Wilder Ranch Campground
4.0617 reviews1401 Coast Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Wilder Ranch Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / 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
Equestrian campsites are available for $20 per night. Additional vehicles are charged $10.
About this campground
Saddle up for an extraordinary camping experience at Wilder Ranch State Park, where six exclusive equestrian campsites nestle within the grounds of a beautifully preserved historic ranch. Here, the legacy of California's ranching heritage comes alive as you explore miles of scenic trails that wind through coastal bluffs and redwood groves, all while staying in campsites designed specifically for horse enthusiasts. Beyond the corrals and pastures, discover breathtaking ocean vistas and fascinating historical landmarks that tell the story of this remarkable landscape.
The campground at Wilder Ranch is exclusively designed for equestrian camping with six designated sites providing basic amenities. No RV, tent, group, or glamping options are available.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this living museum where the stories of California's past unfold before your eyes. The crown jewel of the park is an exquisite 1897 Victorian farmhouse, its gingerbread trim and wraparound porch standing as a testament to the prosperity of the dairy farming era. Just steps away, the ingenious 1896 water-powered machine shop still demonstrates the innovation of early California ranchers. But the history runs even deeper – long before European settlement, the Ohlone people called this land home for thousands of years, leaving behind shell middens and ancient pathways that remind us of their enduring connection to this sacred coastline.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with California's famously mild coastal climate, Wilder Ranch maintains comfortable temperatures between 50°F and 70°F throughout the year, making it an ideal four-season destination for riders. Summer days bring brilliant sunshine that warms the inland trails, perfect for early morning rides before the afternoon heat sets in. Winter transforms the landscape with refreshing rains that green the hillsides and fill seasonal creeks, though the mild temperatures keep trails accessible. Morning fog often rolls in from the Pacific, creating an ethereal atmosphere that burns off by midday to reveal sparkling ocean views.
ElevationFrom sea level to soaring heights, Wilder Ranch offers an exhilarating range of elevations that challenge riders and reward them with ever-changing vistas. The park's trails climb dramatically up the flanks of Ben Lomond Mountain, reaching an impressive 1,800 feet where panoramic views stretch from the Monterey Bay to the distant Sierra Nevada on clear days. This varied topography creates diverse ecosystems and riding experiences, from gentle coastal meadows to challenging mountain switchbacks.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's grandeur unfolds at every turn in this diverse coastal paradise. Dramatic cliffs drop away to reveal hidden coves where tide pools teem with colorful sea stars and hermit crabs. Ancient redwood groves provide cool, cathedral-like sanctuaries where filtered sunlight dances on the forest floor. Golden grasslands ripple in the ocean breeze, dotted with wildflowers in spring. Keep your eyes peeled for the park's charismatic wildlife – playful harbor seals bask on offshore rocks, sea otters float in the kelp beds, and if you're lucky, you might spot the elusive bobcat padding silently through the underbrush at dawn or dusk.
Geological RegionPerched along the rugged Santa Cruz coastline, Wilder Ranch showcases a fascinating geological story written in stone and soil. The park's distinctive wave-cut terraces, carved by ancient seas and thrust skyward by powerful seismic forces, create a dramatic staircase landscape that tells of millions of years of Earth's restless movements. These marine terraces now support a rich tapestry of ecosystems – from windswept coastal prairies where native bunch grasses sway, to sheltered oak woodlands that provide refuge for countless species. This unique geological foundation has created one of California's most diverse and visually stunning state parks.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking and ramps are available for visitors at the main park area. Visitors requiring assistance to access historic structures can make arrangements with park staff.
Sites SizeEach equestrian site is equipped to accommodate rigs consisting of trucks and two horse trailers. Additional vehicles incur an extra fee.
Sites PrivacyThe equestrian campsites offer minimal privacy as they are clustered together and lack natural barriers like trees or dense vegetation.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the trailhead for reduced walking distance to equestrian staging areas.
Best CampsitesEquestrian campsites #1-6 are popular for horse riders due to proximity to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum occupancy of 8 guests per site, with 3 vehicles.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 8 guests per site.
