Portola Redwoods State Park Campground, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Portola Redwoods State Park hides deep within the Santa Cruz Mountains near La Honda, offering one of the Bay Area’s quietest redwood camping experiences. This serene canyon features lush ferns, cascading creeks, and towering trees that filter the sunlight into soft green shade. It’s a back-to-basics, forest-first park where time slows and the air smells like redwood bark and earth.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Deep forest calm.” Campers rave about the quiet, clean facilities, and well-spaced sites shaded by old-growth trees. The drive in is twisty, but worth it for the tranquility — it feels worlds away from Silicon Valley even though it’s less than an hour’s drive.
Highlights
- Redwood immersion: massive trees and lush canyon scenery.
- Creekside walks: easy loops near Peters Creek and Slate Creek.
- Wildlife: banana slugs, deer, and morning birdsong.
- Solitude: fewer crowds and less noise than nearby parks.
Frictions to plan around
- Limited cell service: no signal in the canyon — plan offline.
- Cool & damp: fog lingers; bring layers and tarps.
- No hookups: rustic camping with potable water and restrooms only.
- Access road: long, narrow, and winding from Skyline or La Honda.
Camper Quotes
“Felt like we had the redwoods to ourselves.”
“Clean sites, peaceful nights, and amazing trails.”
“A real forest escape — even better than Big Basin before the fire.”
“The drive in is slow, but it keeps the crowds out.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: ~50 family campsites for tents, trailers, and small RVs (up to ~24 ft).
- Facilities: restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear boxes. Coin-op showers usually available.
- Hookups: none — this is dry camping.
- Group camp: available by reservation, great for reunions or youth trips.
- Pets: leashed in campground and paved areas; not allowed on most trails.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via ReserveCalifornia.com. Spring and fall offer ideal weather and moderate crowds; summer weekends fill quickly. Winter stays are quiet but damp.
Tip: For last-minute getaways, try booking weekday nights — you’ll often find openings even in peak season.
Best Sites
- Creek Loop: shaded, private sites with soft forest floor.
- Outer Loop: quieter, good for small trailers and vans.
- Sites 20-25: near the trailhead and amphitheater, easy access for families.
Bring waterproof shoes and tarps — mornings are moist under the redwoods, even in summer.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Butano State Park: similar redwood atmosphere with fewer sites, just west near Pescadero.
- Big Basin Redwoods SP (reopening): famous groves and waterfalls about 30 minutes south.
- Half Moon Bay State Beach: oceanfront camping if you want sun and surf nearby.
Map & Directions
From Highway 84 in La Honda, take Portola State Park Road south for about 6 miles. The road is narrow and winding but fully paved. Watch for wildlife and bicyclists.
Address: 9000 Portola State Park Rd, La Honda, CA 94020
Portola Redwoods FAQ
Are there hookups?
No — this is a dry-camping park with potable water and restrooms.
Are showers available?
Yes, coin-operated showers are usually open seasonally.
Is it RV-friendly?
Yes, for small rigs under ~24 feet. Roads are narrow; drive carefully.
Is it family-friendly?
Very — flat loops, ranger programs, and gentle trails make it great for kids.
Are dogs allowed?
Only in campground and paved areas; not on hiking trails.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
He’s been spotted hugging redwoods and meditating near the creek. Quiet helps your odds. 👣🌲
