Ben Ries Campground
00 review1500 Cloverdale Road, Pescadero, CA 94060
Ben Ries Campground
$9.00 - $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
Park entrance fees include $10 for regular-size vehicles and $9 for seniors. Additional fees apply for buses and extra vehicles parked overnight in the campground.
About this campground
Nestled deep within a secluded canyon where ancient redwoods touch the sky, Ben Ries Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Butano State Park. Choose from 21 drive-in sites for easy access or venture to one of 18 walk-in sites perched along the hillside above Little Butano Creek Canyon for a more immersive wilderness experience. Each thoughtfully placed campsite comes equipped with picnic tables, bear-proof food lockers, and fire rings where you can gather under towering canopies. While modern conveniences include flush toilets and fresh water taps throughout the grounds, the absence of shower facilities encourages a true back-to-nature experience in this redwood sanctuary.
Ben Ries Campground caters to diverse camping preferences, offering both drive-in and walk-in sites nestled within a redwood forest. The campground is family-friendly and emphasizes a blend of accessibility and privacy.
Historical SignificanceThese lands hold centuries of stories, first serving as home to the Quiroste tribe of the Ohlone peoples who lived in harmony with the redwood forests for generations. The late 1860s brought the harsh reality of logging operations that threatened to erase these ancient groves forever. However, a remarkable conservation movement beginning in 1921 not only saved these remaining giants but has since doubled the park's protected area, ensuring that today's visitors can experience the same awe that has inspired people for millennia. Each trail and campsite connects you to this legacy of preservation and respect for the natural world.
Weather and SeasonsYear-round cool temperatures and a unique microclimate create the perfect conditions for an enchanting forest atmosphere. Winter rains transform the canyon into a verdant wonderland, feeding the streams and nurturing explosive growth of ferns and moss. As summer arrives, the forest takes on a quieter character, with morning and evening fog rolling through the redwood groves like nature's own air conditioning system, keeping these ancient giants hydrated and creating an almost mystical camping experience as mist weaves between the massive trunks.
ElevationThe campground's varying elevations create distinct microclimates and camping experiences, from creekside sites in the canyon bottom to hillside perches offering glimpses through the forest canopy.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be humbled by a cathedral of towering redwoods and moss-draped Douglas firs that create a living sanctuary around your campsite. The forest floor bursts with life as huckleberry bushes offer seasonal treats, while banana slugs leave glistening trails across fallen logs. Keep your eyes peeled for orange-bellied newts navigating the damp undergrowth and listen for the distinctive drumming of woodpeckers echoing through the canyon. As darkness falls, the haunting calls of owls remind you that the forest never sleeps. A gentle creekside trail winds beneath the redwood canopy, where emerald ferns and delicate sorrel create a fairytale understory that changes with every season.
Geological RegionBen Ries Campground sits within the dramatic landscape of the Santa Cruz Mountains, where steep canyons and soaring ridges create a diverse tapestry of ecosystems. This remarkable geological setting supports everything from pristine old-growth redwood groves to resilient second-growth forests recovering their former glory. Beyond the redwood realm, the park's varied topography nurtures Douglas fir forests, sun-baked chaparral on exposed slopes, stately oak woodlands, and lush riparian wetlands along creek corridors. This incredible diversity within a single park means every hike reveals new landscapes and ecosystems, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and casual campers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking is available, and the restroom near site #10 is usable with assistance required for sidewalk access. Accessibility features are indicated as improving continuously.
Sites SizeThe campground offers 21 drive-in campsites, accommodating trailers and motorhomes up to 24 feet, and 18 walk-in sites requiring gear transportation for 20-50 yards.
Sites PrivacySites are nestled within the redwoods, providing natural privacy. Walk-in sites are more secluded due to their distance from roads.
Total Campsites39 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe walk-in sites provide a removed and quiet camping experience but require carrying gear 20 to 50 yards. Drive-in sites are more accessible for families and larger groups.
Best CampsitesSites 6, 9, and 25 are highlighted as the best campsites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 7 months in advance for reservations.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight people maximum are allowed per campsite.
Groups
Group camping sites are not mentioned for Ben Ries Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDrive-in and walk-in sites are separated, with walk-in sites nestled among the redwoods requiring gear transportation.