Groups
No group camping sites are offered at Wilder Ranch.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutEquestrian sites are pull-through with moderate driveway grades.
Open and Closed SeasonEquestrian campsites are available year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via phone at (831) 423-9703.
Walk-in AvailabilityEquestrian sites are first-come, first-served for availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not specified.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wilder Ranch State Park offers extensive recreational opportunities including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Trails span over 35 miles, accommodating varying difficulty levels and offering incredible views of the coastline and natural landscapes. Historical tours are available on weekends, providing an educational window into the area's ranching history.
Hiking
There are 35 miles of multi-use trails with diverse terrains, from flat coastal bluffs to steep ascents in the hills. Noteworthy trails include the Ohlone Bluff Trail with stunning ocean vistas and the Enchanted Loop showcasing coast redwoods. The Old Cove Landing Trail is highly recommended for an easy hike.Biking
A network of trails is suitable for mountain biking, noted for being beginner-friendly. Trails like Wilder Ridge Loop and Chinquapin Trail are popular among riders for their scenic beauty and manageable terrain.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to diverse wildlife including pelicans, harbor seals, sea otters, coyotes, and deer. Migrating whales can be spotted offshore between December and April.Cultural and Educational Programs
Weekend tours of historic ranch buildings and demonstrations of water-powered machines offer educational insights into California's early ranching history.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not emphasized in the park's offerings.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not associated with Wilder Ranch based on the provided information.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires and BBQ pits are prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsMountain lions have been observed, especially during dusk. Trails are exposed to the sun, increasing risk of heat exhaustion.
Active alertsBackcountry trails occasionally close due to weather conditions. The Visitor Center is closed due to flooding.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 92%
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
Dominican Hospital, ~6 miles away in Santa Cruz; Santa Cruz Police Department, ~5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified, but conditions are favorable in spring and summer.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present in the main park area. Specific arrangements for campsite waste disposal are not indicated.
Proximity to water featuresOceanfront bluff trails and nearby tidepools. Wilder Beach Natural Preserve is closed to public access.
Common complaintsMany reviews mention the lack of BBQ pits and campfire facilities. Complaints about exposed trails and scarcity of shade during summer.
HostHosts are not explicitly mentioned.
Campground Map
1401 Coast Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Driving directionsThe park is north of Santa Cruz, immediately west of Highway One, just a mile or so past the Western Drive stoplight.
Accessible via Highway One, with a tunnel under the highway connecting the cultural preserve to the trail network.Nearby places
Santa Cruz (5 miles, ~10 minutes), Watsonville (21 miles, ~30 minutes), Monterey (50 miles, ~1 hour), San Jose (40 miles, ~1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Santa Cruz offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel stations within ~5 miles from the park.
Camper Reviews
4.1
17 reviews
Wilder Ranch Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Wilder Ranch are generally positive, highlighting the scenic trails, historical sites, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Some negative feedback reflects limited amenities and occasional issues with park staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the trails for their stunning views, ease of navigation, and diverse terrains. Historical sites and educational tours are also frequently appreciated. Wildlife viewing, particularly...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative reviews mention limited amenities such as no fire pits, grills, or shaded areas at campsites. Poor experiences with park staff and docents were also noted by some visitors.
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing offline maps due to spotty cell service, carrying sunscreen for exposed trails, and arriving early for tours or hiking to avoid crowds.
Based on 17 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight high temperatures and sun exposure on trails, advising hats and sunscreen. Winter reviews emphasize the lack of seasonal activities but note that wildlife viewing,...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The bluff trail is very scenic. The ranch buildings give a vision of the past." - Gregg Wagener 2. "Mountain lions are present all over the Bay Area, so same rules apply everywhere." - B.K. 3....
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Equestrian campsites are noted for their basic setup, accommodating horse trailers and providing pipe corrals. However, their lack of fire pits and other amenities detracts from their appeal.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible parking and restrooms are available. Ramped entries to historic buildings may require assistance.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets, specifically horses, are allowed at the equestrian campsites. No dogs are permitted in the park to preserve ecological integrity.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025