.
ElevationFrom sea-kissed valleys to ridgelines soaring above 2,000 feet, Big Basin's dramatic topography creates a vertical journey through distinct worlds. This elevation dance orchestrates a symphony of microclimates where fog-loving ferns thrive in shadowy canyons while sun-seeking wildflowers bloom on exposed peaks. Each change in altitude reveals new perspectives and ecosystems, offering campers a chance to experience multiple seasons and habitats within a single day's adventure.
Natural Features and ScenerySky Meadow sits at the crossroads of nature's grand design, where towering redwood patriarchs share the stage with resilient chaparral, stately mixed conifers, and vibrant riparian corridors. The landscape tells a powerful story of regeneration, as fire-touched areas burst with new growth alongside untouched ancient groves. Deer emerge at twilight to graze in meadows, while elusive bobcats patrol the shadows. Overhead, the canopy shelters the rare marbled murrelet and countless other birds whose songs provide the soundtrack to your camping experience. Crystal streams wind through the recovering forest, their gentle music complementing the whisper of wind through redwood needles.
Geological RegionDeep in the Santa Cruz Mountains' embrace, Big Basin reveals the geological poetry written over millions of years. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's diversity through its mosaic of ecosystems - from the fog-nurtured coast redwood groves to oak-studded hillsides, from dense chaparral thickets to lush streamside gardens. The underlying geology has created a perfect stage for this ecological theater, where tectonic forces, ancient seas, and time itself have sculpted a terrain that supports one of the most biodiverse regions in California.
Campsite details
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites farther from restroom facilities to avoid odor issues. Privacy and shade vary across site locations.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground appears to cater to group camping based on the name, but the content does not clarify the capacity or facilities.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonCurrently closed for camping reservations due to fire recovery. The park remains open for limited day-use access with parking restrictions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for day-use parking can be made at www.thatsmypark.org/parks-and-beaches/big-basin-redwoods-state-park.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served parking spots are available for day-use.
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.
Activities you can enjoy
The authoritative content emphasizes several activities within Big Basin Redwoods State Park but does not specify which activities are available at Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground. User reviews do not provide additional clarity. Marking activity fields as null where specific evidence is absent.
Hiking
"Visitors have the chance to leave developed areas, pass through old-growth redwood forest, follow meandering creeks, and climb to ridge top vistas." Hiking trails such as the Redwood Loop Trail are mentioned, but specific trails connected to Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 are not listed.Biking
Bicycles are allowed on all fire roads; specific biking trails are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Big Basin is home to deer, raccoons, bobcats, and bird species such as dark-eyed juncos, acorn woodpeckers, and Steller's jays.Cultural and Educational Programs
Free interpretive programs and events such as guided walks are offered throughout the year.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Check park alerts for fire restrictions. Fires may be restricted during dry seasons or due to ongoing restoration efforts.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, uneven terrain, and risks associated with post-fire areas like falling debris.
Active alertsThe campground is closed due to recovery efforts from the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Limited access and ongoing restoration work are active.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 hospitals and emergency services are located in Santa Cruz, 25 miles from the park. Police and ranger stations are accessible within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend for day-use shuttle access.
Proximity to water featuresSeveral creeks and streams are accessible within Big Basin Redwoods State Park, offering tranquil natural settings.
Common complaintsReviewed issues include proximity to smelly toilets (User Review: 'Great except camp too close to smelly toilets'), lack of accessibility for oversized vehicles, and cell service challenges.
Campground Map
Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground, Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California
Driving directionsFrom Hwy 9 in Boulder Creek, turn north onto Hwy 236 and drive approximately 9 miles to the Big Basin Redwoods State Park entrance kiosk. Follow signage to Sky Meadow Group Campgrounds 1 & 2.
All roads into Big Basin Redwoods State Park, including access to Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2, are curvy and may pose challenges for oversized vehicles and trailers. Seasonal closures due to fire recovery work may impact accessibility.Nearby places
Boulder Creek (9 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive), Santa Cruz (25 miles, approximately 45 minutes drive), San Francisco (65 miles, approximately 1.5 hours drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Boulder Creek, 9 miles from the park entrance.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The user review from Mark Smith provides limited insight into Sky Meadow Group 1 & 2 Campground, stating: "Great except camp too close to smelly toilets."
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
User reviews do not provide enough detail for positive highlights.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
The proximity to smelly toilets was noted as a concern by Mark Smith.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great except camp too close to smelly toilets." - Mark Smith.
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
The only available user review does not include specific site numbers.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025