Camp Amongst Gorgeous Gigantic Redwoods At This Riverside RV Resort In California

For those who enjoy the freedom of the open road and waking up in stunning natural settings, RV exploration isn't just a mode of transportation — it's a way of life. Whether it's your first time behind the wheel of a Winnebago or you already know how to plan a successful RV trip, Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort will make you a return guest in no time.

Secluded along the peaceful San Lorenzo River in Felton, California, this intimate RV resort is the perfect place to sleep beneath towering, old-growth redwoods. You might even see a great blue heron, a family of deer, or a great horned owl. Geared towards families and people who want to enjoy California's coastal forests without making a ruckus, Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort offers a range of accommodations. Choose from river view full hook-up sites (maximum length 27 feet long), standard full hook-up sites (maximum length 48 feet long), and super full hook-up sites (maximum length 70 feet long). All 85 RV sites offer water, electricity, sewer, cable, and wifi; however, the hosts don't recommend depending on the wifi for remote work. Rates start at approximately $100 per night, which is considerably lower than the average hotel in Santa Cruz County.

The RV resort promises a laidback and fun-filled time at the clubhouse with football, a pool table, and a TV area in front of the fire. Guests can also take a dip in the river, have a barbeque, or participate in the resort-wide treasure hunt every Saturday.

One of the simple pleasures at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort is waking up to the sounds of blue jays and enjoying a cup of coffee beneath the gigantic redwoods. If the coastal fog is paying a morning visit, warm up at the firepit – bring your own or rent one for a small fee.

Although Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort doesn't have its own hiking trails, the entrance to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is less than a mile away. Here, the most accessible trail is the Redwood Grove Loop. It's 0.8 miles long and takes you past a 1,500-year-old redwood that reaches into the coastal fog at over 270 feet tall. Moderately experienced hikers should embark on the hike to the Observation Deck — don't forget water! This trail is about 5 miles roundtrip and takes you through groves where the redwood duff dampens even the sounds of your footsteps, and moss covers fallen logs.

After your hike, return to camp and cool off in the river. Although the San Lorenzo isn't a wild river, it's a good place to paddle around and wade in the shallows. Or, take a cue from Big Sur campgrounds and put your camping chair directly in the water.

Situated within 30 minutes of Santa Cruz's artsy downtown, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and a stunning California beach state park filled with butterflies, Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort is an ideal jumping-off point for exploring. Ride the oldest wooden roller coaster on the West Coast, sample seasonal offerings at craft breweries, or see if surfing is all it's cracked up to be at Cowell's Beach.

If you're visiting on the first Friday of the month, take a tour of the local galleries and make sure to add the Tannery Arts Center to your list. However, you can enjoy expertly curated exhibits at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art History (MAH) regardless of the time of month. Other area highlights include taking a day trip to an uncrowded beach destination with small-town vibes and dining on fresh seafood on the Santa Cruz Wharf — don't miss the fresh oysters at Stagnaro Bros. However, if you have kids, you can't miss riding the Roaring Camp steam engine from the redwoods to the beach.