Open and Closed SeasonCamping is available from April 1 to November 30. The campground is closed December 1 through March 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia website or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up camping is available for one night only in unreserved campsites when park staff are not present.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to 48 hours in advance without penalty. Specific cancellation fees are not detailed.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ben Ries Campground in Butano State Park offers an excellent gateway to a diverse range of activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that access breathtaking redwood forests, ridges, and wetlands. Wildlife spotting is frequent, with opportunities to see banana slugs, newts, and a variety of birds. Guided nature walks and campfire programs are also available during summer weekends.
Hiking
Several hiking trails originate near Ben Ries Campground, including the Six Bridges Trail and the Goat Hill Loop. Trails vary in difficulty, ranging from the easy 1.5-mile Little Butano Creek Trail with a minimal elevation change of 150 feet to the moderate 2.8-mile Goat Hill Loop and strenuous 9.5-mile Canyon Loop with an elevation change of 1,200 feet.Biking
Biking is allowed on fire roads but restricted from single-track trails. Helmets are mandatory for riders under age 18.Wildlife viewing
The campground and its trails provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Common sightings include banana slugs, newts, Pacific wrens, and band-tailed pigeons.Cultural and Educational Programs
Guided nature walks and weekend campfire programs are offered during the summer months, focusing on environmental education and park history.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed for Ben Ries Campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as part of the recreational offerings.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire rings only, and firewood must be purchased on-site. Collecting wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 8 AM daily.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rattlesnakes in chaparral areas, slippery trails during wet weather, and wildlife encounters such as banana slugs and newts. Visitors are reminded to watch for hard-to-see species like salamanders.
Active alertsBen Ries Campground is currently closed due to fire-related damage to the park's water system.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 98%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
Closest hospital is Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City (approximately 35 miles). Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911. The closest ranger station is accessible within the park.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash management is emphasized under the 'crumb clean' campaign, requiring food and garbage to be stored securely to protect park wildlife. Specific recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Little Butano Creek, the campground offers easy access to creekside trails and water features.
Common complaintsNo showers available. Seasonal trail closures due to fire damage from the CZU Lightning Complex Fire.
HostThere is no specific information available about campground hosts.
Campground Map
1500 Cloverdale Road, Pescadero, CA 94060
Driving directionsTake Highway 1 to Pescadero Road, travel three miles and turn right on Cloverdale Road for 5 miles to the park's entrance.
Roads to the park are paved and accessible, but larger buses may encounter difficulties due to narrow roads. Maximum trailer length is 24 feet.Nearby places
Pescadero (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Half Moon Bay (23 miles, approximately 35 minutes), Santa Cruz (35 miles, approximately 50 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores and camping supplies are available in Pescadero (5 miles away). Fuel stations are also accessible in nearby towns like Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Ben Ries Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Ben Ries Campground is praised for its serene location among towering redwoods, its accessibility to hiking trails, and its family-friendly amenities. However, the absence of showers and limited availability of wi-fi and cell service might be a drawback for some campers. The 'crumb clean' campaign that protects wildlife is also a notable feature.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users often commend the campground's peaceful atmosphere and proximity to extraordinary hiking trails. The natural privacy provided by redwoods is appreciated, especially for secluded walk-in sites.
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of shower facilities and limited cell phone reception. The crumb-clean policy, while environmentally beneficial, requires diligence from campers.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all necessary shower supplies as there are no facilities on-site. Campers should ensure proper food storage to comply with the crumb-clean policy and protect wildlife.
Seasonal Insights
Summer is considered ideal due to the availability of guided programs and evening campfire events. Winter closure from December to March is noted.
Camper Quotes
"Nestled among redwoods, this campground is my go-to for tranquility and nature hikes." "The crumb-clean focus is a bit tedious, but I love how it protects the wildlife." "Access to trails is...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 6, 9, and 25 are frequently highlighted as the best spots, offering the best views and privacy.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are improving, according to official sources. The restroom near site #10 is usable with some required assistance.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed but should be leashed and under human control. Dogs are not allowed on trails, adhering to park regulations.
Last updated August 10, 2025