Slate Creek Trail Campground
00 review9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020
Slate Creek Trail Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / 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
Trail camp fees are $15 per site per night, with a $8 non-refundable reservation fee that covers processing and cancellations.
About this campground
Deep within a secluded redwood sanctuary, Slate Creek Trail Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking true wilderness immersion. Six intimate primitive campsites await backpackers ready to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's ancient rhythms. While campfires aren't permitted to protect this pristine environment, the gentle glow of backpacking stoves illuminates evening meals as twilight filters through towering canopies. The melodic babble of nearby Slate Creek provides nature's soundtrack, though wise adventurers pack their own water or come prepared with purification systems to safely enjoy this mountain stream's offerings.
Slate Creek Trail Campground offers primitive camping exclusively for backpackers, reinforcing the park's focus on low-impact recreation.
Historical SignificanceThese ancient groves hold stories spanning centuries, from the footsteps of Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portola whose name graces the park, to the weathered remnants of Danish immigrant Christian Iverson's cabin tucked among the ferns. The old haul road, carved by lumberman William Page, serves as a ghostly reminder of the logging era that once threatened these majestic trees. Today, these historical threads weave together to create a tapestry of human interaction with this remarkable landscape, where preservation triumphed over exploitation.
Weather and SeasonsThis enchanted forest drinks deeply from Pacific storms, receiving 40 to 60 inches of rain annually that nourish the towering giants overhead. Summer visitors often find themselves wrapped in nature's own air conditioning as cool fog drifts through the canyon, creating an ethereal atmosphere among the ancient trees. When winter storms roll in, the landscape transforms into a wild, muddy adventure playground where normally gentle streams become rushing torrents, demanding respect and careful navigation from those brave enough to explore during the rainy season.
ElevationNestled within the rolling embrace of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the campground occupies that sweet spot of elevation where coastal fog mingles with mountain air, creating the perfect conditions for the mighty redwoods to thrive. This mountain perch offers a refreshing escape from valley heat while remaining accessible to dedicated backpackers seeking highland adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a cathedral of living columns where ancient redwoods stretch skyward, their massive trunks disappearing into a canopy so dense it creates its own twilight world below. Slate Creek winds through this natural sanctuary, its waters polishing stones smooth over countless seasons. The forest floor spreads like a verdant carpet of sword ferns and huckleberry bushes, while shafts of filtered sunlight illuminate patches of sorrel and moss. This tranquil basin cradles visitors in an evergreen embrace, where time seems to slow and every breath fills your lungs with the essence of the forest.
Geological RegionThe Santa Cruz Mountains reveal their dramatic character here through a deep canyon carved by patient waters over millennia. This geological masterpiece showcases nature's architectural prowess, where mixed evergreen forests cling to steep canyon walls and magnificent old-growth redwoods stand sentinel alongside their second-growth descendants. The interplay of ancient geology and persistent streams has sculpted a landscape that perfectly balances rugged mountain terrain with the gentle grace of one of Earth's most impressive forest ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySlate Creek Trail Campground does not provide accessibility features. The site requires a 2.5-mile hike and is not wheelchair-accessible.
Sites SizeSites are limited to 6 people each, with tent pad areas measuring approximately 10x10 feet.
Sites PrivacySites are well-separated, providing significant privacy for campers.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites based on proximity to Slate Creek for water access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
- Reservations are required
- campsites can accommodate up to six people each.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six people maximum per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes six designated sites for backpackers only.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen late spring through mid-autumn.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via parks.ca.gov/scmtrailcamps or by calling (831) 338-8867.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicyChanges and/or cancellations must be made a full 48 hours in advance by calling (831) 338-8867.
Amenities available
Potable water
Food storage lockers
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Slate Creek Trail Campground is nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering activities like hiking through redwoods and wildlife viewing. Fires are prohibited, prioritizing a conservation-friendly camping experience.
Hiking
Slate Creek Trail Campground is accessible via a 2.5-mile hike along the Slate Creek Trail. Other trails in the park, such as Bear Creek Trail and Peters Creek Loop, provide more strenuous hiking options and opportunities to explore old-growth redwoods.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in creeks, but activities such as diving and rock dam construction are prohibited to protect aquatic ecosystems.Biking
Biking is not permitted on trails but is allowed on paved roads and Old Haul Road, a scenic 10-mile round-trip ride.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers opportunities to view diverse wildlife including black-tailed deer, raccoons, mountain lions, and endangered marbled murrelets. Birdwatchers may spot forest birds like jays and ravens.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned; visitors are advised to plan ahead for seasonal trail closures and potentially hazardous conditions like fallen trees.Water Sports
Water sports are not available; activities are limited to swimming in creeks.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are prohibited; backpacking stoves are allowed.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsCampers should be cautious of poison oak, stinging nettle, ticks, yellowjackets, and muddy trails during the rainy season.
Active alertsTrail conditions vary due to weather and fallen trees; campers must turn back if trails are unsafe.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.1 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 emergency services are accessible by dialing 911; nearest ranger station with pay phone is at Portola Redwoods State Park headquarters.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not provided at Slate Creek Trail Campground. Visitors are encouraged to pack out all waste to maintain the area's natural environment.
Proximity to water featuresSlate Creek is located about 1/4 mile from the campground.
Common complaintsLimited access to water and prohibition of fires are noted restrictions.
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.
The roads leading to the park are steep, narrow, and winding. The last 6 miles require extreme care during the drive.Nearby places
Sky Londa (14 miles away), La Honda (9 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Nearest gas station is 14 miles away in Sky Londa
nearest groceries are 9 miles away in La Honda.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Slate Creek Trail Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Slate Creek Trail Campground is praised for its secluded and peaceful atmosphere, located within an old-growth redwood forest. Backpackers appreciate the natural beauty and the challenge of hiking in.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users highlight the remote location, abundant wildlife, and proximity to scenic trails as major positives.
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of cellular reception, absence of flush or vault toilets, and the need to treat or carry in drinking water.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing a water filtration system, packing warm clothes due to cool temperatures, and preparing for poor cell service. They also advise early arrival to complete hikes before...
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Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that winter brings challenges such as muddy trails and fallen trees, while summer offers easier access with installed seasonal bridges.
Camper Quotes
1. 'The hike to Slate Creek Trail Campground is a rewarding challenge, offering stunning views of redwoods and pristine nature.'
2. 'Prepare to filter water and pack for primitive camping...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews for designated sites are unavailable.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are absent due to the primitive nature of the campground.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at Slate Creek Trail Campground, so there are no reviews regarding pet policies or features.
Last updated August 10, 2025