1. Overview of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park boasts one of the most picturesque campgrounds in the Santa Cruz area, nestled among towering trees. With stunning surroundings featuring oaks and pines, the nearby redwoods—some reaching heights of 277 feet—create an awe-inspiring natural backdrop.
2. Campsite Features
The park provides 107 campsites suitable for RVs and tents. It accommodates camper vehicles up to 35 feet and trailers up to 31 feet, without any hookups. Additionally, there’s a designated space for bicycle campers, and four sites are ADA accessible.
While the campsites are visible to one another, they are sufficiently spaced to ensure privacy.
3. Facilities Available
The campground is equipped with restrooms offering flush toilets and coin-operated showers. Each site features a picnic table and a fire ring, although there are no water spigots available. Firewood can be purchased on-site.
It’s essential to note that there are no sewer or water hookups at the campground. Visitors should bring containers for water. Nearby state parks such as Big Basin State Park and New Brighton State Beach offer RV dump and water fill stations.
4. Important Information for Visitors
- Henry Cowell is a popular destination among locals, but be aware of the presence of poison oak, which the park manages to preserve. If you’re unfamiliar with it, consider consulting resources for identification to avoid contact.
- Alcohol consumption is permitted in the campground, provided the consumer is of legal age. Smoking is allowed at campsites and paved roads but prohibited on hiking trails.
- The campground operates seasonally and typically closes in winter.
- Dogs are welcome in the picnic area and campground, as well as on select trails, but must be kept off other interior roads.
- Reservations are highly recommended, particularly on weekends and during summer months. It’s advisable to book up to six months in advance when the reservation window opens.
5. Directions to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground
2591 Graham Hill Road
Scotts Valley, CA
Cowell Redwoods Website
The campground is located on either side of Felton town. Travelers coming from San Jose should take California Highway 17 South toward Santa Cruz, turning right at Scotts Valley onto Mt. Hermon Road. Continue to Graham Hill Road, then turn left for about 2.5 miles until reaching the campground entrance on the right.
If coming from Santa Cruz, the campground is slightly over 3 miles from where Graham Hill Road meets California Highway One.
The park is approximately 30 miles from San Jose and 75 miles from San Francisco, making it a convenient destination for nature lovers.
